Criminal Defense in
Costa Rica
Stiff prison sentences and harsh fines reflect the realities of Costa Rica. Hire a lawyer that looks out for the foreigner’s interest and helps you navigate through the complexities of the Costa Rican criminal system.
Arrest
If you are arrested in Costa Rica, insist that the authorities notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. They are legally obligated to notify a U.S. consular officer of your arrest unless you ask that they not do so. Once notified, a consular officer will visit you where you have been detained and ascertain your conditions and well-being. Note that these officiers cannot act as attorneys or legal representatives.
Drug Possession
Drug possesion in Costa Rica is not an aresstable offense. However, Article 24 of Law No. 7223 imposed sixty- to 180-day-fines on persons who consumed or used unauthorized drugs in private places or in public places.
Prison
If you are accused of a crime, the Costa Rican government can hold you in prison. This is known as 'preventative prison' or preventiva and can be used if a judge believes the accused is a flight risk or deamed likely to comit a crime again. As of 2016, 1 in 5 of all prisoners in Costa Rican prisons have not been convicted of a crime.
Drug Trafficking and Cultivation
Law No. 8204 imposes the penalty of imprisonment non-consumption drug-related activities, such as cultivation, production, manufacture, refining, preparation, distribution, commerce, supply, transport, and storage of the drugs and other regulated substances. Those substances include narcotics, psychotropic substances, and drugs likely to cause physical or psychological dependencies.
E-Cigarettes
Vaping in Costa Rica is regulated the same way all tobacco products are; e-cigarettes are legal.
Prostitution
Prostitution is legal act in Costa Rica.
TRUST
Highly talented lawyers, transparent through every step.
EXPERIENCE
Laws are different throughout the world. Connect with a lawyer familiar with the landscape.
