Maurice Crespi

Maurice is a highly respected attorney who has established himself as a leading expert in the field of blockchain law. With over 25 years of experience in commercial law and litigation, he has combined his legal expertise with his passion for technology to become a trailblazer in the blockchain industry.

In 2017, Maurice founded the first blockchain department in South Africa, which quickly became a go-to destination for clients seeking legal solutions for their blockchain needs. His unique approach encompasses both the legal and technological aspects of blockchain, providing clients with comprehensive advice on developing tokens, wallets, exchanges, NFTs, and other blockchain-related matters.

Maurice’s ground-breaking work in the field of blockchain law includes the development of the Cowrie Token (www.mycowrie.org), the world’s first turnkey ICO by a law firm. He specializes in what he calls “Crypto 3.0”, the intersection of technology and law, which involves tokenization of real-world assets, NFTs that transfer legal rights, security and utility token offerings, and fractionalization of property using NFTs or fungible tokens.

With his team of tech experts, Maurice can offer comprehensive assistance to clients with all aspects of their technological requirements, which is a world first for a law firm.

As a leading expert in the field of blockchain law, Maurice can help clients navigate the emerging tax and regulatory landscape for blockchain enterprises. He has a deep understanding of the legal and regulatory challenges that blockchain enterprises face and can provide valuable advice on compliance with regulations, including anti-money laundering and know-your-customer requirements. Additionally, Maurice stays up-to-date on the latest regulatory developments in the blockchain industry, ensuring that his clients receive the most current and accurate legal advice.

Maurice is an accomplished speaker and has been invited to speak at various conferences around the world, including the Nordic Blockchain Conference in Copenhagen and the Noah Conference in Zurich. He has also founded the South African Institute of Blockchain Practitioners, a leading association that provides training and certification programs for blockchain professionals.

Through his contributions to the blockchain industry, Maurice has played a crucial role in advancing the legal framework for emerging technologies, making him a true pioneer in the field of blockchain law.