Best Sexual Abuse Lawyers in Wohlen

About Sexual Abuse Law in Wohlen, Switzerland

Sexual abuse in Wohlen is dealt with under Swiss federal criminal law, and cases are handled locally by the police and public prosecutor in the canton of Aargau. The law covers a range of conduct - non-consensual sexual acts, sexual coercion, rape, sexual exploitation of children, sexual acts with persons who cannot consent, and the production or distribution of sexual images of minors. Proceedings may include criminal investigations and possible criminal charges, and victims can also pursue civil remedies such as claims for damages or protection measures. Local services in Wohlen provide medical, psychological and legal support, while the cantonal authorities lead investigations and prosecutions.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer if you are a victim, a person accused, or a close relative seeking to protect someone vulnerable. Common situations include wanting to file a criminal complaint, seeking immediate protective measures, needing help with evidence preservation, pursuing civil compensation, or responding to police questioning and criminal charges. Lawyers provide guidance on procedural rights, help you communicate with police and prosecutors, represent you in hearings, advise on interaction with social and medical services, and can apply for legal aid if you cannot afford representation. In cases involving minors, complex family situations, cross-border elements or digital evidence, specialized legal advice is particularly important.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal points relevant in Wohlen and across Switzerland include the following. Non-consensual sexual acts are criminal offenses under the Swiss Criminal Code and can lead to fines or imprisonment depending on severity and circumstances. The general age of sexual consent is 16, with additional protections where an adult exploits a young person or holds authority over them. There are specific offenses for sexual acts with children, sexual coercion or threats, rape, and for producing or distributing sexual material involving minors. Investigations are carried out by the cantonal police and the public prosecutor of Aargau, who decides whether to press charges. Victims can participate in criminal proceedings to claim civil damages and to obtain information about case progress. Statutory time limits for reporting and prosecution vary by offence and can be complex - reporting promptly helps preserve rights and evidence. Cantonal services can also offer emergency protection and victim support, and legal aid may be available to cover legal costs for eligible persons.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as sexual abuse under Swiss law?

Sexual abuse includes any sexual act committed without the other person s valid consent, sexual acts with persons who cannot consent because of age or incapacity, sexual exploitation of minors, and distribution or production of sexual images of minors. The law distinguishes levels of severity based on force, coercion, the victim s vulnerability, and the relationship between the parties.

How do I report a sexual assault in Wohlen?

You can report an assault to the local police in Wohlen or to the cantonal police of Aargau, or you can contact the public prosecutor s office. If you are in immediate danger call emergency services. Reporting can be done in person, by phone or through victim support services who can help you make the report.

Do I have to go to the police right away?

No, you are not required to report immediately, but it is usually advisable to do so as soon as it is safe. Prompt reporting helps preserve physical evidence and strengthens an investigation. If you prefer, you can first seek medical and psychological care and then decide whether to report. Victim support organizations can help you weigh options and take steps at your pace.

Will my identity be kept confidential?

Authorities and support providers handle cases with sensitivity and confidentiality in accordance with legal rules. However, certain information may need to be shared with investigators, prosecutors, defence counsel and the courts as part of criminal proceedings. If you are concerned about privacy, discuss this with the police, prosecutor or a lawyer so you understand what will be disclosed and why.

What happens after I report an assault?

After a report, the police will usually open an investigation, which may include interviews, collecting physical evidence, forensic examinations and securing digital evidence. The public prosecutor will review the findings and decide whether to bring charges. If charges are filed, the case may proceed to trial. Throughout the process victims have rights to information, protection and to claim civil damages as part of the criminal proceedings.

Can I get a protection order or other immediate measures?

Yes - in urgent situations the police or prosecutor can arrange immediate protection measures to keep the alleged perpetrator away from the victim. Courts can also impose restraining measures and other protections. If you are worried for your safety, inform the police and ask about emergency protection and shelter options available in Aargau.

Can I claim compensation for harm suffered?

Victims can claim financial compensation for physical and psychological harm, loss of earnings and related costs. These claims can be raised within the criminal case as civil claims or pursued separately in civil court. Public compensation schemes or victim support funds may also be available for some costs - ask a lawyer or victim support service about avenues for compensation and how to document losses.

How long do I have to report an incident?

Time limits for reporting and for prosecutors to bring charges depend on the type and severity of the offence, and different offences have different limitation periods. Because these rules are technical and vary, you should seek legal advice promptly to avoid unintentionally losing legal options.

What if the alleged perpetrator is a family member or someone in authority?

The law applies irrespective of the relationship between the parties. Special protections and increased seriousness can apply where an adult abuses a minor, uses a position of authority or commits the act within a relationship of dependency. Reporting such cases can be emotionally difficult - victim support services, social services and specialized lawyers can provide guidance and protection options.

I have been accused of sexual abuse - what should I do?

If you are accused, do not discuss the case with others about whom the matter could be sensitive, and avoid contacting the alleged victim. Ask for a lawyer immediately before giving detailed statements to police. A lawyer can explain your rights, assess the evidence, help you respond to police questioning and represent you during the investigation and any trial.

Additional Resources

Useful types of local and national resources include the cantonal police and public prosecutor s office in Aargau for reporting and investigations; victim support services in Aargau and national victim aid organizations for emotional, practical and legal guidance; specialised medical and sexual assault centres for forensic exams and medical care; women s shelters and organisations for survivors of violence; child protection services if a child is involved; local legal aid or court-based legal assistance programs to help with costs; and the Aargau bar association to find lawyers specialising in criminal and family law. These agencies can assist with immediate safety, evidence preservation, counselling and navigating criminal and civil procedures.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance for a sexual abuse matter in Wohlen consider the following steps. First, ensure immediate safety - if you are in danger call emergency services. Seek medical attention as soon as possible - medical staff can treat injuries and preserve evidence. Decide whether to report to the police or discuss options with a victim support organisation who can help you report. Document the event and any injuries, names of witnesses and other evidence while details are fresh. Contact a lawyer experienced in sexual offences for legal advice - if you cannot afford a lawyer ask about legal aid or Verfahrenshilfe. If you are a victim ask about protection measures and support services in Aargau. If you are accused engage a defence lawyer promptly and refrain from contacting the alleged victim. Throughout the process use local victim services and counselling to support your safety and wellbeing, and keep copies of all documents and communications related to the case.