Detained by police in Moldova: rights and first steps

How long can detention last?

Under Article 166(5) and (5¹) of the Criminal Procedure Code, detention of a suspect cannot exceed 72 hours; for a minor, 24 hours. Detention to establish identity cannot exceed 6 hours. Time runs from the actual deprivation of liberty under paragraph (6). Detention cannot be extended beyond statutory limits.

Your rights

A detained person must immediately be informed of their rights in a language they understand (Article 64). These include a lawyer, reasons for detention, silence, notification of a close person and a medical examination.

Steps in the first hours

• Request a lawyer, privately chosen or appointed, and obtain advice before giving statements.
• Read any document before signing and discuss it with your lawyer.
• Record the time, place and stated reason for detention.
• Request a medical examination for injuries or health problems and tell your lawyer.
• Ask for a close person to be notified.

What relatives can do

Contact a lawyer promptly, stating where the person is held and when detention began. Gather identity and residence records, relevant medical documents and any employment references.

After detention

Where the prosecutor seeks a preventive measure requiring a judge’s decision, the investigating judge decides. Defence at this hearing matters, so contact a lawyer from the first day.

Legal basis

Articles 64, 166(5), (5¹), (6) and (7), and 167 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Check the applicable text and individual circumstances.

Criminal defence lawyer in Chișinău.