Best Sustainable Finance Lawyers in Paris

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Orier Avocats
Paris, France

Founded in 2018
10 people in their team
English
Orier Avocats stands as a distinguished legal institution in France, renowned for its profound expertise and commitment to excellence. Specializing in a wide array of legal services, the firm has garnered a reputation for delivering tailored solutions that meet the intricate needs of individual and...
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Spring Legal
Paris, France

Founded in 1959
English
Spring Legal, established in 2017 by a team of seasoned attorneys, offers comprehensive legal services in key areas of corporate law, including mergers and acquisitions, private equity, structured financing, restructuring, employment law, contract law, intellectual property, and new information and...
Audit Duprey Fekl
Paris, France

Founded in 2021
English
Audit Duprey Fekl is a distinguished French law firm specializing in international arbitration, complex litigation, and strategic legal consulting. Founded by partners Mathias Audit, Pierre Duprey, and Matthias Fekl, the firm offers comprehensive advisory and litigation services, combining...
FTPA
Paris, France

Founded in 1972
English
FTPA, established in 1972, is a leading independent full-service business law firm based in Paris, France. With a team of nearly 80 lawyers, including 29 partners, the firm offers comprehensive legal services across various practice areas such as corporate mergers and acquisitions, tax, employment,...
Fairway
Paris, France

Founded in 2011
English
Fairway is a distinguished French business law firm established in 2011, renowned for its comprehensive expertise in the real estate sector. The firm offers a full spectrum of services, including real estate transactions and investments, leasing, property management, real estate and corporate...

Founded in 1986
English
Carbonnier Lamaze Rasle & Associés stands as a premier legal institution in France, renowned for its comprehensive expertise across a spectrum of legal domains. The firm is built on a foundation of specialized knowledge and a commitment to excellence, offering clients an unparalleled experience in...

Founded in 1931
1,100 people in their team
English
French
Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for the past 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...
Arago
Paris, France

Founded in 2006
English
Arago is an independent law firm based in Paris, France, specializing in business law. Established in 2006, the firm offers comprehensive legal services to private companies, public entities, and individuals, addressing a wide range of legal and tax needs. The firm's expertise encompasses corporate...
Paris, France

English
LLB Avocats, based in Paris, specializes in tax law, corporate law, and cryptocurrency taxation. The firm offers comprehensive services in both advisory and litigation capacities, assisting clients with complex fiscal and legal challenges. Their expertise encompasses areas such as cryptocurrency...
BMH Avocats
Paris, France

Founded in 1988
English
Established in Paris in 1988, BMH Avocats is an independent, multidisciplinary business law firm comprising 23 lawyers, including 11 partners. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, encompassing arbitration, mediation, mergers and acquisitions, corporate law, commercial leases,...
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About Sustainable Finance Law in Paris, France

Sustainable Finance refers to financial activities and services that take into account environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations. Paris, France, is recognized as a leading European hub for sustainable finance, backed by strong governmental and industry commitments. The city fosters investments and lending practices aligned with sustainable development goals and the transition towards a low-carbon economy. Legal frameworks in Paris continue to evolve to support responsible investment, climate change mitigation, and transparent reporting standards for companies and investors.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating the complex legal landscape of sustainable finance can be challenging. You may consider seeking legal assistance in the following situations:

  • If you are developing or investing in green bonds, climate funds, or other sustainable finance products.
  • When you need to comply with environmental disclosure obligations and ESG reporting standards.
  • If your business is integrating sustainability criteria into its operations and needs to understand regulatory compliance.
  • During mergers, acquisitions, or partnerships that require ESG due diligence.
  • If you are involved in disputes regarding greenwashing or misrepresentation of sustainability claims.
  • When accessing government incentives or grants for sustainable projects and unsure of your legal standing or obligations.
  • If you are impacted by regulatory investigations or penalties related to sustainability standards.

Local Laws Overview

Sustainable finance laws in Paris are shaped by national French regulations as well as European Union (EU) directives. Key aspects include:

  • Article 173 of the French Energy Transition Law: Requires institutional investors to report on how they consider ESG criteria and climate change risks in their investment decisions.
  • EU Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR): Mandates financial market participants to disclose ESG policies and sustainability risks.
  • EU Taxonomy Regulation: Establishes a classification system for environmentally sustainable economic activities, directly affecting investments and corporate strategies.
  • Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD): Obligates large companies to disclose information on environmental and social matters.
  • Anti-Greenwashing Rules: Prohibit false or misleading claims about the sustainability of products or services.
  • Paris Climate Agreement: Ongoing French implementation encourages alignment of finance flows with low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered sustainable finance in Paris, France?

Sustainable finance encompasses investments, lending, and financial services that integrate ESG criteria and aim to promote environmental protection, social responsibility, and ethical governance.

Are there specific regulations for green bonds in France?

Yes, France was the first country to establish a regulatory regime for green bonds, including transparency, reporting, and impact assessment requirements.

Who must comply with ESG reporting laws in France?

Institutional investors, asset managers, insurance companies, and large publicly traded companies are required to comply with ESG reporting under French and EU law.

How are ESG criteria defined legally in France?

ESG criteria are defined by a combination of national laws, the EU taxonomy, and evolving international best practices, covering environmental effects, social impact, and corporate governance.

What are the penalties for failing to meet sustainable finance regulations?

Non-compliance can lead to regulatory investigations, financial fines, reputational damage, and potential civil liability, particularly for greenwashing or non-disclosure.

Can private individuals access sustainable finance products?

Yes, retail investors can increasingly access green funds, sustainable savings accounts, and environmentally focused investment portfolios offered by banks and asset managers in Paris.

How do I know if a financial product is legitimately sustainable?

Check for compliance with recognized standards, regulatory disclosures, and third-party certifications to ensure the product’s sustainability claims are valid.

What is greenwashing and how is it regulated?

Greenwashing refers to false or misleading claims about a product’s or company’s sustainability. French and EU authorities have strict regulations and enforcement against such practices.

Are there government incentives for sustainable finance projects?

Yes, French government and EU bodies provide grants, subsidies, and tax incentives for projects that meet sustainability or climate adaptation criteria.

Is legal advice necessary when launching a sustainable finance initiative?

Legal advice is highly recommended to navigate compliance obligations, risk assessment, dispute prevention, and to maximize available incentives or funding.

Additional Resources

Several organizations and governmental bodies offer guidance and resources on sustainable finance in Paris:

  • Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF): French financial markets regulator overseeing ESG standards and disclosures.
  • Ministry of the Ecological Transition: Provides information on government policies and incentives for green investments.
  • French Sustainable Investment Forum (FIR): Promotes responsible investment practices with educational resources and events.
  • European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA): Offers EU-wide regulatory updates affecting sustainable finance activities in France.
  • Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Paris (CCIP): Supports businesses with advice on sustainability and compliance matters.

Next Steps

If you are considering sustainable finance activities or need guidance on compliance in Paris:

  • Gather all documentation related to your financial activities and sustainability initiatives.
  • Review your obligations under current French and EU laws relevant to your operations.
  • Consult specialized legal counsel with experience in sustainable finance law to assess your specific circumstances.
  • Stay updated with regulatory changes by subscribing to newsletters from financial authorities or industry groups.
  • Initiate a compliance audit to identify any gaps or risks in your practices related to sustainable finance.

Thorough preparation and professional advice will help ensure both regulatory compliance and the success of your sustainable finance initiatives in Paris, France.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Paris through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Sustainable Finance, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Paris, France - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

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.