PROTECTION
You want to protect a child
Child protection is at the heart of Swiss family law. Whether it concerns custody, visitation rights, or protective measures, we ensure that the best interests of the child are always preserved.
Protecting the best interests of the child
Swiss law places the child's interest at the centre of every decision concerning them. The child and adult protection authorities (KESB) have broad powers to intervene when a child's welfare is at risk.
Our team supports you through child protection proceedings, whether involving curatorship measures, supervision, or placement. We also intervene in situations of abuse, neglect, or severe parental conflict.
With our extensive family law experience, we navigate proceedings before the protection authorities with rigour and compassion, always mindful that every decision impacts a child's life.
YOUR TEAM
Your dedicated lawyers
TESTIMONIALS
What our clients say
★★★★★We often think a lawyer is there to manage cases. But this firm does much more than that: it saves people. When I arrived at Kulik Hottelier, I was exhausted, overwhelmed, lost. I didn't know where to turn anymore, and I felt like everything was against me. Yet, from the very first meeting, something changed: I found hope again. Here, you're not just a name on a file. You are heard, understood, respected, and defended with impressive determination. The follow-up is constant, responses are quick, exchanges are clear and transparent. You always know where you're going, without surprises and with confidence. Kulik Hottelier is: • exceptional legal expertise • a thoughtful, intelligent, and effective strategy • clear and honest communication at every step • and above all, a rare humanity in this profession What struck me the most? Their ability to fight without ever getting drawn into unnecessary conflicts. A firm, brilliant, and incredibly precise defense, always results-oriented, never ego-driven. In moments when I doubted, they were my pillar. In moments when I was afraid, they were my assurance. And at the decisive moment, they were the force that made all the difference. Today, I am finally turning the page. And I know that without their work, their support, and their excellence, none of this would have been possible. If you're looking for a firm that combines brains, heart, courage, and transparency, don't waste time: contact them. There are professionals… and then there are lawyers who truly change a life. This firm belongs to the second category. Thank you to Maître Sevig, Maître Hottelier, and all your teams who work behind the scenes. Your work will remain engraved in my story.
★★★★★I can only recommend this team who greatly helped me! Through their professionalism, attentiveness and good advice, but also through their flexibility and very human approach. Thank you to them!
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have my child returned?
When examining child returns, Switzerland first reviews the laws of the departure country to determine if the relocation was legal. It then applies relevant international agreements like the Hague and European conventions. These agreements aim to restore the previous situation, though Switzerland broadly applies several exceptions. The process falls under a specific law—the LF-EEA—which designates the highest cantonal court as the first instance court, with appeals going directly to the Federal Supreme Court. Our firm regularly handles these cases, representing both parents and children at all stages of proceedings.
Learn moreCONTACT
WEBINARS
Online Conferences
Upcoming
Child Custody in Swiss Law: Your Rights Explained
Parental authority, visitation rights, relocation — understand the key legal criteria Swiss courts use to decide what's best for your children.
By Carole Vymazal, Damien Hottelier
OTHER EXPERTISE
Discover our other areas
Succession
You intend to settle an existing estate
Settling an estate in Switzerland can often be achieved through straightforward formalities when all heirs are in agreement. However, when an heir refuses to cooperate, Swiss courts have the authority
Divorce & Separation
You are headed for a divorce
Are you facing divorce proceedings in Switzerland and seeking expert guidance through this challenging time? Our specialized family law team brings decades of experience in both amicable and contentio
Divorce & Separation
You face a separation
Are you facing separation or divorce in Switzerland? Our experienced family law team has successfully guided thousands of clients through both amicable and contested cases. Learn how we can help prote