What we can do to help

We can give general information about local police and legal procedures. We can’t give you legal advice, but can put you in touch with a local lawyer.

If you need medical treatment, we can help you to contact a local doctor.

Contacting friends and relatives

If you want us to, we can contact your relatives and friends and let them know what has happened. In some cases, we can offer financial assistance. 

We cannot collect evidence or investigate crimes ourselves, and in many countries investigating authorities and the courts will refuse to answer enquiries from other people and organisations, including our staff.

Local lawyer

So, you should consider appointing a local lawyer who can look after your interests in court, and follow any trial for you. We can give you a list of local English-speaking lawyers. We would not ordinarily attend a court case involving a British national and cannot influence the outcome of any trial.

Back in the UK, you may feel you would benefit from extra support to help you cope with the effects of the crime. Organisations such as Victim Support can help.

We have also produced a leaflet called Victims of crime abroad which offers more detailed information. 

How to deal with Crime

• A crime against you has been committed.  In the first instance, report this to the nearest local police station.   All crimes should be officially recorded.  It may prove wise to take a Chinese speaking person with you, the Embassy or Consulate do not offer a translator nor can we accompany nationals reporting a crime. Take note of the reference number for insurance purpose etc.

• The Embassy nor Consulates are in the position to offer legal advice in disputes or report a crime on behalf of an individual. If you need legal advice we can provide a list of lawyers.

• One thing to be aware of is that if the crime is between a foreigner and a Chinese national, it will be likely that the police will take the side of the Chinese national.  Remember that you still have the right to report the crime and press charges if you so wish, an investigation by the police will have to be conducted.