I have practised law in Switzerland for fifteen years, and for the past decade my work has been
dedicated exclusively to criminal defence. My mandate is clear: I stand with the person who is
often the weakest actor in the justice system, confronted with the full force of state authority. In
this position, the accused is frequently isolated and exposed. My role is to guide this person
through the complexities and pressures of criminal proceedings, ensuring that their rights are
not merely recognised on paper but effectively protected in practice.
Switzerland, as a non-EU member, faces unique challenges in cross-border cooperation.
European investigations and prosecutions often require specific knowledge of differing legal
frameworks and procedural mechanisms. Working within this international network allows me
to look beyond national borders and to benefit from the collective experience of colleagues
across Europe. This is particularly valuable in cases involving offences governed by universal
jurisdiction or other internationally-linked conduct, where swift and coordinated action is
essential.
Defending the accused also means defending the rule of law. Standing at their side reinforces
the principles that underpin a fair justice system and confirms the conviction that originally led
me into the legal profession as a young student in Basel and Freiburg in Breisgau: the belief that
jurisprudence can contribute to a more just world.