Victim representation
Victims of crime often find themselves not only in a legal state of emergency, but also in a personal one. In this situation, it is crucial to have someone by your side who is calm and experienced, who will take your case into their capable hands and guide you through this challenging time.
We represent victims and injured parties in all phases of criminal proceedings – from the preliminary investigation to the main trial. We will assert any damages you have suffered on your behalf in the course of the criminal proceedings by way of a private prosecution, in order to spare you the additional burden and cost risk of separate civil proceedings wherever possible. In doing so, we ensure that your rights are protected, that you are heard and that the consequences of the offence are dealt with in a legally correct manner.
Criminal defence
Criminal investigations can sometimes take people by surprise. Feelings of being overwhelmed and fears about the future are typical consequences. In such moments, it is not only legal knowledge and experience in dealing with law enforcement and prosecuting authorities that are needed, but also human understanding and a level-headed approach.
We take on your criminal defence from the initial investigation to the main proceedings and any appeal proceedings. We analyse the case files, develop a suitable strategy for you and protect your rights vis-à-vis the police, public prosecutor's office and criminal court. We listen to our clients with empathy, try to understand their situation and then bring them back down to earth from ‘panic mode’ – because even the best defence strategy is most promising when it is implemented with calm and reason.
If you have not yet had an appointment with us, please note that, as the accused, you have the right not to incriminate yourself and to remain silent, to consult a defence lawyer and to inspect the investigation file. Our advice is therefore as follows: following a summons to attend a suspect interview, do not make any statements regarding the matter until you have been granted access to the case file and have spoken to a criminal defence lawyer. The course of the proceedings is often set as early as the pre-trial investigation stage – for example, through a written statement, targeted applications for evidence, or the consideration of a diversion, which can bring the proceedings to a close without a conviction and without an entry on your criminal record.
Commercial criminal law
In business, there is often only a fine line between a commercially justifiable decision and a criminal grey area. Fraud, embezzlement and delayed insolvency are among the offences that are particularly relevant to the management bodies of corporations and partnerships.
We advise you proactively to minimise risks – for example, through compliance concepts, internal guidelines and employee training. Because in commercial criminal law, the following applies: those who anticipate (criminal) legal problems can take preventive action to counteract them.
If criminal investigations are initiated, we represent you with the necessary experience in commercial offences. Our strength lies in combining criminal law and commercial law expertise with business know-how.
Reasons for Schmelz lawfirm
Criminal proceedings are like a storm raging over you. In such moments, you need not only legal assistance, but also empathy and pragmatism. We offer calm criminal defence, sensitive victim representation and forward-looking business advice in the field of commercial criminal law.
