Facing a criminal charge in Switzerland requires immediate, expert legal representation. Our firm's criminal defense lawyers specialize in Swiss criminal law, providing robust defense for everything from DUI and assault to complex financial crimes. We understand the high stakes involved, especially for foreign nationals whose residency status may be at risk. Get a confidential, free consultation to understand your rights and options. > "In over two decades of practice, I've seen how a single criminal charge can unravel years of careful planning—especially for foreign nationals. The intersection of criminal law and immigration status demands a defense strategy that protects both your freedom and your right to remain in Switzerland. Every case is unique, but the principle remains: act immediately, understand your rights, and never underestimate the consequences." — Markus Pritzker, SwissFirma Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace consultation with a specialist in criminal law and immigration law. {{cta:cta-1}} ## Criminal charges & immigration status: the dual risk for foreign nationals Confronting Swiss criminal law as a foreign national—whether you hold a B, C, or L permit, or are a non-resident—creates a double threat. Beyond criminal penalties, you face direct risk to your immigration status. We specialize in these "crimmigration" cases, defending simultaneously your freedom and your right to reside in Switzerland. Under Swiss law, criminal convictions can trigger deportation proceedings and entry bans into the Schengen zone, initiated by the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM / Staatsekretariat für Migration). The Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration (AIG/FNIA) empowers authorities to revoke residence permits when a foreign national's presence threatens public order, security, or internal peace. Even conditional sentences or repeated administrative violations can be interpreted as such a threat. ### Deportation and entry bans: the ultimate immigration consequence The Swiss "Deportation Initiative" amendment mandates deportation of non-citizens convicted of serious criminal offenses. Entry bans range from 5 to 15 years, extendable to 20 years for repeat offenders. The law targets foreign nationals who have committed criminal acts serious enough to justify removal, with particular focus on recidivism and severity of offenses. For foreign nationals, this means that a conviction for drug trafficking, violent crimes, or economic offenses can result in deportation after serving the sentence, with bans on re-entry from 10 to 15 years. Most expulsion and entry ban decisions are appealable. Courts must assess proportionality, including family ties, length of stay, integration, and risk to public order. Deportation can be avoided under exceptional circumstances such as self-defense or necessity. ### Revocation of residence permits (Permit B, C, L) According to the Federal Act on Foreign Nationals (AIG/FNIA), a foreign national may be deprived of residence permit if their behavior presents a threat to public order, security, or internal peace of Switzerland. Revocation is possible upon conviction for a criminal offense, if the court or administrative authorities establish that the foreign national represents a real and serious threat to public order. Repeated offenses, including violations of firearms legislation or disobedience to lawful orders, are considered signs of threat to public order. The measure of revocation applies regardless of the type of residence permit (B, C, L), if the criteria of threat to public order are met. Even permit C holders, who enjoy greater protection, can lose their status if convicted of serious crimes or if their conduct demonstrates a pattern of disregard for Swiss law. The Federal Court (BGE 146 IV 105) established that revocation of residence permit is justified only if balancing of interests in the specific case confirms it; proportionality under Article 8 ECHR applies.

Correlation: Criminal Offenses & Immigration Consequences

Category of crime	Typical criminal penalty	Risk for Permit B/L	Risk for Permit C	Likelihood of deportation/entry ban
Violent crimes (homicide, serious bodily harm, assault)	Imprisonment up to life; fines	High	Medium to High	High, especially for recidivists
Drug-related offenses (trafficking, possession with intent)	Imprisonment 5–10 years; fines	High	High	Very High (mandatory for trafficking)
Economic crimes (money laundering, tax fraud, embezzlement)	Imprisonment up to 5 years; fines up to CHF 5 million	High	Medium to High	High, for serious fraud
Property crimes (theft, robbery, fraud)	Imprisonment up to 5 years; fines	Medium	Low to Medium	Medium, higher for repeat offenses
DUI (driving under influence, 0.8‰+)	License suspension; daily rates; possible imprisonment	Low to Medium	Low	Low, unless repeat offense or serious injury
Administrative violations (repeated traffic offenses)	Fines; warnings	Low	Very Low	Low, unless pattern of violations

Note: Risk levels are indicative and depend on individual case circumstances, including severity, recidivism, family ties, and integration level. Source: Swiss Criminal Code (SR 311.0), Federal Act on Foreign Nationals and Integration (AIG/FNIA), Swiss Federal Court rulings 2016–2025.

{{cta:cta-1}} ## Types of criminal cases we handle Our team possesses deep experience in conducting a wide range of criminal cases across all cantons of Switzerland. We understand the nuances of Swiss criminal law and the specific challenges faced by foreign nationals navigating the system.

DUI

Assault & Violent Crimes

Drug Offenses

Financial Crimes

Property Crimes

### Specialized DUI lawyer in Switzerland Driving under the influence (DUI) in Switzerland is treated with extreme severity, often leading to hefty fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment. Our specialized DUI lawyer understands the nuances of Swiss traffic law, from challenging breathalyzer results to negotiating penalties. We provide expert legal defense for your DUI charge, aiming to protect both your driving privileges and your clean record. If you're facing a DUI case, immediate representation is crucial. In Switzerland, monetary penalties are generally calculated in daily rates based on income; license withdrawal duration depends on severity and prior offenses. Swiss law sets the permissible blood alcohol level at 0.5 promille. At levels between 0.5 and 0.79 promille, a fine with warning is issued; repeat violations result in license suspension for one month. At 0.8 promille and above, license suspension for three months is mandatory, with possible imprisonment or monetary penalty. ### Assault, battery, and violent crimes We defend cases involving bodily harm, threats, and other violent actions. Our strategy focuses on reclassifying charges or proving necessary self-defense (Notwehr). Swiss Criminal Code provisions on assault and serious bodily harm carry penalties up to life imprisonment for intentional homicide and murder. We analyze evidence meticulously, challenge prosecution narratives, and build defenses grounded in Swiss legal standards and European Convention on Human Rights protections. ### Drug-related offenses We represent clients in cases of possession, use, and distribution of narcotic substances. Particular attention is paid to consequences for immigration status, as this is one of the most frequent reasons for deportation. Swiss law mandates deportation for drug trafficking convictions, with entry bans from 10 to 15 years, extendable to 20 years for recidivists. We work to minimize criminal penalties and, where possible, argue exceptional circumstances to prevent deportation. ### Theft, robbery, and property crimes We defend against charges of theft, robbery, fraud, and other crimes against property. Under Swiss Criminal Code, theft (Art. 139) is punishable by imprisonment up to five years or a monetary penalty; robbery (Art. 140) carries imprisonment up to 10 years; fraud (Art. 146) is punishable by imprisonment up to five years or a monetary penalty. We challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and seek reduced charges or alternative resolutions. ### Financial crimes & white-collar defense We defend complex cases involving money laundering, tax evasion, and corporate fraud. Swiss law holds both individuals and legal entities liable, with fines up to CHF 5 million for companies. The Federal Department of Finance's Legal Service, Section Criminal Law, investigates violations of financial regulations. The Federal Prosecutor's Office handles white-collar crime cases at the federal level, while FINMA conducts regulatory enforcement and notifies criminal authorities of suspected crimes. We navigate these overlapping jurisdictions, protect client rights under the nemo tenetur principle, and build defenses grounded in Swiss Criminal Procedure Code standards. ## The criminal defense process: a step-by-step guide for your case We ensure full transparency at every stage. Here is how we will fight for you:

Consultation

Urgent analysis of your case and assessment of risks.

Investigation

Evidence collection and analysis to find weaknesses in the prosecution.

Strategy

Building a "dual-defense" to protect your freedom and residency.

Court Representation

Professional representation and negotiation with prosecutors.

Appeal

Appealing negative criminal and immigration decisions.

Figure: Our 5-step criminal defense process in Switzerland.

### Step 1: urgent consultation & case assessment Free and confidential initial consultation to analyze your situation, assess risks (including immigration), and determine first urgent steps. We review the charges, explain your rights under the Swiss Criminal Procedure Code (CPC), and outline the procedural path ahead. For foreign nationals, we immediately evaluate immigration consequences and coordinate with migration law specialists if needed. ### Step 2: investigation and evidence analysis We collect and analyze all case materials, search for witnesses, and request independent expert examinations. Our goal is to find weaknesses in the prosecution's position. Under the CPC, defense lawyers participate in evidence collection and review, challenging prosecution evidence and conducting independent investigations as permitted by CPC articles emphasizing equality of arms and fair trial rights. ### Step 3: building a "dual-defense" strategy We develop a comprehensive defense strategy aimed not only at minimizing criminal penalties but also at preserving your residence permit in Switzerland. This involves coordinating criminal defense with immigration law considerations, arguing proportionality under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, and presenting evidence of integration, family ties, and absence of threat to public order. We apply the "Interessenabwägung" (balancing of interests) test used by Swiss courts: nature and severity of the crime, length of residence, family ties, integration (language, work, social connections), health status, and possibility of reintegration in the country of origin. ### Step 4: court representation and negotiation We provide professional representation in courts of all instances. We negotiate with the prosecutor's office on possible mitigation of charges or conclusion of a deal, if it is in the client's interest. We present arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and ensure procedural rights are respected. Mandatory defense applies in serious crimes, with appointed counsel if needed. ### Step 5: appealing negative decisions (criminal & immigration) If necessary, we appeal not only the court's verdict but also negative decisions of migration authorities (SEM) on permit revocation or deportation. Appeals and review procedures allow for correction of procedural deficiencies or legal errors, with higher courts reviewing the case under Swiss Criminal Procedure Code provisions. We leverage constitutional rights and CPC provisions on judicial review and sentence revision. ## How much do criminal lawyers make in Switzerland? This is a common question for those considering a legal career or seeking to understand legal costs. The salary or income for criminal lawyers in Switzerland can vary significantly. Experienced lawyers in Switzerland typically earn about CHF 120,000–190,000 gross annually. — Robert Walters Switzerland, 2025. Key factors influencing how much a lawyer can make include years of experience, the canton they practice in (Zurich and Geneva often have higher rates), the size and reputation of the law firm, and their track record of success. A partner in a top firm will have a much higher income than a junior associate. These figures represent gross earnings before taxes and business expenses. For more information about criminal lawyers and other attorneys, visit our comprehensive guide. ## Our other practice areas Beyond criminal law, our lawyers provide expert assistance in related areas. ### Family law (family, divorce, and child support) Our family lawyers in Switzerland provide compassionate and effective legal assistance. We handle complex divorce cases, negotiate marriage and custody agreements, and ensure fair child support arrangements. We protect your interests during difficult family transitions. Services include divorce proceedings, property division, determination of joint or sole custody of children according to the Swiss Civil Code (Zivilgesetzbuch), calculation and assignment of child and spousal support, mediation in custody or support disputes, and court proceedings when necessary. [Learn More] ### Business & taxation law We offer comprehensive legal solutions for companies. Our business lawyers and taxation lawyers in Switzerland advise on corporate law, commercial contracts, and tax advisory matters, helping your business navigate the Swiss legal landscape successfully. Services cover company formation, governance, and compliance under the Swiss Code of Obligations, drafting and enforcement of commercial contracts under Swiss commercial law, and tax advisory focused on cantonal and federal tax regulations, including structuring for tax efficiency and cross-border tax issues. For questions about Swiss company formation, we provide detailed guidance. If you need to establish a branch in Switzerland or open a recruitment company in Switzerland, our team can assist. [Learn More] {{cta:cta-1}} ## Contact our lawyers today Don't wait. Schedule a confidential consultation to get immediate legal help. Contact our expert lawyers in Switzerland to protect your future.

Criminal defense lawyers in Switzerland: expert legal representation for residents & foreign nationals