Industry Sectors
Manufacturing and Consumer Products
Achieving growth means seeking out opportunity, and often that requires delivering services and goods to customers in countries other than your own. At Conway & Partners we understand what it means from a legal standpoint to manufacture and sell one’s products across national boundaries whether it be through an agent, distributor or direct sale of goods. Advising and assisting clients involved in international trade is one of the core activities of Conway & Partners.
Product Distribution
A distribution agreement can be a complex document that addresses several different legal principles. Beyond simply contract law, issues related to tax law, regulation of competition product liability and international law can all be implicated in a distribution relationship. We are used to working with parties engaged in international distribution and help structure arrangements to fit within the regulatory and legal framework governing such transactions. At Conway & Partners we offer the type of experience needed in order to achieve a successful result. Our attorneys not only have a long history of advising and drafting distribution, agency and sale of good agreements on behalf of our clients, they also publish and lecture on this topic at the university level.
Technology and Trademark Licensing
Selling knowledge and licensing trade names and marks is an important aspect of the modern global economy. The licensing of intellectual property often accompanies the sale of goods and products on the international level. Companies involved in such transactions should beware of the legal risks involved in such transfers and adequately prepare themselves. Our professionals have considerable experience in this area and can provide efficient and comprehensive advice.
Selling Products in the United States
The United States is the biggest consumer market in the world yet European companies are often concerned about doing business there because of the fear of liability to which they may be exposed. Big headlines about product liability lawsuits, the cost of American litigation and catch phrases such as “punitive damages” often stick in the minds of European product manufacturers and can cause a certain amount of reticence. Yet, to avoid selling goods in the United States is to ignore a huge opportunity.
At Conway & Partners we have an integrated team of American and Dutch trained attorneys who understand the issues involved in transatlantic trade, and can help lower the risks inherent in doing business in the United States. Our attorneys regularly advise parties on the different options which are available to businesses seeking a secure path to profit in the U.S.
Selling Products in Europe
For manufacturers based outside of the European Union, the various rules on registering products, the regulation of competition and other laws applicable to the distribution of goods can also seem overwhelming. The team at Conway & Partners is well placed to assist parties who are looking to distribute their products in Europe because we understand both the legal regime within the E.U. and the expectations of our foreign clients. We know what the terrain, and can help you navigate to your goals.
Litigation/ADR
No one likes to think about disputes when closing a deal. Nevertheless, it is prudent to anticipate “what if?”. Our lawyers have substantial experience in litigation/ADR and can help parties involved in the cross border sale of goods be prepared in case a dispute arises. There often are special rules which apply to distributors and agents when it comes to terminating a contract or even where and how a complaint can be brought, so businesses involved in such matters should be prepared in advance.
In the event a dispute indeed arises, our attorneys are seasoned litigators and arbitration practitioners.