Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Criminal litigation in Tavannes follows Swiss federal criminal law and the cantonal rules of the Canton of Bern. Cases begin with a police investigation and may proceed under the supervision of a public prosecutor. Matters range from minor offenses handled by summary procedure to serious crimes brought before cantonal criminal courts. As in the rest of Switzerland, accused persons have procedural rights including the presumption of innocence, the right to counsel, the right to remain silent, and access to an interpreter when needed.
A lawyer can help you at every stage of a criminal matter. Common situations where people need legal help include being questioned by police, being formally charged, facing pre-trial detention, preparing a defense at trial, seeking to reduce charges or penalties, appealing a conviction, or protecting rights as a victim. Lawyers advise on legal strategy, preserve evidence, file procedural motions, represent clients before prosecutors and judges, and help secure legal aid or expert witnesses when appropriate.
Key points to understand about criminal law and procedure relevant to Tavannes include:
- Governing law: Substantive offenses are set out in the Swiss Criminal Code. Criminal procedure is governed by the Swiss Criminal Procedure Code, together with cantonal implementing rules in the Canton of Bern.
- Jurisdiction: Local police in Tavannes handle initial investigations. The cantonal public prosecutor of Bern directs prosecutions. District and cantonal courts in Bern decide trials and appeals depending on the seriousness of the offense.
- Rights of the accused: You have the right to a lawyer, to remain silent, to be informed of charges, to access case files under certain conditions, and to an interpreter if you do not speak the language of the proceedings.
- Pre-trial detention and measures: Authorities may impose measures such as arrest, pre-trial detention, surveillance, or prohibition of contact. These measures must meet legal thresholds and are subject to judicial review within prescribed time limits.
- Victim rights: Victims have rights to information, protection measures, and compensation procedures. Victim support services can provide practical and emotional assistance.
Stay calm and politely ask whether you are free to leave. You have the right to remain silent and the right to contact a lawyer before answering. If you feel pressured, clearly state that you wish to speak to a lawyer. If you do not speak the language well, request an interpreter.
No. Swiss criminal procedure protects the right to remain silent. While cooperating can sometimes be beneficial, you should consult a lawyer before making statements that could be used against you.
Contact a lawyer as early as possible - ideally before any substantive questioning by police or the prosecutor. Early legal advice helps protect your rights, manage evidence, and shape the investigation or defense strategy.
Yes. Cantonal legal aid systems provide assistance to people who cannot afford private counsel. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and the merits of the case. Ask the cantonal legal aid office or a local lawyer about the application process as soon as possible.
Penalties depend on the specific offense and its seriousness. They range from fines and fines with day-fines for less serious offences to custodial sentences for more severe crimes. Criminal records and ancillary measures such as restraining orders or driving bans may also apply.
Pre-trial detention is restricted by law and must be justified by grounds such as risk of flight, danger to public order, or risk of evidence being destroyed. Detention periods are subject to judicial review and time limits, and you have the right to challenge detention through a lawyer.
Victims can report the crime to the police and request information about the investigation and available protection measures. Victim support services in the canton can offer advice, counselling, and help to navigate compensation procedures. A lawyer can also represent victim interests in criminal proceedings and civil claims for damages.
Convictions can generally be appealed to a higher cantonal court within specified deadlines. The appeals process focuses on legal and procedural grounds, and in some cases on facts. Time limits are strict, so consult a lawyer immediately after conviction to preserve appeal rights.
Yes. Non-Swiss nationals may face administrative measures including expulsion or deportation as a consequence of certain convictions. Immigration-related outcomes depend on the offence, sentence, and individual immigration status. Seek legal advice that covers both criminal and immigration consequences.
Bring any police reports, summons or charging documents, any correspondence from authorities, identification, and a clear timeline of events. Provide names of witnesses and any evidence you have. Be honest and provide all relevant facts so the lawyer can assess the case accurately.
Useful resources and bodies to contact in or about criminal matters in Tavannes include:
- Cantonal police of Bern - for reporting crimes and initial investigations.
- Office of the Public Prosecutor of the Canton of Bern - directs prosecutions and can provide procedural information.
- Cantonal courts in Bern - handle trials and appeals depending on the case.
- Bern bar association or local lawyer referral services - for finding qualified criminal defense attorneys.
- Cantonal legal aid office - for information on eligibility and applications for free or supported legal representation.
- Victim support services in the Canton of Bern - for counselling and practical assistance.
- Swiss Federal Office of Justice - for federal information about criminal law and victims rights.
- Your legal expenses insurance - many Swiss residents have legal protection insurance that can cover criminal defence costs in some cases.
If you need legal assistance in Tavannes:
- Remain silent with police and request a lawyer before answering substantive questions.
- Contact a local criminal lawyer quickly - use a referral from the Bern bar association if you do not have one.
- If you cannot afford a lawyer, apply for cantonal legal aid immediately.
- Preserve all documents and evidence - keep a written timeline and contact details for witnesses.
- Inform family or someone you trust about the situation and ask them to help you find counsel and support.
- If you are a victim, reach out to victim support services for practical help and information about protection and compensation options.
Remember that information in this guide is general. For advice tailored to your circumstances contact a qualified criminal lawyer in the Canton of Bern.
