rechter-commissaris

The examining magistrate is a judge at a Dutch district court (rechtbank) who supervises the criminal investigation before a case goes to trial. The rechter-commissaris rules on coercive measures during the investigation, such as extending pre-trial custody (voorlopige hechtenis) and authorising certain investigative powers like wiretaps. Their role is to protect the suspect's rights while the police and public prosecutor (Openbaar Ministerie) build the case.