Ideally, a situation does not reach this point. This holds true for all legal cases, but especially so in criminal law. Criminal cases are a profound experience for everyone involved, and one that may affect them for years. So, competent and reliable legal advice is all the more important. Streichenberg represents private individuals, companies and their employees in national and international criminal cases, mainly in relation to offences in the business world.

Victim

Crimes often lead to financial losses and can harm the reputation of aggrieved individuals and companies. We will help you restore the legal order, bring a charge and enforce your claim for damages in the most efficient manner. Compensation and redress can also be sought by bringing a civil action, in court or out of court. Out-of-court resolutions may be cheaper and preserve the reputation of both sides.

If the charge or complaint is not accepted, or the proceedings are suspended, we will check whether the corresponding decisions are lawful or should be challenged.

Accused

From the initial contact with the criminal, police or administrative authorities through to any judgement at the final appeal stage, we will be by your side with expert support. Together we will develop a defence strategy, examine risk optimisation measures and implement these appropriately. If necessary, this will include efforts to reach an out-of-court settlement to make amends as well as the settlement of disputes with private plaintiffs. We will make sure that victims and witnesses are examined correctly and will support you in enforcing your rights in the criminal proceedings. Where there is a risk of damage to your reputation, which is a delicate issue, especially with well-known personalities, we will bring in experienced communication partners as reinforcements.

If coercive measures are imposed, it is important to behave correctly. We will assist you if house searches are made and assets or documents are seized. Immediate action is advisable to protect secrets.

If you receive a penalty order, you will only have ten days in which to appeal. So, do not hesitate to contact us directly.

Risk management

Business activities are increasingly regulated, so there is often a fine line between legal and illegal. We will review your business model and advise your company on criminal and regulatory risks. As part of this, we can devise internal guidelines and regulations as well as assist you with training and communication measures. If you decide to make a voluntary declaration under tax law, you can also count on our experience.

Internal investigations and prevention

If you suspect regulatory or criminal violations within your company, such as theft or embezzlement, you must act with great care. We will conduct internal investigations and bring a criminal charge, if necessary. We will coordinate the criminal prosecution or provide assistance with reports to the regulatory authorities. At the same time, the right steps must be taken under employment law. For example, caution is required when it comes to dismissals based on suspicion. And finally, criminal offences within a company call for adequate communication with shareholders and employees as well as preventive measures to make sure that no further crimes occur.

International cases and legal assistance

Cases involving foreign countries are usually complex. As a first step, the legality of the requested legal assistance measures should be reviewed. The exchange of information between foreign criminal prosecution authorities must be monitored closely in order to challenge decisions immediately if there are risks to the accused parties. The same applies to accused persons who are confronted with extradition or enforcement requests from third countries. For example, foreign requests for legal assistance often do not meet legal standards, and this is readily disregarded by the Swiss authorities.