Lawyer for investigation procedures in Toulouse and in Paris

Legal advice for individuals under indictment, under judicial supervision or detained

Throughout criminal investigations, Maître DEBUISSON’s criminal defence law firm provides assistance and representation to individuals under indictment in Paris and Toulouse, ensuring they are supported through this difficult process and that their rights are upheld.

Indeed, those under indictment may either be released (often under judicial supervision) or held in provisional detention. When his clients are placed under indictment and detained, Maître DEBUISSON promptly submits requests for release to the investigating judge and guides them through every stage of the process, including hearings, confrontations, pleadings before the Judge of Liberties and Detention (JLD), reconstructions, and more. Maître DEBUISSON meticulously examines each criminal case to identify any potential procedural errors, drawing upon an in-depth understanding of case law and the Code of Criminal Procedure.

In the context of an investigation procedure, it is crucial to have the support of an experienced criminal lawyer. The DEBUISSON & Associés Law Firm, practising in both Paris and Toulouse, is ready to represent you and assist you throughout the entire process.

What is the criminal investigation process for felonies and less serious crimes?

The judicial investigation (referred to as such in the Code of Criminal Procedure) is the phase during which an investigating judge is appointed to investigate events that may constitute either:

• a misdemeanour (such as theft, fraud, drug trafficking, embezzlement, deception, violence, sexual assault, criminal association, etc.);
• a felony (such as murder, assassination, armed robbery, international trafficking, rape, kidnapping, extortion by an organised gang, acts of torture, and more).

Typically lasting between 12 and 24 months, the investigation occurs prior to the trial, whether before the Criminal Court (tribunal correctionnel) or the Cour d’assises, in Toulouse or Paris. The investigation is initiated either by the Public Prosecutor, who draws up an introductory indictment, or by the victim of a crime filing a civil action.

For any procedures involving a criminal behaviour, the investigation is mandatory. For misdemeanours, it may be opened at the Public Prosecutor's discretion, especially when further inquiry is necessary. The investigating judge’s role is to seek evidence that may support both the guilt and innocence of the person under indictment, carefully considering both incriminating and exculpatory evidence.