Asset freeze

An asset freeze is a provisional or enforcement measure preventing a person from moving, selling or dissipating assets. In Switzerland it may arise in civil debt enforcement, criminal proceedings, mutual legal assistance, insolvency or sanctions regimes. The legal basis determines the threshold, authority, duration and available remedies. Freezes can affect bank accounts, securities, real estate or movable assets, often through notices to intermediaries. Because they restrict property rights and business activity, proportionality, identification of assets and prompt avenues to challenge or vary the measure are important.