What does a criminal lawyer do in the UAE?

A criminal lawyer in the UAE represents a person accused of, or affected by, a crime. They attend police questioning and public prosecution sessions, review the evidence, file defence memoranda, plead before the criminal courts and appeal judgments. They can also act for victims who want to file a complaint and claim compensation.

Cases we handle

Criminal cases our lawyers handle

Felonies, misdemeanours and violations across all emirates.

Police cases and arrests

Representation from the first report and questioning.

Bounced cheques and breach of trust

Defence or recovery in cheque and trust cases.

Cybercrime

Online fraud, blackmail, hacking and social media offences.

Insult and defamation

Verbal, written and online insult cases.

Travel bans

Checking for and lifting travel bans linked to cases.

Appeals

Challenging a criminal judgment before the higher courts.

What we do

How our criminal lawyers defend you

From the first statement to the final judgment.

  • Attend police questioning with you
  • Represent you before the public prosecution
  • Review the case file and the evidence
  • Apply for release on bail
  • File defence memoranda
  • Plead before the misdemeanour and felony courts
  • Negotiate settlements where the law allows
  • Appeal and challenge judgments
  • Apply to lift travel bans

What you say in the first statement can shape the whole case. Speak to a lawyer before you give it, if you can.

What to bring

What to bring to your first consultation

About you

  • Emirates ID or passport
  • Any police or prosecution summons

About the case

  • The case or report number, if you have it
  • Messages, contracts or cheques linked to the matter

To act for you

  • A lawyer power of attorney
  • We prepare it for you
If you are outside the UAE
  • We can check for cases and travel bans with your authorisation
  • You can appoint us by power of attorney from abroad
Everything you share is protected by legal professional confidentiality.

How it works

How we handle a criminal case in Dubai

  1. 01

    Confidential first call

    Tell us what happened. We explain where you stand and the next step.

  2. 02

    We review the file

    We obtain the case details and check the evidence and deadlines.

  3. 03

    We represent you

    At the police, the public prosecution and in court, with written defence.

  4. 04

    Judgment and appeal

    We explain the judgment and appeal it if it is not in your favour.

Your position

Accused or complainant

Accused

A case against you

We protect your rights from the first statement, apply for release where possible and build your defence.

Complainant

You were harmed

We file the complaint, follow it with the prosecution and claim compensation for you.

Appoint us by power of attorney

Know your position

Five things to do if you face a criminal case in the UAE

  • Do not sign what you do not understandAsk for a translation or a lawyer first.
  • Keep every documentSummons, receipts, messages and cheques can be evidence.
  • Do not contact the other sideMessages can be used against you.
  • Check for a travel banBefore travelling, confirm there is no ban.
  • Watch the appeal deadlineAppeal periods are short and strict.

Why Al Kirbi

A criminal defence team that pleads before all UAE courts

  • Emirati advocate with full rights of audienceOur founder pleads before all UAE courts and the public prosecution.
  • One firm from police to appealNo change of lawyer as your case moves up.
  • Strictly confidentialYour case is protected by legal professional confidentiality.

Criminal cases in the UAE: frequently asked questions

What happens after a police case is filed in Dubai?

The police take statements and refer the case to the public prosecution, which investigates and decides whether to send it to court. A lawyer can represent you at each stage.

How do I know if there is a case or travel ban against me?

With your authorisation, we can check through official channels whether a case or travel ban is registered against you.

Can I be represented if I am outside the UAE?

Yes, by appointing us with a power of attorney. See power of attorney for a lawyer.

Is a bounced cheque still a crime in the UAE?

Mostly it is now enforced directly through the courts, with criminal liability kept for bad faith cases. See bounced cheques.

Can a criminal case be settled?

Some offences can end with a settlement or waiver by the victim; others cannot. We advise on your case.

How much does a criminal lawyer cost in Dubai?

Fees depend on the case and its stage. We give you a clear quote after the first consultation.

Facing a criminal case? Speak to a lawyer today.