Pre-Trial and Criminal Proceedings in Estonia

How does criminal procedure work in practice? What happens after criminal proceedings are initiated? When does a person become a suspect? What risks arise during the pre-trial investigation, and how do you choose the right defence strategy?

In this video, Attorney-at-Law Vladimir Sadekov and lawyer Nikita Shalov discuss:

• how criminal proceedings are initiated;
• what constitutes the legal grounds for opening a criminal case;
• how arrests and interrogations are conducted;
• why the status of a witness can quickly change to that of a suspect;
• the risks associated with detention, searches, and the seizure or restriction of property;
• how the pre-trial investigation works;
• what happens after a case is referred to court;
• the differences between ordinary, summary, and negotiated proceedings;
• when it makes sense to reach a plea agreement with the prosecution;
• why legal defence during the pre-trial stage is critically important.

We also discuss:

• the principle of expediency (opportunity principle) and the termination of criminal proceedings;
• negotiations with the prosecutor's office;
• defence strategy;
• common mistakes made by defendants;
• the risks of summary proceedings;
• how the chosen procedural route may affect sentencing.

This video is particularly useful for:

• entrepreneurs and business owners;
• company executives and managers;
• individuals involved in criminal proceedings;
• anyone who wants to understand their rights and the risks involved.

Criminal proceedings are not a place for improvisation.

The earlier you understand the rules of the process, the greater your chances of protecting your rights and minimizing the consequences.