8 LAWYER MONTHLY NOVEMBER 2024 Maître Nathanaël Romus Nestled in the sun-kissed streets of Cannes, just steps away from the renowned Palais des Festivals, stands an exceptional legal institution—the oldest Notaire office in the city, established in 1481. At the helm is Maître Nathanaël Romus, a Notaire Partner dedicated to notarial practice since joining the firm in 2014 and becoming a partner in 2020. In France, the role of a Notaire is distinct from that of legal professionals in common law jurisdictions like the UK and the USA. Appointed directly by the Ministry of Justice, Notaires serve as public officers representing the state. They occupy a unique position of trust, responsible for collecting various taxes—such as VAT, inheritance, gift taxes, and stamp duties—on behalf of the French government. Maître Romus emphasises that Notaires also draft authentic contracts that carry the same legal weight as court decisions, providing clients with unparalleled security without the need for specialised insurance. In the realm of real estate, Notaires play a critical role. They hold a monopoly over registering sale contracts at the land registry, meaning clients must rely on their expertise rather than lawyers, bankers, or estate agents for this essential function. Maître Romus highlights the transparency of the Notaire’s fee structure, which is regulated by French law to ensure fairness and consistency—approximately 0.8% of the sale price plus VAT. Originally from Brussels, Belgium, Maître Romus has made the French Riviera his home since 2013, pursuing his passion for law in this idyllic setting. His office comprises five Notaire partners, four Notaire employees, and around 30 collaborators, each specialising in different legal areas. Alongside Maître Antoine Scriva, who focuses on international private civil law and serves a clientele that is approximately 70% foreign, Maître Romus ensures clients receive expert guidance tailored to their diverse needs. The firm also boasts specialists in public law and family and inheritance law, making it a comprehensive resource for legal services in the region. Specifically, Maître Frédéric Goiran and Maître Eve Ploton focus on public law, while Maître Wafaa Ridouan-Allali specialises in family and inheritance law. What sets this firm apart is not just its rich history and esteemed reputation but also its commitment to excellence in serving clients. The dedicated team includes Maître Olessia Moulioukova, who specialises in Eastern European clients. Together, Maître Romus and his colleagues navigate the complexities of modern legal challenges while upholding the timeless values of trust and integrity that define their profession. As we delve into the intricacies of notarial practice, Maître Nathanaël Romus stands as a beacon of professionalism and dedication in the vibrant legal landscape of Cannes. Navigating French Real Estate: Trust, Transparency, and Tradition
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