Homicide Defence in Germany: Murder and Manslaughter

The immediate procedural stage, any detention or coercive measures and the evidence collected so far should be clarified first. A defence statement should generally be considered only after the file has been reviewed and the defence decision coordinated.

The factual account and evidence, intent to kill, murder characteristics, attempt, self-defence, criminal responsibility and later consequences must be examined separately and then connected in one defence strategy.

As early as possible, particularly after an arrest, search, summons or service of an indictment. Early access to the file helps ensure that any statement or evidential strategy is based on the actual investigation record.