1. Immediate Arrest and the 48-Hour Window

If there is suspicion of involvement in a crime, the police can make an arrest immediately. After the arrest, the police must conduct an interrogation and submit the case file to the public prosecutor within 48 hours.

2. The Prosecutor’s 24-Hour Decision

Once the public prosecutor receives the file, they have 24 hours to decide whether to request formal detention or release the individual.

3. 10 to 20 Days of Detention

If the prosecutor feels further investigation is necessary, they can request a detention order from the court, initially for 10 days. If the case is complex, this can be extended by another 10 days, totaling up to 20 days of detention for investigation. During this period, the prosecutor usually decides whether or not to officially file charges (Indictment).

4. Deportation Process

For foreign nationals, in cases of minor legal violations (such as overstaying a visa or working beyond permitted hours):

• Immediate Action: Once taken into custody by Immigration, the deportation process typically begins within a few days to a few weeks.
• Entry Ban: After being deported, an individual is usually banned from re-entering Japan for 5 to 10 years, or in some cases, for life.

5. Punishment and Fines

Serious crimes (such as theft, assault, or drug offenses) lead to prison sentences. Japan has a conviction rate of over 99%, meaning once a case is officially charged, it is extremely difficult to be acquitted.