The only English sentencing estimator for China's criminal law
What penalty could a foreigner face for a crime in China?
If you are a foreign national accused of an offense in China — theft, fraud, drug trafficking, assault, or any of 483 statutory crimes — Chinese criminal law sets fixed sentencing tiers (e.g. fixed-term imprisonment, life imprisonment, fine). This tool explains, in plain English, the statutory penalty range, the elements of the offense, and the mitigating or aggravating factors (surrender, restitution, recidivism) that move a sentence up or down.
No other Chinese law firm publishes an English, searchable sentencing reference for foreigners. Use it to understand what you are facing, then engage a qualified Chinese defense lawyer. The full live estimator across all 483 offenses is available to members.
Frequently asked by foreign nationals facing charges in China
What happens if a foreigner is accused of a crime in China?
You are subject to PRC criminal procedure like any defendant: investigation, possible detention, prosecution, and trial. A qualified Chinese defense lawyer can be engaged, and your consulate should be notified. This tool helps you understand the likely statutory penalty range for the alleged offense.
How is sentencing decided under Chinese criminal law?
Each offense carries statutory sentencing tiers (e.g. "3–10 years", "fixed-term imprisonment"). The court sets the term within the tier using mitigating/aggravating factors such as surrender (自首), restitution (退赔), role in the crime, and prior record.
What is the penalty for theft in China?
Theft (盗窃罪) is tiered by amount and locality. In Guangdong, stealing ¥350,000 with surrender + restitution typically estimates around 4 years 4 months. Thresholds differ by province and city class — see the worked example in each offense detail.
What are the punishment ranges for drug offenses in China?
Drug crimes (e.g. trafficking methamphetamine/heroin) are sentenced by quantity: roughly 10g and 50g are key tier thresholds, with the top tier carrying 15 years, life, or death. Exact tiers are shown per offense in the reference.
Can a foreigner get bail in China?
China uses residential surveillance and bail (取保候审) sparingly, especially for serious or foreign defendants. Detention pending trial is common. Locating the holding detention center (see Detention Center Navigator) is the practical first step.
Will a foreigner be deported after serving a sentence in China?
Foreign defendants are typically deported after completing a sentence, and may face a re-entry ban. Deportation is a separate administrative measure from the criminal penalty.
Do I need a Chinese lawyer if I am detained in China?
A local defense lawyer who reads the case file and appears in court is strongly advised. This reference is informational only and is not a substitute for legal representation.
Is the sentencing estimate legally binding?
No. Figures reflect statutory ranges and general factors; they are not legal advice and do not predict any individual outcome. The live estimator is a paid professional aid for understanding likely ranges, not a guarantee.
How do I get access to the full sentencing tool?
The full live estimator and English mini-app are paid professional tools. Request membership and licensing by email at rudunlawyer@126.com.
