Criminal Law
Criminal law is the field of law where someone can find themselves in a difficult situation in an instant—even if they are innocent. Participants in economic life increasingly face criminal law risks, even if they have not committed an intentional crime. Criminal proceedings alone can cause significant stress, reputational damage, and business losses—regardless of whether they end in conviction or acquittal.
Our office’s criminal law practice aims to provide professional, swift, and effective legal protection to individuals and companies who come into contact with criminal justice as suspects, defendants, or even victims. Our key area of expertise is defending against economic and financial crimes, where prevention, strategic action, and expertise are of the highest value.
Economic crimes
Economic crimes include violations related to financial, business, or contractual relationships. These include, for example, embezzlement, breach of fiduciary duty, budgetary fraud, money laundering, tax fraud, or extortion. It is often difficult to determine whether a mistaken economic decision, a disputed financial transaction, or an omission is still a civil dispute—or already raises criminal liability.
The defence strategy in these matters must be well thought-out not only from a legal but also from a business and communications perspective. Our practice gives special attention to cases where business conflicts, competition, or even personal revenge may be behind the accusation.
Budgetary fraud
Budgetary fraud is currently one of the most frequently applied criminal classifications against actors in the business world. It typically arises when a company applies for state or EU funding, claims VAT refunds, or comes into contact with public funds in any way. It is common for an economic event that the company considered lawful to later—sometimes years afterwards—become a suspicious case.
A criminal lawyer here not only assists in the defence but also proves innocence by organising accounting and contractual documents. Timely reaction can often prevent charges from being brought
Criminal procedure – the role of the defence from investigation to court
Criminal proceedings consist of several stages: investigation, indictment, trial, and judgement. It is advisable to seek a lawyer’s help already at the investigative stage, as the first statement often has decisive significance for the subsequent procedure. A poorly worded sentence, an ambiguous answer, or incomplete evidence can have serious consequences.
Our office’s goal is to develop a strategy at the outset of the investigation that not only protects the client but can also help bring the proceedings to a swift conclusion—whether by discontinuance, acquittal, or mitigation.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement is a crime in which someone unlawfully disposes of assets entrusted to them by another. This often occurs in companies when employees, financial staff, accountants, or managers are accused—often based on misunderstandings or unfounded allegations. It is important that the matter be settled with the help of a criminal lawyer already at the stage of suspicion.
In many cases, the boundary between embezzlement and a civil accounting dispute is blurred—in these matters, legal fine-tuning is decisive.
Breach of fiduciary duty – decision or crime?
Breach of fiduciary duty occurs when someone manages another’s assets under their own authority in a way that causes financial harm. It is a frequent accusation against corporate managers and institutional leaders. In a significant proportion of cases, however, it is questionable whether a crime has actually occurred or simply a poor economic decision was made.
In such procedures, the company’s internal documentation and decision-making processes are particularly important—these can be presented comprehensively and defensibly with legal assistance.
Money laundering
The suspicion of money laundering is increasingly common, especially in the case of large cash transactions, foreign transfers, or income of dubious origin. Charges are often brought in cases where the person involved did not even think they had given reason for a crime. In such cases, it is the criminal lawyer’s job to prove the legitimacy of the funds by working with documents and financial experts.
Extortion
Extortion can be carried out not only by physical force or threats, but also, for example, by threatening legal steps if the goal is unlawful gain. Business negotiations, prolonged accounting disputes, or relationship situations can also lead to such suspicion. Our office has successfully defended clients in several such cases, where a civil dispute was found instead of a crime.
Tax fraud – when the tax authority presses charges
Criminal proceedings for tax fraud (typically budgetary fraud) often begin after a tax audit, especially if intent or regularity can be established. Many managers find themselves in such procedures without knowingly breaking the rules. A good lawyer helps to prove that a mistake does not amount to guilt.
Lawyer – the first line of defence
During criminal proceedings, the right to a defence is not just a statutory option—but a genuine chance for a fair process. A criminal lawyer not only provides legal representation, but also builds a strategy, gathers evidence, represents the client before authorities, and helps them emotionally get through the process. The aim is always the fastest and most favourable conclusion—either by avoiding charges or by acquittal.
1. What is an economic crime and who can be an offender?
Economic crimes are legal violations connected to financial, business, or economic decisions—e.g., embezzlement, tax fraud, breach of fiduciary duty. The offender can be a manager, employee, or even a supplier. Often, the line between a crime and a poor business decision is blurred. A criminal lawyer helps accurately interpret the situation. Defence often depends on the precise analysis of documents and contracts. Involving a defence lawyer in time can prevent charges from being brought.
2. When is someone suspected of budgetary fraud?
Budgetary fraud arises when someone unlawfully claims or uses public funds—for example, in the case of VAT refunds, grants, or state support. Often, an administrative error is enough, which is later classified as intentional fraud. Criminal proceedings in this case carry significant financial and reputational risks. An experienced criminal lawyer provides effective defence from the early stages of proceedings. By organising documents and involving experts, they help clarify the situation. The goal is to avoid charges or close the case.
3. How does a criminal procedure take place, and when is a lawyer needed?
The stages of a criminal procedure are: investigation, indictment, trial, judgement. It is advisable to involve a defence lawyer even before suspicion arises—for example, even as a witness. “The best suspect is a witness.” The first version of a statement can decisively influence the outcome of the case. The defence lawyer’s role is not just legal, but also tactical. They prepare, are present at hearings, and protect the client’s interests. The earlier advice is sought, the higher the chance of a favourable outcome.
4. How does embezzlement differ from theft?
The essence of embezzlement is that the asset is not acquired by an outsider, but was entrusted to the person—e.g., a company cashier or accountant. In theft, the perpetrator is an external person, while in embezzlement, an internal one. Often, an accounting dispute raises suspicion of embezzlement. Defence requires precise documentation and timely involvement of a criminal lawyer. A lawyer can distinguish between employment, civil, and criminal liability. This can prevent a dispute from turning into a criminal case.
5. What qualifies as breach of fiduciary duty in a business?
Breach of fiduciary duty occurs when someone manages another’s assets and, through their decision, causes financial loss. This could be a poorly made contract, sale, or investment. Not every loss is a breach of fiduciary duty—intent and care are key. A defence lawyer can show that the decision was justified and not unlawful. Good faith can be supported by experts and financial statements. The goal: acquittal or termination of proceedings.
6. How can you prove money laundering did not occur?
The accusation of money laundering is often based on inadequate documentation of the source of funds. It is advisable to contact a criminal lawyer immediately, who will help prove the origin of the money. Invoices, transfers, and contracts can all be key evidence. Involving an accountant or financial expert can also be part of the defence. Quick reaction is important, as account freezing can paralyse operations. A well-constructed defence can often prevent charges from being brought.
7. In what situations can someone be accused of extortion?
Extortion can involve not just physical threats but also the threat of legal, financial, or other disadvantage. Such statements often arise during business negotiations and may later be interpreted as extortion. If accused, one should contact a defence lawyer immediately and not make statements alone. Context, witnesses, and circumstances can be decisive. A lawyer helps to protect the client’s reputation and business position. Not every tough negotiation is extortion—but one must know how to defend themselves.
8. What is tax fraud, and how can you defend against it?
Tax fraud occurs when someone intentionally reduces their tax liability—for example, with false invoices or concealed income. However, not every mistake is fraud—the intent must be proven. A defence lawyer helps the client cooperate with authorities without self-incrimination. Good defence includes reviewing accounts and documents. Retrospective self-audit or settlement can often be a solution. Timely legal help can reduce criminal consequences.
9. How does a criminal lawyer help once proceedings have begun?
A criminal lawyer plays a strategic role in forming the defence. They help draft statements, interpret documents, and conduct witness hearings. They are present at investigative actions and protect the client’s rights. In some cases, factual refutation of the crime is sufficient. In others, the lawyer achieves mitigation by revealing extenuating circumstances. The goal is always to conclude the case with as little risk as possible.
10. When should you choose a defence lawyer and what should you look for?
It is worth choosing a defence lawyer even if you are only summoned as a witness. Look for a lawyer experienced in economic crimes and with knowledge of the relevant authority. Quick response, clear communication, and a well-thought-out strategy are important. The lawyer represents the client not only in court but also before investigative authorities. Experience and attention to detail can be decisive for the outcome. Good lawyer, good defence—this is the greatest chance for acquittal.
Our experienced team is at your disposal