Best Sex Crime Lawyers in Wohlen

About Sex Crime Law in Wohlen, Switzerland

Sex crimes in Wohlen are prosecuted under Swiss federal criminal law. The Swiss Criminal Code governs offences such as sexual assault, rape, sexual acts with minors, sexual exploitation, harassment and related offences. Criminal investigations and prosecution are handled locally by cantonal authorities - in Wohlen that means authorities and police in the Canton of Aargau. Victims and accused persons are entitled to legal protections and procedural rights under Swiss law. Cases can have both criminal and civil consequences - including criminal penalties, protective measures and claims for compensation.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Sex crime cases are legally complex and emotionally charged. People seek a lawyer for many reasons, including:

• To protect your rights during police questioning and the public prosecutor's investigation.
• To get advice immediately if you are accused - including whether to remain silent and how to respond to evidence.
• To receive guidance and representation if you are a victim seeking to report the offence, ask for protection measures or pursue compensation.
• To navigate specialist issues such as forensic evidence, digital evidence from phones or social media, and expert testimony.
• To apply for legal aid if you cannot afford private counsel.
• To negotiate with prosecutors about charges, plea agreements or alternative measures such as treatment orders.
• To represent you at trial, and to manage appeals or post-conviction matters such as criminal-record consequences or requests for rehabilitation.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects to know about local handling of sex crimes in Wohlen and the Canton of Aargau:

• Federal criminal law governs the substance of sex offences. The Swiss Criminal Code defines offences and sets out possible penalties and protective measures.
• Investigation and prosecution are carried out at the cantonal level. The cantonal police perform initial investigation tasks and evidence collection. The public prosecutor's office in Aargau decides whether to open formal charges and lead criminal proceedings.
• Victim protection measures can be imposed early in the process. These include no-contact orders, residence or workplace restrictions, emergency protection orders and, in some cases, temporary custody measures against the accused.
• Pre-trial detention and provisional measures can be used if there is a risk of flight, risk to public safety, or risk of influencing witnesses or evidence. A lawyer can challenge such measures.
• Evidence from medical examinations, forensic labs, electronic devices and witness statements are commonly used. Preserve evidence and seek professional forensic and legal advice promptly.
• Convictions lead to criminal sentences, possible protective measures such as placement for treatment, and a criminal record which can affect employment and residency. Non-Swiss nationals may face immigration consequences including deportation depending on circumstances.
• Both victims and accused have rights - including the right to legal representation, to be informed of proceedings, and to request victim support services.
• Procedural assistance such as legal-aid is available where financial need is shown. Contact a local lawyer or the cantonal authorities to apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a sex crime in Wohlen and Switzerland?

Sex crimes include a range of acts defined in the Swiss Criminal Code - for example sexual assault and rape, sexual acts with persons who cannot consent (for example because of age or incapacity), sexual exploitation and human trafficking for sexual purposes, and sexual harassment. Whether a particular act is criminal depends on the facts and how Swiss law defines consent and capacity in that context.

What should I do immediately if I am a victim?

Prioritize your safety first. Seek medical help if needed and try to preserve evidence - avoid washing, changing clothes or deleting messages if possible. Report the incident to the cantonal police when you are ready. Contact victim-support services in Aargau for practical and emotional assistance and consider consulting a lawyer to understand your legal options.

What should I do if I am accused of a sex crime?

Do not answer detailed questions from police or prosecutors without legal advice. You have the right to remain silent and to consult a lawyer. Contact an experienced criminal defence attorney in Aargau as soon as possible. Preserve any evidence that supports your position, avoid direct contact with the alleged victim, and follow your lawyer's instructions.

Will I automatically go to trial?

Not necessarily. The public prosecutor may decide to dismiss the case, reach a negotiated resolution, or refer the matter to court. Whether a case goes to trial depends on the strength of the evidence, legal issues, and prosecutorial discretion. A lawyer can help evaluate the likely outcomes and alternatives.

Can I get legal aid if I cannot afford a lawyer?

Yes. Switzerland provides for procedural assistance for people who cannot afford legal representation. You must apply and demonstrate financial need. A local criminal lawyer or the cantonal authorities can advise on eligibility and assist with the application process.

How long does a sex-crime case usually take?

Timing varies widely - from a matter of months for some investigations to a year or longer for complex cases that involve expert evidence, multiple witnesses or appeals. Prompt legal advice can help manage timelines and protect your rights during the process.

What kinds of evidence are commonly used in these cases?

Evidence may include medical and forensic reports, witness statements, messages and social-media content, CCTV, phone records, and expert testimony on consent or psychological effects. Chain-of-custody and lawful collection of evidence are important - which is why quick action and legal guidance matter.

Can a conviction affect my immigration status?

Yes. Non-Swiss nationals convicted of serious crimes may face immigration consequences, including restrictions on residence permits or deportation. Immigration outcomes depend on the crime, sentence, length of stay in Switzerland and individual circumstances. Seek immigration advice alongside criminal defence if this is a concern.

What protections are available for victims during proceedings?

Victims can request protective measures such as no-contact orders, restricted evidence access, and in-court accommodations. Cantonal victim support services and the public prosecutor can provide information and assistance. A lawyer or victim-support worker can help make these requests and explain options for compensation.

Can I bring a civil claim for damages after a sex-crime report?

Yes. Victims may bring a civil claim for monetary compensation for physical and psychological harm. Civil actions can proceed alongside or after criminal proceedings. A lawyer experienced in both criminal and civil matters can advise on strategy and timing.

Additional Resources

For people in Wohlen and the Canton of Aargau, consider contacting the following types of resources:

• Cantonal police - for reporting offences and practical safety assistance.
• Public prosecutor's office (Staatsanwaltschaft) in Canton Aargau - for information about criminal proceedings.
• Victim-support services in Canton Aargau (Opferhilfe) - for counselling, information and practical help.
• Local crisis centres and shelters for survivors of sexual violence and domestic abuse.
• Child and adult protection authorities (Kindes- und Erwachsenenschutzbehörde - KESB) - for family and child-protection matters.
• Specialised criminal defence lawyers in Aargau with experience in sexual offences.
• Legal-aid offices or cantonal social services - to apply for procedural assistance if you have limited means.
• National helplines and organisations focused on sexual violence prevention and support.

Next Steps

If you need legal help or support:

1. Ensure immediate safety - call emergency services or local police if you or others are in danger.
2. Seek medical attention if needed and preserve any potential evidence.
3. Contact victim-support services if you are a victim - they can provide practical, emotional and procedural assistance.
4. If you are accused, do not speak to police without a lawyer - exercise your right to representation and remain silent until advised by counsel.
5. Find a local lawyer in Aargau who specialises in criminal defence or victim representation in sex-crime matters - ask about experience, confidentiality, fees and legal-aid options.
6. Gather and preserve relevant documents, messages, medical reports and witness details - your lawyer will advise what is useful.
7. Follow the advice of legal professionals and support organisations - legal processes can be complex and prompt action often matters.

If you are unsure where to start, contact the cantonal police or the public prosecutor's office in Aargau for guidance on reporting and initial steps, or reach out to a victim-support organisation for confidential help. Legal counsel can clarify your rights and the best course of action for your circumstances.