French Desk

At Alexander & Partner, we offer specialized legal advice for businesses navigating the complexities of cross-border relations between Germany and France. With a deep understanding of both legal systems and hands-on experience in international business law, our team provides strategic guidance for clients seeking to invest or undertake projects across these two influential markets. Our French Desk is staffed with lawyers admitted to practice in Paris and Lyon as well as in Germany, ensuring seamless and efficient representation across both jurisdictions.

Expertise in Franco-German Legal Relations: Tailored Solutions for Cross-Border Success

Cross-border contracts between Germany and France require precise knowledge of both legal frameworks. Our expertise ensures that your business objectives are met while minimizing legal risks. We advise on:

  • Drafting investment and commercial contracts tailored to both German and French legal requirements.
  • Negotiating agreements with a sensitivity to both cultural and legal differences.
  • Resolving disputes effectively through litigation or arbitration.

With our expertise, you can confidently navigate legal complexities and achieve your business goals across borders.

Efficient Contract Management for Cross-Border Success

Managing international contracts effectively is crucial to the success of any cross-border project. We support you in identifying and addressing potential issues early on, minimizing the risk of disputes and costly delays. Our services include:

  • Ongoing support for contract implementation in both jurisdictions.
  • Proactive management of claims to protect your interests.
  • Representation in both contentious and non-contentious matters.

With lawyers admitted to practice in Paris and Lyon, we offer flexible legal support, ensuring that we can meet your needs efficiently, whether in person or via virtual consultations.

International Dispute Resolution: Protecting Your Interests Across Borders

While we prioritize amicable dispute resolution, our team is fully prepared to represent your interests in court or arbitration when necessary. We offer:

  • Litigation before German and French courts.
  • Representation in arbitration proceedings under ICC, DIS, ICSID, LCIA, SCC, Swiss, and other leading arbitration rules.
  • Strategic advice to avoid unnecessary delays, costs, and complexities.

With our direct handling of cases in both jurisdictions, we offer streamlined, cost-effective solutions that eliminate the need for external counsel.

Specialized Advice on Agency and Distribution Agreements

Agency agreements are critical in cross-border trade but must comply with distinct legal frameworks in Germany and France. We provide expert advice on:

  • Drafting and reviewing agency agreements.
  • Ensuring compliance with German, French, and international law.
  • Representing clients in disputes arising from agency and distribution agreements.

Establishing a Business in France: Your Trusted Legal Guide

Starting a business in France involves more than just legal paperwork. Our team provides comprehensive advice to simplify the process and ensure full compliance with local legal and economic requirements. We support you in:

  • Choosing the appropriate legal structure for your business.
  • Navigating French corporate laws and tax regulations.
  • Drafting necessary documents and filing them with the relevant French authorities.

Our approach ensures a smooth and efficient process, saving you time and resources while positioning your business for success in the French market.

Corporate Formation, Dissolution, and Mergers & Acquisitions Expertise

When it comes to company formation, dissolution, or M&A, our team offers expert advice on structuring your business or transactions across the Franco-German legal landscape. Whether you are starting a new venture, dissolving a business, or navigating a merger or acquisition, we provide:

  • Comprehensive advice on company formation, including selecting the right legal structure and filing necessary documentation.
  • Guidance on the dissolution of companies in compliance with both German and French laws.
  • Strategic support for M&A transactions, including drafting agreements, structuring deals, conducting due diligence, and managing regulatory requirements.

With our dual jurisdiction expertise, we offer you end-to-end legal support, helping you achieve your business goals efficiently and effectively.

Real Estate Transactions: Expertise Across Borders

Real estate transactions in Germany and France involve complex regulations and legal procedures. Our team provides comprehensive legal advice to guide you through the intricacies of cross-border real estate deals, whether you are purchasing, selling, or developing property. Our services include:

  • Due diligence and legal review of property transactions.
  • Structuring and negotiating real estate contracts in compliance with local laws.
  • Addressing tax and regulatory implications of cross-border real estate investments.

Cross-Border Inheritance Law: Addressing Franco-German Challenges

Inheritance matters between France and Germany can involve complex legal and tax issues. We offer comprehensive guidance to help you navigate the intricacies of Franco-German inheritance law, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations while addressing the personal and financial implications.

Questions

We provide specialized advice to French companies on complying with German laws, drafting contracts, and managing legal risks while expanding into the German market.
Our team guides German companies through French legal frameworks, assisting with company formation, compliance, and negotiating business contracts to ensure smooth entry into the French market.
We support French and German clients with real estate investments and transactions across borders, ensuring legal compliance, conducting due diligence, and managing contracts in both Germany and France.

Team

Petra Kuhn

Senior Counsel
Petra Kuhn is a French attorney registered in Lyon, with over two decades of experience. Based in Berlin, she provides expert legal advice to corporations on Franco-German business law and offers personalized services to private clients in the areas of cross-border real estate transactions, wealth and estate planning. She also specializes in the administration of estates under both Franco-German legal frameworks.

Adelheid Sutendi, LL.M.

Counsel
Adelheid Sutendi specializes in international commercial and investment arbitration. She primarily advises and represents clients in international dispute resolution proceedings and in matters of German and French commercial and corporate law.

Marie Badiane-Mbuyu

Of Counsel
Marie Badiane-Mbuyu is a French lawyer with extensive experience in project finance and legal matters within the energy and technology sectors. She is passionate about the intersection of technology and energy and is committed to developing innovative solutions to address challenges in energy infrastructure.

Pauline Coune

Of Counsel
Pauline Coune is a French attorney dedicated to projects in Maghreb and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Axel Heck

Of Counsel
Axel Heck specializes in complex transnational transactions, international private dispute resolution and strategic legal counseling, with a strong focus on the transatlantic and European-Indian market.