
Litigation before Polish courts (civil, criminal, and administrative proceedings)
6 April 2026
Preliminary ruling procedure
It is always worth discussing matters, as a significant number of disputes can be resolved even before formal litigation begins.
After analysing the documents and reviewing the facts, I often advise my clients to start with the simplest solution, namely attempting an amicable settlement of the dispute. In some cases, a formal notice, a parental agreement, or negotiations are sufficient, and the conflict does not need to end up in court.
However, it is important that your lawyer speaks both your language and the language of the opposing party. This provides a sense of security and ensures that your lawyer can represent you reliably and accurately.
Court proceedings
Not all disputes can be resolved amicably and, in some cases, there is no alternative but to bring the matter before the courts.
In the course of my practice, I handle cases initiated by English-speaking clients as well as cases in which my clients are the opposing party. I therefore support them at every stage of the process: from reviewing the ongoing proceedings to full representation throughout the judicial proceedings (please note: if you are an English-speaking party, the court is required to provide a sworn interpreter. It is therefore essential that your lawyer ensures the proper conduct of the translation process. Your lawyer acts in your best interest).
I also assist clients during the debt recovery phase or in the context of court-approved settlements.
Key characteristics of civil, administrative, and criminal proceedings
In the course of my practice, I handle three types of proceedings: civil proceedings (with a particular focus on family law), administrative proceedings (relating to residence regularisation and assistance before Polish authorities in various matters), and criminal proceedings.
Criminal proceedings are undoubtedly one of the most sensitive areas of law. It often happens that foreigners arriving in Poland are not aware that Polish law differs from the legislation of their home country, which may result in detention or even criminal charges.
It is not uncommon for family members in England/USA not even to be aware that their relative has been arrested in Poland (unfortunately, the language barrier often prevents immediate contact). In my practice, I therefore focus on defending my clients and ensuring that they are guaranteed an effective right of defence at every stage of the proceedings.