Question 1

Does the firm respond at night and on weekends?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A 24/7 on-call service is in place for any criminal emergency: police custody, deferral, immediate appearance, search.

Question 2

How does police custody work?

Accepted Answer

24 hours, renewable once (48h), with exceptional extensions. Your rights: attorney from the first hour, right to remain silent, medical examination, contact of a relative.

Question 3

What is an immediate appearance?

Accepted Answer

Fast-track procedure (Articles 393 et seq. of the Code of Criminal Procedure) allowing the prosecutor to bring the accused directly before the correctional court the same day, after police custody.

Question 4

What is a guilty plea (CRPC) procedure?

Accepted Answer

Appearance on prior recognition of guilt: the prosecutor proposes a sentence that the accused can accept or refuse, with mandatory attorney presence.

Question 5

How are fees set?

Accepted Answer

By a written agreement signed before any work begins: flat fee, hourly rate, or combination. A complementary success fee may be added.

Question 6

Do you accept legal aid?

Accepted Answer

The firm operates primarily outside of legal aid.

Question 7

Does the firm work outside Paris?

Accepted Answer

Yes, throughout France, before all criminal jurisdictions.

Question 8

Does the firm speak English?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Consultations and defense can be conducted in French or in English.

Question 9

How does a first consultation work?

Accepted Answer

At the office (Paris 7e) or by videoconference. Case review, options outlined, fee agreement proposed.

Question 10

Are my exchanges with the attorney confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, professional secrecy is absolute and covers all correspondence and meetings with the client.

Frequently asked questions