Company Law: Key Principles and Structures

This lecture covers the fundamental aspects of Swiss company law, focusing on the main sources of legislation, including the Code of Obligations and the Civil Code. It discusses various organizational forms such as partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations, detailing their characteristics, registration requirements, and legal implications. The instructor explains the commercial register's role in providing transparency about company existence and structure. Key topics include the differences between simple partnerships and general partnerships, the liability of partners, and the process of creating a company limited by shares. The lecture also addresses the importance of articles of incorporation, shareholder rights, and the implications of capital contributions. Throughout the session, practical examples illustrate the application of these legal principles in real-world scenarios, emphasizing the significance of understanding company law for business operations in Switzerland.