Dear Miriam, you are the founder of Mazou Attorneys-at-Law, a law firm specialized in white collar crime and criminal law, an editor of a commentary in that field, and former lecturer at the University of Lausanne. Can you tell us more about your background and how you came to choose criminal law as your field of work?

 

Criminal law has always been my favourite area of work, ever since university. Before I started studying law, I always thought of becoming a journalist. While studying law, I realised that becoming a lawyer was my true calling. As soon as it was available in the French-speaking part of Switzerland, I completed the Swiss Bar Association (SBA) specialisation programme for criminal law. I am passionate about criminal justice particularly economic criminal law. Engaging in white-collar crime litigation solidified my passion for the field.

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What do you find most exciting about your work as a criminal defence lawyer?

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I relish the unpredictability of each day. I also really enjoy working with fellow lawyers, whether within my own team or with colleagues from other law firms, which I do on a regular basis. This kind of teamwork, both with the client and with other lawyers, is immensely stimulating. And, of course, I find great satisfaction in representing my clients at hearings before judicial authorities enjoying every opportunity to speak and advocate on their behalf.

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Who are your clients?

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I defend both companies and individuals, mainly in criminal proceedings, and also in administrative proceedings, international mutual legal assistance and commercial litigation. The companies I represent are financial institutions and companies operating in various other fields, industries, or services. As for individuals, they come from a wide variety of backgrounds. I also regularly advise public authorities. I represent both, defendants and plaintiffs in all these proceedings.

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You advise and represent both defendants and plaintiffs before criminal courts. Is there a "side" that you favour more than the other?

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No, I find it very interesting to be on both sides on a regular basis. It is also highly instructive and allows me – when I am defending a position – to have a global vision, to anticipate the opponent's strategy, and incorporate that insight into my own approach.

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Miriam, you are one of the editors of the Petit Commentaire du Code Pénal, and you have an extensive record of publications as well as TV and radio appearances. How did you get into publishing?

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I love writing, which is why I originally wanted to be a journalist. Naturally and quite easily, I started writing legal articles. I enjoy discussing and listening to reflections on the law – which reflects the values of our community – and sharing my thoughts and insights. When I appear in the media, I particularly enjoy the challenge of explaining complex legal concepts in simple terms.

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You founded your own law firm after working as an associate and partner in another law firm. Has it always been your goal to start your own legal practice?

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No. When I was practicing in my previous firm, where I had been a partner for 11 years, that wasn't my goal. It wasn't until recently that I realised that I wanted to work in a different way and focus even more on white-collar crime and criminal law. Opening my own boutique law firm dedicated to this area, with the aim of providing services of the highest quality, became an obvious choice.

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As a boutique firm, how do you remain competitive with bigger law firms?

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The advantage of a boutique law firm is its flexibility, high level of specialisation and responsiveness. We focus on our specific area of practice with the aim of providing our clients with the highest level of expertise in that area. In addition, we maintain a network of other firms, not only boutique firms, but also large law firms with whom we work on a regular basis. Our clients value our approachability and responsiveness. We focus on providing personalised, client-focused services. From what I see in my practice, I have the impression that many clients, including high-profile clients, also appreciate niche law firms.

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Has your work and/or the field of criminal law changed with emerging technologies such as cryptocurrencies and Artificial Intelligence (AI)?

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I am following these developments closely. AI presents risks, but also opportunities for our profession to become more efficient.

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Miriam, you have two sons. At what stage of your life and career did you become a mother?

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I became a mother for the first time when I was a partner in my previous law firm, and the second child was born shortly after I set up Mazou Avocats SA.

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What has been the biggest change with regards to your free and family time since opening your own firm?

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Work/life balance is a challenge whether you're the founder of a boutique firm or a partner in a large firm. Since opening my own law firm, I've obviously had to take on more managerial and entrepreneurial responsibilities, but I've also had more freedom of choice: the two balance each other out. I have also had to develop my organizational skills even further to be more effective. I am fortunate to be surrounded by a team of highly competent and dedicated individuals. Our teamwork is remarkably efficient.

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Do you think it is important to time one’s pregnancy to coincide with specific steps of a career?

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No. Firstly, I think that this is rarely achievable. Setting such a goal only adds unnecessary stress. I like the saying: 'Life is what happens to you while you are busy making other plans' (John Lennon). Secondly, I think you should pursue things when you feel inspired and in a way that resonates with you. There is no magic formula, only challenges to overcome.

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What advice would you give a young professional who would like to work in criminal law and open his or her own practice?

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Stay committed, honest, and dedicated to your clients. Their satisfaction is not only a great reward, but it's also a great calling card. If you're a woman, don't be afraid to work in areas that you enjoy. There are no areas reserved for men, just areas where there aren't enough women yet.

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We have noticed that you have the lawyers robe* hanging in your office. What does the robe signify to you?

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I bought it after qualifying as a lawyer in 2002 and it's the only robe I've ever had. It's a bit worn out, but I don't want to change it. It reminds me of all the battles I fought to get where I am today. It also reminds me of all the battles I have fought on behalf of my clients. I am a litigator and I love hearings and pleadings, so I wear it a lot. Putting it on has a special meaning to me. So why should I leave it in its case?

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Which female lawyer would you nominate as a role model for breaking.through and for which reasons?

 

Professor Camille Perrier Depeursinge, a brilliant lawyer who, in August 2024, only a few years after her appointment as Associate Professor, became Full Professor and Director of the School of Law, Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, at the University of Lausanne. Her achievements are impressive, as is her determination.

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Thank you very much for this interview!

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Lausanne/Zurich, 13 July 2024, Miriam Mazou answered the questions in writing. The interview was conducted by Florence Jaeger, LL.M. and Sabrina Vieli.

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* Note by eds.: Such a lawyer robes are the attire worn only by lawyers in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. This is not customary in the German-speaking part of the country.

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