Many people contact a criminal defence lawyer only after receiving a police summons or a penal order. In practice, this is often too late.
Under the Swiss Criminal Procedure Code (StPO), suspects have clearly defined rights from the very first interview. Anyone who exercises these rights without legal counsel risks making mistakes that may be nearly impossible to correct later.
This article explains when — and why — criminal defence representation in Zurich is indispensable, both for private individuals and for companies.
1. When You Receive Your First Police Summons
As soon as you are invited to a police interview, you are considered at least a witness, and often already a suspect.
You need a defence lawyer if:
- you are unsure how to behave during the interview,
- your statements could be used against you,
- the police ask suggestive or leading questions,
- documents or electronic data are presented to you.
👉 Important: Giving statements without legal advice is one of the most common — and most damaging — mistakes in Swiss criminal proceedings.
Legal XII Tables Avocats assists you before the first interview and safeguards your rights under Art. 158 StPO.
2. When Searches, Seizures, or Surveillance Measures Are Likely
In cases involving asset-related offences, IT offences, fraud, economic crime or money laundering, early coercive measures are common.
You should immediately contact a defence lawyer if:
- a house search has taken place,
- devices, vehicles, or documents have been seized,
- you may be subject to telephone or data surveillance,
- your company is involved in a criminal investigation.
For executives or board members, a strategic defence is crucial to avoid operational and reputational damage.
3. When You Receive a Penal Order (Strafbefehl)
The penal order is the most common form of conviction in Switzerland. Many recipients pay it immediately — without realising that it:
- qualifies as a criminal conviction,
- results in entries in the criminal records register,
- may have professional consequences,
- can be challenged for only 10 days.
A defence lawyer will assess:
- whether the order is legally justified,
- whether the evidence is sufficient,
- whether filing an objection is advisable,
- whether a dismissal of proceedings is achievable.
4. When You Receive a Summons from the Public Prosecutor
In the Canton of Zurich, the Public Prosecutor’s Office conducts most interrogations itself — particularly in complex cases involving:
- economic crime,
- international legal assistance,
- money laundering,
- cyber and IT offences,
- serious bodily harm.
In these situations, legal representation is not only advisable — it is effectively indispensable.
5. When Your Company Is Involved
Companies require criminal defence support when:
- employees commit an offence in the course of their duties,
- there is suspicion of organisational deficiencies (Art. 102 Swiss Criminal Code),
- compliance or reporting obligations have been breached,
- international circumstances are involved.
Legal XII Tables Avocats has significant expertise in economic crime, compliance, and multinational investigations.
6. Before the Main Court Hearing
At the latest when an indictment is issued, you need a professional defence strategy involving:
- evidence analysis,
- preparation of counter-expert reports,
- examination and handling of witnesses,
- identification of legal and strategic defence arguments,
- negotiation strategy with the prosecutor.
The earlier a lawyer is involved, the higher the likelihood of achieving dismissal, reduction of charges, or mitigation of sanctions.
7. If You Are the Victim of a Criminal Offence
Many forget that victims also have the right to be represented — particularly in cases involving:
- violence,
- financial losses,
- sexual integrity offences,
- cyberattacks,
- harm to businesses.
A lawyer assists in asserting civil claims within the criminal proceedings.
Conclusion: You Need a Criminal Defence Lawyer Earlier Than You Think
Criminal proceedings often develop faster than those affected realise. A single incorrect sentence in the first interview can change the entire course of the case.
Legal XII Tables Avocats, led by attorney Lionel Patrick Serex, offers precise, discreet, and strategic criminal defence in Zurich — from the first police interview to representation in court.
➡️ Book an appointment online:
https://legal12tablesavocats.ch/en/e-service/
