criminal defense Archives - Page 2 of 3

June 13, 2016

Is there a legal aid system in Japan?

The Japan Legal Support Center (JLSC, also known as Houterasu, (法テラス) is public corporation providing legal aid loans to low income individuals. The JLSC was established under the Comprehensive Legal Support Act passed in 2004. Qualifying individuals can make inquiries to local law firms regarding civil, divorce or criminal legal issues or a variety of other potential legal problems and have their legal fees prepaid as a loan from the JLSC.

May 25, 2016

What is the limit for drunk driving in Japan?

The legal limit for driving under the influence of alcohol in Japan is relatively low compared with other countries around the world. It is highly recommended in Japan that drivers consume no alcohol at all, as even small amounts that might be considered “safe” in foreign countries may result in criminal penalties in Japan.

February 24, 2016

What’s the punishment for public drunkenness?

Indecent exposure, assault, contempt, a violation of the Minor Offenses Act and public nuisance drunkenness result in a punishment of Misdemeanor Imprisonment without Work. This sentence carries a maximum punishment of imprisonment for less than 30 days but the minimum punishment for this sentence is just one day.

February 24, 2016

What happens if someone doesn’t pay the fine for a criminal offense?

Criminal fines in Japan come in two types: Fines and Petty Fines. A petty fine is between 1000 yen and 10,000 yen. Anything above 10,000 yen is a normal fine, although normal fines can be reduced to below 10,000 yen due to mitigating circumstances.