Making a statement

If you are suspected of a crime, the police may interrogate you. Before an interrogation, the police will inform you of your rights.

For example, you are entitled to prior confidential consultation and assistance from a lawyer. If it concerns offences punishable by a custodial sentence and you were arrested, you will be assigned a lawyer under the Salduz legislation if you do not have one yourself. As an adult you can waive this right, as a minor you cannot.

Besides the right to the assistance of a lawyer, you have the right to remain silent during interrogation, for example. The police may ask you questions, but may not force you to make confessions or incriminate yourself. They may not use force or promise that you will be released if you make confessions, or threaten to detain you longer if you do not make a statement.