Swiss trustee: private trusteeship services

Understanding the role of a Swiss deputy

A Swiss deputy is appointed by the adult protection authority, which in Geneva is the Adult and Child Protection Court, to carry out a mandate of protection and administration for a person under deputyship. The deputy’s duties depend on the type of deputyship decided by the authority:

• Assistance deputyship: The deputy advises and supports the person, at their request, without limiting the exercise of their civil rights.
• Representative deputyship: The deputy acts for the person in certain matters, and this can include the management of their assets.
• Cooperative deputyship: Certain acts can only be concluded with the deputy’s agreement.
• General deputyship: The deputy helps in every area of life, and the person loses the exercise of their civil rights. It is the heaviest measure.

Beyond these specific duties, a Swiss deputy must report regularly to the authority and act with diligence, loyalty and transparency towards the protected person. The deputy must also respect that person’s fundamental rights and dignity and encourage their independence wherever possible.

Choosing a private or professional deputy in Switzerland

In Switzerland, the role can be held by private deputies or by professional deputies. In every case, the authority appoints an individual who has the skills and knowledge needed for the tasks involved.

Private deputies

Many deputies in Switzerland are chosen from among the relatives of the protected person: family, friends or neighbours. This solution has several advantages, particularly in terms of closeness and mutual understanding between the deputy and the protected person. However, becoming a private deputy requires time and specific skills to take on this responsibility.

Professional deputies

Professional deputies are specialists in supporting vulnerable people and managing their assets. They can be called on when relatives are unable to take on the role, or when the situation requires particular expertise. They then provide a personalised deputyship service adapted to each person’s needs.

Using a private deputyship service in Switzerland

To meet the growing demand for deputyships and ensure quality support for protected persons, several players now offer private deputyship services in Switzerland. These services are provided by qualified, experienced professionals who put their know-how at the service of vulnerable people and their families.

The advantages of a private deputyship service

Using a private deputyship service has several benefits for the protected person and those close to them:

• Tailor-made support: The professional takes into account the expectations and specific needs of the protected person and offers suitable assistance.
• Recognised expertise: The provider has the skills needed to handle complex situations and ensure the best possible care.
• Personalised follow-up: A single point of contact ensures continuity of support and makes communication easier with the protected person and their relatives.

Criteria for choosing a private deputyship service

To choose the right provider for a private deputyship, several factors should be taken into account:

• Experience and skills: It is important to check the professional’s references, qualifications and training.
• Financial transparency: Fees and billing arrangements must be clearly explained and justified.
• Listening and adaptability: The provider must be able to understand the needs of the protected person and propose suitable solutions.

In this way, using a Swiss deputy, whether private or professional, ensures effective care that respects the rights and interests of the vulnerable person. The variety of deputyship services available also gives families the opportunity to find the best support for each individual situation.