Criminal defense

Immigration law

Personal injury law

Criminal defense

Being investigated or charged in a criminal case is often a sudden and destabilizing experience. It is common for an individual to first learn of an investigation when summoned by law enforcement, during a police interview, or even more abruptly, through police custody. Such situations can create confusion and anxiety, particularly given the potential consequences on a legal, personal, and professional level.

In these circumstances, it is essential to understand the scope of procedural actions and to ensure that the rights of the person involved are fully respected. Early statements, responses to investigators’ questions, and decisions made at this stage can have a decisive impact on the outcome of the case. For this reason, being advised and assisted by an attorney from the very beginning of the process is crucial in order to understand one’s rights, adopt the most appropriate course of action, and begin preparing an effective defense.

Pierre Lepicier represents individuals facing criminal proceedings at every stage of the process and throughout France. He assists his clients during police custody, throughout the investigative phase, and at trial before the relevant courts. He carefully analyzes each client’s legal situation, reviews the procedural steps taken, and ensures that all legal rights are fully upheld.

A thorough review of the criminal case file, including a detailed examination of the factual elements gathered during the investigation, makes it possible to identify the legal arguments that may be raised in the client’s defense.

Based on this analysis, and always in close consultation with the client, Pierre Lepicier develops a defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of the case. This may involve challenging the alleged facts, disputing their legal classification, or highlighting personal circumstances relevant to the case. This preparatory work is a key step in ensuring a consistent and effective defense throughout the proceedings.

Providing a defense, however, goes beyond legal analysis alone. The relationship between attorney and client is of particular importance. Being accused in a criminal case, especially when serious allegations are involved, can lead to a profound sense of isolation. It is not uncommon for personal or professional relationships to become strained, leaving the individual to face the difficulties of the proceedings alone.

During these often challenging moments, the attorney remains a central point of contact, offering guidance, support, and advocacy. Drawing on years of experience, Pierre Lepicier places particular emphasis on this human aspect of defense, convinced that trust and ongoing communication with the client are essential to building a strong and effective legal strategy.

Pierre Lepicier also represents victims of criminal offenses, advising them on the steps to take and the procedural options best suited to their situation. His involvement includes assessing the nature of the harm suffered and ensuring that their interests are fully taken into account throughout the proceedings.

Immigration law

Immigrate to France

Live and settle in France 

Expulsion and emergency procedures

Become a French a citizen

Obtaining asylum in France

Personal injury law

Initial steps after a road traffic accident

In the immediate aftermath of a road traffic accident, it is essential to adopt the right reflexes in order to protect both your health and your legal rights. Medical care must always be the priority, followed by the proper documentation of the accident through a police report or accident statement when possible. Victims should also gather all relevant evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and photographs. Early contact with insurance companies is necessary, but caution is required when providing statements or accepting any initial offer. From the outset, a structured approach helps preserve evidence and ensures that the victim’s situation is accurately documented for future compensation.

The Badinter law and liability framework

The compensation of victims of road traffic accidents in France is governed by a protective legal framework established by the Badinter Law of July 5, 1985. This regime facilitates compensation, particularly for non-driving victims such as pedestrians, passengers, and cyclists, who are, in principle, indemnified regardless of fault, except in cases of inexcusable fault that is the sole cause of the accident. Drivers, however, may see their compensation reduced or excluded depending on their own fault. Specific protective rules also apply to vulnerable victims, such as minors, elderly individuals, or those with significant disabilities. This legal framework ensures a structured and generally favorable approach to victim compensation.

Assessment of damages and types of victims

A clear distinction must be made between different categories of victims. Direct victims are those who suffer bodily harm, while indirect victims (also known as secondary victims) include relatives who suffer consequences as a result of the accident. In addition, certain third parties, such as employers, may also have compensation rights.

Damages are assessed according to a well-established classification based on their nature (economic or non-economic) and their duration (temporary or permanent). Economic damages include financial losses such as medical expenses, lost income, or long-term care costs. Non-economic damages cover personal harm such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, aesthetic damage, or psychological impact. Temporary damages relate to the period before medical stabilization, while permanent damages concern lasting impairments. This structured approach, based on the Dintilhac nomenclature, ensures a comprehensive and consistent evaluation of all losses.

Amicable settlement and litigation

Compensation is generally first sought through an amicable process involving negotiations with the insurer. This phase includes the evaluation of damages, medical expertise, and the issuance of a compensation offer within legally defined timeframes. However, if the offer is insufficient or if a disagreement arises, the victim may initiate legal proceedings.

In many cases, road traffic accidents also give rise to criminal proceedings, during which a criminal court determines both the liability of the responsible party and the civil damages owed to the victim. The victim may join the proceedings as a civil party to seek compensation. While the amicable process is the primary framework, it may be challenged or supplemented by litigation when necessary. Amicable discussions may even continue during legal proceedings.

The role of medical expertise

Medical expertise is a central step in the compensation process, as it determines the nature and extent of the victim’s injuries. The medical expert evaluates the injuries, their evolution, the date of medical stabilization, and any long-term consequences.

Expert assessments may take place in an amicable (out-of-court) setting or be ordered by a judge in the context of litigation. While amicable expertise is often initiated by insurers, judicial expertise provides stronger procedural guarantees and evidentiary value. The process typically involves a medical examination, review of medical records, and the issuance of a report that serves as the foundation for compensation. The presence of a physician advisor and legal counsel is essential to ensure that all aspects of the victim’s condition are properly considered and defended.

At every stage, legal representation is essential to define an appropriate strategy, protect the victim’s rights, and secure full and fair compensation. Pierre Lepicier personally assists clients at every stage of this process, ensuring that their rights are fully protected and that they obtain the compensation they are entitled to.