Let these top criminal defense lawyers in Zurich protect your rights when it matters most
Zurich is known for its precision and strong legal system, making it one of the most reliable places for justice and due process. Whether you’re a resident or an expat, finding the right criminal defense lawyer here can make all the difference.
As someone who’s spent time researching legal professionals and speaking with people who’ve gone through proceedings themselves, I can confidently say that choosing the right defense lawyer isn’t something you want to rush.
When your freedom or future is on the line, having a skilled legal expert by your side is crucial. That’s why I took the time to look for some of the best criminal defense lawyers in Zurich, so you don’t have to navigate this alone.
How much does a criminal defense lawyer charge in Zurich?
A criminal defense lawyer in Zurich typically charges between CHF 250 and CHF 600 per hour. However, the total cost depends on the lawyer’s experience, the complexity of the case, and whether it involves serious charges.
1. Bellevue Rechtsanwälte: Attorneys at Law
Address: Bellevue Rechtsanwälte, Bellerivestrasse 28, 8008
Contact: +41 442 507 090
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Bellevue Recht is one of those criminal defense firms in Zurich that immediately feels established and trustworthy. The firm brings decades of experience to the table, which really shows in how confidently they handle complex criminal cases.
What personally stood out to me was how involved their lawyers are. Bellevue Recht provides expert advice and representation before Swiss courts and authorities, and helps clients determine the ideal course of action before major decisions.
The firm’s strength lies in its people, particularly David Gibor and Andrea Müller. Both are fully licensed Swiss attorneys, authorised to represent clients in court.
It is also great that they are members of recognised professional bodies such as the Zurich Bar Association and the Swiss Bar Association.
They guide clients through every stage of the proceedings, including filing appeals and preparing expert reports when needed. Their well-structured approach reflects the firm’s long-standing experience in criminal defense in Zurich.
However, this highly detailed style may not suit everyone. Clients looking for a quick resolution or minimal involvement might find the process slower.
Attorney David Gibor fought relentlessly and ultimately saved me completely
“I can wholeheartedly recommend attorney David Gibor as a criminal defense lawyer. I was innocently embroiled in a very difficult case where I barely gave myself a chance, simply because everyone seemed to be against me. At the district court, things initially looked the same; all seemed lost. But Mr. Gibor remained calm, objective, and incredibly focused. He had a clear strategy from the outset and didn’t let anyone sway him. Attorney Gibor meticulously analyzed every detail, every minor statement, and ultimately made the impossible possible. The breakthrough came at the High Court: a complete acquittal on all counts! Even the presiding judge praised Mr. Gibor for his work. I am eternally grateful to my lawyer. While others told me to give up the case, attorney David Gibor fought relentlessly and ultimately saved me completely. For me, David Gibor is an absolutely outstanding criminal defense lawyer—top-notch professionally, personally strong, and completely reliable. Thank you so much, Dr. Gibor!”
- Ferdinand Müller, Google Review
My case was concluded very successfully
“I am extremely satisfied with the excellent defense work of attorney Dr. David Gibor. From the very beginning, I received competent, clear, and patient advice. All my questions were answered thoroughly, and I felt exceptionally well supported throughout the entire process. I would particularly like to emphasize the superb communication, the prompt response time, and the high level of commitment shown by criminal defense attorney David Gibor. It is evident that he works with a great deal of expertise and genuine passion. Thanks to attorney Gibor’s professional approach, my case was concluded very successfully. I can wholeheartedly recommend David Gibor!”
- Sebastian Basti, Google Review
2. Forum Rechtsanwälte
Address: Forum Rechtsanwälte, Universitätstrasse 100, 8006
Contact: +41 443 501 000
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Forum Rechtsanwälte immediately struck me as a firm that thinks several steps ahead. They represent both national and international companies and private individuals. This speaks volumes about the trust placed in their work across different types of cases.
What really stood out to me was their philosophy. Forum Law emphasises that no two cases are alike, so they don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions.
Instead, they create tailor-made strategies based on the facts, procedural requirements, and the long-term implications of each case. Their approach reflects a deep understanding of Swiss criminal law.
The firm also advises other law firms on procedural matters and appeals, highlighting its respect in the legal community.
They are also active academically, with publications such as “Praxis und Theorie der Strafprozessrevision” and “Verfahrensrechtliche Aspekte im Schweizer Strafrecht.”
A key figure is Diego R. Gfeller, a registered member of the Zurich Bar and a Certified Specialist in SBA Criminal Law. He is also fluent in German, English, and French. This makes the firm especially accessible for international clients.
Just note that availability may be limited for new clients, especially during periods of high volume of active cases.
Dr. Gfeller presented his arguments objectively but with clear emphasis
“I would like to express my sincere thanks to Dr. Diego Gfeller, attorney at law. He has represented me as a criminal defense attorney in several very complex cases.
I was particularly impressed by his rhetoric, both verbally and in writing, in dealings with and before the courts. Dr. Gfeller presented his arguments objectively but with clear emphasis.
As a client, you always have many questions about possible outcomes of the proceedings, often with a hindsight of hope. His answers are based on unvarnished facts and his extensive experience, which has proven helpful in every case. This was always particularly clear afterward. While hope is raised, it is not false or euphemistic. For that, a huge compliment!
Responses to telephone and written inquiries were prompt and extremely precise and comprehensive, so that further follow-up questions were usually unnecessary.
Mr. Gfeller also demonstrated a great deal of calm in every situation and, above all, empathy for my current state of mind.
I recommend Attorney Gfeller wholeheartedly and with complete conviction.
H.N. from Wettingen
Positive: Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value”
- Big Horaz, Google Review
Transforms even a seemingly negative situation into a positive one
“Mr. Gfeller is a top-notch lawyer. In my case, he made the impossible possible, and I didn’t have to go from being a driver to a pedestrian ;).
Unless I’m in a hearing, you can always reach Mr. Gfeller, who provides immediate, situation-specific assistance and can thus transform even a seemingly negative situation into a positive one within seconds thanks to his friendly, competent, matter-of-fact, and extremely committed manner.
Compared to other lawyers I know, Mr. Gfeller stands out and demonstrates from the very first second that he more than just understands his field.
I have never had the pleasure of meeting a lawyer like him, and I am
simply grateful for this wonderful experience with Mr. Gfeller.
Thank you for everything. Best, Alex.
Positive: Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value”
- Alx Sch, Google Review
3. Rechtskraft Law Practice
Address: Badenerstrasse 21, 8004
Contact: +41 433 005 570
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
When I first looked into Rechtskraft, what struck me immediately was how grounded and practical the firm feels. They have built a strong reputation in Zurich, being awarded Top Anwaltskanzlei by Bilanz & PME from 2021 to 2025.
What really stood out to me was their honesty. Clients receive a realistic assessment of their case. I appreciated that upfront honesty. It immediately makes you feel they are genuinely looking out for your best interests.
The team is focused on finding pragmatic solutions rather than diving straight into litigation. They know that amicable, out-of-court resolutions are often faster and more sustainable than drawn-out legal battles.
I also like that they provide an initial assessment on their website. It is surprisingly convenient for busy clients who don’t have extra time for long consultations.
However, Rechtskraft does not offer full-time criminal defense representation for urgent arrest cases. This can be important if someone needs immediate court or police support outside regular consultation hours.
Thanks to his outstanding work, the case ended very successfully
“I was very fortunate to be represented by Mr. Stefan Iten, MLaw, in my leasing case, and I can wholeheartedly recommend his law firm! It involved the return of a leased vehicle, for which the garage demanded a completely incomprehensible and exorbitant sum. Since I have no experience with leasing myself, I was glad to be able to contact the firm.
Mr. Iten guided me through this stressful time with exceptional competence and great empathy. He explained the legal steps clearly, always took the time to answer my questions, and consistently made me feel I was in good hands. Thanks to his outstanding work, the case ended very successfully, in my opinion.
I am incredibly grateful for the support and would recommend Mr. Iten and the entire firm without hesitation. Thank you again so much!”
- Diego Riondato, Google Review
I was met with nothing but professionalism
“I recently had the pleasure of working with Rechtskraft Advokatur & Business Coaching agency and their exceptionally talented lawyer, Simone Thoni. From the moment I reached out to them for assistance with my migration case in Switzerland, I was met with nothing but professionalism, dedication, and a genuine commitment to my cause.
Simone Thoni’s legal expertise and in-depth knowledge of the Swiss migration system proved invaluable in navigating the complexities of my case. Simone’s meticulous attention to detail, coupled with her personable approach, made the entire process feel less daunting and more manageable.
Throughout my case, Simone was always available to answer my questions and address any concerns. Her clear communication and guidance not only kept me well-informed, but also reassured me that I had made the right choice in selecting Rechtskraft Advokatur & Business Coaching agency for my legal needs.
I wholeheartedly recommend Rechtskraft Advokatur & Business Coaching agency and Simone Thoni to anyone in need of outstanding legal representation and compassionate support. They have exceeded my expectations and have earned a well-deserved five-star rating.”
- Ivan Tur, Google review
4. Lenz & Caduff
Address: Zähringerstrasse 9, 8001
Contact: +41 445 927 878
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Lenz & Caduff is a well-established criminal defense firm in Zurich, handling cases for both individuals and companies. This makes them a trusted option for clients dealing with a wide range of legal matters in the city.
I like how approachable and client-focused the team is. Lawyers like Daniel Steuli take the time to explain the nuances of Swiss criminal law. This makes it much easier for clients to understand each step of the process.
Daniel Streuli is registered with the Zurich Bar, a member of both the Zurich and Swiss Bar Associations, and part of Pikett Strafverteidigung (a specialist criminal defense network).
On top of that, he holds an MLaw from the University of Zurich, which underlines his strong academic and professional foundation.
Overall, the firm offers strategic advice on both procedural and criminal matters, tailoring its guidance to each client’s specific situation.
On the downside, Lenz & Caduff does not provide specialist forensic or digital evidence services. This can be a limitation for clients involved in complex cybercrime or technology-related cases.
Mr. Lenz’s consultation was highly critical in making us feel confident
“We consulted Mr. Lenz for the purchase of our first house. Mr. Lenz was very communicative and transparent. He analyzed all our information in detail and provided us very valuable feedback. We were able to receive answers to all the questions we had, both via email and later with a 30 min video call. Mr. Lenz was very patient, communicative and straightforward which made the entire process very smooth.
Very clear communication in English was a huge plus for us, given how complex legal matters can be.
Overall, Mr. Lenz’s consultation was highly critical in making us feel confident about signing the contract.”
- Amit Gupta, Google Review
The advice was very honest and to the point
“I really recommend Mr Caduff, he was really thoughtful and considerate. He is always proactive and solutions oriented. I was in safe hands, his team was very responsive and I felt looked out for. The advice was very honest and to the point, enabling me to take the right decisions and next steps. I will definitely call again for his advice and support in the future.”
- Lonut S, Google Review
5. Legal XII Tables Avocats
Address: Uraniastrasse 18, 8001
Contact: +41 442 213 131
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM -12:30 PM, 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
After hearing about a friend needing legal support in Zurich, we explored Legal XII Tables Avocats. They are a multilingual law firm that immediately caught our attention.
What stood out right away was their ability to communicate seamlessly in German, English, French, and Arabic. This makes it easy for clients from diverse backgrounds to feel understood and supported.
The firm is also innovating by offering digital solutions to simplify legal processes. Through their online consultation service, clients can access expertise and guidance without unnecessary delays.
Legal XII Tables Avocats also has extensive experience in cross-border matters. They collaborate with a global network of experts to ensure comprehensive support for international legal needs.
Clients frequently praise the team for their approachability and proactivity. They provide clear guidance at every stage of a case, helping clients feel confident as they navigate complex legal situations in Zurich.
Another impressive aspect is their transparent and competitive pricing.
However, some former clients have reported booking difficulties, which is why I recommend calling ahead.
I would not hesitate to recommend their services
“I highly recommend Lionel Patrick Serex as an outstanding lawyer. He has provided me with excellent advice on how to approach my case step by step, ensuring I understand the process and feel well-prepared. His professionalism, clear communication, and dedication have been truly impressive. What I appreciate most is his availability and quick responses, which have made me feel supported throughout. I am grateful for his guidance and would not hesitate to recommend his services to anyone in need of legal expertise”
- Ahmed Al-Dbei, Google Review
Always attentive, educational, and very approachable
“I was fortunate to be represented by Maître Lionel Serex (Legal XII Tables Avocats) in a complex legal matter. His extensive expertise in criminal, civil, insurance, and employment law impressed me and enabled him to resolve my case with remarkable efficiency. Accustomed to handling insurance mandates, he brilliantly handled my insurance dispute, offering clear and rapid solutions to the complexity of the situation.
Beyond his exceptional legal skills, I was touched by his unwavering commitment, his great availability, and his exemplary humanity. Always attentive, educational, and very approachable, Maître Serex was able to establish a reassuring climate of trust throughout the proceedings. Thanks to him, I felt supported and understood at every step, as well as, to a certain extent, protected. I highly recommend his services to anyone looking for an excellent lawyer. I would also like to congratulate Maître Serex on the opening of his new office in Zurich, a well-deserved success!”
- Lea, Google Review