Criminal law

I was out for a drive the other day in a charming village in the canton of Vaud when I spotted a shop selling local produce. As there weren’t many people around, I parked my car on the pavement for a few minutes while I popped in to buy a little souvenir. When I came back, I found myself face to face with a man who…

Last March, I parked for a few minutes in a public car park to run an urgent errand. As I'm used to paying for my parking via the mobile application, I tried to register my arrival, but a malfunction prevented me from doing so. When I quickly returned to my vehicle, a fine had already been issued. However, I can demonstrate, with photos and...

I know a politician who has a sharp tongue before an election. He thinks he can say whatever he wants without limit. His favourite saying is: «I say out loud what people are thinking». In my opinion, his words go too far. Can he really express himself with impunity? M., Vernier Freedom of expression? Yes,...

My little boy is full of extravagant ideas. I'm very impressed with him. However, I'm also very worried because he doesn't know his limits and I'm afraid that his creativity could get him into trouble. A friend recently told me that the criminal law on minors had changed, but I didn't quite understand the changes and...

Like last week's reader, my return from holiday was a bit eventful, as I got into a tussle at boarding with another passenger who told me I'd broken his watch. He took my name and promised me legal action. What can I expect and where? G, Geneva...

After a superb holiday on an island paradise, I was sad to have to return and face the cold of Switzerland. I couldn't stand the attitude of some passengers during the flight, to the point where I insulted some of them... A stewardess calmed me down by saying that I risked being arrested when I got off the plane...

Christmas is coming and I'm getting ready to put our stockings in front of the fireplace. My children are excited, but my eldest, who is very articulate and loves her law classes, explained to me that by breaking into our house, Father Christmas could be committing trespassing... Brigitte, Canton of Geneva Your daughter's question...

My son had a road accident during his military service and was convicted. What consequences will this have for him in civilian life? Muriel, Geneva Your concern is legitimate, but rest assured: a military conviction does not necessarily mean an indelible stain on your son's record. Unlike...