Private International Law

In matters with a foreign connection, private international law standardizes whether domestic or foreign law is applicable —if there is a conflict between several international private law systems, private international law thus standardizes which of these systems is applicable. The rules of private international law can be found, among others, in international treaties such as the Hague Convention, European law and, at the national level, in the Federal Act on Private International Law of 18 December 1987.

In addition to the question of which national law is applicable, private international law regulates, among other things, which court has jurisdiction and under what circumstances a decision made abroad is recognized and enforced.

Cases related to private international law often have a connection to family law - they may concern the international protection of minors and adults; international alimony matters or even international child abduction. However, international legal assistance in civil and commercial matters also plays a role in private international law. Here, authorities and courts request the administration of justice of another state. International mutual assistance is also relevant in connection with criminal law and compliance matters; for example, in connection with money laundering or corruption proceedings and any Swiss bank accounts involved.

Our firm is multinational and interdisciplinary, which gives us extensive expertise in private international law. We are networked with experts around the world, which means that we often seek the expertise of local legal experts in international matters. Private international law plays an important role in the Swiss legal landscape, as Switzerland is home to many international companies and private individuals.

In all international matters, our lawyers are at your side with confidence and competence. Quick action is often required - for example, if the freezing of a Swiss account is imminent or has already taken place. In these cases, we contact your bank as well as the competent public prosecutor's office to clarify the situation as quickly as possible. We are also happy to advise and represent you in inheritance matters with an international dimension.