Quick operational guide
Ten essential checks after receiving a criminal document in Italy
A short guide, available directly on this page, to understand what to check, what to preserve and what mistakes to avoid before speaking with a criminal defence lawyer.
The 10 steps
1
Identify the documentNotice of investigation, summons, complaint, court summons, search or seizure.
2
Check the issuing authorityProsecutor’s Office, Court, Carabinieri, Police, Financial Police or another office.
3
Note the proceeding numberLook for R.G.N.R., R.G. GIP, R.G. Dib. or other identifying references.
4
Verify your procedural positionSuspect, defendant, injured party, complainant or person informed of the facts.
5
Read the alleged offenceCheck legal provisions, date, place and short description of the facts.
6
Look for dates and deadlinesSummons, questioning, hearings or deadlines for defence action.
7
Preserve everythingThe document, envelope, certified email, reports, receipts and notices.
8
Collect useful materialChats, emails, photos, contracts, payments and names of relevant people.
9
Avoid impulsive actionsDo not delete chats, contact the other party or send rushed explanations.
10
Prepare a brief timelineOrganise the facts by date and seek a technical assessment before acting.
The guide is for general information only and does not replace legal advice on a specific case.
After reading the guide
If you have already received a document, this guide only helps you organise the first information. A concrete assessment requires review of the document and any deadlines indicated.
For non-urgent communications, write to gerardo@avvocatodimaria.com. Do not send sensitive details without prior agreement.