Lexipedia

Seizure

Seizure is the attachment of a debtor’s assets by the Swiss enforcement office to satisfy claims after debt enforcement may proceed.

In Swiss debt enforcement, seizure is the official attachment of assets belonging to the debtor after the creditor is entitled to continue proceedings. The enforcement office identifies and records seizable assets, such as salary portions, bank balances, movable property or claims against third parties, while respecting exemptions needed for subsistence and professional activity. The seized assets may later be realised and the proceeds distributed to creditors. Seizure is mainly used for debtors not subject to bankruptcy enforcement, including many individuals.