Arrest & Detention

The first hours after an arrest matter more than any later stage. Statements given without a lawyer present are difficult to retract, and the family often has no information about where the person is being held.

Wise Counsel responds urgently when a family member is arrested or detained in Vietnam, securing access, information and legal representation from the outset.

What we help with

• Locating where the person is being held and on what legal basis
• Registering as defence counsel and obtaining access at the earliest permitted stage
• Advising the detained person on their rights before any statement is given
• Attending interviews and questioning sessions
• Applying for bail and for less restrictive preventive measures
• Keeping the family informed and advising them on what they can do
• Reviewing the legality of the arrest and the grounds for detention
• Preparing the defence strategy from the investigation stage onwards

Contact a lawyer before agreeing to answer questions. Once a statement is on the file it shapes everything that follows.