Facing criminal charges before the Tribunal correctionnel<< /i> (the French Criminal Court for misdemeanours) or the Cour d'assises (which handles felony cases) on criminal charges is a daunting experience. The legal procedures are complex, the stakes are high, and the outcome can have life-altering consequences. In these critical moments, being represented by an experienced criminal defence lawyer, such as Maître Pierre DEBUISSON, is crucial. Based in Toulouse, Maître DEBUISSON assists clients throughout France, whether they are defendants or civil parties.
At the heart of any criminal trial lie the closing arguments—the moment when your lawyer gives voice to your defence with eloquence, structure, and conviction. This requires meticulous preparation and mastery of both the case and the courtroom. As a criminal law attorney in Paris, Maître DEBUISSON conducts a thorough analysis of your file to identify its strengths and weaknesses. He then crafts a bespoke defence strategy, carefully tailored to the nature of the charges and the court involved—be it for misdemeanours or felonies.
While legal representation is not mandatory before the Tribunal correctionnel, it is strongly recommended due to the serious nature of the proceedings. In contrast, legal counsel is compulsory before the Cour d'assises, as it handles the most serious offences.
The Tribunal correctionnel handles cases involving misdemeanours. The process can move swiftly, particularly in cases of immediate appearance (comparution immédiate), “a swift criminal procedure that allows a defendant to be tried as soon as they are out of police custody”. In such situations, responsiveness and technical skillsets are essential.
Maître DEBUISSON is well-versed in the procedures in front of the Criminal Court for misdemeanours. He ensures that your rights are upheld during the proceedings, challenging the evidence against you, identifying procedural irregularities, and advocating mitigating circumstances. His clear-headed approach and courtroom experience often prove decisive in securing reduced sentences or even acquittals (relaxe).
The DEBUISSON & Associés Law Firm also intervenes to request additional investigative measures or raise procedural nullities, where appropriate — ensuring every legal avenue is explored in your defence.
Choose the right defence
Are you looking for a lawyer competent in criminal or personal injury law in Toulouse or Paris? Contact DEBUISSON & Associés.
Dedicated to handling the most serious crimes, the Cour d’assises’ trials are complex, high-profile, and carry severe penalties. Preparation must be exhaustive and strategic. With extensive experience in felony proceedings, Maître DEBUISSON supports you at every stage.
He begins by meticulously examining the investigation file, identifying legal and factual elements that could benefit your defence. He prepares you for trial, guiding you through the roles of each courtroom participant—president, public prosecutor, civil party lawyers—and helping you respond confidently to their questions.
Did you know? During jury selection in the Cour d'assises (Criminal Court for felonies), the defence has the right to challenge up to four jurors in the first instance and five on appeal. This strategic step can significantly influence the course of the trial.
Trial day is the culmination of weeks—sometimes months—of preparation. The lawyer's closing argument is a pivotal moment. Maître DEBUISSON delivers a carefully crafted plea that highlights exculpatory evidence, dismantles the prosecution’s claims, and exposes any procedural flaws.
His goal is to obtain acquittal (acquittement), dismissal, or the most lenient sentence possible, depending on the case. Drawing on the legacy of his father, Guy DEBUISSON, a well-known lawyer at the Cour d’assises de Haute-Garonne (Toulouse), he has honed the oratorical skills and legal insight necessary to succeed in high-stakes criminal defence.
In order to do this, Maître DEBUISSON uses the full arsenal provided by the French Code of Criminal Procedure to strengthen your position, including:
From police custody through to the final verdict, the DEBUISSON & Associés Law Firm ensures continuous support. He is committed to listening, advising, and building a relevant and personalised defence with you.
His skillset spans business criminal law, traffic offences, violent crimes, and more. His familiarity with Parisian courts and his calm command of courtroom dynamics give his clients a distinct advantage.
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