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Negligent Causing of Bodily Injury in a Traffic Accident: Penalties and Consequences in 2026

Negligent bodily injury in a traffic accident may occur if a traffic violation results in a verifiable injury. Those involved should expect a preliminary investigation, but a conviction does not automatically follow.

Theft: Penalties and Consequences in 2026

The penalty for theft ranges from a fine to up to five years in prison for petty theft. The determining factors are not only the value of the item, but also the manner in which the offense was committed, prior convictions, restitution, and the evidence.

False Statements: When Can There Be Criminal Consequences?

Making false statements can have serious criminal consequences, particularly in court. The key factor is who, in what procedural capacity, knowingly makes a false statement to which authority.

Hit-and-Run: Penalties, Driver's License, and Proper Conduct in 2026

A hit-and-run can occur even after a seemingly minor parking fender-bender. The decisive factor is not merely the amount of damage, but whether a party involved in the accident allowed for the necessary investigation to take place or waited for an appropriate amount of time.

Coercion in Traffic: Penalties and Proper Conduct in 2026

Coercion in traffic can be a criminal offense, but not every instance of tailgating, honking, or risky driving maneuvers meets the criteria of Section 240 of the German Criminal Code (StGB). The decisive factors are the coercive effect, intent, and the specific circumstances of the individual case.

Penalty Schedule for Threats: Penalty Ranges Under Section 241 of the German Criminal Code (StGB)

The table of penalties for making threats shows the fines or prison sentences prescribed by Section 241 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) in 2026. The decisive factors are the content of the threat, the act threatened, and whether the statement was made publicly or through widely disseminated content.

Charges of Defamation: Penalties, the Process, and How to Respond

A charge of defamation does not automatically lead to a conviction. The exact wording, the context, the evidence, and a valid criminal complaint are all decisive factors. Anyone who receives a letter from the police as a suspect should remain silent at first and allow the allegation to be investigated.

Aggravated Assault: Elements and Penalty in 2026

Aggravated assault does not require that the victim have suffered serious or permanent injury. The decisive factor is often the nature of the attack, such as the use of a dangerous object, a joint attack, or conduct that endangers the victim’s life.

Penalty for Trespassing

Key Points: Trespassing is a criminal offense under Section 123 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) and is punishable by a fine or imprisonment for up to one year. Aggravated trespass under Section 124 of the German Criminal Code (StGB)—such as when committed jointly or with a weapon—can be punished by imprisonment for up to two years. Anyone who has received a complaint or has been summoned as a defendant should immediately seek legal counsel and refrain from making any statements until the case files have been reviewed.

Fraud Penalty

An allegation of fraud comes as a surprise to most of those involved. Often, it all begins with a summons from the police, a hearing form, or a notice from the district attorney’s office. The first concern is almost always the same: What penalty for fraud am I now facing? It is precisely at this point that serious mistakes are often made. Many defendants try to explain the situation on their own or make a hasty statement without being familiar with the investigative file. However, the potential penalty depends on numerous factors that can only be assessed after a careful review.

Cryptocurrency Money Laundering:

A preliminary investigation into money laundering involving cryptocurrency often comes as a complete surprise to those affected. As an experienced attorney based in Mainz, I represent clients in complex criminal proceedings involving cryptocurrencies, asset forfeiture, and money laundering allegations. To date, all money laundering cases I have handled in the cryptocurrency sector have been successfully dismissed (as of June 4, 2026). Past results are no guarantee of the outcome of future proceedings.

A person signs a legal document with a ballpoint pen

Withdrawing a complaint of bodily harm: What you need to know now

You’ve filed a police report and are now wondering if you can withdraw the report for assault. Perhaps the situation has calmed down, you’ve talked things out with the other person, or you’re having second thoughts about your decision. This is exactly where the problem begins: Many people assume they can simply „withdraw“ their complaint. In criminal law, this is only partially true.

A burning match symbolizes arson

Arson penalty: what the real consequences are

If you’re wondering what the penalty is for arson, you’re likely in a serious situation. Perhaps there has been an incident, a police report, or an investigation is already underway. There’s a great deal of uncertainty, because arson is one of the most serious offenses under criminal law.

A judge's gavel on a wooden surface symbolizes a court proceeding

Property damage penalty - What is the real penalty?

A scratched car. A smashed window. Graffiti on a building’s wall. What may seem like a „minor slip-up” at first is often a more serious criminal offense than many people realize. The penalty for property damage can be severe and may have long-term consequences. In this article, you’ll learn—in clear and legally accurate terms—what penalties you face for property damage, how courts decide when a case can be dismissed, and why early criminal defense can be crucial.

Reporting bodily harm: what to do if criminal proceedings are imminent?

For most people involved, being charged with assault comes as a complete surprise. An argument, an escalated situation, or a misunderstanding—and suddenly you receive a letter from the police or the district attorney’s office. Many clients describe the same feelings to me in this situation: uncertainty, fear of the consequences, and worry about doing something wrong.

A broken lock symbolizes a burglary

When is theft time-barred? Time limits, exceptions and common mistakes

Not every theft is treated equally in legal terms. In certain cases, it is a particularly serious case, especially in the case of
Burglary
Theft from specially protected rooms
Theft with aggravating circumstances
The following applies to the limitation period not the sentence actually imposed, but the maximum penalty possible by law relevant. Depending on the facts of the case, this may result in longer limitation periods.

Costs of legal representation

Penalty for document forgery

Document forgery is one of those crimes that is often underestimated. Many consider it a „minor offense.“ However, anyone who forges a document risks severe penalties, a record on their criminal history, and, in the worst case, even a prison sentence. As an experienced attorney in Mainz specializing in criminal law, I, Waldemar Dill, explain the potential penalties for document forgery, how courts assess such cases, and why early criminal defense is crucial.

Calculator and documents for cost breakdown

Legal fees for criminal defense

The cost of your defense will be based on the scope of the work, and you will have full transparency regarding costs from the very beginning. Your initial inquiry and the first assessment are free of charge and, of course, are subject to attorney-client confidentiality.

Course of criminal proceedings - your criminal defense

Criminal proceedings go through several important phases - from the first suspicion to the final judgment. Find out what you can expect at each stage.

My defense strategy

As a criminal defense lawyer, I focus on discontinuing proceedings instead of risky acquittals. Around 60% of proceedings are discontinued, resulting in no entries. I protect your interests through early defense and a strategic approach.

Police questioning/charge - what to do?

If you are summoned by the police, you are not obliged to appear. As the accused, you have the right to remain silent. Contact me before you make a statement. I will develop a statement and defense strategy for you after inspecting the files.

Overview: Relevant limits for alcohol, cannabis and other drugs

Different limits apply to drink-driving: From 0.5‰ there is a fine, from 1.1‰ it is a criminal offense. For cannabis, the limit is 3.5 ng/ml. For other drugs, mere evidence is sufficient for sanctions.

Drinking and driving

Drinking and driving - consequences, driver's license, MPU

Drunk driving is one of the most common causes of traffic accidents and is punished accordingly. But what are the legal limits, and what are the potential consequences? Here is the most important information

Penalty order - what to do?

A penalty order is a judgment without a court hearing. You have 2 weeks to lodge an objection. Let me check the penalty order to weigh up your chances and risks.

House search - what to do?

A warrant is required for house searches. Stay calm, do not make any statements and get legal assistance.

Limits at the wheel

Drugs at the wheel - consequences, driver's license, MPU

Driving under the influence of drugs is a punishable offense and leads to a fine or criminal proceedings. Depending on the severity, there is a risk of a driving ban, points and an MPU. Early legal advice is important.

Pre-trial detention

Pre-trial detention and arrest warrant

Pre-trial detention is imposed on urgent suspicion and grounds for detention such as risk of absconding. Those affected have the right to a defense and detention review.

Contact us

Still have questions? Arrange a free initial assessment - I will be happy to advise you.

Fields of law

Criminal law
Civil law

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Law Firm: 06131 586 69 33 24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 0175 119 16 10

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