Standstill period

A standstill period protects effective remedies in public procurement by separating the award decision from contract conclusion. In Swiss practice, the relevant waiting time depends on the applicable federal or cantonal regime and on how the decision is notified. During this period, unsuccessful bidders may assess the reasons and file an appeal, sometimes requesting suspensive effect. If the contract is signed too early, remedies may be weakened and the authority may face legal consequences, although the exact effects vary by regime.