Criminal Defense for Foreigners in China

You Are Not Alone

What to do if your loved one is detained

We understand the anxiety and uncertainty you're facing right now. These four steps protect them — and you.

01

Avoid unofficial "middlemen"
No one can promise a release for money. These "fixers" are almost always scams — and can make the legal situation worse.

02

Identify the detention center
Find out which Detention Center (Kan-Shou-Suo 看守所) your loved one is held in — this determines which lawyer can act fastest.

03

Do not sign what you don't understand
Advise them not to sign any document they do not fully understand in English. Signed statements carry heavy weight later.

04

Only a licensed Chinese lawyer can visit
Family members and consular staff cannot review the case file. A licensed Chinese lawyer can visit the detainee, review evidence, and act immediately.

How We Help

A Chinese criminal lawyer's role — at every stage

Early legal intervention is critical. We provide strategic defense from the moment of detention through final resolution.

During Detention / Investigation

Apply for lawyer access to the detainee
Meet with police and the detention center
Protect against illegal interrogation
Advise on statements and evidence

Case Development Stage

Analyze potential criminal charges
Communicate with the procuratorate
Apply for bail (release on guarantee)
Seek non-prosecution where possible

Trial or Resolution

Criminal defense strategy
Mitigation and sentencing advocacy
Case resolution or appeal support

The earlier you involve legal counsel, the more options are available for the defense.

Know the Risks

Common criminal charges for foreigners in China

Drug-Related Offenses
Possession, trafficking, or even "sharing" drugs with friends. China has a zero-tolerance policy — even small amounts can lead to severe penalties. Early legal intervention is vital to clarify intent and quantity.

Assault & Disturbance of Public Order
Fights in bars or clubs, or disputes with locals that escalate. We emphasize mediation — in China, reaching a compensation agreement with the victim can often lead to bail or a significantly reduced sentence.

Customs & Cross-Border Issues
Items that are legal in your country may not be legal in China. We handle cases involving inadvertently carried prohibited items and work to clarify intent.

Immigration & Visa Fraud
Working on a tourist visa, illegal border crossing, or forged documents. Beyond criminal defense, we manage the risk of deportation and future re-entry bans.

Understanding the "37-day" critical period

In China, police can detain a suspect for up to 37 days before a formal arrest is approved. This is the most crucial window for a lawyer to intervene — to argue for bail, present mitigating evidence, or seek downgraded charges. If your loved one is detained or under investigation, timely legal assistance can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.

Foreign-Related Experience Matters

Not every criminal lawyer has foreign case experience in China

◆

Language & communication

We bridge the language gap between Chinese authorities and overseas families.

◆

Cross-border documentation

Experience with international notarization, apostille and evidence requirements.

◆

Remote family coordination

Regular English updates for families located outside China.

◆

Detention center familiarity

Regular work with police, procuratorates and courts across China — 36 offices.

Criminal defense for foreigners in China

Common Questions

Frequently asked questions about criminal defense in China

No. Detention does not equal conviction. In Chinese criminal procedure, detention is an investigative measure. A conviction only occurs after formal prosecution and a court trial. Early legal intervention during detention can significantly impact the outcome — including case dismissal, bail, or reduced charges.

Yes. A licensed Chinese criminal lawyer is the only professional who can legally visit the detainee, learn the actual charges, and review the case file. Neither family members nor consular officials have this access to case materials.

Immediately — ideally within the first days of detention. Chinese police can detain a suspect for up to 37 days before formal arrest is approved. This "37-day window" is the most crucial period to argue for bail, present mitigating evidence, or seek downgraded charges. The earlier we are involved, the more options exist.

Yes. Family members abroad can engage us directly. We verify the family relationship, handle the engagement documents remotely, and give you regular updates in English — you do not need to fly to China to get representation started.

Whatever you have: the detainee's full name and passport number, where and when they were detained, the detention notice if you received one, and any contact from the police. Even partial information is enough for us to start locating them.

Get Confidential Legal Help Now

Arrest or detention of a family member in China? Tell us the city and the situation — we respond 24/7.

When a Foreigner Is Detained in China, Early Legal Help Changes Everything