Causing death through negligence

Causing death through negligence means that a person is culpably responsible for the death of another person. A characteristic of causing death through negligence is that there is no intent, but there is a significant degree of carelessness. Culpable death can occur in cases such as:

If you or someone you know is suspected of causing death through negligence, there is probably a lot on your mind: someone has died - unintentionally. It is therefore important that you hire a specialized criminal lawyer at an early stage. Van Meekren Advocatuur can provide that specialized legal assistance.

What is the penalty for causing death through negligence?

In each situation, if the judge comes to a conviction, he will have to determine what punishment he deems appropriate and necessary. A standard punishment for culpable homicide cannot therefore be given. However, the law does have maximum penalties. For causing death through negligence without additional circumstances, this is a prison sentence of two years or a fine of the fourth category (as of Jan. 1, 2024: €25,750). If the negligence consists of recklessness, the maximum prison sentence is four years.

Legal entities are subject to a maximum fine of the fifth category (as of Jan. 1, 2024: €103,000). Legal entities must additionally consider claims for damages and/or loss of reputation.

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Bram Horenblas - lawyer at law

Van Meekren Advocatuur litigates throughout the Netherlands, including the courts in Alkmaar, Almelo, Amsterdam, Arnhem, Assen, Breda, Dordrecht, The Hague, Groningen, Haarlem, 's-Hertogenbosch, Leeuwarden, Lelystad, Maastricht, Middelburg, Roermond, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Zutphen and Zwolle, the courts of appeal in Amsterdam, Arnhem, The Hague, 's-Hertogenbosch and Leeuwarden, the Supreme Court of the Netherlands in The Hague. Van Meekren Advocatuur also litigates at the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg.