Criminal Defense Lawyer in Berlin

English-Speaking Legal Representation

Facing criminal charges in Germany can be overwhelming – even more so if you are not familiar with the German legal system or do not speak German fluently. I am a criminal defense lawyer based in Berlin, and I represent clients from the first contact with the police through to the final hearing in court. I am happy to advise and represent you in English.

About Me

I am a German-qualified attorney (Rechtsanwältin) and hold the title of certified specialist lawyer for criminal law (Fachanwältin für Strafrecht) – a qualification only for lawyers who can demonstrate particular theoretical knowledge and practical experience in this specific field. My practice is exclusively dedicated to criminal defense.

Criminal Charges I Can Assist You With

Criminal defense in Germany covers a wide range of offenses. I regularly advise and represent clients in matters including:

  • Theft / shoplifting (Diebstahl, § 242 StGB)
  • Assault / bodily harm (Körperverletzung, § 223 StGB)
  • Fraud (Betrug, § 263 StGB)
  • Drug-related offenses (under the German Narcotics Act, Betäubungsmittelgesetz)
  • Traffic offenses, including driving under the influence
  • Insult and defamation offenses (Beleidigung, üble Nachrede, Verleumdung)
  • Threats and coercion (Bedrohung, Nötigung)

I assist clients at every stage of a criminal case, including:

  • Police investigations – from your first contact with the police or public prosecutor’s office
  • Charges and indictments – reviewing the case file and developing a defense strategy
  • Court hearings – representing you before the criminal court
  • Sentencing – advocating for the most favorable outcome in your case

What to Do If You Are Contacted by the Police in Germany

If you are questioned, detained, or otherwise contacted by the German police, the following applies regardless of your nationality:

  • You have the right to remain silent. You are not obliged to make any statement about the allegations against you, either to the police or to investigating officers.
  • You have the right to a defense lawyer. You may – and should – contact a defense lawyer before making any statement.
  • You have the right to an interpreter if your German is not sufficient to understand the proceedings against you.

Do not make any statements!

This is the single most important advice I can give you: do not make any statements to the police without first speaking to a defense lawyer – not even to „clear things up“ or explain your side of the story. Remember, you have the right to remain silent and seek legal advice. The earlier you contact me, the more opportunities I have to positively influence the outcome of the proceedings.

Contact Me for a Consultation

If you are facing criminal charges or have been contacted by the police or public prosecutor’s office in Germany, please get in touch. I offer a initial consultation to assess your situation and explain your options – confidentially and, if you prefer, entirely in English.

    * mandatory fields

    Last updated: 15 September 2026

    kontakt@rechtsanwaeltin-goelzer.de

    030 / 25 78 51 11

    Thomasiusstraße 1
    10557 Berlin