Civil law branch

The civil courts have jurisdiction to issue a final decision concerning disputes arising between individuals or legal entities. Disputes may for example arise from contractual relationships or relate to family law (filiation, divorce, measures for protection of the marital union).

Schematic illustration of the civil branch

The civil courts have also jurisdiction on debt collection and bankruptcy matters (removal of the objection, seizure and agreement).

In order to issue their decisions, the courts summon and hear the parties and potential witnesses and order expert opinions.

Understanding the civil branch through a video

Civil justice: The divorce of Fabienne and Alexandre

After several years of marriage, Fabienne begins the process of divorcing her husband Alexandre.
The procedure before the judge includes a conciliation hearing.
The civil justice system settles disputes between individuals, arising for example from their family ties.

See also

Tribunal civil

The Tribunal civil rules on civil proceedings as the cantonal authority of first instance.

Tribunal de protection de l'adulte et de l'enfant

The Tribunal de protection de l'adulte et de l'enfant ensures the protection of people throughout their lives, from childhood to adulthood up to their succession. It intervenes when no satisfactory solution has been found for the person concerned within the family, with relatives or any other institution that can provide assistance.

Tribunal des prud'hommes

The Tribunal des prud'hommes deals with disputes arising from an employment contract under private law.

Cour de justice

The Cour de justice is the authority of appeal and last instance in the canton against decisions rendered by the criminal prosecution authority and against first instance judgments in criminal, civil and administrative matters. It also rules as a single instance when the law so provides.