Geschädigtenvertretung und Privatklägerschaft
LENLAW represents companies, governments, government agencies, and private individuals who have suffered harm as a result of fraud, embezzlement, corruption, or other criminal offenses. We assist our clients in investigating criminal acts, exercising their procedural rights, and enforcing their claims.
Our practice includes representing victims in complex economic and financial crime cases—often with international implications—as well as representing victims of violent and sexual crimes.
Victims in Economic Crime Proceedings
White-collar crimes can cause significant financial damage. Often, the underlying transactions are difficult to trace, numerous individuals or companies are involved, and assets are spread across different countries.
We analyze the facts relevant to criminal law, review the available evidence, and advise our clients on the appropriate course of action. In doing so, we consider both the options for participating in the criminal proceedings and the prospects for recovering the affected assets.
Asset Protection and Enforcement of Claims
For victims, in addition to the criminal investigation, the primary concern is often whether and how lost assets can be recovered.
We examine the options for criminal procedural protective measures, as well as the forfeiture and repatriation of assets obtained through criminal activity. In international cases, we pay particular attention to the possibilities for mutual legal assistance and cross-border asset repatriation.
We also advise our clients on what claims can be asserted in criminal proceedings and when separate civil or state liability proceedings are necessary.
From Filing a Criminal Complaint to a Court Trial
We provide legal advice even before a criminal complaint is filed and represent victims throughout the entire criminal proceedings. Our services include, in particular,
- Preparation and Filing of Criminal Complaints and Charges
- Formation and Representation as a Private Plaintiff
- Access to Case Files, Participation in Investigative Proceedings, and Filing of Motions for Evidence
- Appeals Against Decisions Not to Prosecute and to Dismiss a Case
- Representation in court and in appeals proceedings
- Asserting Claims for Damages and Other Claims
Victims of violent and sexual crimes
We also represent people who have been harmed by violent or sexual crimes. In such cases in particular, it is important that the rights and personal safety needs of the victims be given due consideration.
We will guide you through the criminal proceedings, assist you in exercising your specific rights as a victim, and advise you on compensation for damages, restitution, and potential benefits under the Victim Assistance Act. In doing so, we will also explore the options for having legal representation funded by victim assistance programs or the legal aid system.
Publications and Insights
Asset Recovery in Switzerland – Support for Affected Countries
Countries, too, can suffer significant financial losses as a result of corruption and other economic crimes. This article highlights the legal options available to affected countries in Switzerland and explains how these can be used to secure and repatriate assets.
Cyber Fraud: Possibilities and Limitations of Asset Recovery
What steps should victims take after falling victim to fraud? And when are there realistic chances of recovering lost assets? This article explains the most important immediate steps to take and the legal options for recovery.
Contact Person
Our attorneys have several years of experience in criminal prosecution and legal representation. This dual perspective enables us to provide well-informed, realistic, and strategic advice in complex criminal proceedings.
Contact
Do you need legal assistance with a criminal, white-collar crime, or international case? We’ll review your situation and discuss with you how we can advise or represent you.