Legal Support for Blockchain Startups

U.S. regulation is complex and layered — especially when tokens may fall under the definition of securities or other regulated instruments. We help navigate the Howey Test, Reves Test, and Capital Risk Test, all of which are used by regulators to evaluate tokenized assets and investment offerings. Our support also includes structuring SAFTs, preparing legal opinions for Tier-1 exchange listings, and ensuring AML/KYC compliance under FinCEN. We help crypto teams navigate U.S. regulation with precision — so that legal uncertainties don’t block product launches, partnerships, or listings.

With MiCA coming into force, the EU has created one of the world’s most comprehensive crypto regulatory frameworks. We assist with token classification, compliance documentation, and disclosure requirements under MiCA. Our services also include GDPR compliance — especially relevant for user-facing platforms collecting personal data — and general consumer protection law across EU member states. Whether you’re issuing utility tokens or developing a stablecoin, we help you stay aligned with EU expectations.

We provide legal support on cryptoasset regulation in the UK, covering compliance with FCA rules, marketing restrictions, and registration requirements where applicable. Beyond regulatory compliance, we rely on the UKJT Legal Statement on Cryptoassets and Smart Contracts — an authoritative interpretation published by the UK Jurisdiction Taskforce, confirming that digital assets can be legally recognized as property and that smart contracts are enforceable under English law. This statement serves as a legal foundation for token classification, contract enforceability, and risk disclosures in investor documentation and exchange listings. If your project is linked to the UK, our solicitors ensure its legal structure is aligned with both regulatory requirements and common law principles.

The UAE is quickly emerging as a major global center for blockchain regulation and innovation. Through the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) in Dubai, the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), and the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the country has created a tiered but progressive legal framework for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), token issuers, exchanges, and custody providers. We help clients navigate licensing under VARA, establish entities within ADGM, and comply with DFSA guidelines — including business plan disclosures, financial auditing, and internal governance requirements. Whether you’re looking to launch a crypto exchange, issue a token, or expand operations into the UAE, we ensure your legal framework is aligned with one of the most forward-thinking jurisdictions in the MENA region.

Singapore continues to be a global hub for crypto innovation, but it’s also tightly regulated. We provide legal guidance under the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), focusing on DPT licensing, token classification under the Payment Services Act, and cross-border legal strategies. Our clients in the region often operate in multiple jurisdictions simultaneously, and we help ensure that regional compliance doesn’t become a bottleneck to scale.

Switzerland remains one of the most structured and forward-thinking jurisdictions for blockchain projects. FINMA, the country’s financial regulator, provides a clear token classification framework that distinguishes between payment tokens, utility tokens, and asset tokens. We assist with regulatory assessments, no-action letters, and preparation of legal opinions under Swiss law — often required by exchanges or investors. Switzerland offers flexibility in legal structuring through foundations, associations, and AGs, but also applies strict AML rules and transparency standards. Whether you’re launching a token, setting up a Swiss entity, or planning a public sale, we help ensure full alignment with FINMA expectations from day one.