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Juvenile law in Wohlen operates within the Swiss legal framework and the cantonal system of Aargau. It covers legal issues that affect children and young people - commonly understood as persons under 18 years of age - and in some cases young adults whose maturity corresponds to that of a minor. The main aims of juvenile law are protection, education and social reintegration, rather than pure punishment. Cases may arise in different areas - criminal matters, child protection and welfare, family disputes about custody and parental responsibility, and administrative matters concerning minors.
There are many situations in which professional legal assistance is important in juvenile matters. Common reasons include:
- A child or adolescent has been accused of a criminal offence and is under investigation by the juvenile prosecutor or police.
- A child protection authority - the Kindes- und Erwachsenenschutzbehörde (KESB) - proposes protective measures such as supervised residence, placement outside the home, or removal of parental authority.
- Parents separate or divorce and disputes arise over custody, residence, contact or child maintenance.
- A minor is in conflict with school or social services and measures such as compulsory schooling steps or therapeutic placement are being considered.
- Questions about immigration status of unaccompanied minors or minors with a temporary residence status - legal advice is needed to protect rights and regularize status.
- You need to request legal aid, appeal a decision, or prepare for court proceedings at the cantonal or district level.
In all of these situations a lawyer experienced in juvenile and family law can explain rights, represent the young person or the parents, negotiate with authorities, and help secure the best outcome for the child.
Swiss federal law sets the core rules that apply in Wohlen, while canton Aargau implements procedures and institutions locally. Key legal sources and institutions include:
- Swiss Civil Code (ZGB) - governs parental authority, custody, residence of the child, maintenance obligations, and certain protective measures.
- Swiss Criminal Code - includes provisions for juvenile criminal law that focus on measures and education rather than purely punitive sanctions. Juvenile criminal procedures are generally handled by specialized juvenile prosecutors and courts.
- Kindes- und Erwachsenenschutzbehörde (KESB) - the cantonal child and adult protection authority handles interventions when a child s welfare or development is at risk. KESB decisions can include orders for supervision, placement, or changes in parental authority.
- Cantonal and district courts - family and youth courts review appeals, make decisions in custody disputes, and supervise enforcement of measures. Aargau has its own procedural rules and specialized personnel.
- Local social and educational services - schools, youth welfare services and municipal social services in Wohlen often work with legal bodies in preventative and supportive roles.
Procedures aim to be child-sensitive, with emphasis on confidentiality, proportionality and the best interests of the child. Minors have specific procedural protections - for example the right to counsel and adapted hearing conditions. Many matters are resolved through mediation, social measures or juvenile-specific sanctions rather than adult criminal penalties.
Juvenile law typically applies to persons under 18 years of age. In some cases young adults may be treated under juvenile rules if their maturity and development are comparable to a minor. For specific boundaries and exceptions the juvenile prosecutor or a lawyer can clarify how the rules apply to an individual case.
Police or the juvenile prosecutor will investigate. Proceedings are usually conducted by specialized juvenile prosecutors who prioritise educational measures. The young person has the right to be accompanied by a parent or guardian and to consult a lawyer. Outcomes range from warnings and mediation to measures ordered by the juvenile court.
Parents may have civil liability in some situations and they are responsible for supervision and care. Criminal parental liability is limited, but authorities can require measures to ensure the child s welfare. Custody and parental authority decisions can be adjusted if parents fail to meet their responsibilities.
KESB is the Child and Adult Protection Authority. It intervenes when a child s welfare, development or safety is at risk - for example in cases of neglect, serious parental conflict, or incapacity. KESB can order supervision, place a child in care, restrict or transfer parental authority and appoint a guardian.
Yes. Minors have the right to legal advice and representation. If a minor cannot afford a lawyer, legal aid - unentgeltliche Rechtspflege - may be available based on financial circumstances. A lawyer experienced in juvenile law should be involved early in investigations and hearings.
Proceedings involving juveniles are usually subject to confidentiality to protect the young person s future. Records may be restricted and not disclosed in the same way as adult criminal records. Certain long-term effects can occur depending on the outcome, so legal advice is important.
Juvenile courts focus on educational and protective measures. These can include warnings, supervision orders, mandatory counselling, placement in a care or therapeutic setting, or - in serious cases - custodial measures designed for young persons. The aim is rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment alone.
Decisions are made based on the best interests of the child - considering the child s emotional, educational and social needs. Courts and social services favour arrangements that ensure stability, continuity and meaningful contact with both parents where appropriate. Mediation is commonly used to reach agreements.
Yes. Decisions by KESB and courts can usually be appealed within specific time limits. Appeals typically go to higher cantonal courts. A lawyer can advise on grounds for appeal, prepare submissions and represent the minor or parents in the process.
If a child is in immediate danger contact emergency services or the police first. For non-emergency situations contact local social services, the municipal youth welfare office in Wohlen, or KESB Aargau. A lawyer or family counsellor can also advise on legal options and next steps.
Useful local and national resources include:
- Kindes- und Erwachsenenschutzbehörde (KESB) Aargau - for child protection matters and guidance on protective measures.
- Jugendanwaltschaft or juvenile prosecutor s office in canton Aargau - handles juvenile criminal matters.
- Bezirksgericht and kantonale Gericht instances in Aargau - family and youth court functions.
- Municipal social services and youth welfare office in Wohlen - local support, assessment and referrals.
- Opferhilfe Aargau - victim support services for minors affected by crime.
- Pro Juventute and other youth welfare organisations - counselling and support programs across Switzerland.
- Aargau Bar Association or local Rechtsanwälte for lists of lawyers specialising in juvenile and family law.
- Legal aid offices - information about applying for unentgeltliche Rechtspflege if you cannot afford a lawyer.
If you or your child needs legal assistance in juvenile matters in Wohlen, consider the following steps:
- Stay calm and collect relevant documents - school reports, medical records, official letters and any correspondence about the case.
- If a minor is being questioned by police or authorities do not let them speak alone - request a parent or lawyer be present.
- Contact a lawyer experienced in juvenile and family law as early as possible - they can explain rights, represent the minor and negotiate with authorities.
- If immediate safety is at risk contact emergency services or police. For non-urgent protection concerns contact KESB Aargau or local social services.
- Ask about legal aid if you cannot afford private fees - procedures exist to cover legal costs for eligible persons.
- Keep a record of dates, conversations and official decisions. This will help your lawyer prepare an effective case or response.
Facing juvenile law issues can be stressful. Professional legal and social support in Wohlen and canton Aargau aims to protect the child s best interests and secure constructive solutions. Seeking advice early improves the chances of a balanced and supportive outcome.
