Legal advice in Switzerland

Need legal advice in Switzerland? Our list of recommended lawyers can provide you with assistance, no matter whether you’re facing a legal problem or dispute, or if you have a question about a legal concern related to immigration, family matters, work, real estate or business. 

Law firms in Switzerland

Whatever your legal issue is related to, our selection of expat-friendly lawyers in Switzerland are available to give you sound advice. 

Corporate & business law

No matter whether you’re a business owner or an entrepreneur, you can contact a lawyer specialised in corporate and business law if you need legal advice on business matters like:

• Swiss business law 
• Company incorporation 
• Company reorganisations, mergers and acquisitions 
• Business transactions
• Commercial real estate purchases 
• Contract compliance
• Intellectual property 
• Investments 
• Financing
• Bankruptcy 

Criminal defence law 

In need of a criminal defence lawyer? You should reach out to an experienced lawyer if you are suspected of a crime, have been arrested or questioned, or had your house searched. 

You can also consult with a criminal lawyer if you have been a victim of a crime, to pursue claims for compensation. 

Family law

Family matters can quickly become complex, especially in the case of a divorce. It’s therefore a good idea to consult with an experienced family lawyer in Switzerland who is familiar with Swiss law related to family matters such as: 

• Prenuptial agreements 
• Divorce and separation
• Alimony
• Custody disputes

Immigration law

Are you (or a member of your family) coming to Switzerland to work or study? Or are you thinking about applying for Swiss citizenship? An immigration lawyer can help you work through the paperwork, ensure you meet all the requirements, and answer any questions you may have. 

Our recommended, expat-friendly immigration lawyers in Switzerland can help you with matters such as: 

• Citizenship
• Residence, work and settlement permits

Inheritance law

Matters relating to inheritance can quickly become complex, especially if the estate spans multiple countries, the will is disputed, or no will exists. An inheritance law specialist in Switzerland can help with things like: 

• Swiss inheritance laws 
• Law wills and testaments
• Inheritance contracts
• Power of attorneys and living wills
• Estate planning
• Will execution 
• Representing heirs 

Labour & employment law

As a business owner, entrepreneur or employee in Switzerland, you may face a whole range of legal questions and problems in your working life. A lawyer who specialises in labour and employment law can help you understand Swiss labour laws and assert your rights. 

They can provide advice and support on matters such as: 

• Workplace problems like sexual harassment, discrimination, bullying and burnout
• Employee rights and disputes over matters like holiday leave, overtime and notice periods
• Dismissals and severance pay
• Work contracts, trial periods and non-competition clauses 

Liability law

A liability lawyer in Switzerland can represent you in legal matters concerning third party liability. You might consult them if you have sustained a serious or life-changing personal injury, or if a third party has caused damage to you or your property. 

Consulting with a liability lawyer enables you to understand and assert your rights if you have sustained damage through a third party. Depending on the situation, you may be able to claim compensation. 

Property & real estate law

Are you buying or selling property in Switzerland? No matter whether your real estate transaction is personal or business-related, a property lawyer can guide you through all the knots and bolts of a sale. 

If you are renting in Switzerland, you may also want to consult with a lawyer experienced in property and real estate law to understand your rights and obligations as a tenant. 

Buyers, sellers, property investors, landlords and tenants can consult with a property lawyer for advice on matters such as: 

• Property sales and purchases 
• Rental agreements
• Rent arrears and evictions 
• Unreturned rental deposits
• Disputes with landlords, homeowners’ associations or neighbours 

Legal insurance

Rather than let financial concerns prevent them from pursuing their legal rights, plenty of people in Switzerland choose to take out legal insurance, which covers your costs, should you ever face a legal dispute. 

Free legal advice in Switzerland 

The Swiss constitution stipulates that any person who is unable to cover the costs of their legal advice is entitled to receive legal aid, so long as the case has at least a chance of success. In such cases, the court will assign a lawyer to your case and pay them on your behalf. 

The situation varies between cantons, but most cantonal bar associations also provide free legal advice to the public in short, open-access sessions. You may need an appointment to attend one of these sessions. Swiss courts also sometimes offer free general legal advice during consultation hours. To find a session in your area, contact your local bar association.