Bogotá Colombia Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Colombian Criminal Law in Bogotá
Colombian criminal law operates under an accusatory system where the Fiscalía General (Prosecutor’s Office) must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Key statutes include the Colombian Penal Code (Ley 599 de 2000) and the Criminal Procedure Code (Ley 906 de 2004).
Last verified: March 2026 | Verify with Eric Duport | Colombian Ministry of Justice
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Colombian criminal statutes, visit the Fiscalía General de la Nación website. The Judicial Branch of Colombia website provides information on court procedures and locations in Bogotá.
Bogotá Criminal Defense Process
The Colombian criminal process in Bogotá follows specific stages: denuncia (complaint), indagación (investigation), imputación (charging), acusación (formal accusation), juicio oral (trial), and sentencing. The Fiscalía must present charges within 36 hours of arrest.
- Secure legal representation immediately after learning of potential charges.
- Understand the accusatory system stages and your rights at each phase.
- Exercise your constitutional rights to counsel and interpreter if needed.
- Prepare for the Fiscalía investigation, which can last up to 2 years.
- Develop a defense strategy focused on evidence challenging and procedural compliance.
- handle the trial phase where oral arguments and witness testimony determine the outcome.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Bogotá
In Bogotá, criminal convictions under Colombian law carry penalties ranging from fines to 60 years imprisonment, with sentences over 4 years generally ineligible for suspension.
| Offense Category | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less Serious Crimes | Delitos menos graves | 16 months – 4 years | 5-150 monthly minimum wages | Probation, community service |
| Serious Crimes | Delitos graves | 4 – 20 years | 150-50,000 monthly minimum wages | Asset forfeiture, travel restrictions |
| Very Serious Crimes | Delitos muy graves | 20 – 60 years | 50,000+ monthly minimum wages | Life supervision, permanent records |
Results may vary. Penalties depend on specific charges, criminal history, and case circumstances.
Our Colombia Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and provides international legal representation through our Of Counsel team in Colombia. Our firm combines global advocacy with local precision in Colombian criminal matters.
Our Approach to Colombia Criminal Defense
We focus on thorough case preparation, understanding the nuances of Colombian criminal procedure, and protecting client rights at every stage of the process. Our approach includes early intervention, evidence analysis, and strategic negotiation with Colombian authorities.
Results may vary based on case specifics and Colombian legal standards.
Colombia Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving Bogotá
Our Colombia location serves clients throughout Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Cartagena, Pereira, Manizales, and Armenia. We provide Colombia criminal defense representation for both Colombian nationals and foreigners facing charges in Colombia.
24/7 phone consultations — +57-1-800-519-0549 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Colombia Location
Carrera 7 # 18-80 Oficina 606, Edificio Centro Financiero
Pereira, RDA, Colombia
Phone: +57-1-800-519-0549
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What rights does a foreigner have if arrested in Colombia?
Foreigners have the same constitutional rights as Colombian citizens: right to counsel, interpreter, embassy contact, and judicial hearing before preventive detention. Fiscalía must present charges within 36 hours.
Is Colombia Criminal Law a criminal offense in Bogotá, Colombia?
It depends on the charge. Reckless driving in Bogotá is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Speeding tickets are civil infractions. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 — by appointment only.
What is the penalty for Colombia Criminal Law in Bogotá?
Penalties in Bogotá range from fines to license suspension and jail time depending on the offense and Colombia law. Results may vary. Consult Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a Colombia Criminal Law charge in Bogotá?
Yes. Even a minor Colombia Criminal Law conviction in Bogotá can affect your driving record, insurance rates, and employment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in this jurisdiction. Consultation by appointment — (888) 437-7747.
What is the typical timeline for a criminal case in Bogotá?
The full criminal process in Bogotá typically takes 12–36 months. Investigation can last up to 2 years, while the period from formal charges to trial is usually 90–120 days.
Related Legal Services
For other Colombian legal matters, visit our Colombia commercial law page or our Colombia immigration law page. For general criminal defense information, see our criminal defense hub page.
Learn more about your attorney: Eric Duport Jaramillo profile.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of February 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at +57-1-800-519-0549 for current guidance.