Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Italian legal services, business law, real estate transactions, and working with our practice.
I specialize in several key areas of Italian law:
Yes! I regularly assist international clients with Italian legal matters. I am fluent in Italian, English, and Spanish, making it easy to communicate complex legal issues. Whether you're a foreign investor, expatriate, or international business, I can guide you through Italian legal requirements and procedures.
I am fluent in Italian (native), English (fluent), and Spanish (fluent). This multilingual capability allows me to serve international clients effectively and handle cross-border legal matters.
I maintain offices in two major Italian cities:
Milan Office
Via Aurelio Saffi 25
20123 Milan, Italy
Cagliari Office
Via Pierluigi da Palestrina 22
09129 Cagliari, Italy
I also offer remote consultations via video conference for clients who cannot visit in person.
Legal fees vary depending on the complexity and nature of your case. I offer several fee structures:
I provide transparent fee quotes during the initial consultation and always confirm costs in writing before beginning work.
The most common business structures in Italy are:
The best choice depends on your business size, growth plans, liability concerns, and tax considerations. I can analyze your specific situation and recommend the optimal structure.
With proper preparation, company formation typically takes 2-4 weeks:
Expedited processing is available for urgent cases. The timeline can vary based on the complexity of your business structure and whether all shareholders are present in Italy.
Yes! Italy welcomes foreign investment. Requirements vary by nationality:
EU Citizens: Same rights as Italian citizens. No special permits required.
Non-EU Citizens: Can own 100% of Italian companies. May need:
I assist foreign clients with all registration requirements and visa applications to ensure compliance with Italian law.
Warranties are general statements by the seller about the condition of the company being sold (e.g., "financial statements are accurate"). If breached, the buyer can claim damages but must prove loss.
Indemnities are specific protections against identified risks (e.g., "seller will cover any costs from ongoing litigation"). These provide dollar-for-dollar compensation and cannot be limited by disclosure schedules.
The key difference: warranties can be qualified ("to the seller's knowledge"), while indemnities provide absolute protection for specific risks. In acquisition agreements, both protect buyers but in different ways. Learn more in our detailed guide.
Significant changes took effect in 2026:
Companies must comply by mid-2026. I help businesses conduct compliance audits and restructure governance to meet new requirements. Read our full analysis.
Yes! Foreign nationals can purchase Italian property with minimal restrictions:
Certain restricted areas (military zones, border regions) may have additional requirements. I guide foreign buyers through the entire purchase process, ensuring legal compliance and protecting your interests.
Rent-to-buy allows you to rent a property with an option to purchase it later, with rent payments partially credited toward the purchase price.
Key Benefits:
Important: Contracts must be notarized and registered. Tax treatment varies based on whether purchase is binding or optional. Maximum contract duration is 10 years. Read our comprehensive guide to rent-to-buy contracts.
Beyond the purchase price, budget for these costs (typically 10-15% of property value):
Main Expenses:
First-Time Buyers: May qualify for reduced registration tax (2% vs 9%) if the property becomes primary residence within 18 months.
The Italian property purchase follows these steps:
Preliminary Agreement (Compromesso)
Sign contract and pay 10-20% deposit. Property taken off market.
Due Diligence (30-90 days)
Legal checks, title search, cadastral verification, technical survey.
Final Deed (Rogito)
Notary executes sale deed. Pay balance and transfer ownership.
Registration
Notary registers deed with Land Registry. You receive keys and title.
Total timeline: typically 2-4 months. I represent buyers throughout the process, conducting due diligence and ensuring a safe transaction.
While not legally required, hiring a lawyer is highly recommended, especially for foreign buyers. Here's why:
Investment Protection: Legal fees are small compared to property value and can save you from costly mistakes.
Scheduling a consultation is easy:
I typically respond within 24 hours and can schedule consultations at either Milan or Cagliari office, or via video conference.
To make the most of our consultation, please bring:
Don't worry if you don't have everything—we can discuss your situation and determine what additional information is needed.
Yes! I offer secure video consultations for clients who cannot visit my offices in person. This is particularly useful for:
Video consultations are conducted through secure platforms and are just as confidential and effective as in-person meetings. Documents can be shared electronically for review.
Timeline varies significantly based on the type and complexity of your matter:
Simple Matters (1-4 weeks):
Contract review, simple legal opinions, document preparation
Medium Complexity (1-3 months):
Company formation, property purchase, standard negotiations
Complex Matters (3-12 months):
M&A transactions, major restructuring, complex litigation
Litigation (12-36 months):
Court proceedings can take 1-3 years depending on jurisdiction and complexity
I provide realistic timeline estimates during our initial consultation and keep you informed of progress throughout.
I currently serve as Of Counsel at FDL Studio Legale, a distinguished Milan-based law firm. This partnership allows me to:
This affiliation enhances my ability to deliver exceptional service while maintaining my individual practice and personal attention to each client.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific legal needs