What surname for my child? "I've been going through divorce proceedings for a year now. I recently settled down with my new partner and I'm about to give birth to our child. What happens if our child is born before the divorce is finalized? Maria, Geneva Under article...
How can I take action against my employer?" I am currently employed by a company based in Geneva. However, I am domiciled in the canton of Vaud. Can I take legal action against my employer in the canton of Vaud? Nicolas A court cannot...
What impact does a divorce have on AHV? I read one of your columns on the system of property separation in the event of divorce. In it, you explained that it is possible, under a marriage contract, to make a clear separation between the assets of each spouse. If this is the case, what happens to the AVS? Roberto, Geneva...
Which broker is entitled to commission? I've just sold my house after going through several estate agents and two brokers are asking me for commission for their work... One actually introduced me to the buyer, while the other claims to have spent two whole months trying to sell my property without any of his...
What Criminal Code and what penalties for teenagers " In Switzerland, can a teenager who commits an offence go to prison? Will they have a criminal record as an adult? Ken There is a federal law governing the criminal status of minors, which provides for specific penalties applicable to young people aged 10...
What is a contract worth if the price is mistakenly too low? "I bought a briefcase on a Swiss website at a price of 70 francs less 20%. I received the goods within a few days. Two weeks after placing the order, I received an email informing me that there had been an error in the...
What does it really mean to be domiciled somewhere? "I'm often asked the question "Are you domiciled in Switzerland? What exactly does "being domiciled" mean? Can you just have an address, or do you have to file your papers, take out health insurance, pay tax, etc? Véronique, Vaud The legal concept of domicile is...
What does usufruct cover? "I own a villa, am married and have three children from a previous marriage. I have arranged for the villa to revert to my children on my death, but for the usufruct to revert to my wife. If she no longer wishes to live there, can she demand a periodic financial contribution from one of her children?
What can an unmarried mother get? "I had a daughter 6 months ago from a relationship that ended shortly before she was born. I wasn't married to the father, but he recognised her. But he refused to pay a penny, to see her or look after her. I...
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