Witness counselling

Complex investigation proceedings are almost always accompanied by the questioning of witnesses by the prosecuting authorities. Witnesses can find themselves in a difficult situation because, on the one hand, they are obliged to be truthful and provide information, but on the other hand, they do not have to put themselves at risk of prosecution by providing truthful information. However, hardly any witness is in a position to recognise the risk of criminal prosecution and to understand the rights and obligations associated with being a witness before and during a hearing.

The same applies to internal investigations. The tension here is between the duty to cooperate under labour law and the right to freedom from self-incrimination.

We advise witnesses in these difficult situations and accompany them to official hearings or internal company interviews.