Frequently Asked Questions

What is your role in post-acquisition disputes?

We assist in post-acquisition disputes, particularly in cases involving claims relating to representations, warranties and contractual undertakings. Our role is to analyse the risks, define the appropriate procedural strategy and represent our clients’ interests before state courts or arbitral tribunals. We adopt a pragmatic approach aimed at protecting the economic value of the transaction.

Do you advise on matters involving digital assets and blockchain?

Yes. We regularly advise on matters involving blockchain, crypto-assets, tokens and financial technologies (fintech). Our practice covers the legal classification of digital assets, project structuring, applicable taxation, regulatory compliance and assistance in the event of disputes. We advise both established companies and innovative projects within the Web3 ecosystem.

How do you structure your involvement in cross-border France–Switzerland transactions?

In cross-border transactions between France and Switzerland, we ensure integrated coordination of the legal and tax aspects in both jurisdictions. With a presence in Switzerland and in Paris, we assist our clients with transaction structuring, corporate and executive taxation, governance matters and regulatory constraints. Our approach aims to secure the transaction while optimising the overall legal and tax structure.

What types of M&A transactions do you support?

We assist with mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transactions in Switzerland and internationally, including share deals, asset deals, corporate restructurings and business transfers. Our involvement covers the entire transaction process: legal and tax structuring, due diligence, negotiation and drafting of transaction documentation, as well as assistance through closing and post-closing. We primarily advise on complex transactions involving significant economic and strategic considerations.

In which languages do you work and in which jurisdictions?

We primarily work in French and English, on both domestic and international matters. Our practice is focused on Switzerland and France, with significant experience in cross-border matters involving these two jurisdictions. We also work in coordination with correspondents and partner firms in other jurisdictions where required by the nature of the matter.

How do you handle AML/KYC compliance and FINMA regulation for crypto projects?

We advise crypto and blockchain projects on AML/KYC compliance and regulatory analysis, particularly with regard to the applicable Swiss framework and FINMA practice. Our involvement includes analysing the business model, assessing the regulatory classification of activities, structuring the project from a legal perspective and implementing appropriate compliance procedures. We also assist clients in their interactions with regulatory authorities and partners.

How do you ensure coordination between lawyers, tax advisers and other advisers?

We work in a multidisciplinary manner, ensuring close coordination between lawyers, tax advisers and, where appropriate, other advisers involved in the matter (bankers, auditors, experts). This organisation allows for a comprehensive view of the legal, tax and economic issues, as well as efficient management of the interfaces between the various parties involved. Our objective is to provide clients with clear and structured management of their matter.

How does an engagement with your firm work (engagement letter, duration, confidentiality)?

Every engagement begins with an initial discussion to identify the legal and economic issues involved in the matter. We then prepare an engagement letter setting out the scope of our work, the terms of collaboration, the fee arrangements and the applicable confidentiality provisions. The confidentiality of all communications and information handled is ensured in accordance with the professional rules governing lawyers.

How do you manage the tax aspects of a business transfer?

We assist with business transfers from both a legal and tax perspective, taking into account the objectives of the seller and the buyer. Our involvement includes the tax structuring of the transaction, anticipation of the tax consequences for executives and shareholders, and coordination with tax authorities where appropriate. We advise on both entrepreneurial transfers and transactions taking place in family or wealth planning contexts.

What is your approach to legal and tax due diligence?

We conduct thorough legal and tax due diligence tailored to the nature of the transaction and the profile of the acquirer. Our analysis focuses in particular on contractual, tax, regulatory, employment and litigation risks, as well as on issues specific to the structure of the target group. The objective is to identify material risks, prioritise them and propose practical solutions that can be integrated into the negotiation process and the transaction documentation.