Assistance at questioning and summons by an investigator

A summons from an investigator is not a formality. Explanations given without preparation become part of the case file. Having a lawyer involved means the position is settled in advance and the questioning does not stray beyond what the procedure allows.

When to get in touch

• you have received a summons to appear before an investigator or inquiry officer
• you are being invited for “just a chat”, without a formal summons
• a simultaneous questioning of two previously questioned people is planned
• you are a witness but are concerned your procedural status may change

What the lawyer does

• checks that the summons is lawful and was properly served
• establishes the person’s procedural status and the scope of their rights
• prepares the position and agrees how to conduct the questioning
• takes part in the questioning and responds to improperly framed questions
• reviews the record and enters objections to it
• attends any simultaneous questioning

Your rights during questioning under the Criminal Procedure Code

• A witness has the right to legal assistance from a lawyer while giving evidence (Article 66(1)(2) of the CPC).
• A witness may refuse to give evidence about themselves, close relatives and family members that could form the basis of a suspicion or charge of a criminal offence against them (Article 66(1)(3) and Article 224(8) of the CPC).
• If a suspect refuses to answer questions, the questioning must be stopped immediately after that statement (Article 224(4)).
• Questioning may not continue without a break for more than two hours, or for more than eight hours in total per day (Article 224(2)).
• Investigative actions at night (from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) are not allowed, except in urgent cases (Article 223(4)).
• The person may read the record of questioning, request changes, additions and remarks, or make them in their own hand (Article 66(1)(7)).

Evidence given by a witness who is later declared a suspect in the same proceedings is inadmissible (Article 87(3)(1) of the CPC). That is why procedural status and the limits of any testimony should be settled before the questioning.

Legal basis

The procedure for summonses is set out in Articles 133–135 of the Criminal Procedure Code of Ukraine and the consequences of failing to appear in Article 139; a witness’s rights in Article 66; the requirements for investigative actions and the procedure for questioning in Articles 223 and 224.

Legislation and case law are updated over time; this page reflects the position as of November 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to appear when summoned?

The obligation to appear arises only where the summons has been properly served. The lawyer checks whether it was issued in the manner the law requires.

Can I refuse to give evidence?

A person has the right not to testify against themselves or close relatives. The exact scope of rights depends on procedural status, which the lawyer establishes.

How many days in advance must a summons be served?

No later than three days before the day you are required to appear. Where the time limits for procedural steps do not allow this, as soon as possible, but leaving enough time to prepare and attend (Article 135(9) of the CPC).

What happens if I do not appear?

If a person was summoned in the manner the CPC prescribes and fails to appear without good reason or to give reasons, a monetary penalty is imposed – for failing to appear before an investigator or prosecutor, from 0.25 to 0.5 of the subsistence minimum for able-bodied persons; a suspect or witness may also be compelled to appear (Article 139(1)–(2) of the CPC).

Need legal assistance? Call us or leave a request – a lawyer will contact you and explain what to do in your situation.