An English-speaking lawyer in France can make a hard moment far less confusing. Whether you have been injured, you are the victim of a crime, or you are facing criminal proceedings, Félix Molteni is an avocat (French lawyer) in the Bordeaux and Libourne area of Gironde who handles the whole case in English.
What an “avocat” is
France has no split between solicitor and barrister. One professional, the avocat, advises you and represents you in court from the first meeting through to the hearing. Maître Molteni is registered with the Libourne Bar (Barreau de Libourne) and also practises from a Bordeaux office, covering Gironde and the wider Nouvelle-Aquitaine (Aquitaine) region.
Who an English-Speaking Lawyer in Bordeaux and Libourne Helps
Where you live does not change anything. He assists French residents who are more comfortable in English, and people based abroad — visitors, second-home owners, students, employees and companies — who have a case to deal with in France and want a French lawyer they can actually talk to. Some clients are here on holiday when something goes wrong. Others have lived in Gironde for years and simply want the case handled in plain English. Either way, an English-speaking lawyer removes the language barrier so you can focus on what matters.
If you are a victim
French law lets victims claim compensation for the harm they have suffered and take part in the criminal case directly, as a civil party (partie civile). If you come from a common-law country, the mechanics are unfamiliar and the amounts are calculated very differently from the UK or the US.
He works with victims of road accidents, accidents at work, physical assault, sexual violence and domestic violence. Bodily injury (préjudice corporel) is assessed by a medical expert and valued item by item under a French framework, so each type of harm is counted separately.
Road traffic victims in France are covered by a specific protective regime (the loi Badinter), which changes how and when you are compensated. And even a visitor who is the victim of a serious offence can, in many cases, apply for compensation through a dedicated public commission (the CIVI), whether or not the offender is ever identified.
If you are facing criminal proceedings
If you have been arrested, held in police custody (garde à vue), summoned to court or placed under investigation in France, you have the right to a lawyer at every stage. Maître Molteni defends people before the French criminal courts in the Libourne area and across Gironde, from the first hours of custody through to trial.
Cases across Bordeaux, Libourne and the wider region
Distance is rarely a problem. Much of the early work on a case — going through your account of events, reviewing medical or police documents, preparing the next step — is done remotely, by email or call, in English.
If you already live in the region, that local knowledge counts just as much: French residents who work in English often find it is the procedure, not the language, that slows them down.
How it works
A first exchange is there to understand your situation and to tell you plainly whether, and how, he can help. Fees are set out and agreed in writing before anything begins. Depending on your circumstances, legal aid (aide juridictionnelle) may cover part or all of the cost.
The information on this page is general. Every case turns on its own facts, and no result can be promised in advance.
Contact
To explain your situation, call +33 5 57 55 47 06 or use the contact form. You can write or speak in English.
Can I claim compensation in France if I don’t live there?
Yes. Victims of an accident or a crime in France can seek compensation whether or not they are French residents. In some cases a non-resident victim can also apply through the CIVI, even if the offender is never identified.
Do I have to speak French to work with a French lawyer?
No. Maître Molteni is an English-speaking lawyer. He works in English with clients based in France and abroad, and handles the French-language procedure on your behalf.
I’ve had an accident or been charged in France. What should I do first?
Keep any documents, medical records or police references you have, and contact a lawyer early. A first exchange is there to assess your situation and explain the next steps.