The HALT disposition offers young people between 12 and 18 years old in Leiden a chance to avoid criminal prosecution. By completing an educational sanction, the young person avoids a criminal record.
What is HALT?
HALT, or Het ALTernatief (The Alternative), is an extrajudicial solution for young people who have committed a minor criminal offence. Instead of a court proceeding, the young person receives a community service sanction under the supervision of a HALT officer in Leiden.
Conditions for a HALT trajectory
- Age between 12 and 18 years
- First or second offence
- No serious crimes such as severe violence or sexual offences
- The young person admits the offence
- Consent of both the young person and parents
Which offences qualify for HALT?
- Shoplifting
- Minor forms of vandalism
- Fireworks violations
- Mild forms of violence
- Public intoxication
- Spraying graffiti
How does a HALT disposition proceed?
The trajectory includes the following steps:
- A meeting with a HALT officer and the parents
- Completion of an educational sanction (up to 20 hours)
- Writing an apology letter to the victim
- Compensation for any damage
What are the benefits?
- No registration of a criminal record
- No lengthy court case
- Quick and efficient handling
- Focus on education and insight
Consequences of non-compliance
If the young person does not comply with the HALT agreements, the case is still referred to the Public Prosecution Service, which may lead to a criminal procedure.
Contact and Support in Leiden
For questions or legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles cases that are not disposed of via HALT.
Frequently Asked Questions about HALT in Leiden
How does the HALT process work step by step?
The process starts with a referral from the police. This is followed by an intake at HALT in Leiden with you and your parents. During this meeting, an educational sanction is determined (maximum 20 hours). You write an apology letter and compensate for damage if necessary. Upon successful completion, you avoid a criminal record.
What if I do not complete the HALT task?
If you do not comply with the tasks, your file is forwarded to the Public Prosecution Service. This can result in a court case and possibly a criminal record. It is therefore important to keep to the agreements.
Can I decline HALT and go to court?
Yes, you and your parents can refuse HALT. The case then goes to the Public Prosecution Service for possible criminal prosecution. Consult with your parents or a lawyer about the consequences, such as a possible criminal record.
What is the duration of a HALT trajectory?
A HALT process usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the tasks and how quickly you complete them. It is a faster option than a court case, which often takes longer. Make sure you comply with the agreements to avoid delays.
Does HALT affect my future, such as a VOG?
No, a HALT disposition does not appear on your criminal record and has no impact on a Certificate of Conduct (VOG). Only convictions by the court are registered. A police arrest may sometimes be noted, but it has no legal consequences.
What educational tasks can I expect?
Educational tasks at HALT are aimed at raising awareness. Think of writing a report about your behaviour, attending a social skills training, carrying out restorative work, or participating in group discussions with other young people.