From 11 to 17 May 2025, the students of the Executive Master of Laws (LL.M.) in Company, Foundation and Trust Law undertook a nearly week-long study trip to New York and Washington, D.C.

Under the academic direction of Prof. Dr. Alexandra Butterstein, LL.M., and Prof. Dr. Francesco A. Schurr, the students gained in-depth insights into U.S. trust and corporate law.

New York: Insights into U.S. Trust Law

The study trip began in New York with a thematic focus on international wealth planning at Baker McKenzie and Schwartz Sladkus Reich Greenberg & Atlas LLP. At the prestigious law firm Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP, participants gained practical insights into U.S. trust structures for international clients. From an academic perspective, visits to the Cardozo School of Law, New York University School of Law, and New York Law School added significant value. A particular highlight was the visit to the Permanent Mission of the Principality of Liechtenstein to the United Nations, where Myriam and Noah Oehri provided an overview of the Mission’s work.

Washington, D.C.: Encounters with Law and Diplomacy

The second part of the trip took place in Washington, D.C., beginning with visits to Georgetown University and American University. Here, students engaged in workshops on legal approaches to wealth transfer. This was followed by a visit to the U.S. Supreme Court, including a guided tour of the court and a courtroom lecture. The day concluded with a visit to the Embassy of Liechtenstein in Washington, D.C., where Ambassador Georg Sparber welcomed the group.

To round off the trip, current challenges in private wealth structuring were discussed during a session at the law firm McDermott Will & Emery LLP. Overall, the study trip offered participants a unique opportunity to link theoretical knowledge with practical experience while expanding their international networks and professional expertise.