GLADICA Law Firm

Criminal Defence Lawyer Berlin. Germany's Leading Criminal Defence Attorneys

Your specialists in criminal defence and criminal law in Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt am Main

GLADICA Criminal Defence at a Glance

GLADICA Law Firm is a highly specialised criminal law practice with offices in Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt am Main. The firm defends clients nationwide across all areas of criminal law. Its focus lies where the consequences are most severe and the defence most demanding: sex crimes law, drug offences law, white-collar and tax criminal law, and the field of cybercrime and digital offences.

GLADICA is one of the very few exclusively female criminal law firms in Germany. This is not a marketing claim — it is a deliberate strategic choice. In proceedings where one person's word stands against another's, where the credibility of those involved determines the difference between acquittal and conviction, a defence team of experienced female criminal lawyers delivers a genuine tactical advantage.

What further sets GLADICA apart from other criminal law firms is its ability to think and act across practice area boundaries. Criminal proceedings almost always have consequences in adjacent areas of law. GLADICA defends simultaneously at the intersection of criminal law, employment law, tax law and traffic law — all from a single source. The firm is available around the clock, particularly in cases of search and seizure or arrest.

Key Takeaways:

Sex crimes law as a core competency: defence in proceedings under §§ 174 to 184l of the Criminal Code, with forensic statement analysis and confrontational examination methodology.

Leading expertise in drug offences law: defence under the Narcotics Act and the Cannabis Consumption Act, from simple possession to organised trafficking in non-trivial quantities.

In-depth specialisation in white-collar and tax criminal law: defence against fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, money laundering, tax evasion under § 370 of the Tax Code, and coordinated parallel defence across both sets of proceedings.

Digital criminal defence at the highest level: deepfakes, ransomware, computer fraud, hacking and social media offences, combining technical expertise with criminal law knowledge.

Precision defence in environmental criminal law: emissions trading fraud, greenwashing, illegal waste disposal and water pollution at the intersection of environmental, commercial and tax criminal law.

One of the very few exclusively female criminal law firms in Germany, delivering a genuine tactical advantage in he said/she said proceedings and during the confrontational examination of prosecution witnesses.

Cross-practice defence from a single source: criminal law, employment law, tax law and traffic law are coordinated in parallel, ensuring that no statement made in one set of proceedings becomes evidence against the client in another.

Offices in Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt am Main. Nationwide defence before all German courts. Available around the clock in cases of search and seizure or arrest.

CRIMINAL LAW EMERGENCY

A Criminal Investigation Changes Everything

Your Rights in the First 24 Hours

The call from the police, the summons as a suspect, or the dawn raid at six in the morning: in that moment, your right to silence is your most important line of defence. Section 136 of the Code of Criminal Procedure guarantees your right to make no statement about the alleged offence. Any statement made without legal counsel can permanently undermine your entire defence strategy and have a lasting impact on the outcome of the proceedings. GLADICA is available around the clock and takes on the first critical steps immediately upon instruction.

Automatic Consequences of Criminal Proceedings

Revocation of driving licence and mandatory medical and psychological assessment under § 11 of the Driving Licence Regulation
Dismissal on suspicion and suspension from employment under § 626 of the Civil Code
Disciplinary proceedings for civil servants under §§ 15 et seq. of the Federal Disciplinary Act
Loss of security clearances under § 1 of the Security Clearance Act
Parallel tax criminal proceedings initiated by the tax investigation authority
Professional regulatory consequences for doctors, lawyers and other professionals

One Law Firm for Every Legal Dimension

GLADICA is highly specialised in criminal law and traffic law. Beyond these core areas, the firm also handles employment law and tax law matters where these are directly linked to criminal or traffic law proceedings: suspension from employment alongside a criminal investigation, tax criminal proceedings alongside a tax audit, or licence revocation alongside a criminal conviction. This coordinated defence prevents any statement in one set of proceedings from being used as evidence in another.

Our Specialisations

Leading Expertise Across Five Core Areas

White-Collar Criminal Defence Berlin

Corruption and Tax Criminal Law as a Core Focus

Corruption and Bribery under §§ 331 et seq. of the Criminal Code: Our Core Competency
Defending corruption cases demands a thorough command of §§ 331 to 335 of the Criminal Code alongside the relevant compliance frameworks. Corruption allegations frequently target public officials, corporate executives and elected representatives alike. GLADICA develops defence strategies that account for both domestic and international compliance standards. Our specialists bring extensive experience defending against charges of accepting advantages under § 331, passive bribery under § 332, and commercial bribery under § 299 of the Criminal Code.
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Fraud and Breach of Fiduciary Duty under §§ 263, 266 of the Criminal Code: Strategic Defence
Fraud and breach of fiduciary duty are among the most frequently prosecuted white-collar offences in Germany. Sentences range from fines to ten years' imprisonment in particularly serious cases. GLADICA defends against charges of standard and aggravated fraud under § 263, computer fraud under § 263a, breach of fiduciary duty under § 266, subsidy fraud under § 264 and withholding of wages under § 266a of the Criminal Code. Investigations in this area routinely span years and generate files running to thousands of pages.
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Money Laundering and Wrongful Trading under §§ 261 of the Criminal Code and 15a of the Insolvency Act
Money laundering charges under § 261 of the Criminal Code have been framed considerably more broadly since the 2021 reform. Even reckless ignorance of the origin of assets may now constitute a criminal offence. Wrongful trading under § 15a of the Insolvency Act affects directors who have failed to meet their obligation to file for insolvency in time. GLADICA coordinates the criminal defence with advice on insolvency law and corporate law consequences, minimising personal liability exposure.
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Tax Criminal Law under § 370 of the Tax Code: Precision Defence Before Tax Courts
Tax criminal law is a standalone core competency of GLADICA. In 2024, 50,018 tax criminal proceedings were concluded across Germany, with tax investigation authorities recovering 2.6 billion euros in additional tax assessments. GLADICA defends against tax evasion charges under § 370 of the Tax Code, advises on voluntary disclosures under § 371 and handles parallel proceedings in which statements made in tax criminal cases could prejudice white-collar criminal proceedings. A valid voluntary disclosure requires completeness: an incomplete disclosure risks forfeiting immunity from prosecution.
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Video

Criminal Defence in Germany: What Really Matters

Galina Rolnik, certified specialist in criminal law at GLADICA, explains the critical first steps when facing a criminal investigation, the most common mistakes made by suspects, and why choosing the right criminal defence lawyer determines the outcome of your case.

Galina Rolnik | Certified Specialist in Criminal Law | GLADICA Law Firm

Our Proven Approach

The GLADICA Defence Protocol

Our systematic 4-stage criminal defence system

Phase 1

First Contact, Initial Assessment and Immediate Safeguarding

Clarity, security and a clear initial direction for your defence

In this phase, we establish in particular:

what stage the proceedings have reached: preliminary investigation, full investigation, intermediate proceedings or the immediate pre-trial phase
what offence is alleged and which specific charges are under investigation
whether you have made any statements to the police or public prosecution office, and if so, what you said
what acute risks exist: pre-trial detention, seizure of assets or provisional asset freezing
which deadlines are immediately relevant
whether other areas of law are implicated: road traffic law, employment law or tax law
what first steps must be initiated immediately

Phase 2

File Review, Evidence Analysis and Legal Examination

Examining the charge with precision and penetrating it legally

In this phase, we examine in particular:

the complete contents of the investigation file
the quality and robustness of the evidence: witness statements, expert reports, chat histories, documents and digital traces
potential contradictions and evidential weaknesses
investigative and procedural errors, as well as bars to the use of evidence
exculpatory circumstances that the charge fails to take into account
legal vulnerabilities in the allegation itself

Phase 3

Development of the Individual Defence Strategy

Individually tailored, legally sound and tactically astute

In this phase, we decide, among other things:

whether and when making a statement is advisable, or whether silence is the strategically superior choice
which applications should be made, and at what point in time
whether an early discontinuance under §§ 153, 153a of the Code of Criminal Procedure is achievable
whether a penalty order should be challenged, and when
how exculpatory circumstances and evidence are introduced to strategic effect
how to respond to incriminating witness statements, expert reports or digital evidence
which line of defence is sustainable before the court
how personal, professional and financial consequences can be minimised while proceedings are still ongoing

Phase 4

Conducting the Defence at Trial and in Appeal Proceedings

Consistently prepared, with one clear objective: the best possible outcome

In this phase, we take responsibility in particular for:

conducting the defence at trial before all criminal courts in Germany
examining and challenging incriminating witness statements and expert reports
filing applications for the taking of evidence and other procedural motions
legal and tactical advocacy before the court
protection from avoidable burdens during the hearing
consistent focus on the best possible verdict or discontinuance
pursuing appeal on fact (Berufung), appeal on law (Revision) and all further procedural avenues to correct a wrongful decision

Our Specialisations

Why the GLADICA Defence Protocol Works

Leading Specialists in Complex Criminal Defence

GLADICA Law Firm is among Germany's leading practices in complex criminal defence and one of the very few firms recognised as a top address for demanding criminal proceedings, with over 10,000 cases successfully concluded. As an exclusively female criminal law firm, GLADICA delivers a genuine tactical advantage in proceedings where one person's account stands against another's and credibility determines whether the outcome is acquittal or conviction.

Landmark Results in the Most Demanding Cases

Our criminal defence lawyers have established themselves as one of the first addresses for challenging criminal defence through landmark results in the most difficult proceedings. The firm's focus lies in sex crimes law, drug offences law, white-collar and tax criminal law, and cybercrime and AI-related offences — complemented by authoritative expertise across all other areas of German criminal law.

An Integrated Defence Strategy

Criminal law and traffic law. Criminal law and employment law. Criminal law and tax law. Criminal proceedings almost always carry consequences in adjacent legal areas. GLADICA defends wherever criminal law intersects with other practice areas, coordinating all proceedings in parallel so that no statement made in one case becomes evidence against the client in another. This integrated approach sets new standards in criminal defence.

Around-the-Clock Response

In criminal proceedings, every hour counts. GLADICA is available around the clock, seven days a week, including public holidays. When a search is carried out, our criminal defence lawyers are immediately on hand. In cases of arrest, we take over contact with the detention facility without delay. From our offices in Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt am Main, we can be at any court in Germany within 24 hours. Acting early prevents mistakes that are almost impossible to correct further down the line.

Results in Our Core Areas

Reviews from Our Clients

Sex Crimes Defence
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Outstanding defence, acquittal secured. Exceptional law firm. Defended me in a complex rape allegation case. Acquittal at the end. I felt taken seriously and superbly represented throughout.
Client on Google
Client on Google / 2025
Criminal Defence
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Ms Rolnik represented me with outstanding competence, dedication and genuine empathy. From the very beginning I felt in safe hands. She takes the time to explain everything clearly and truly fights for her clients. Thanks to her legal precision and clear communication, the entire proceedings were far less stressful. And in the end there was an acquittal. Thank you for everything, Ms Rolnik.
Client on Google
Client on Google / 2025
Discontinuance of Proceedings
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I had already worked with several lawyers, but Ms Rolnik is the best of all of them. She secured the discontinuance of the proceedings and saved me an enormous amount of stress. A thousand thanks.
Client on Google
Client on Google / 2025
Criminal Defence
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I can recommend GLADICA Law Firm without reservation. Switching to them was absolutely the right decision. She fought hard for me and achieved the best possible outcome. I am deeply grateful she was on my side.
Client on Google
Client on Google / 2025
Acquittal
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I can only recommend GLADICA. I had a serious case before the court — but she pulled it off. Acquittal. She took apart the witnesses so thoroughly they were left speechless. She held her ground against the prosecution without flinching. I felt in safe hands with her. She knows exactly what she is doing. When it really comes down to it, Ms Rolnik of GLADICA is the one you want.
Client on Google
Client on Google / 2025
Criminal Defence
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I am endlessly grateful to GLADICA for everything they did for me. It was an exhausting fight — but it paid off. Thank you so much, Ms Rolnik, for your patience and your relentless commitment, which more than justified itself. You were my salvation.
Client on Google
Client on Google / 2025

We take care of everything with your legal insurance

24/7 Availability

Your Next Steps to Professional Criminal Defence

Immediate Response in Critical Situations

A search, an arrest, a police summons or a penalty order can arrive without warning. In those moments, every minute matters. GLADICA is available around the clock, seven days a week, including public holidays. During a search and seizure, we advise you by telephone throughout the course of the measure. In cases of arrest, we are at your side without delay. You receive an immediate, clear assessment of your situation and concrete instructions on what to do — with no empty promises.

Early Action Delivers Better Outcomes

Time is a critical factor in criminal proceedings. The sooner you instruct a highly qualified criminal defence lawyer and certified specialist in criminal law in Berlin, the better placed we are to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

Precision Expertise in Criminal Law

GLADICA Law Firm is among Berlin's leading criminal law practices, with landmark results in demanding criminal proceedings. Highly specialised in white-collar criminal defence, sex crimes defence, drug offences, environmental criminal law and medical criminal law — complemented by authoritative expertise across the most important further areas of criminal law.

Legal Excellence and Strategic Brilliance

Place your trust in experienced Berlin criminal defence lawyers. GLADICA Law Firm stands for legal excellence and strategic brilliance.

FAQ

Criminal Defence Lawyer: Frequently Asked Questions

Exercise your right to silence immediately – this is your most important protection under § 136 of the German Code of Criminal Procedure. Show your ID, but make no further statements, sign nothing, and hand over no passwords or device access codes. Demand to see the search warrant and check exactly which premises it covers. Call a criminal defence lawyer without delay – GLADICA is available around the clock and can be on-site in Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt am Main at short notice.

An initial consultation with GLADICA is subject to a fee that reflects the nature of the charge and the complexity of your case. All subsequent defence costs are set out transparently in an individual fee agreement. If you hold legal expenses insurance with criminal law cover, this will often already cover the cost of the first consultation.

A straightforward investigation can conclude within three to six months, while complex white-collar or internationally connected cases routinely take two to five years. From indictment to trial, expect two to four months at a Magistrates' Court (Amtsgericht) and six to twelve months at a Regional Court (Landgericht). Statutes of limitation range from three to thirty years depending on the offence; murder carries no limitation period.

Under § 140 of the German Code of Criminal Procedure (StPO), mandatory defence applies where the charge carries a minimum custodial sentence of one year, where pre-trial detention is imminent, where proceedings take place before a Lay Judges' Court, a Regional Court or a Higher Regional Court, or where the accused is unable to conduct their own defence. In these cases the court appoints a public defender on application.

You become a suspect (Beschuldigter) as soon as criminal proceedings are initiated against you. You become an accused (Angeschuldigter) once the public prosecutor files an indictment but before the court decides whether to open main proceedings. You are referred to as a defendant (Angeklagter) once the court admits the case for trial. At every stage you have the right to legal representation and the right to remain silent.

Germany's Cannabis Consumer Act (KCanG) has been in force since April 2024. Ongoing proceedings for personal possession below the new thresholds – 25 g in public and 50 g on private premises – may be discontinued. Convictions that have already become final may in certain circumstances be quashed via re-opening proceedings. Commercial dealing outside licensed cultivation associations remains a criminal offence. Individual legal review by a criminal defence lawyer is strongly recommended.

Since the 2024 reform, possession of child sexual abuse material under § 184b of the German Criminal Code is again classified as a misdemeanour, carrying a minimum sentence of six months and a maximum of five years' imprisonment. Distribution is punishable by up to ten years' custody. Photorealistic AI-generated depictions are equally covered by the provision.

German criminal law does not yet contain a standalone deepfake offence. Prosecutors rely on existing provisions: sexualised deepfakes may be prosecuted under the right-to-one's-own-image rules (§§ 22, 33 KUG) and § 201a StGB; defamatory content under § 185 StGB; deepfake-enabled fraud under § 263 StGB. The legal landscape is evolving rapidly – effective defence requires both criminal law expertise and a thorough understanding of generative AI systems.

In many sexual offence cases the only evidence consists of two contradictory accounts with no objective corroboration or additional witnesses. Credibility analysis by forensic psychology experts is the pivotal tool for assessing the evidence. As an exclusively female law firm, GLADICA has extensive experience in commissioning and critically evaluating such expert opinions and in conducting rigorous cross-examination of prosecution witnesses.

Insult (§ 185 StGB), defamation (§ 186 StGB), libel (§ 187 StGB) and incitement to hatred (§ 130 StGB) are criminal offences in the digital sphere just as in the physical world. Many investigations are triggered by automated reports from platform operators. The line between a punishable statement and protected freedom of expression under Article 5 of the Basic Law is frequently contested online and requires careful legal analysis.

Tax evasion under § 370 of the German Fiscal Code (AO) is punishable by a fine or up to five years' imprisonment. In aggravated cases – generally from €50,000 upwards – the sentencing range rises to between six months and ten years' custody. Where the evaded amount exceeds €1 million, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) has held that a suspended sentence is regularly excluded. A valid voluntary disclosure (Selbstanzeige) under § 371 AO can, under certain conditions, lead to full exemption from criminal liability.