Prison conditions meet minimum international standards, and the Government permits visits by human rights monitors. The legal prohibitions on arbitrary arrest, detention, or exile are fully respected at all levels of government. A suspect may not be held longer than 24 hours without a warrant of arrest issued by the investigative magistrate. Investigations are generally prompt even if in some cases investigative detention may exceed the length of sentence. Release on personal recognizance or bail is granted unless the magistrate believes the person is dangerous or will not appear for trial.
Any lengthy detention is subject to review by higher judicial authorities.
There is no summary exile, nor is exile used as a mean of political control. Non-Swiss convicted of crimes may receive sentences which include denial of reentry for a specific period following completion of a prison sentence. The Constitution provides for an independent judiciary, and the Government respects this provision in practice. The judiciary provides citizens with a fair and efficient judicial process. The Constitution provides for public trials in which the defendant's rights are fully respected, including the right to challenge and to present witnesses or evidence.