Receiving a summons to appear in police court can come as a surprise. What should you do now? Attorney Mohamed Asfour provides a practical checklist of the first steps to take after receiving a summons.
Step 1: Read the summons carefully
Check the date of the hearing, the court, the charges against you, and whether your address is listed correctly. An error in the summons could have legal consequences.
Step 2: Contact a lawyer immediately
The sooner your lawyer reviews your case file, the more options you’ll have. Don’t wait until the day before the hearing. Your lawyer can request the criminal case file and review all the documents.
Step 3: Gather all relevant documents
Police report, proof of driver’s license and insurance, medical certificates if applicable, and all correspondence with the police or the district attorney’s office.
Step 4: Attend the hearing or have someone represent you
In many cases, your attorney can represent you without you having to be present in person. This depends largely on the nature of the case.
Step 5: Do not sign anything without legal advice
Paying an immediate collection notice constitutes an admission of debt. Always consult with an attorney first to determine whether payment is in your best interest.
Contact Novex Lawyers
Call 048 499 22 72 or send your summons to asfour@novexadvocaten.be for a quick analysis.
Mr. Mohamed Asfour, lawyer at the Brussels Bar. May 2026.
