Best Corporate & Commercial Lawyers in Malans

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Founded in 2015
English
Christian Bärlocher Rechtsanwalt provides an independent compliance function for Swiss companies, delivering objective guidance as an external partner rather than an in-house department. He helps clients identify applicable laws and regulations, informs them of changes promptly, and collaborates...
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About Corporate & Commercial Law in Malans, Switzerland

Malans is a municipality in the canton of Graubünden in eastern Switzerland. Corporate and commercial law governs how businesses form, operate, and wind down, including contracts, governance, and compliance. The core rules are national, with the cantonal authorities handling registrations and local filings.

In Switzerland, the Code of Obligations (Obligationenrecht) is the principal source for corporate matters such as company formation, capital requirements, and director duties. The framework applies uniformly to Malans and across Graubünden, ensuring consistency in corporate governance and commercial transactions. You will encounter the Swiss Commercial Register for official company formation and updates, including changes to ownership and management.

In Switzerland, corporate and commercial law is largely governed by the Code of Obligations, which sets out formation, governance and contracts for Swiss entities. Source: Swiss government information on federal corporate law.

For practical steps in Malans, you typically register with the Graubünden Cantonal Commercial Register, meet capital requirements for the chosen company form, and ensure ongoing compliance with annual filings and reporting. The process is standardized but requires attention to form specific rules, such as capital and governance provisions for Aktiengesellschaft (AG) and Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH).

Why You May Need a Lawyer

  • Starting a business in Malans - Choosing the right formal structure (AG vs GmbH) affects liability, capital requirements, and governance. An attorney helps design the company with appropriate share capital and a compliant articles of association. AG requires minimum CHF 100,000 capital, GmbH CHF 20,000.
  • Negotiating or drafting commercial contracts - Local suppliers, customers, and cross-border partners require clear terms, governing law clauses, and dispute resolution provisions. A lawyer helps tailor contracts to Swiss law and reduces later enforcement risks.
  • Ensuring regulatory compliance for AML and due diligence - Swiss anti-money laundering rules impose due diligence for certain transactions and beneficiaries. Legal counsel can implement compliant KYC practices and reporting workflows to avoid penalties.
  • Handling shareholder disputes and corporate governance - Disagreements over duties, fiduciary obligations, or distribution of profits may require strategic counsel to avoid costly litigation and preserve business relationships in Graubünden.
  • Insolvency or restructuring planning - If your Malans business faces financial distress, a lawyer helps evaluate distress options, creditor processes, and orderly liquidation or reorganization under Swiss law.

Local Laws Overview

The Swiss corporate framework rests on federal acts and cantonal administration. The following laws and regulations directly affect corporate and commercial activity in Malans and Graubünden.

  • Code of Obligations (Obligationenrecht, OR) - Governs company formation, shares, capital, governance, and contracts for AGs and GmbHs. It is the backbone of Swiss corporate law and applies uniformly throughout Switzerland, including Malans.
  • Money Laundering Act (Geldwäschereigesetz, AMLA) - Establishes customer due diligence and suspicious activity reporting requirements for financial and non-financial businesses. Swiss authorities expect robust office procedures and UBO transparency to reduce risk of misuse.
  • Insolvency Ordinance (Insolvenzordnung, IO) - Sets out processes for insolvency filings, creditor rights, and liquidation or reorganization procedures in Switzerland, applicable to companies registered in Graubünden.
According to Swiss authorities, the Code of Obligations is the central framework for corporate entities, while AMLA provides the due diligence and reporting obligations for financial and related activities. Source: FINMA and admin.ch guidance on corporate regulation.

Recent regulatory developments focus on enhanced governance and transparency, with ongoing updates to corporate governance practices, anti-money laundering controls, and insolvency procedures. For precise dates and transitional rules, consult official sources such as admin.ch and FINMA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Swiss Code of Obligations and what does it cover?

The Code of Obligations covers company formation, shareholder rights, capital requirements, and governance. It applies to AGs and GmbHs across Switzerland, including Malans. It also governs commercial contracts and company liabilities. You can consult the OR for specifics on articles related to your company form.

How do I form an Aktiengesellschaft in Malans and what is required?

To form an AG in Malans you must meet minimum capital of CHF 100,000, with at least CHF 50,000 paid in. You create articles of association, appoint directors, and register with the cantonal commercial register. An attorney can help prepare the formation documents and filing materials.

When must a Swiss company hold its annual general meeting in Malans?

Swiss law requires annual general meetings for AGs to approve accounts and elect directors. The timing is determined by the articles of association, but most companies schedule the AGM within six to seven months after the financial year end. A lawyer can help with notice procedures and documentation.

How much capital is required to form a GmbH in Switzerland?

The minimum capital for a GmbH is CHF 20,000, which must be contributed in full at formation. Articles of association define governance and share allocation. A corporate attorney can assist with capital contribution structures and filings.

Do I need a lawyer to draft a commercial contract in Malans?

While you can draft contracts yourself, a lawyer reduces risk by ensuring Swiss governing law, boilerplate terms, and dispute resolution clauses are appropriate. A local lawyer can tailor the contract to Swiss standards and Malans market practice.

What is the process to register a company in Graubünden's Handelsregister?

You must prepare formation documents, appoint directors, and submit the registration package to the Graubünden Commercial Register. The process includes verification of capital, residency, and signatories. An attorney speeds up the review and ensures compliance.

Can a Malans business involve foreign investors, and what checks apply?

Foreign investment is permitted under Swiss law, but ownership and control structures may trigger additional disclosures and regulatory scrutiny. A lawyer helps ensure compliance with AMLA and reporting requirements when foreign parties hold shares.

How long does a typical insolvency proceeding take in Switzerland?

Insolvency timelines vary by complexity and asset size, but a straightforward liquidation can extend across several months. An insolvency attorney can guide you through creditor meetings, asset realization, and distribution plans.

Is there a difference between an AG and a GmbH in Switzerland?

Yes. An AG offers easier transfer of shares and potentially greater credibility, with higher capital requirements. A GmbH often suits smaller businesses with tighter capital, simpler governance, and limited liability for owners.

What are the typical costs of hiring a corporate lawyer in Malans?

Costs depend on engagement scope and complexity. Common arrangements include hourly rates or flat fees for specific tasks such as formation or contract review. Request a written engagement letter with a clear fee estimate.

Should I implement AMLA controls even for a small business in Graubünden?

Yes. AMLA applies to many business activities, not only banks. Implementing due diligence, KYC procedures, and suspicious activity reporting helps reduce risk and aligns with Swiss regulatory expectations.

What is the difference between a contract governed by Swiss law and foreign law for Malans operations?

Swiss law governs contracts where parties are located in Switzerland or perform significant activities in Switzerland. Foreign law can apply if specified, but Swiss courts may interpret issues under Swiss private law, with mandatory provisions retained. A lawyer clarifies governing law clauses in contracts.

Additional Resources

  • Swiss Code of Obligations (OR) - Official guidance on corporate formation, governance and contracts. Link: admin.ch
  • FINMA - Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority, which provides supervisory guidance and AML compliance information. Link: finma.ch
  • Graubünden Cantonal Government - Official governance portal with information on the Handelsregister and cantonal regulatory requirements. Link: gr.ch

Next Steps

  1. Define your legal needs and budget before contacting counsel. Decide whether you need formation, contract review, or ongoing corporate advisory.
  2. Search for local corporate lawyers in Graubünden who specialize in AG and GmbH matters and have experience with Malans companies.
  3. Check credentials and area of focus; verify bar membership and language skills relevant to Malans and your business.
  4. Request a written engagement proposal with clear fees, scope, and deliverables for your specific matter.
  5. Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your objectives and gather a list of required documents (articles of association, capitalization proof, contracts).
  6. Obtain a formal engagement letter and confirm fee arrangements before work begins.
  7. Maintain ongoing communication and request periodic updates on regulatory changes that affect your business in Malans.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.