Best Assault & Battery Lawyers in Wohlen

About Assault & Battery Law in Wohlen, Switzerland

In Switzerland the legal concept that covers assault and battery is generally framed as bodily injury and related violent offences under the Swiss Criminal Code. Criminal law is federal, so the substantive rules that define offences and penalties are the same across the country, including Wohlen in the Canton of Aargau. Local authorities - the Wohlen municipal police and the Cantonal public prosecutor's office - handle investigations and prosecutions. If you are involved in or affected by an act of physical violence it can result in criminal charges, civil claims for compensation, and protective measures aimed at keeping you safe. Procedures and practical steps - such as filing a police report, seeking medical assistance, and arranging legal representation - are handled locally.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

A lawyer can help you protect your rights, understand procedures, and navigate the criminal and civil systems. Common situations in which people in Wohlen seek legal advice include:

- You were physically injured and want to press criminal charges or claim compensation.

- You are accused of assault and need a criminal defence to avoid conviction, prevent custody, or reduce penalties.

- You need help preserving and documenting evidence - medical records, photos, witness statements - in a legally effective way.

- You require a protection order or other immediate measures to prevent further violence.

- You want to understand potential criminal consequences, probation conditions, or the impact on employment and immigration status.

- You need guidance about legal aid, court costs, or negotiating a settlement with the injured party.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal points relevant to assault and battery in Wohlen include:

- Federal criminal provisions: Substantive criminal rules for bodily injury apply nationwide under the Swiss Criminal Code. Offences range from simple bodily injury to serious or life-threatening harm. The severity of the act, intent, and consequences determine whether an offence is classified as a minor or more serious crime.

- Investigation and prosecution: After you report an assault, the Wohlen police will normally open an investigation and forward a file to the Cantonal public prosecutor's office in Aargau. The public prosecutor decides whether to press charges or to close the matter.

- Victim rights: Victims may file a police complaint, request information about the progress of the case, and seek protection measures. Victims can also pursue civil claims for damages - for medical costs, loss of earnings, and pain and suffering - either alongside criminal proceedings or in separate civil proceedings.

- Self-defence and justification: Swiss law recognises self-defence where a person reacts to an unlawful attack in a proportionate way. Whether conduct counts as lawful self-defence depends on facts such as immediacy of the danger and proportionality of the response.

- Protective measures: Courts and prosecutors may order immediate measures such as temporary restraining orders, bans on contact, or eviction from a shared residence to protect victims. Police can intervene to preserve safety.

- Language and procedure: Court and prosecutorial proceedings in Wohlen are conducted in German. If you do not speak German you have a right to an interpreter in criminal proceedings.

- Legal aid and representation: If you cannot afford a lawyer you may be eligible for legal aid under the cantonal rules for unentgeltliche Rechtspflege. A lawyer can also be useful to negotiate settlements, advise on compensation, and represent you in court.

- Time limits: There are limitation periods for starting criminal or civil actions. These vary depending on the seriousness of the offence and the type of claim - consult a lawyer or the prosecutor early to avoid losing rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after an assault?

Prioritise safety - move to a safe place. Seek medical attention and keep any medical reports and bills. Contact the police to file a report; in an emergency call the Swiss police by dialling 117. Preserve evidence: take photographs of injuries and the scene, keep damaged clothing, and note contact details of witnesses. Do not wash injuries or change evidence before it can be documented if that is safe to avoid. Consider contacting a lawyer or victim support service for guidance.

How do I file a criminal complaint in Wohlen?

You can report an assault to the local police station or the cantonal police. The police will create a report and forward the case to the Cantonal public prosecutor when appropriate. You can also present yourself directly to the public prosecutor's office to lodge a complaint. Provide as much detail as possible and hand over any evidence you have. A lawyer can assist with preparing a clear complaint.

Will the state prosecute automatically after I report an assault?

The public prosecutor decides whether to pursue criminal charges based on the evidence and seriousness of the offence. Many criminal cases are prosecuted by the state. In some minor cases, the prosecutor may decide not to proceed or may propose alternative measures such as mediation or settlement. Even if the prosecutor declines to proceed you may still have civil remedies.

Can I get a protection order or other immediate measures?

Yes. If you are at risk the police or the prosecutor can arrange immediate protective measures. Courts can also issue temporary orders to prevent contact or to remove an alleged aggressor from a shared home. If you feel threatened, report this to the police and request specific protection. A lawyer or victim support service can help you request effective measures.

What is the difference between criminal charges and a civil claim?

Criminal charges are brought by the state to punish unlawful conduct and may result in fines, imprisonment, or criminal records. A civil claim is brought by the injured person to obtain compensation for losses - medical costs, lost income, and non-economic harm such as pain and suffering. Both can run concurrently - a criminal conviction can support a civil claim, but civil claims may also proceed independently.

Can I be charged if I acted in self-defence?

Self-defence is recognised under Swiss law when the response was necessary to avert an unlawful attack and was proportionate to the danger faced. Whether self-defence applies depends on the specific facts. If you believe you acted in legitimate self-defence get legal advice promptly to ensure your version of events is recorded and investigated properly.

What evidence is most useful in an assault case?

Useful evidence includes medical reports, photographs of injuries, witness statements, CCTV footage, recordings, messages or threats, damaged property, and a contemporaneous written account of events. Preserve everything you can and keep copies. Promptly obtaining medical documentation strengthens both criminal and civil claims.

How long does a criminal case take in Wohlen?

Timelines vary widely depending on the complexity of the facts, the availability of evidence, and whether the accused is detained. Simple matters may be resolved relatively quickly; serious or contested cases can take months or longer. Investigation timeframes are influenced by the prosecutor and court schedules. A lawyer can provide a better estimate for your particular case.

What penalties could someone face if convicted of assault?

Penalties depend on the severity of the offence, the presence of aggravating circumstances, prior convictions, and whether serious bodily harm occurred. Sentences can range from fines to imprisonment and may include criminal records and ancillary measures. Aggravating factors include use of a weapon, severe injury, or repeated offences. For specific sentencing ranges consult a lawyer who can explain likely outcomes based on the facts.

Can I get legal aid for an assault matter in Wohlen?

Yes. If you cannot afford legal representation you may be eligible for legal aid under cantonal rules for free or reduced-cost legal assistance. Qualification depends on your financial situation and the merits of your case. Contact the Cantonal court or the public defender service in Aargau to apply for legal aid, or consult a local lawyer who can advise on eligibility and help with the application.

Additional Resources

Useful local and national resources for someone dealing with assault or battery in Wohlen include:

- Wohlen municipal police and Cantonal police of Aargau for reporting incidents and immediate assistance.

- Cantonal public prosecutor's office of Aargau for information about criminal procedure and prosecution.

- Victim support services in Canton Aargau, which can provide practical help, counselling, and assistance with criminal procedures and compensation forms.

- Local hospitals and emergency medical services for treatment and medical documentation of injuries.

- Cantonal court offices for procedural information about filings, hearings, and legal aid applications.

- Swiss Bar Association and local lawyers for specialised criminal defence or victim representation.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in Wohlen for an assault or battery-related matter follow these steps:

- Ensure your immediate safety and, if necessary, call emergency services on 117.

- Seek medical attention and obtain written medical reports and invoices.

- Report the incident to the local police and ask for a copy of the police report or the file number.

- Preserve all evidence - photographs, clothing, messages, and witness details - and create a written record of what happened while memories are fresh.

- Contact victim support services for practical assistance and emotional support.

- Consult a lawyer experienced in criminal law and personal injury in Canton Aargau to assess options for criminal complaints, civil compensation, and protective measures. Ask about legal aid if cost is a concern.

- Keep a file of all documents, communications, receipts, and medical records related to the incident.

- Follow up with the prosecutor or your lawyer about case progress, and do not agree to settlements or statements without legal advice.

Getting early advice improves your ability to protect your rights and increases the chance of a favourable outcome. If you are unsure where to start, call the local police or a victim support service in Wohlen to be directed to the appropriate resources.