MEET ASSOCIATE SKANDER ATTIA
Skander Attia is an Associate in the Geneva office of SKANDAMIS AVOCATS, where he works across civil, commercial and criminal litigation, as well as public and administrative law matters. He also supports the firm’s work in international arbitration and cross-border disputes.
Born and raised in Tunisia before moving to Geneva, Skander brings an international outlook and a thoughtful, measured approach to his work. He is known for his calm presence, careful preparation and ability to navigate complex disputes with clarity and perspective.
Q&A WITH SKANDER
YOU’VE BEEN WORKING IN DISPUTE RESOLUTION FOR SOME TIME. WHAT DREW YOU TO LITIGATION IN PARTICULAR?
My objective was to become a skilled lawyer, and I believe it requires knowing how to make hard-hitting arguments as a litigator. Disputes tend to often resolve amicably once the other side understands the risks involved in litigation. It is also very satisfying to solve complicated problems.
AS YOU’VE GAINED EXPERIENCE, HOW HAS YOUR APPROACH TO DISPUTES EVOLVED?
Early on, the focus is often on mastering the law and the procedure. With experience, you start to see the bigger picture. I’ve become more attentive to strategy and to what will actually move a case forward for the client.
YOU WORK ACROSS CIVIL, COMMERCIAL AND CRIMINAL MATTERS - HOW DO YOU NAVIGATE SUCH VARIETY?
I also have cases in public and administrative law! Working at SKANDAMIS AVOCATS is very demanding because the highest level is always expected and the range to cover is broad. But it is a great opportunity for young lawyers looking to gain experience quickly.
WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING - OR LEAST ENJOYABLE - PART OF YOUR ROLE?
The intensity. Often, when one sees a lawyer, it is at a time of crisis and they are counting on you. I put great pressure on myself to be up to the task.
IS THERE ANYTHING ABOUT LITIGATION THAT PEOPLE OUTSIDE THE PROFESSION TEND TO MISUNDERSTAND?
Often, how much preparation happens away from the courtroom, the negotiation table or even a meeting. What looks spontaneous from the outside is usually the result of careful planning and a lot of work behind the scenes.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE PRESSURE IN HIGH-STAKES OR SENSITIVE MATTERS?
Preparation is key. If you have anticipated every scenario, the pressure will be there, but you will also have a calm that comes from knowing you’re ready.
HOW DOES WORKING IN GENEVA INFLUENCE YOUR APPROACH?
Geneva naturally brings an international element to most cases. It reinforces the need for accuracy and clear communication, especially when dealing with clients or counsel from different jurisdictions.
YOU WERE BORN AND RAISED IN TUNISIA, BEFORE COMING TO GENEVA. DO YOU OFTEN USE YOUR SKILLS IN ARABIC FOR WORK?
Whenever the occasion presents itself. I was involved in a succession matter governed by Saudi law some time ago. As it is a predominantly Sharia-based legal system, I had to quote the relevant Quranic verses and related sources in a memorandum, as those rules directly govern the distribution of the estate.
WHAT MAKES A CASE PARTICULARLY SATISFYING FOR YOU?
Winning! It feels great knowing that your work helped make a difference.
IF YOU WEREN’T A LAWYER, WHAT COULD YOU IMAGINE YOURSELF DOING?
When I was little, I wanted to be an astronaut. But I quickly discovered I get sick in transportation, so I had to settle for something more grounded. I would probably work in the tech industry since I have always followed its developments closely.
HOW DO YOU LIKE TO UNWIND OUTSIDE OF WORK OR AFTER A STRESSFUL DAY?
Anything that doesn’t involve emails or tracked changes. I enjoy combat sports; it’s a good way to clear the mind.
QUICK-FIRE WITH SKANDER
EARLY MORNINGS OR LATE NIGHTS?
Late nights are when I get my best ideas. I am less distracted by meetings at night - but I am trying to go to sleep earlier!
ONE WORD YOUR COLLEAGUES WOULD USE FOR YOU?
Thorough.
FAVOURITE COURTROOM DRAMA?
Primal Fear with Richard Gere and Edward Norton.
ONE HABIT THAT KEEPS YOU FOCUSED?
Deep breaths.
SOMETHING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOU?
I am an expert ping-pong player, and I will accept a challenge anytime anywhere!
FAVOURITE BOOK?
The Name of the Rose from Umberto Eco. It’s a murder mystery set in a monastery in the 14th century. The movie version is also good; Sean Connery was in the leading role.
MOST MEMORABLE HOLIDAY?
5-day trek to the Machu Picchu shortly after a hurricane. El Niño collapsed part of the mountains, and we had to do more climbing than intended. It was way harder to answer emails in this context.
FAVOURITE DISH TO COOK?
Lablabi! It’s a traditional Tunisian dish for the winter, super easy to make. Look it up!
FAVOURITE FIGHTER?
Currently in MMA, Francis Ngannou for his wild style and his life story. In boxing, Oleksandr Usyk for his dominance and humbleness.
ONE SKILL YOU’RE STILL KEEN TO DEVELOP?
Surfing! I have managed to get on the surfboard many times already, but I have yet to become one with the waves.
