How Long Can a Criminal Investigation Last in Romania?

If you’re a foreigner involved in a legal matter, one of the most stressful parts of the process is uncertainty—especially when it comes to how long a criminal investigation can last in Romania. Many non-citizens are surprised to learn that investigations can take months, sometimes even years, depending on the case.

In this article, we’ll break down what determines the length of a criminal investigation, what your rights are during this time, and what you can do to protect yourself while the process is ongoing.


1. What Is a Criminal Investigation in Romania?

A criminal investigation in Romania is the phase during which prosecutors and police gather evidence to decide whether a case should go to trial. This includes:

  • Questioning suspects and witnesses
  • Searching property
  • Forensic analysis
  • Reviewing documents and electronic evidence

The investigation is handled by the criminal prosecution authorities—usually the police under the supervision of a prosecutor (procuror).


2. Legal Time Limits for Criminal Investigations

Romanian law sets maximum time limits for investigations, but these limits vary based on the seriousness of the offense:

  • Simple offenses: Investigations must be completed within a reasonable timeframe, often within 6 to 12 months
  • Serious or complex crimes: (e.g., fraud, corruption, organized crime) can be investigated for up to 2 years or longer
  • Statute of limitations: Each crime has a maximum period during which prosecution must begin—ranging from 3 to 15 years or more, depending on the crime

Importantly, the law doesn’t always impose a specific deadline for prosecutors to close the file, meaning investigations can drag on if not actively challenged.


3. Can You Be Kept Under Restrictions During the Investigation?

Yes. Even before formal charges are filed, prosecutors can ask a judge to impose preventive measures such as:

  • Judicial control (you must stay in Romania and report to the police)
  • House arrest
  • Pre-trial detention (only in serious cases)

These measures are reviewed every 30–60 days, but can be extended if the investigation continues.

This makes it crucial to understand how long a criminal investigation can last in Romania, as you may be under restrictions for that entire time.


4. What Causes Delays in a Criminal Investigation?

Several factors can slow down the process:

  • Volume of evidence to analyze (especially digital evidence)
  • Forensic reports (lab work often takes months)
  • Need for international cooperation (if evidence or witnesses are abroad)
  • Court backlog when judicial authorization is needed (e.g. for searches)

For foreigners, language barriers or the need for translation can also add time to each stage.


5. Do You Have a Right to Speed Up the Process?

Yes. If a criminal investigation is dragging on without justification, you or your lawyer can:

  • Request the case file to understand progress
  • File complaints about excessive delays
  • Petition the prosecutor or supervising judge to move the case forward
  • Request dismissal if legal deadlines have clearly been exceeded

Having an experienced attorney is essential in monitoring how long a criminal investigation can last in Romania and pushing for a fair timeline.


6. What Happens at the End of the Investigation?

At the end of the criminal investigation, the prosecutor has three options:

  1. Dismiss the case (lack of evidence or legal grounds)
  2. Issue a plea deal or deferred prosecution agreement (in minor cases)
  3. Send the case to trial by filing the indictment with the court

Once the case is sent to trial, you will receive formal notice and the legal proceedings will move into a public courtroom phase.


Conclusion

So, how long can a criminal investigation last in Romania? It depends on the complexity of the case, but delays are common—especially for foreigners. While the law requires “reasonable timeframes,” that can mean many months or even years. Staying informed, having a lawyer actively involved, and challenging unjustified delays are key to protecting your rights.


Are You Under Investigation in Romania?

Adrian Tapu Law Office provides dedicated legal representation for foreigners under investigation in Romania. We monitor deadlines, ensure your rights are respected, and work to bring your case to a fair resolution as quickly as possible.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation.