Chapter 3 Witnesses |
Section 1 General Provisions |
Art. 163 Capacity and duty to testify
1 A person has the capacity to testify if he or she is over the age of 15 and has the required mental capacity with regard to the subject matter of the examination hearing. 2 Every person with the capacity to testify is obliged to make a statement and to tell the truth, subject to the provisions on rights to refuse to testify. |
Art. 164 Enquiries relating to witnesses
1 Enquiries may be made into the previous conduct and the personal circumstances of a witness only if this is relevant to an assessment of his or her credibility. 2 If there are doubts as to the mental capacity of a witness or if there are indications of a mental disorder, the director of proceedings may order an outpatient examination of the witness if this is justified by the importance of the criminal proceedings and of the witnesses testimony. |
Art. 165 Witness's duty of confidentiality
1 The authority conducting the examination hearing may require a witness subject to advising him or her of the penalties under Article 292 SCC79 to treat the planned or completed interview and its subject matter as confidential. 2 This obligation shall be made subject to a time limit. 3 The order may be combined with the witness's summons. |
Section 2 Rights to Refuse to Testify |
Art. 168 Right to refuse to testify due to a personal relationship
1 The following persons may refuse to testify:
2 The right to refuse to testify under paragraph 1 letters a and f remains valid if the marriage is dissolved or if in the case of a foster family81, the foster relationship no longer applies. 3 A registered partnership is deemed equivalent to marriage. 4 The right to refuse to testify ceases to apply if:
80Amended by Annex No 2 of the FA of 15 Dec. 2017 (Child Protection), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 2947; BBl 2015 3431). 81 Art. 4–11 of the Ordinance of 19 Oct. 1977 on the Placement of Children in Foster Care and for Adoption (SR 211.222.338). 82 Amended by No III of the FA of 30 Sept. 2011, in force since 1 July 2012 (AS 2012 2575; BBl 2010 56515677). |
Art. 169 Right to refuse to testify for personal protection or to protect closely related persons
1 A person may refuse to testify if he or she would incriminate him or herself by testifying such that he or she:
2 The right to refuse to testify also applies if the person by testifying would incriminate a closely related person as defined in Article 168 paragraphs 1–3; Article 168 paragraph 4 remains reserved. 3 A person may refuse to testify if by testifying he or she or a closely related person as defined in Article 168 paragraphs 1–3 would be exposed to a considerable risk to life and limb or other serious detriment that cannot be prevented by taking protective measures. 4 A victim of a sexual offence may in every case refuse to answer questions that relate to his or her private domain. |
Art. 170 Right to refuse to testify due to official secrecy
1 Public officials as defined in Article 110 paragraph 3 SCC84 and their auxiliaries as well as members of authorities and their auxiliaries may refuse to testify on secret matters communicated to them in their official capacity or which have come to their knowledge in the exercise of their office or their auxiliary activity.85 2 They must testify if they
3 The superior shall grant authorisation to testify if the interest in establishing the truth outweighs the interest in preserving secrecy. 85 Amended by Annex 1 No 8 of the Information Security Act of 18 Dec. 2020, in force since 1 Jan. 2023 (AS 2022 232, 750; BBl 2017 2953). 86 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 171 Right to refuse to testify due to professional confidentiality
1 Members of the clergy, lawyers, defence lawyers, notaries, patent attorneys, doctors, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists, nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, midwives, dieticians, optometrists, osteopaths and assistants to such persons may refuse to testify in relation to confidential matters that have been confided to them or come to their knowledge in the course of their professional work.87 2 They must testify if they:
3 The criminal justice authority shall also respect professional confidentiality in cases where the person entrusted with confidential information is relieved of the duty of confidentiality but he or she establishes that the interest of the person to whom the confidential information pertains outweighs the interest in establishing the truth. 4 The provisions of the Lawyers Act of 23 June 200089 are reserved. 87 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 16 Dec. 2022 on Promoting Training in the Nursing Profession, in force since 1 July 2024 (AS 2024 212; BBl 2022 1498). |
Art. 172 Protection of journalists' sources
1 Persons involved professionally in the publication of information in the editorial section of a medium that appears periodically, together with their auxiliary personnel may refuse to testify as to the identity of the author or as to the content and sources of their information. 2 They must testify if:
91 Amended by Annex No II 3 of the FedD of 25 Sept. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism and its Additional Protocol and the Strengthening of Criminal Justice Instruments for combating Terrorism and Organised Crime, in force since 1 July 2021 (AS 2021 360; BBl 2018 6427). 92 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 173 Right to refuse to testify due to other duties of confidentiality
1 Any person who is required to preserve professional confidentiality in accordance with any of the following provisions must testify only if the interest in establishing the truth outweighs the interest in preserving confidentiality:
2 Persons entrusted with other confidential information protected by law are required to testify. The director of proceedings may relieve them of the duty to testify if they are able to establish that the interest in preserving confidentiality outweighs the interest in establishing the truth. 95 SR 210. This Art. has now been repealed. 97 Amended by Annex No II 7 of the Criminal Justice Authorities Act of 19 March 2010, in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 3267; BBl 2008 8125). 99 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 101 Inserted by Annex No 2 of the Healthcare Occupations Act of 30 Sept. 2016 (AS 2020 57; BBl 2015 8715). Repealed by Annex No 1 of the FA of 16 Dec. 2022 on Promoting Training in the Nursing Profession, with effect from 1 July 2024 (AS 2024 212; BBl 2022 1498). |
Art. 174 Decision on permitting a person to refuse to testify
1 The decision on whether to allow a person to refuse to testify is made by:
2 The witness may request a review by the court for Article 393 appeals immediately after receiving notification of the decision. 3 Until the court for Article 393 appeals makes its decision, the witness is entitled to refuse to testify. |
Art. 175 Exercise of the right to refuse to testify
1 The witness may invoke his or her right to refuse to testify at any time or revoke his or her waiver of that right. 2 Statements made by a witness after being cautioned with regard to the right to refuse to testify may be admitted as evidence if the witness subsequently exercises the right to refuse to testify or revokes a waiver of the right to refuse to testify. |
Art. 176 Unlawful refusal to testify
1 Any person who refuses to testify without having the right to do so may be liable to a fixed penalty fine and may be required to pay the costs and compensation incurred as a result of such refusal. 2 If a person who is obliged to testify insists on refusing to do so, he or she will again be requested to testify and cautioned as to the penalties under Article 292 SCC102. In the event of continued refusal, criminal proceedings shall be commenced. |
Section 3 Examination Hearings with Witnesses |
Art. 177
1 The authority conducting the examination hearing shall caution the witness at the beginning of each hearing with regard to the obligations to testify and to tell the truth and advise the witness of the penalties for perjury in terms of Article 307 SCC103. If no caution is given, the examination hearing is invalid. 2 The authority conducting the examination hearing shall question each witness at the beginning of the first hearing as to his or her relationship with the parties and as to other circumstances that may be relevant to the witness's credibility. 3 It shall caution the witness as to the rights to refuse to testify as soon as it becomes apparent through questioning or the files that such rights apply. If no caution is given and the witness subsequently exercises the right to refuse to testify, the examination hearing is inadmissible. |
Chapter 5 Authorised Experts |
Art. 183 Requirements for the expert witness
1 Any natural person with the required specialist knowledge and skills in the relevant field may be appointed as an expert witness. 2 The Confederation and the cantons may provide for the retention of permanent or official expert witnesses for specific fields. 3 Authorised experts are subject to the grounds for recusal in terms of Article 56. |
Art. 184 Appointment and instructions
1 The director of proceedings shall appoint the expert witness. 2 The director of proceedings shall provide written instructions; these shall contain:
3 The director of proceedings shall give the parties prior opportunity to comment on the expert witness and on the questions and to submit their own applications. The director of proceedings may dispense with this requirement in relation to laboratory tests, in particular where they relate to determining the blood-alcohol concentration or the level of purity of substances, proof of the presence of narcotics in the blood or the preparation of a DNA profile. 4 Together with the instructions, they shall provide the expert witness with the documents and items required to prepare the report. 5 They may revoke their instructions at any time and appoint new expert witnesses if this is in the interests of the criminal case. 6 They may request an estimate of the costs before issuing the instructions. 7 If a private claimant requests an expert report, the director of proceedings may make instructing an expert witness dependent on the private claimant making an advance payment to cover costs. |
Art. 185 Preparation of the report
1 The expert witness is personally responsible for the expert report. 2 The director of proceedings may request the expert witness to attend procedural hearings and authorise the expert to put questions to the person being questioned. 3 If the expert witness is of the view that documents must be added to the case files, he or she shall make the relevant application to the director of proceedings. 4 The expert witness may conduct simple enquiries that are closely connected to his or her assignment and for this purpose may request persons to cooperate. These persons must comply with the instructions. If they refuse, they may be brought before the expert witness by the police. 5 In relation to enquiries by the expert witness, the accused and, to the extent of their right to refuse to testify, persons who have the right to remain silent or to refuse to testify may refuse to cooperate. The expert witness shall caution the persons concerned with regard to such rights at the start of his or her enquiries. |
Art. 186 In-patient assessment
1 The public prosecutor or courts may have an accused admitted to hospital if this is required in order to prepare a medical report. 2 The public prosecutor shall apply to the compulsory measures court for the accused to be admitted to hospital unless the accused is already on remand. The compulsory measures court shall decide on the matter in written proceedings.105 3 If an in-patient assessment proves necessary during the court proceedings, the court concerned shall decide on the matter in written proceedings.106 4 The time spent in hospital shall be taken into account in the sentence. 5 In addition, the in-patient assessment is governed by mutatis mutandis by the regulations on remand and preventive detention. 105 Second sentence amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 106 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 187 Form of the expert report
1 The expert witness shall prepare an expert report in writing. If additional persons are involved in the preparation of the report, their names and the contribution that they made to the preparation of the report must be specified. 2 The director of proceedings may order the expert report to be given orally or that a written report be explained or added to orally; in such an event, the regulations on witness examination hearings apply. |
Art. 189 Additions and improvements to the report
The director of proceedings shall ex officio or at the request of a party arrange for the expert report to be added to or improved by the same expert witness or shall appoint additional expert witnesses if:
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Title 5 Compulsory Measures |
Chapter 2 Summonses, Enforced Appearances and Tracing of Wanted Persons or Property |
Section 3 Tracing of Wanted Persons or Property |
Art. 210 Principles
1 The public prosecutor, authorities responsible for prosecuting contraventions and courts may order the tracing of persons whose whereabouts are unknown and who are required to appear in the proceedings. In cases of urgency, the police may themselves order that a wanted person be traced. 2 A warrant (arrest warrant) may be issued for an accused person to be arrested and brought before the authorities if there is a strong suspicion that he or she has committed a felony or misdemeanour and there is reason to believe that there are grounds for the person's detention.107 3 Unless the public prosecutor, the authority responsible for prosecuting contraventions or the court orders otherwise, the police are responsible for tracing wanted persons. 4 Paragraphs 1 and 3 apply mutatis mutandis to the tracing of items and assets. In preliminary proceedings, the police may themselves order the tracing of items and assets.108 107 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 108 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 211 Assistance from the public
1 The public may be requested to assist in tracing wanted persons or property. 2 The Confederation and the cantons may issue provisions in accordance with which members of the public may be rewarded for assisting in the successful tracing of wanted persons or property. |
Chapter 3 Deprivation of Liberty, Remand and Preventive Detention |
Section 1 General Provisions |
Art. 212 Principles
1 An accused person shall remain at liberty. He or she may be subjected to compulsory measures involving deprivation of liberty only in accordance with the provisions of this Code. 2 Compulsory measures involving deprivation of liberty must be revoked as soon as:
3 Remand and preventive detention may not be of longer duration than the anticipated custodial sentence. |
Art. 213 Access to premises
1 If it is necessary to enter houses, dwellings or other rooms that are not generally accessible in order to stop or arrest a person, the provisions on searching premises must be complied with. 2 If there is a risk in any delay, the police may enter premises without a search warrant. |
Art. 214 Notification
1 If a person is arrested, or placed on remand or in preventive detention, the relevant criminal justice authority shall immediately notify:
2 No notification shall be given if this is precluded by the purpose of the investigation or the person concerned expressly so requests. 3 Where an arrested person is subject to a compulsory measure involving the deprivation of his or her liberty and a dependant suffers difficulties as a result, the criminal justice authority shall notify the relevant social services authorities. 4 The victim shall be informed of the accused being placed in or released from remand or preventive detention, the ordering of an alternative measure under Article 237 paragraph 2 letter c or g, or if the accused absconds, unless he or she has expressly requested not to be informed.109 Such information may not be provided if it would expose the accused to a serious danger. 109 Amended by Annex No 1 of the FA of 13 Dec. 2013 on Activity Prohibition Orders and Contact Prohibition and Exclusion Orders, in force since 1 Jan. 2015 (AS 2014 2055; BBl 20128819). |
Section 4 Remand and Preventive Detention: General Provisions |
Art. 220 Definitions
1 Remand begins when it is ordered by the compulsory measures court and ends with the receipt by the court of first instance of the indictment, the accelerated commencement of a custodial sanction or with the accused's release during the investigation. 2 Preventive detention is the period of detention between the time of receipt by the court of first instance of the indictment and the issue of a final judgment, the commencement of a custodial sanction, the enforcement of an expulsion order, or the accused's release.110 110 Amended by Annex No 5 of the FA of 20 March 2015 (Implementation of Art. 121 para. 3–6 Federal Constitution on the expulsion of foreign nationals convicted of certain criminal offences), in force since 1 Oct. 2016 (AS 2016 2329; BBl 2013 5975). |
Art. 221 Requirements
1 Remand and preventive detention are only permitted if there is a strong suspicion that the accused has committed a felony or misdemeanour and there is a serious concern that the accused:
1bis Remand and preventive detention are permitted by way of exception if:
2 Detention is also permitted if there is a serious and immediate risk that a person will carry out a threat to commit a serious felony.113 111 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 112 Inserted by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 113 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 222 Appellate remedies 114
Only the detainee may contest decisions ordering, extending or ending his or her remand or preventive detention before the court for Article 393 appeals, subject to Article 233. 114 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 223 Communications with the defence in detention proceedings
1 The defence lawyer may be present in detention proceedings when the accused is interviewed or when other evidence is being gathered. 2 The accused may at any time communicate privately with his or her defence lawyer in writing or orally in proceedings before the public prosecutor or the courts relating to detention. |
Section 5 Remand |
Art. 224 Remand proceedings before the public prosecutor
1 The public prosecutor shall question the accused immediately and give the accused the opportunity to make a statement regarding the suspected offence and the grounds for remand. It shall immediately record all evidence that may substantiate or rebut the suspicions and the grounds for detention provided such evidence is readily available. 2 If the suspicions and the grounds for remand are confirmed, the public prosecutor shall immediately apply to the compulsory measures court, but at the latest within 48 hours of the arrest, for the accused to be remanded or for an alternative measure. It shall file its application in writing, with a brief statement of reasons and the most relevant files. 3 If the public prosecutor decides against applying for remand, it shall order the accused's immediate release. If it applies for an alternative measure, it shall take the required preventive measures. |
Art. 225 Detention proceedings before the compulsory measures court
1 On receipt of the application from the public prosecutor, the compulsory measures court shall immediately arrange a private hearing with the public prosecutor, the accused and his or her defence lawyer; it may require the public prosecutor to participate. 2 If so requested, it shall permit the accused and the defence to inspect the files in its possession before the hearing. 3 Any person who is permitted not to attend the hearing may submit applications in writing or make reference to earlier submissions. 4 The compulsory measures court shall gather all the immediately available evidence that may substantiate or rebut the suspicions or the grounds for detention. 5 If the accused expressly waives the right to a hearing, the compulsory measures court may decide in written proceedings on the basis of the application made by the public prosecutor and the submissions made by the accused.115 115 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 226 Decision of the compulsory measures court
1 The compulsory measures court decides immediately, but at the latest within 48 hours of receipt of the application. 2 It shall give immediate notice of its decision to the public prosecutor, the accused and his or her defence lawyer orally, or, if they are absent, in writing. It shall then provide them with a brief written statement of the grounds. 3 If it orders the accused to be remanded, it shall inform the accused that he or she may file an application for release from remand at any time. 4 In its decision it may:
5 If it decides not to order the accused to be remanded, the accused shall be released immediately. |
Art. 227 Application to extend the period of remand
1 If the period on remand ordered by the compulsory measures court expires, the public prosecutor may file an application to extend the period of remand. If the compulsory measures court has not limited the period of remand, the application must be filed before the accused has spent 3 months on remand. 2 The public prosecutor shall file a written application stating the grounds with the compulsory measures court 4 days at the latest before the expiry of the period of remand, together with the most relevant files. 3 The compulsory measures court shall give the accused and his or her defence lawyer the opportunity to inspect the files in its possession and to respond to the application in writing within 3 days. 4 It may order the provisional continuation of remand pending its decision. 5 The compulsory measures court shall decide at the latest within 5 days of receipt of the response or the expiry of the time limit mentioned in paragraph 3 above. It may instruct the public prosecutor to carry out specific investigative activities, or order an alternative measure. 6 The proceedings are normally conducted in writing, but the compulsory measures court may order a hearing, which shall be held in private. 7 An extension of the period on remand may be granted for a maximum of 3 months, or in exceptional cases for a maximum of 6 months. |
Art. 228 Application for release from remand
1 The accused may apply to the public prosecutor at any time in writing or orally on record for release from remand, subject to paragraph 5 below. The application must be accompanied by a brief statement of grounds. 2 If the public prosecutor grants the application, it shall release the accused from remand immediately. If it does not wish to grant the application, it shall pass the same together with the files no later than 3 days after receipt to the compulsory measures court accompanied by a statement of its opinion. 3 The compulsory measures court shall send the opinion to the accused and his or her defence lawyer and allow them 3 days to respond. 4 The compulsory measures court shall decide at the latest within 5 days of receiving the response or of the expiry of the time limit mentioned in paragraph 3 above. If the accused expressly waives the right to a hearing, the decision may be issued in written proceedings. Article 226 paragraphs 2–5 also applies mutatis mutandis. 5 The compulsory measures court may in its decision specify a time limit of a maximum of one month within which the accused is not permitted to file a further application for release. |
Section 6 Preventive Detention |
Art. 229 Decision to order preventive detention
1 In cases where the accused has already been on remand, an application for preventive detention is filed in writing by the public prosecutor and the decision on whether to order preventive detention is taken by the compulsory measures court. 2 Where grounds for detention arise only after charges have been brought, the director of proceedings in the court of first instance shall conduct detention proceedings in analogous application of Article 224 and shall request the compulsory measures court to order preventive detention. 3 The proceedings before the compulsory measures court are governed by:
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Art. 230 Release from preventive detention during the proceedings before the court of first instance
1 The accused and the public prosecutor may file an application for release from detention during the proceedings before the court of first instance. 2 The application must be submitted to the director of proceedings in the court of first instance. 3 If the director of proceedings grants the application, he or she shall release the accused from detention immediately. If the director of proceedings does not wish to grant the application, it shall be passed on to the compulsory measures court for a decision to be made. 4 The director of proceedings in the court of first instance may also order the accused to be released from detention provided the public prosecutor consents. If the public prosecutor does not consent, the compulsory measures court decides. 5 The provisions of Article 228 also apply mutatis mutandis. |
Art. 231 Preventive detention following the judgment of the court of first instance
1 The court of first instance shall decide in its judgment whether a person convicted should be placed or should remain in preventive detention:
2 If an accused in detention is acquitted and the court of first instance orders his or her release, the public prosecutor may:
3 If the Article 398 appeal is withdrawn, the court of first instance shall decide on how the period spent in detention following the judgment will be taken into account. 117 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 232 Preventive detention during proceedings before the court for Article 398 appeals
1 If grounds for detention arise only during proceedings before the court for Article 398 appeals, the director of appellate proceedings shall order the person to be placed in detention to be brought before the court immediately in order to a fair hearing. 2 A decision shall be made within 48 hours of the hearing; their decision is final. |
Section 7 Execution of Remand and Preventive Detention |
Art. 234 Detention centre
1 Remand and preventive detention is normally carried out in detention centres reserved for this purpose and which are otherwise used only for the execution of short custodial sentences. 2 If it is advisable for medical reasons, the relevant cantonal authority may arrange for the detainee to be admitted to a hospital or psychiatric hospital. |
Art. 235 Conditions of detention
1 The detainee's personal freedom may not be more strictly limited than is required for the purpose of detention or for order and security in the detention centre. 2 Contact between the detainee and other persons requires authorisation from the director of proceedings. Visits shall if necessary be supervised. 3 The director of proceedings shall inspect incoming and outgoing post, with the exception of correspondence with the supervisory and criminal justice authorities. During preventive detention, the director of proceedings may delegate this task to the public prosecutor. 4 The detainee may communicate freely with his or her defence lawyer without the content of communications being inspected. If there is justified suspicion that this right is being abused, the director of proceedings may with approval of the compulsory measures court restrict free communication for a limited period, provided prior notice is given to the detainee and the defence lawyer of the restrictions. 5 The cantons shall regulate the rights and obligations of persons in custody, their rights to legal redress, disciplinary measures and the supervision of detention centres. |
Art. 236 Accelerated execution of sentences and measures
1 The director of proceedings may authorise the accused to begin a custodial sentence or custodial measure in advance of the anticipated date, provided the status of the proceedings permit this and unless this conflicts with the purpose of the accused's remand or preventive detention.118 2 If the charges have already been filed, the director of proceedings shall consult the public prosecutor. 3 The Confederation and the cantons may provide that the execution of a measure in advance of the anticipated date requires the consent of the authorities responsible for its execution. 4 On admission to a penal institution, the accused begins his or her sentence or measure; from this point the accused is governed by the relevant regime.119 118 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 119 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Section 8 Alternative Measures |
Art. 237 General Provisions
1 The relevant court shall order one or more lenient measures instead of remand or preventive detention if such measures achieve the same result as detention. 2 Alternative measures include in particular:
3 In order to monitor such alternative measures, the court may order the use of technical devices and that they be securely fastened to the person being monitored. 4 The ordering of alternative measures and appeals against such measures are governed mutatis mutandis by the regulations on remand and preventive detention. 5 The court may revoke the alternative measures at any time, or order other alternative measures or the accused's remand or preventive detention if new circumstances so require or if the accused fails to fulfil the requirements stipulated. |
Art. 238 Payment of money bail
1 Where there is a risk that the accused may abscond, the relevant court may order payment of a sum of money in order to ensure that the accused appears for all procedural acts or to begin a custodial sanction. 2 The amount of the bail payment is assessed on the basis of the seriousness of the offences of which the accused is suspected and of the accused's personal circumstances. 3 The payment of money bail may be made in cash or by means of a guarantee issued by a bank or insurance company permanently established in Switzerland. |
Art. 239 Return of the bail payment
1 The bail payment shall be returned if:
2 Before the bail payment made by the accused is returned, any monetary penalties, fines, costs and compensation that have been imposed on the accused may be deducted from it. 3 The authority before which the case is pending or was last pending shall decide on the return of the bail payment. |
Art. 240 Forfeiture of the bail payment
1 If the accused absconds during the proceedings or the execution of a custodial sanction, the bail payment shall be forfeited to the Confederation or to the canton whose court ordered the same. 2 If a third party made the bail payment, the forfeiture may be waived if the third party provides the authorities with information in good time to enable the accused to be apprehended. 3 The authority before which the case is pending or was last pending shall decide on the forfeiture of the bail payment. 4 A forfeited bail payment shall be used in analogous application of Article 73 SCC120 to cover the claims of persons suffering harm and, if a surplus remains, to cover the monetary penalties, fines and the procedural costs. Any surplus still remaining shall pass to the Confederation or the canton. |
Chapter 4 Searches and Examinations |
Section 3 Search of Records and Recordings |
Art. 247 Conduct
1 The holder may comment before a search on the content of records. 2 Experts may be called in to examine the content of records, and in particular to identify records with protected content. 3 The holder may provide the criminal justice authority with copies of records and printouts of stored information if this is sufficient for the purpose of the proceedings. |
Art. 248 Sealing of evidence 121
1 If the holder claims that, in view of Article 264, specific records or other items may not be seized, criminal justice authority shall place the same under seal. The holder must make the request within three days of the items being secured. During this period and following any sealing, the criminal justice authority shall neither inspect nor use the records or items. 2 If the criminal justice authority establishes that the holder is not the same person as the proprietor, it shall give the proprietor the opportunity to request sealing within three days. 3 Unless the criminal justice authority files a request for the removal of the seals within 20 days, the sealed records and property shall be returned to the holder. 121 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 248a Responsibility and procedure for removing seals 122
1 If the criminal justice authority files a request for the removal of the seals, the following are responsible for the decision:
2 If, after receiving the request for the removal of seals, the court establishes that the holder is not the same person as the proprietor, it shall inform the proprietor of the sealing. On request, it shall permit the proprietor to inspect the case files. 3 The court shall allow the proprietor a non-extendable period of 10 days, within which to object to the request for the removal of seals and state to what extent he or she wishes to maintain the sealing. Failure to respond is deemed equivalent to the withdrawing the request for sealing. 4 If the matter is ready for a decision to be made, the court shall issue a final decision within 10 days of receipt of the response in written proceedings. 5 Otherwise, the court shall within 30 days of receipt of the response arrange a private hearing with the public prosecutor and the proprietor. The proprietor must credibly explain why and to what extent the seals should not be removed from the records or items. The court shall issue its decision immediately; the decision is final. 6 The court may:
7 If the proprietor fails to attend the hearing without providing an excuse and if they do not arrange to be represented either, the request for sealing is deemed to have been withdrawn. If the public prosecutor fails to attend, the court shall decide in its absence. 122 Inserted by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Section 5 Examination of Persons |
Art. 251 Principle
1 An examination of a person includes an examination of their physical or mental condition. 2 The accused may be questioned in order to:
3 Interventions in the physical integrity of the accused may be ordered provided they do not cause particular pain or any risk to health. 4 Examinations and interventions in the physical integrity of persons other than the accused are only permitted without consent if they are essential in order to properly investigate an offence under Articles 111–113, 122, 124, 140, 184, 185, 187, 189, 190 or 191 SCC123.124 124 Amended by No III of the FA of 30 Sept. 2011, in force since 1 July 2012 (AS 2012 2575; BBl 2010 56515677). |
Art. 251a Alcohol breath test, blood and urine test 125
In order to establish fitness to drive, the police may:
125 Inserted by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Chapter 5 DNA Analysis |
Section 1 DNA Profiles 126
126 Inserted by Annex 1 No 2 of the FA of 17 Dec. 2021, in force since 1 Aug. 2023 (AS 2023 309; BBl 2021 44). |
Art. 255 General requirements
1 In order to investigate the felony or misdemeanour that is the subject of the proceedings, a sample may be taken to create a DNA profile of:127
1bis A sample may be taken from and a DNA profile created of the accused if there are specific indications that the accused could have committed further felonies or misdemeanours.128 2 The police may order:
3 If it is only possible to create the Y-DNA profile from biological material relevant to the offence, the public prosecutor may when investigating a felony order its comparison with data in the information system in accordance with Article 10 of the DNA Profiles Act of 20 June 2003129.130 127 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 128 Inserted by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 130 Inserted by Annex 1 No 2 of the FA of 17 Dec. 2021, in force since 1 Aug. 2023 (AS 2023 309; BBl 2021 44). |
Art. 256 Mass testing 131
1 In an investigation into a felony, the compulsory measures court may at the request of the public prosecutor order that samples be taken to create DNA profiles from persons who display specific characteristics established as being relevant to the commission of the offence. The group of persons to be investigated may be more strictly defined by means of phenotyping in accordance with Article 258b. 2 If the profile comparison in accordance with paragraph 1 does not produce a match, the compulsory measures court may, at the request of the public prosecutor, order that a familial relationship with the person to whom forensic evidence pertains be used as a basis for further investigations. 131 Amended by Annex 1 No 2 of the FA of 17 Dec. 2021, in force since 1 Aug. 2023 (AS 2023 309; BBl 2021 44). |
Art. 257 Convicted persons 132
The court may in its judgment order that a sample be taken to create a DNA profile from persons convicted of a felony or a misdemeanour if there are specific indications that the convicted person could commit further felonies or misdemeanours. 132 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 258a Familial searches 133
In order to investigate a felony under Articles 111−113, 118 paragraph 2, 122, 124, 140, 156 numbers 2−4, 182, 184, 185, 187, 189 paragraphs 1 and 3, 190 paragraphs 1 and 3, 191, 260ter or 264−264l SCC134, a familial DNA search may be ordered in accordance with Article 2a of the DNA Profiles Act of 20 June 2003135, provided the investigative measures up to that point have been unsuccessful or the investigation would otherwise have no prospect of success or would be made disproportionately more difficult. 133 Inserted by Annex 1 No 2 of the FA of 17 Dec. 2021, in force since 1 Aug. 2023 (AS 2023 309; BBl 2021 44). |
Section 2 Phenotyping 136
136 Inserted by Annex 1 No 2 of the FA of 17 Dec. 2021, in force since 1 Aug. 2023 (AS 2023 309; BBl 2021 44). |
Art. 258b Phenotyping 137
Phenotyping in accordance with Article 2bof the DNA Profiles Act of 20 June 2003138 may be ordered when investigating felonies under the following Articles: Articles 111−113, 118 paragraph 2, 122, 124, 140, 156 numbers 2−4, 182, 184, 185, 187, 189 paragraphs 1 and 3, 190 paragraphs 1 and 3, 191, 260ter or 264−264lSCC139. 137 Inserted by Annex 1 No 2 of the FA of 17 Dec. 2021, in force since 1 Aug. 2023 (AS 2023 309; BBl 2021 44). |
Chapter 6 Recording Identification Data, Handwriting and Voice Samples |
Art. 260 Recording identification data
1 When recording identification data, the physical characteristics of a person shall be noted and prints taken of parts of the body. 2 The police, the public prosecutor and the courts, or in cases of urgency the director of proceedings may order the recording of identifying data. 3 The recording of identifying data shall be ordered in a written warrant, with a brief statement of the reasons. In cases of urgency, it may be ordered orally, but must subsequently be confirmed and explained in writing. 4 If the person concerned refuses to accept the police order, the public prosecutor shall decide. |
Art. 261 Retention and use of identifying documents 141
1 Documents that identify the accused may be retained outside the case file and, in the event of a reasonable suspicion that a new offence has been committed, may also be used:
2 Documents identifying persons other than the accused must be destroyed as soon as the proceedings against the accused have been concluded or abandoned or it has been decided not to bring proceedings. 3 If it becomes clear before the expiry of the time limits under paragraph 1 that there is no longer any interest in retaining or using the identifying documents, they shall be destroyed. 141 Amended by Annex 1 No 5 of the Criminal Records Register Act of 17 June 2016, in force since 23 Jan. 2023 (AS 2022 600; BBl 2014 5713). 143 Amended by Annex 1 No 2 of the FA of 17 Dec. 2021, in force since 1 Aug. 2023 (AS 2023 309; BBl 2021 44). |
Art. 262 Handwriting and voice samples
1 Accused persons, witnesses and persons providing information may be required to provide handwriting or voice samples for comparison with other such samples. 2 Any person who refuses to provide such a sample may be issued with a fixed penalty fine. The foregoing does not apply to the accused and, where such rights apply, persons who have the right to remain silent or to refuse to testify. |
Chapter 7 Seizure |
Art. 263 Principle
1 Items and assets belonging to an accused or to a third party may be seized if it is expected that the items or assets:
2 Seizure shall be ordered on the basis of a written warrant containing a brief statement of the grounds. In urgent cases, seizure may be ordered orally, but the order must thereafter be confirmed in writing. 3 Where there is a risk in any delay, the police or members of the public may provisionally seize items or assets on behalf of the public prosecutor or the courts. 144 Inserted by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 264 Restrictions
1 The following items may not be seized irrespective of their location and of when they were created:
2 The restrictions in accordance with paragraph 1 do not apply to items and assets that must be seized with a view to their return to the person suffering harm or their forfeiture. 3 If the holder of items or assets claims that their seizure is not permitted, the criminal justice authorities shall proceed in accordance with the regulations on the sealing of evidence.149 146 Amended by No I 6 of the FA of 28 Sept. 2012 on the Amendment of Procedural Provisions on Professional Confidentiality for Lawyers, in force since 1 May 2013 (AS 2013 847; BBl 2011 8181). 147 Inserted by No I 6 of the FA of 28 Sept. 2012 on the Amendment of Procedural Provisions on Professional Confidentiality for Lawyers, in force since 1 May 2013 (AS 2013 847; BBl 2011 8181). 149 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 265 Duty to hand over items or assets
1 The holder is obliged to hand over items or assets that should be seized. 2 The following persons are not required to hand over items or assets:
3 The criminal justice authority may demand that the person obliged to hand over items or assets does so, may fix a deadline, and notify him or her that in the event of non-compliance the penalties mentioned in Article 292 SCC150 or a fixed penalty fine may be imposed. 4 Compulsory measures are only permitted if the person concerned refuses to hand over the items or assets or if it may be assumed that a demand to hand over the items or assets may prejudice the success of the measure. |
Art. 266 Procedure
1 The criminal justice authority ordering seizure shall confirm that it has received the property and assets seized or handed over in the seizure order or in a separate receipt. 2 It shall draw up a list and safeguard the property and assets appropriately. 3 If immovable property is seized, an inhibition shall be ordered; this shall be recorded in the Land Register.151 4 The seizure of a debt shall be notified to the debtor, who shall be advised that repayment to the creditor will not settle the debt. 5 Property that is subject to rapid depreciation or requires expensive maintenance, as well as securities or other assets with a stock exchange or market price may be sold immediately in accordance with the Federal Act of 11 April 1889152 on Debt Enforcement and Bankruptcy (DEBA). The proceeds shall be seized. 6 The Federal Council shall regulate the investment of seized assets. 151 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 267 Decision on seized property and assets
1 If the grounds for seizure no longer apply, the public prosecutor or court shall revoke the seizure order and hand over the property or assets to the person entitled to them. 2 Where it is undisputed that a person has as a direct result of the offence been deprived of an item of property or an asset belonging to him or her, the criminal justice authority shall return the property or asset to the person entitled to it before the conclusion of the proceedings. 3 Unless the order to seize an item of property or an asset has already been revoked, a decision on its return to the entitled person, its use to cover costs or its forfeiture in shall be made in the final judgment. 4 If two or more persons lay claim to an item of property or an asset in respect of which the seizure order is to be revoked, the court may decide on the issue. 5 The criminal justice authority may award property or assets to a person and set the other claimants a time limit within which to raise a civil action. 6 If at the time when the seizure order is revoked the identity of the person entitled to the property or assets is unknown, the public prosecutor or the court shall give public notice that the property or assets are available to be claimed. If no one makes a claim within five years of notice being given, the seized property and assets shall pass to the canton or to the Confederation. |
Art. 268 Seizure to cover costs
1 Assets belonging to the accused may be seized to the extent that is anticipated to be required to cover:
2 The criminal justice authority shall take account of the financial circumstances of the accused and his or her family when deciding on seizure. 3 Exempted from seizure are assets that may not be seized in accordance with Articles 92–94 DEBA153. |
Chapter 8 Covert Surveillance Measures |
Section 1 Surveillance of Post and Telecommunications |
Art. 269 Requirements
1 The public prosecutor may arrange for post and telecommunications to be monitored if:
2 Surveillance may be ordered in the investigation of the offences under the following Articles:
3 If the adjudication an offence subject to military jurisdiction is assigned to the jurisdiction of the civil courts, the surveillance of post and telecommunications may also be ordered in the investigation of the offences under Article 70 paragraph 2 of the Military Criminal Procedure Code of 23 March 1979180. 154 Amended by Annex No 2 of the FA of 16 June 2023 on a Revision of the Law on Sex Offences, in force since 1 July 2024 (AS 2024 27; BBl 2018 2827; 2022 687, 1011). 156 Amended by Annex No II 7 of the Criminal Justice Authorities Act of 19 March 2010, in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 3267; BBl 2008 8125). 157 Title amended on 1 Jan. 2019 in application of Art. 12 para. 2 of the Publications Act of 18 June 2004 (SR 170.512). This change has been made throughout the text. 160 Amended by No II of the FA of 16 March 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2013 (AS 2013 295; BBl 20115905). 163 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 165 Amended by No II of the FA of 27 Sept. 2024, in force since 1 April 2025 (AS 2025178; BBl 2023 239). 168 Inserted by Art. 34 No 2 of the Sport Promotion Act of 17 June 2011 (AS 2012 3953; BBl 2009 8189). Amended by Annex No II 2 of the Gambling Act of 29 Sept. 2017, in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 5103; BBl 2015 8387). 170 Inserted by No II 4 of the FA of 28 Sept. 2012 (AS 2013 1103; BBl 2011 6873). Amended by Annex No 4 of the Financial Market Infrastructure Act of 19 June 2015, in force since 1 Jan. 2016 (AS 2015 5339; BBl 2014 7483). 172 Inserted by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). 174 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FD of 29 Sept. 2017 (Medicrime Convention), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 4771; BBl 2017 3135). 176 Inserted by Annex No II 2 of the Gambling Act of 29 Sept. 2017, in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 5103; BBl 2015 8387). 178 Inserted by Annex No II 3 of the FedD of 25 Sept. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism and its Additional Protocol and the Strengthening of Criminal Justice Instruments for combating Terrorism and Organised Crime, in force since 1 July 2021 (AS 2021 360; BBl 2018 6427). |
Art. 269bis Use of special technical devices for the surveillance of telecommunications 181
1 The public prosecutor may order the use of special technical devices for the surveillance of telecommunications in order to listen to or record conversations, identify a person or property or determine their location if:
2 The public prosecutor shall keep statistics on the use of these forms of surveillance. The Federal Council shall regulate the details. 181 Inserted by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Art. 269ter Use of special software for the surveillance of telecommunications 182
1 The public prosecutor may order the introduction of special software into a data processing system in order to intercept and recover the content of communications and telecommunications metadata in unencrypted form provided:
2 In the surveillance order, the public prosecutor shall specify:
3 Data not covered by paragraph that is collected when using such software must be destroyed immediately. No use may be made of information obtained from such data. 4 The public prosecutor shall keep statistics on these forms of surveillance. The Federal Council shall regulate the details. 182 Inserted by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Art. 269quater Requirements applicable to special software for the surveillance of telecommunications 183
1 The only special software that may be used is that which records the surveillance unalterably and without interruption. The record forms part of the case files. 2 The recovery of data from the data processing system under surveillance to the relevant criminal justice authority must take place securely. 3 The criminal justice authority shall ensure that the source code can be checked in order to verify that the software has only legally permitted functions. 183 Inserted by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Art. 270 Subject matter of surveillance
The post and telecommunications of the following persons may be monitored:184
184 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). 185 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Art. 271 Preservation of professional confidentiality 186
1 When monitoring a person belonging to one of the professions mentioned in Articles 170–173, the court must ensure that information that is relevant to the enquiries or the reason why this person is being monitored is separated from information that is relevant, in order to guarantee that no professional secrets come to the knowledge of the criminal justice authority. The separated data must be destroyed immediately; it may not be evaluated. 2 Information under paragraph 1 need not be separated beforehand if:
3 In the surveillance of other persons, as soon as it is established that they have links with a person mentioned in Articles 170–173, information on communication with the person must be separated in accordance with paragraph 1. Information in respect of which a person mentioned in Articles 170–173 may refuse to testify must be removed from the case documents and destroyed immediately; it may not be evaluated. 186 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Art. 272 Duty to obtain authorisation and general authorisation
1 The surveillance of post and telecommunications requires the authorisation of the compulsory measures court. 2 If enquiries reveal that the person under surveillance is changing his or her telecommunications service regularly, the compulsory measures court may by way of exception authorise the surveillance of all identified services used by the person under surveillance for telecommunications so that authorisation is not required in each individual case (general authorisation).187 The public prosecutor shall submit a report to the compulsory measures court for approval every month and on conclusion of the surveillance. 3 If during the surveillance of a service in terms of a general authorisation, measures are required to protect professional confidentiality and such measures are not mentioned in the general authorisation, an application for authorisation for the individual surveillance operation concerned must be submitted to the compulsory measures court.188 187 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). 188 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Art. 273 Subscriber information, location identification and technical transmission features 189
1 If there is a strong suspicion that a felony or misdemeanour has been committed, and if the requirements of Article 269 paragraph 1 letters b and c are met, the public prosecutor may request the following metadata:190
2 The order requires the approval of the compulsory measures court. 3 The information mentioned in paragraph 1 may be requested irrespective of the duration of surveillance and for the 6 months prior to the date of the request. 189 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). 190 Amended by Annex 2 No 2 of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 192 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 274 Authorisation procedure
1 The public prosecutor shall submit the following documents to the compulsory measures court within 24 hours of surveillance or the release of information being ordered:
2 The compulsory measures court shall decide and provide a brief statement of the reasons within 5 days of the surveillance or the release of information being ordered. It may grant authorisation subject to a time limit or other conditions, or request further information or investigations. 3 The compulsory measures court shall give notice of the decision immediately to the public prosecutor and to the Post and Telecommunications Surveillance Bureau in terms of Article 3 SPTA193.194 4 The authorisation shall expressly state:
5 The compulsory measures court shall grant authorisation for a maximum of 3 months. The authorisation may be extended on one or more occasions for a maximum of 3 months at a time. If an extension is required, the public prosecutor shall file an application for the extension, stating the reasons therefor, before expiry of the current authorisation. 194 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). 195 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Art. 275 Conclusion of surveillance
1 The public prosecutor shall stop surveillance immediately if:
2 In cases under paragraph 1 letter a, the public prosecutor shall notify the compulsory measures court that surveillance has been concluded. |
Art. 276 Results not required
1 Records of authorised surveillance operations that are not required for criminal proceedings shall be stored separately from the case documents and destroyed immediately on conclusion of the proceedings. 2 Postal items may be retained for as long as this is necessary for the criminal proceedings; they must be released to the addressee as soon as the status of the proceedings permits. |
Art. 277 Use of the results of unauthorised surveillance operations
1 Documents and data carriers obtained in unauthorised surveillance activities must be destroyed immediately. Postal items must be delivered to the addressee immediately. 2 The results of unauthorised surveillance operations may not be used. |
Art. 278 Accidental finds
1 If in the course of surveillance operations offences other than those specified in the surveillance order come to light, these findings may be used against the accused provided surveillance would have been permitted in the investigation of the offences concerned. 1bis If offences come to light during surveillance operations in terms of Articles 35 and 36 SPTA196, the findings may be used subject to the requirements specified in paragraphs 2 and 3.197 2 Findings relating to offences committed by a person who is not named as a suspect in the surveillance order may be used if the requirements for the surveillance of this person are fulfilled. 3 In cases under paragraphs 1, 1bis and 2, the public prosecutor shall order surveillance immediately and begin the authorisation procedure.198 4 Records that may not be used as accidental finds must be stored separately from the case documents and destroyed on conclusion of the proceedings. 5 Any findings made in a surveillance operation may be used to trace wanted persons. 197 Inserted by Annex No II 7 of the Criminal Justice Authorities Act of 19 March 2010 (AS 2010 3267; BBl 2008 8125). Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). 198 Amended by Annex No II 7 of the Criminal Justice Authorities Act of 19 March 2010, in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 3267; BBl 2008 8125). |
Art. 279 Notice
1 The public prosecutor shall notify the suspect under surveillance and third parties under surveillance in terms of Article 270 letter b of the reason for and form and duration of the surveillance operation on conclusion of the preliminary proceedings at the latest. 2 With the consent of the compulsory measures court, notice may be deferred or dispensed with if:
3 Persons whose post or telecommunications have been under surveillance or who have used a postal address or telecommunications service that has been under surveillance may file an Article 393 appeal under Articles 393–397.199 The period for filing the appeal begins on receipt of the notice. 199 Amended by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). |
Section 5 Undercover Investigations200
200 Originally before Art. 286. |
Art. 285a Definition 201
In an undercover investigation, police officers or persons temporarily appointed to carry out police duties make contact with persons under false pretences by using a false identity (cover) supported by documents with the aim of gaining the trust of those persons and infiltrating a criminal environment in order to investigate particularly serious offences. 201 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012 on Undercover Investigations and Enquiries, in force since 1 May 2013 (AS 20131051; BBl 201255915609). |
Art. 286 Requirements
1 The public prosecutor may order an undercover investigation if:
2 An undercover investigation is permitted in respect of offences under the following Articles:
3 If the adjudication an offence subject to military jurisdiction is assigned to the jurisdiction of the civil courts, an undercover investigation may also be ordered in respect of offences under Article 70 paragraph 2 of the Military Criminal Procedure Code of 23 March 1979223. 202 Amended by Annex No 2 of the FA of 16 June 2023 on a Revision of the Law on Sex Offences, in force since 1 July 2024 (AS 2024 27; BBl 2018 2827; 2022 687, 1011). 204 Amended by Annex No II 7 of the Criminal Justice Authorities Act of 19 March 2010, in force since 1 Jan. 2011 (AS 2010 3267; BBl 2008 8125). 207 Amended by No II of the FA of 16 March 2012, in force since 1 Feb. 2013 (AS 2013 295; BBl 20115905). 210 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). 213 Inserted by Art. 34 No 2 of the Sport Promotion Act of 17 June 2012 (AS 2012 3953; BBl 2009 8189). Amended by Annex No II 2 of the Gambling Act of 29 Sept. 2017, in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 5103; BBl 2015 8387). 215 Inserted by Annex No II 1 of the FA of 18 March 2016 on the Surveillance of Postal and Telecommunications Traffic, in force since 1 March 2018 (AS 2018 117; BBl 2013 2683). 217 Inserted by Annex No 1 of the FD of 29 Sept. 2017 (Medicrime Convention), in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 4771; BBl 2017 3135). 219 Inserted by Annex No II 2 of the Gambling Act of 29 Sept. 2017, in force since 1 Jan. 2019 (AS 2018 5103; BBl 2015 8387). 221 Inserted by Annex No II 3 of the FedD of 25 Sept. 2020 on the Approval and Implementation of the Council of Europe Convention on the Prevention of Terrorism and its Additional Protocol and the Strengthening of Criminal Justice Instruments for combating Terrorism and Organised Crime, in force since 1 July 2021 (AS 2021 360; BBl 2018 6427). |
Art. 287 Requirements for the persons deployed
1 The following persons may be deployed as undercover investigators:
2 Only members of a police force may be deployed as command staff. 3 If members of a foreign police force are deployed, they are normally led by their regular commander. |
Art. 288 Cover and guarantee of anonymity
1 The police shall provide undercover investigators with a cover.224 2 The public prosecutor may guarantee to undercover investigators that their true identity will not be revealed even if they appear in court proceedings as a person providing information or as a witness.225 2 It may guarantee to undercover investigators that their true identity will not be disclosed even if they appear in court proceedings as persons providing information or witnesses. 3 If undercover investigators commit an offence while deployed, the compulsory measures court shall decide on the identity under which criminal proceedings are brought. 224 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012 on Undercover Investigations and Enquiries, in force since 1 May 2013 (AS 20131051; BBl 201255915609). 225 Amended by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012 on Undercover Investigations and Enquiries, in force since 1 May 2013 (AS 20131051; BBl 201255915609). |
Art. 289 Authorisation procedure
1 The deployment of an undercover investigator requires the authorisation of the compulsory measures court. 2 The public prosecutor shall submit the following documents to the compulsory measures court within 24 hours of ordering the undercover investigation:
3 The compulsory measures court shall decide and provide a brief statement of the reasons within 5 days of the undercover investigation being ordered. It may grant authorisation subject to a time limit or other conditions, or request further information or investigations. 4 The authorisation shall expressly state whether it is permitted:
5 The compulsory measures court shall grant authorisation for a maximum of 12 months. Authorisation may be extended on one or more occasions for a maximum of 6 months at a time. If an extension is required, the public prosecutor shall file an application for the extension, stating the reasons therefor, before expiry of the current authorisation. 6 If authorisation is not granted or no authorisation has been obtained, the public prosecutor shall terminate deployment immediately. All records must be destroyed immediately. Findings made by means of the undercover investigation may not be used. |
Art. 291 Commanding officer
1 During deployment, the undercover investigator is subject to the direct instructions of the commanding officer. During deployment, any contact between the public prosecutor and the undercover investigator shall take place exclusively via the commanding officer. 2 The commanding officer has the following duties in particular:
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Art. 293 Scope of influence permitted
1 Undercover investigators may not generally encourage others to commit offences or incite persons already willing to commit offences to commit more serious offences. They must limit their activities to substantiating an existing decision to commit an offence. 2 Their activities may only be of minor significance in the decision to commit a specific offence. 3 If required in order to bring about the main transaction, they may make trial purchases or provide evidence of their ability to pay. 4 If the undercover investigator exceeds the remit of the authorised operation, the court must take due account of this in assessing the sentence imposed on the person subject to the investigator's influence, or may dispense with imposing any sentence. |
Art. 294 No criminal liability 226
Provided undercover investigators are acting in the course of an authorised undercover investigation, they shall not be held criminally liable under the following provisions:
226 Amended by No I of the FA of 17 June 2022, in force since 1 Jan. 2024 (AS 2023 468; BBl 2019 6697). |
Art. 295 Money for simulated transactions
1 At the request of the public prosecutor, the Confederation may provide sums of money via the National Bank in the required amounts, forms and denominations for the purpose of simulated transactions and to provide evidence of an ability to pay. 2 The request must be submitted to the Federal Office of Police together with a summary of the facts of the case. 3 The public prosecutor shall take the precautions required to protect the money provided. In the event of loss, the Confederation or the canton to which public prosecutor belongs is liable. |
Art. 296 Accidental finds
1 Where evidence of an offence other than that named in the investigation order comes to light in the course of an undercover investigation, the evidence may be used provided the ordering of a covert investigation would have been permitted in order to investigate the offence newly disclosed. 2 The public prosecutor shall order an undercover investigation immediately and begin the authorisation procedure. |
Art. 297 Conclusion of the operation
1 The public prosecutor shall terminate the operation immediately if:
2 In cases under paragraph 1 letters a and c, the public prosecutor shall notify the compulsory measures court of the termination of the operation. 3 When terminating an operation, it must be ensured that neither the undercover investigator nor any third parties involved in the investigation are exposed to any avoidable risks. |
Art. 298 Notice
1 The public prosecutor shall give notice to the accused at the latest on conclusion of the preliminary proceedings that he or she has been the subject of an undercover investigation. 2 Notice may be deferred or dispensed with, subject to the consent of the compulsory measures court, if:
3 Persons who have been the subject of an undercover investigation may file an appeal in accordance with Articles 393–397. The period for filing the appeal begins on receipt of notice of the investigation. |
Section 5a Undercover Enquiries229
229 Inserted by No I of the FA of 14 Dec. 2012 on Undercover Investigations and Enquiries, in force since 1 May 2013 (AS 20131051; BBl 201255915609). |
Art. 298a Definition
1 In undercover enquiries, police officers deployed for short periods in such a way that their true identity and function remains concealed attempt to investigate felonies and misdemeanours and to do so enter into or pretend that they wish to enter into fictitious transactions. 2 Undercover agents are not provided with a cover within the meaning of Article 285a. Their true identity and function are disclosed in the case files and at hearings. |
Art. 298b Requirements
1 The public prosecutor and, during police enquiries, the police may order undercover enquiries if:
2 If undercover enquiries ordered by the police have been carried out for one month, the public prosecutor must approve their continuation. |
Art. 298c Requirements for the persons deployed and conduct
1 Article 287 applies mutatis mutandis to the persons deployed. The deployment of persons in accordance with Article 287 paragraph 1 letter b is not permitted. 2 Articles 291–294 apply by analogy to the status, duties and obligations of the undercover agents and their commanding officers. |
Art. 298d Termination and notification
1 The police unit or public prosecutor responsible shall terminate the undercover enquiries immediately if:
2 The police shall notify the public prosecutor of the termination of undercover enquiries. 3 When terminating undercover enquiries, care should be taken to ensure that the undercover agent is not exposed to any avoidable risk. 4 Notification of undercover enquiries is governed by Article 298 paragraphs 1 and 3 mutatis mutandis. |