Attorney Ana Maria Duverge in front of Milan Cathedral

International Trade Relations

Legal counsel and negotiation for contracts, partnerships, and foreign markets

I assist companies, SMEs, and investors in structuring, negotiating, and safeguarding international business relationships between Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and the Dominican Republic. We build relationships on a solid legal foundation, preventing risks and disputes related to the execution of agreements.

Before starting a collaboration, it is necessary to establish clear rules

Entering a new market or establishing an international partnership offers extraordinary opportunities for growth, but requires precise contractual discipline to navigate differing regulations, languages, and business practices.

My job isn't simply to draft a document, but to structure a business transaction based on sustainable terms, transparent accountability, and concrete safeguards for your business.

Enter into international contracts for supply, sale, import-export, or services

Establish overseas sales networks by appointing agents, distributors, or local representatives

Protect know-how and confidential information through NDAs and Letters of Intent (LoIs) prior to negotiations

Establish partnerships and joint ventures by defining contributions, governance, costs, and profit sharing

Preventing or resolving a commercial dispute (through mediation, conciliation, arbitration, or ADR clauses)

Coordinate legal and tax teams operating under different legal systems and in different jurisdictions

Services and Areas of Intervention

01

Preliminary Agreements, NDAs, and Protection of Trade Secrets

  • Drafting of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and Letters of Intent;

  • Exclusivity provisions in negotiations and the protection of trademarks and patents in target countries.

02

Distribution Networks, Agency, and Import-Export

  • International distribution and agency agreements (definition of territories, exclusivity, and minimum volumes);

  • Supply agreements, licensing agreements, and provisions governing warranties, deliveries, and payments.

03

Partnerships and Joint Ventures for SMEs

  • Definition of the collaboration model (contractual or corporate);

  • Allocation of investments, operational roles, intellectual property rights, and project exit procedures

04

Safeguard Clauses and Dispute Resolution (ADR & Arbitration)

  • Choice of governing law and jurisdiction;

  • Inclusion of arbitration, mediation, and conciliation clauses, as well as progressive dispute escalation mechanisms.

Geographic Focus and Intercultural Negotiation

Dominican Republic

Hyper-connectivity between Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and the Dominican Republic

Geographical proximity or emerging markets do not imply legal uniformity. I offer a strategic bridge for European companies expanding into the Dominican market and for foreign companies seeking to operate in Europe.

Intercultural Negotiation and Mediation

In international contexts, misunderstandings often arise from different approaches to negotiating or interpreting contractual obligations. Direct experience in the countries mentioned ensures that agreements are legally valid and effectively enforceable in those jurisdictions.

The 6-Step Method: From Analysis to Relationship Management

PHASE 1

Transaction Analysis: Preliminary Assessment of Business Objectives and the Markets Involved.

PHASE 2

Defining the structure: selecting the most appropriate contractual arrangement (distribution, agency, joint venture, licensing).

STEP 3

Protection During the Preliminary Phase: Signing NDAs and Letters of Intent to Exchange Documentation Securely.

STEP 4

Negotiating Terms: Defining Key Points (Exclusivity, Warranties, Prices, Liability).

STEP 5

Drafting and ADR Clauses: Drafting the contract, including safeguard and arbitration clauses.

STEP 6

Ongoing assistance: support with implementation, any contract amendments, or the resolution of issues.

Do you still have any doubts?

FAQs on International Contracts and Relationships

How can I protect myself before sharing data and know-how with a potential foreign partner?

By first signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) and a preliminary framework agreement that governs the use of confidential information.

How is it determined which law applies to an international contract?

The parties may freely choose it in the contract. In the absence of an express choice, the rules of private international law apply based on the subject matter of the agreement.

What is the key difference between an agency agreement and a distribution agreement?

An agent enters into contracts on behalf of the client company; a distributor purchases the products and resells them in its own name and on its own behalf. The legal responsibilities and protections differ significantly.

Is it always advisable to include an arbitration or mediation (ADR) clause?

Not always, but it is extremely useful for high-stakes cases where the length of time required by the ordinary foreign court system or the need for confidentiality would make a lawsuit impractical.

Are you considering a contract, a partnership , or an international business project?

Before signing agreements or entering into negotiations with foreign counterparties, define the rules and provisions for protecting your company's assets.

Ana Maria Duverge Montero

I am a lawyer who practices internationally; for years, I have been assisting individuals and businesses who wish to invest, relocate, or work between Europe and the Dominican Republic.

I combine international legal expertise with a practical understanding of cultural differences, legal systems, and negotiation practices in various countries.

This allows me to offer you:

  • truly effective cross-border legal advice;

  • protection for international investments;

  • assistance with the formation of foreign companies;

  • assistance with relocation and residency in Italy, Spain, or the Dominican Republic;

  • Professional management of business relationships between companies in different countries.