Glossary

Swiss Code of Obligations

The Swiss Code of Obligations has regulated many different types of contracts: the agency contract, the fixed-term loan, the contract of sale, the lease etc. However, social development has led to the emergence of new types of contracts which are not regulated by statutory provisions but have nevertheless prevailed in today’s business world: leasing agreements, software agreements, bank contracts etc. The principle of freedom of contract still applies in Switzerland. However, it is being increasingly restricted by formal requirements and guidelines stipulated by the legislator.