Criminal Complaints

Filing a criminal complaint is not a mere formality. It initiates criminal proceedings whose course can only be influenced to a limited extent. Anyone considering filing a criminal complaint should therefore first examine whether and in what form this instrument is legally advisable.

Our law firm advises individuals as well as businesses nationwide on the legal assessment, preparation and strategic representation in criminal complaint matters.

Not every conflict is criminally relevant. Criminal and civil law issues frequently overlap. A hasty complaint can escalate existing disputes or result in tactical disadvantages.

Before filing a criminal complaint, we carefully examine the facts: Is the allegation legally sustainable under criminal law? What evidence is available? What legal consequences can realistically be expected? And what alternatives exist?

A well-founded legal assessment provides clarity – before state investigations are initiated.

A precise and structured presentation of the facts increases the likelihood that the investigating authorities will capture all relevant aspects. What matters is not so much legal terminology as a clear, comprehensible presentation of the actual circumstances.

We handle the legal preparation of criminal complaints particularly in cases involving property offenses, fraud and embezzlement allegations, business-related conflicts, and cases with tax criminal law implications. We also advise on legal options in cases of assault, defamation or cybercrimes.

Upon receipt of the criminal complaint, the public prosecutor’s office decides whether to initiate criminal proceedings. The complainant has only limited influence on the subsequent course of events. Nevertheless, rights and options for action exist.

We represent clients throughout the entire proceedings – from filing the complaint through communication with the investigating authorities to joining as a private accessory prosecutor, where appropriate. In suitable cases, we also assist in enforcing civil claims, such as for damages.

In the private sphere, criminal complaints frequently concern property offenses, assault or threats. In the business environment, they are often part of complex commercial disputes, for example in connection with business relationships or internal conflicts.

In both situations, a dispassionate and strategic approach is crucial. The goal is not escalation, but a legally sound solution.