Due to rising economic internationalisation and the high mobility of the corporate actors involved, criminal investigations with foreign character or those that take place in multiple countries simultaneously are becoming more frequent.
Increasing Demands on the Defender
The demands on a successful criminal defence are constantly increasing. Defenders who are active on a solely national basis can quickly reach their limits and find themselves in definite need of the know-how that an experienced foreign associate possesses - an associate who knows his job and has proven himself over many years of cooperation. Ideally, he understands not only the lawsuit process for one legal system but also that of the foreign country in question. The cooperation between investigators and their associates abroad is also progressively improving: National law enforcement authorities make regular use of the instruments of international legal assistance for criminal cases with a cross-border background. By invoking the assistance of foreign law enforcement authorities, they further their investigations and induce, e.g. the search of offices and residences or impose the blocking of bank accounts. In order to protect the interests of the accused, it is absolutely necessary to seek legal counsel qualified in every country involved. Should such an occasion arise, then suitable, tightly knit counter-measures must be taken.
Longstanding International Experience
We have been representing cross-border clients in matters of corporate criminal law and fiscal offence law for many years in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy and Liechtenstein. We practice international criminal defence as a single law firm, which gives us an excellent starting point for the development of a successful legal strategy. This is a unique position generally not available to those who are well versed in only one national legal system.
The legal aid process in criminal cases constantly presents, for example, the opportunity to force the national authorities requesting legal aid to make written statements. Our skilled defenders study these documents fastidiously and are often able to infer valuable information about the reasoning and strategy of the investigating authorities. This knowledge, in turn, represents an important building block for the development and implementation of a successful defence strategy.
Practical Advantages and Benefits
If the defendant wishes to avoid travelling to certain countries due to a (possible) warrant for arrest, we are able to offer him qualified legal counsel in the country of his choice (Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland and Liechtenstein). This makes it possible for us to counsel our clients directly. In order to seek out personal legal counsel, it is not necessary for a client to travel to another country, in which he – whether justified or not – fears arrest.
We are always available for a personal meeting at any of our offices. We welcome you to contact us by telephone or e-mail.