The Swiss financial centre is closely integrated into international financial flows. In many cross-border corruption cases, illicit assets are transferred through or held with Swiss financial institutions.
The recovery of such assets from Switzerland is generally complex — legally, politically, and practically. It requires in-depth expertise in criminal law, international mutual legal assistance, and the specific characteristics of the Swiss financial centre.
LENLAW advises and represents states and public authorities in the identification, securing, and recovery of illicit assets.
Drawing on our experience in international corruption proceedings and our close cooperation with prosecution and judicial authorities in Switzerland and abroad, we represent the interests of affected states effectively, efficiently, and discreetly.
We provide access to Swiss proceedings, secure evidence, and facilitate the lawful and targeted recovery of assets.
Our Services
| Representation in Switzerland Representation of state authorities in Swiss criminal proceedings as private claimants, including access to case files, the right to be heard, and participation in investigative measures. | Mutual Legal Assistance and Asset Recovery Support in mutual legal assistance proceedings and development of alternative strategies for asset recovery. |
| Investigation and Analysis Collection, review, and preparation of evidence for use in national and international proceedings. | Efficiency Use of procedural instruments under criminal law to accelerate proceedings and reduce costs compared to civil litigation. |
Rights of Affected States in Switzerland
State institutions harmed by corruption may, within the framework of Swiss criminal proceedings, in particular:
- request the initiation of a criminal investigation,
- obtain access to relevant case files,
- participate in investigative measures,
- exercise the right to be heard,
- assert claims for damages directly against perpetrators and accomplices, including financial intermediaries.
LENLAW supports affected authorities in exercising these rights and enforcing their claims.
LENLAW’s Expertise
LENLAW has recognised expertise in international white-collar crime, particularly in cross-border corruption and asset recovery:
- Longstanding experience in asset recovery and international mutual legal assistance
- Cooperation with Swiss and foreign investigative and judicial authorities
- Efficient proceedings, including procedural alternatives to mutual legal assistance
- Understanding of legal, political, and cultural frameworks in the relevant jurisdictions
- Access to an established international network
- Clear and transparent fee structure
- Legal advice in German, English, French, or Spanish
Your Contacts
- Stefan Lenz, Attorney at Law, LL.M.
- Stefan Mbiyavanga, Attorny at Law, Dr. iur.