Regulatory & Public Sector
Economic activities in Switzerland are subject to a broad range of public law requirements and restrictions. The state intervenes in virtually all areas of economic life and acts as a regulatory and supervisory authority vis-à-vis private market participants. At the same time, public bodies also operate as market players and procure goods and services from private providers. This interaction between regulation, market activities, and the government creates a complex legal landscape with direct implications for strategic and operational business decisions.
In this dynamic setting, we support private companies, public institutions, and state-affiliated entities in navigating regulatory challenges. We analyze structures and processes, draft contracts, develop, refine, and position legal arguments – and help our clients assert their legal positions clearly and effectively at the right time. Our expertise covers the full spectrum of regulatory and public sector law affecting business, from market access and the pursuit of regulated activities to the enforcement of rights or defense against public obligations in administrative proceedings. We combine in-depth legal knowledge with a strong understanding of the institutional and political realities our clients face.
Our areas of focus include in particular:
• Administrative Procedures & Government Relations
• Public Procurement
• Food & Consumer Goods
• Export Controls & Sanctions
• Internal Market & Market Access
• Regulated Industries & Infrastructure
• State & Official Liability
• General Constitutional & Administrative Law
Thanks to our broad experience and interdisciplinary approach, we are a reliable partner for complex projects and proceedings at the intersection of government and business.
We represent and advise clients in complex administrative proceedings at the federal, cantonal, and municipal levels across a wide range of general and special administrative law matters. This includes the granting of permits, regulatory supervision, and appeals before administrative authorities and courts. We also assist with interactions with government agencies, official submissions, and legal communication vis-à-vis the public administration.
We advise both contracting authorities and tenderers on all aspects of Swiss public procurement law – from determining its applicability and structuring tenders to the lawful conduct of award procedures and legal remedies. We also assist in the preparation and review of tender documentation, and, in particular, contract design and implementation.
We advise clients on all legal matters related to foodstuffs, utility articles, and other consumer goods – especially in the areas of cosmetics, tobacco products, and similar everyday items. Our practice covers all stages of the product life cycle, from manufacturing and transport to storage and market placement. We also provide guidance on packaging, labeling, advertising, market surveillance, product safety, and product liability. Our clients include companies, industry organizations, and authorities.
We advise clients on Swiss export control regulations, particularly regarding dual-use goods, defense equipment, and technology transfers. We also support companies in ensuring compliance with international sanctions and embargo regimes and assist in dealings with the competent Swiss licensing and enforcement authorities.
We support clients in all matters relating to access to the Swiss internal market. Our services include guidance on market entry, recognition of domestic and foreign professional qualifications and the principle of mutual recognition, compliance with technical regulations, the reduction of non-tariff trade barriers, and accreditation and certification procedures. We advise on the applicable legal frameworks, guide applications and proceedings, draft and review necessary agreements, and represent clients before authorities at all levels of government.
We advise private companies, public bodies, and state-affiliated entities in regulated industries such as telecommunications, transport, energy, and related infrastructure sectors. Our work includes issues regarding network access, market organization, licensing, and the applicable regulatory framework. We assist with both individual legal issues and large-scale projects – from early-stage planning and legal structuring to regulatory proceedings and contracting.
We advise on matters involving the liability of public entities, in particular arising from breaches of official duties and sovereign acts affecting constitutionally protected rights such as life, physical integrity, and property. Our work includes both asserting and defending against public liability claims. We also assist in assessing the conduct of public authorities where legal accountability is at issue – even outside classic state liability scenarios.
We provide comprehensive advice in all areas of constitutional and administrative law. This includes fundamental rights, institutional matters, legislative processes, and access to information in public administration. We also advise on expropriation law, the use of public property, subsidy schemes, public levies, and the conclusion and execution of administrative contracts. Our clients include businesses, government entities, and individuals facing public law issues – whether in specific proceedings or broader strategic, political, or institutional contexts