What Happens When a Foreigner Commits a Crime in Japan?

👮‍♂️The police have the discretion to arrest or question a suspect when a crime is committed by a foreigner in Japan.

🔍Interpreters are provided during the investigation and trial process, but there is a lack of skilled legal interpreters in Japan.

⏰For serious crimes, suspects are usually arrested immediately, while for minor offenses, the police may choose to call the suspect in for questioning.

🌏Foreign suspects in Japan may be held in detention for up to 23 days, depending on the nature of the crime and their visa status.

💼Foreigners who admit guilt for their actions may have a smoother legal process compared to those who deny any wrongdoing.

Is an interpreter provided for foreign suspects?

—Yes, during the investigation and trial process, the police provide an interpreter for foreign suspects who may not be able to speak Japanese.

Do foreign suspects face unfair treatment in Japan?

—Foreign suspects are not treated unfairly or harshly based solely on their nationality. However, depending on their actions in Japan or visa status, stricter measures may be taken, especially for serious crimes.

What are common charges against westerners in Japan?

—Common charges against westerners in Japan include alcohol-related incidents such as fights or causing harm, as well as drug-related crimes like violations of The Cannabis Control Act.

How long can a foreign suspect be detained in Japan?

—A foreign suspect can be held in detention for up to 23 days, especially for serious crimes. This is to ensure that the suspect does not flee outside of Japan.

Is it better to admit guilt if you are guilty?

—If a foreign suspect is guilty, it is generally recommended to admit guilt, as it can lead to a smoother legal process. However, if the suspect is innocent, they should maintain their innocence and provide any necessary evidence to support their case.

05:11When a foreigner commits a crime in Japan, the police have two choices: to arrest and detain the suspect or to call them in for questioning.

05:34For serious crimes, the suspect is usually arrested immediately. For minor offenses, the police may choose to call the suspect in for questioning if they have a guarantor or stable life in Japan.

05:51Interpreters are provided by the police during the investigation and trial process for foreign suspects.

06:36Foreign suspects in Japan can be held in detention for up to 23 days, especially for serious crimes.

06:43There is a shortage of skilled legal interpreters in Japan, which can lead to miscommunication or difficulties in conveying subtle nuances.

06:56The length of detention for foreign suspects is not based on nationality but on factors such as their actions in Japan and their visa status.

07:31Common charges against westerners in Japan include alcohol-related incidents and drug-related crimes like violations of The Cannabis Control Act.

08:21If there is a victim, settling out of court between the parties involved can increase the likelihood of the case being dropped.