Heuking > Dusseldorf, Germany > Firm Profile
Heuking Offices
GEORG-GLOCK-STRAßE 4
40474 DÜSSELDORF
Germany
Heuking > The Legal 500 Rankings
Public sector > Public procurement Tier 1
Heuking's procurement practice focuses on advising the public sector and assists not only cities and federal states but also the federal government, various ministries and transport associations with projects of often political and social relevance. In addition to specialising in the transport sector, where the group is regularly involved in large infrastructure projects, it also has extensive expertise in the IT sector and review proceedings. The practice is jointly led by Ute Jasper, who is considered an expert in public procurement law and in the transport and regulated industries, and Martin Schellenberg, who has extensive experience in PPP. Susanne Christine Monsig (procurement procedures for the realization of large infrastructure projects) made partner in January 2023.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘HKLW’s public procurement law team is characterized by its outstanding experience in public procurement law. The team delivers particularly practice-oriented solutions with strategic vision. Even in award procedures with particularly difficult requirements and demanding framework conditions, the team achieves legally secure and at the same time economically excellent results.’
‘The HKLW team assists us with complicated, politically explosive proceedings, each with an order value in the tens of millions. We are very satisfied! We are not only impressed by its quick and competent advice, but also by the holistic approach of Dr. Jasper and Dr. Marx’s team. ‘
‘They don’t just limit themselves to legal problems, they also consider political and economic aspects. Public procurement, budget and state aid law are taken into account as “guard rails” for a good overall solution.’
‘Christopher Marx always keeps an overview, develops models and can explain the procedures to all those involved – including in political committees – in an understandable way and promote approval. His pragmatic nature and legal competence lead to great contracts. The contract negotiations he conducts are always constructive and enable the other party to accept a solution that is also suitable for him.’
‘The team’s know-how is second to none and there is a very trusting client relationship.’
‘Martin Schellenberg gets to the heart of the matter in a short, concise but very precise way. Through his unpretentious approach, facts are formulated solidly and convincingly.’
‘Efforts are always appropriate to the matter. The team is “worth the price” because they achieve good economic results while the budget for the consultation is kept.’
‘Ute Jasper: With her, the award team is led by an outstanding personality who can develop and implement strategies even for the most difficult problems.’
Corporate and M&A > M&A
Heuking advises upper mid-market clients on corporate acquisitions and sales, public takeovers, joint ventures and management buy-outs as well as buy-ins and has experience in the regulated markets, including the healthcare, finance and transport sectors; further expertise exists in transaction-related tax matters. The practice group is jointly led by Boris Dürr, who oversees M&A and private equity transactions in the technology, service and mechanical engineering sectors, and Thorsten Kuthe, who is well versed in corporate law and public takeovers. Oliver Treptow advises on transactions in the healthcare, pharmaceutical and life sciences industries and Helge-Torsten Wöhlert is the key contact for litigation and transactions related to France. Bodo Dehne, who made partner in January 2023, is an experienced contact for private equity and venture capital transactions. The intersection of M&A, PE, VC also represents the focus of Slaven Kovacevic, who joined the team from Simmons & Simmons in November 2022, while Kai Erhardt, who made partner in January 2023, handles corporate finance matters in addition to M&A.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Nice, competent colleagues. Fast replies.’
‘No legal team has been so committed, fast, available 24/7 and always friendly and fun. Any time! Very strong entrepreneurial profile and sparring partner on a strategic level.’
‘Heuking has all the necessary skills in the legal area and beyond on offer and can cover all topics with its own team and partners. We were particularly impressed by the team’s commitment to successfully completing our deal on an ambitious schedule.’
‘Bodo Dehne: Client focus – high level of commitment – lots of experience in dealing with critical situations – great wealth of experience – good feeling for timing – clear structure and advancing on next steps.’
‘The team is very pragmatic, straight to the point, no ramblings, uncomplicated, pleasant to work with.’
Corporate and M&A > Corporate Tier 3
Heuking's sizeable team covers the entire range of corporate issues and places particular emphasis on supporting cross-border M&A and private equity deals on buyer and seller side, while the practice is also regularly instructed by international companies from the financial, e-commerce and energy sectors to assist with general corporate matters. Capital and banking law expert Thorsten Kuthe and private equity and venture capital specialist Boris Dürr jointly head the practice which also includes compliance and stock corporation lawyer Mirko Sickinger and corporate and M&A lawyer Martin Imhof. In November 2022, salary partner Slaven Kovacevic (in addition to M&A, joint ventures and restructuring also PE and VC) joined from Simmons & Simmons while Patrick Müller (corporate housekeeping, restructuring) made partner in January 2023.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Networking with other law firms and specialists in tax and corporate law were excellent. Sometimes meetings with changing members were possible within a few hours and sometimes even on weekends. The communication between partners was correct, which was a small feat in view of the different complexities in our society.’
‘Without HKLW we would never have been able to conduct the negotiations so successfully.’
‘The team is very pragmatic, straight to the point, no vague explanations, uncomplicated, pleasant cooperation.’
‘Martin Imhof: Broad knowledge, uncomplicated.’
‘Dr. Mirko Sickinger impresses with his outstanding legal knowledge, confident demeanor and sovereign charisma. He is informed about complex issues down to the last detail and yet never loses sight of the bigger picture and the strategic goal.’
‘It’s the mix of absolute professionalism and personal attention at the same time.’
‘Heuking has all the necessary legal skills in (but also on more extensive topics) on offer and can cover all topics with its own team and partners. We were particularly impressed by the team’s commitment to successfully completing our deal on the ambitious schedule.’
Industry focus > Energy Tier 3
Heuking advises energy suppliers, project developers and investors on a wide array of matters. The Düsseldorf team, led by practice head Marc Baltus, assists with strategic projects, such as cooperation agreements, contract drafting and regulatory issues, particularly in the renewable energies sector; this approach was further strengthened with the partner appointment of Tobias Woltering in January 2022. The team in Hamburg complements this advice offering with capacities in contentious energy law matters; while Stefan Bretthauer is experienced in antitrust proceedings and merger controls. The Cologne-based team, including Oliver von Rosenberg, primarily advises energy companies as well as private equity and venture capital investors on transactions.Practice head(s):
Marc Baltus
Other key lawyers:
Tobias Woltering; Sonja Groht; Christina Dahmen; Stefan Bretthauer; Oliver von Rosenberg
Testimonials
‘Marc Baltus is a very good contact person.’
Information technology > Data protection Tier 3
Heuking‘s comprehensive data protection expertise encompasses outsourcing projects and related contract drafting, cross-border data transfers, software launches and the implementation of data protection audits. In addition, the team around Thomas Jansen and Hans Markus Wulf is well versed in transactions, which is also a core focus of Michael Kuska. Former salary partner and expert in data protection Britta Hinzpeter joined Kaiser X Labs as head of legal in May 2022.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Very good breadth of the team, proven specialists. Up to date.’
‘The Heuking team is always characterized by the solution-oriented and pragmatic approach to complex problems.’
‘They give concrete cost estimates in advance, which they then meticulously stick to during implementation. This transparency combined with the technical know-how is very well received.’
‘The combination of the key areas of IT, IP and data protection is to be emphasized – this means that the essential issues can be covered with a well-coordinated team, especially in the cloud or software development area as well as in complex IT projects.’
‘We found HKLW to be very competent and always practice-oriented. Despite the size and diversity, there is a very pleasant medium-sized company orientation.’
‘Complex projects are equipped with a team that works well together, so that as a client you feel very well advised and represented.’
‘Astrid Luedtke: Good knowledge of the industry, to the point.’
‘The collaboration with Dr. Thomas Jansen is excellent. From the analysis of contracts to the assessment of legal situations, I am satisfied without exception. Accessibility and the high-quality creation of documents are crucial for me.’
Work highlights
- Advice to the Verkehrsverbund Rhein Ruhr on the implementation of a new check-in/be-out system as part of the introduction of the new electronic transport tariffs in North Rhine-Westphalia; including a comprehensive examination of the data protection roles of the transport companies involved and other parties involved, as well as the development of a corresponding agreement on joint responsibility and the design of the international data transfer as part of the hosting.
- Comprehensive product-related data protection advice to Arlo Technologies, Inc., in particular on new and innovative camera and WLAN functionalities.
- Advising the Santander Consumer Bank on data protection issues in connection with the introduction of HR management software. This concerns the substantive legality of software use within the German company and the transfer to other group companies associated with use, as well as questions of setup and implementation.
Information technology > Information technology and digitalisation Tier 3
Heuking is experienced in supporting IT projects in the telecoms sector, this interface competence was strengthened with the partner appointment of Christine Grau in January 2023, while the group also covers corporate law, transactions and contentious mandates. Capacities in connection with IT security, IT governance, data protection and the protection of trade secrets complement this offer. Among the key contacts are Dominik Eickemeier (IT and telecoms), Markus Lennartz (IT and telecoms as well as data protection and data security) and Philip Kempermann (software and app development and support for complex digitisation projects).Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘We recommend!’
‘High availability of the team’s resources. Constant and high willingness to help.’
‘Dr. Philip Kempermann is an outstanding expert with excellent industry knowledge and a solution-oriented way of working.’
‘All inquiries from our company are successfully processed by Mr. Jansen and his team. The collaboration is very pleasant and professional.’
‘The collaboration with Dr. Jansen was and is always very pleasant. He is very experienced in the areas of IT, technology law and data protection law due to his many years of activity in these areas, keeps a cool head even in difficult situations and advises in an extremely pragmatic and solution-oriented manner, overall a strategically thinking team player.’
Work highlights
- Advising 1&1 Versatel GmbH on the negotiation and conclusion of several contracts as part of the development of the United Internet Group’s 1&1 5G mobile network.
- Advising FTI Touristik GmbH on revising the group-wide IT security strategy.
Information technology > IT transactions and outsourcing Tier 3
Heuking‘s team comprehensively advises on IT law, including IT security, data protection and the protection of trade secrets as well as IT governance. The team is particularly experienced in telecommunications law in connection with the expansion and operation of telecoms infrastructures. The practice is jointly led by Dominik Eickemeier and Markus Lennartz and also covers data protection issues in the context of transactions and outsourcing projects. Britta Hinzpeter left the practice and has taken on an in-house position in March 2022. Lutz Martin Keppeler (IT outsourcing, transactions, IT security law and open source projects) made partner in January 2023.Practice head(s):
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Insurance > Insurance litigation Tier 3
Heuking's versatile team comprehensively covers all insurance disputes, including mass proceedings and business interruption insurance matters. Rüdiger Schnug and Michael Lauterbach, who are both well versed in professional liability insurance, jointly head the team. Coverage issues and their international enforcement as well as manager liability are among the core strengths of Herbert Palmberger. Martin Karwatzki advises on D&O-related major losses and on recourse pertaining to property insurance, while Julia Degen is well versed in business interruption insurance. Jürgen Wolters (pecuniary loss and liability insurance) joined Wilhelm Rechtsanwälte Partnerschaft von Rechtsanwälten mbB in May 2022.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Herbert Palmberger has many years of in-depth international experience in the area of claims disputes, provides excellent analyzes with an excellent and regular feedback process.’
Intellectual property > Patent litigation: solicitors Tier 3
Heuking works for a primarily medium-sized client base, with the team increasingly assisting companies from the mechanical engineering, medical products and automotive sectors. The patent practice is active in Germany and also internationally through various networks and most recently handled a contentious matter on lighting technologies via its India desk. Anton Horn (focus automotive) heads the unit which also includes Sabine Dethof (mechanical engineering and medical devices), senior associate Cécile Corbet (technology and media), who frequently deals with issues related to France, as well as Philipp Schröler, who made salary partner in January 2022 and focuses on the pharmaceutical and life sciences areas.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Philipp Schröler: Technical and legal expertise, quick learner and client-oriented. Anton Horn pragmatically seeks the best solution for the client, fast and clear communication and is legally and technically well versed.’
‘Anton Horn has been leading the patent practice very successfully for many years. Clear focus on real patent litigation for the industry. The team also has experience in validity proceedings before the EPO and the Federal Patent Court and also acts in these proceedings without patent lawyers. Very solid practice and experienced team.’
‘Anton Horn: Personally outstanding, professionally very good.’
‘Philipp Schröler: An excellent partner and litigator. Very responsive.’
‘Always well prepared, both before and after court.’
‘Anton Horn: Very flexible in the cooperation and responsive, adapts to the wishes and needs of the client.’
‘The entire cooperation was consistently effective and enjoyable: the work of the lawyers is highly professional. It is characterized by great legal expertise, an above-average understanding of technical contexts and a strong focus on the interests of the client. The way the lawyers work is result-oriented, effective and structured.’
‘Great legal expertise; above-average understanding of technical relationships; orientation towards the interests of the client; result-oriented, effective and structured way of working; prompt response to inquiries; courtesy and collegial appreciation.’
Key clients
Brødrene Hartmann
CeramOptec GmbH
EGGER
EnerDry A/S
Systemhouse s.p.r.l.
genOway
Kienle & Spiess
Intellectual property > Unfair competition Tier 3
Heuking's competition experience spans both non-contentious advice as well as litigation, while the team assists with relevant e-commerce issues, advertising matters and data protection- and copyright-related issues. Antje Münch, who focuses on TMT, and Christian Spintig, who is adept at product piracy cases, are among the group's key contacts. Markus Lennartz in Frankfurt and Dominik Eickemeier in Cologne jointly head the practice and both focus on the TMT and IT sectors.Practice head(s):
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Germany > Private clients and non-profits Tier 3
Heuking advises nationally and internationally on all topics pertaining to private clients with a focus on tax and succession law. Practice head Gunter Mühlhaus advises wealthy clients on complex issues of succession and inheritance law, while Hans Gummert is experienced in the establishment and restructuring of foundations and also covers corporate law issues. Jörn Matuszewski and Anne Erning have expertise in tax law, which leads to frequent instructions by entrepreneurial families on tax optimisation of asset structures, as well as on foundations and estate administration. Sandra Kalthoff supports clients in family law issues, including divorce, and is experienced in dispute resolution.Practice head(s):
Gunter Mühlhaus
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Testimonials
‘Very established.’
‘Dr. Gunter Mühlhaus and Anne Erning know each other very well.’
Real estate and construction > Construction (including construction litigation) Tier 3
Heuking team supports companies, cities and local authorities in plant construction and infrastructure projects, urban development projects, broadband expansion and specialist properties; the interface between construction law and public procurement law is also covered by the group. Construction litigation is another core focus, where Armin Freiherr von Grießenbeck offers relevant expertise, in particular arbitration proceedings. Practice head Stephan Freund is also experienced in arbitration proceedings and litigation, while advising on construction, architectural, tenancy and lease law in the non-contentious space.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Our contact person is always available at short notice. We often receive a quick assessment of the situation over the phone and can build on that. The quality of the support is very good.’
Restructuring and insolvency > Restructuring Tier 3
Heuking covers all aspects of corporate crisis, restructuring and insolvency. This includes transaction support for buyers and sellers as well as representing insolvency administrators, company managers and board members in insolvency-related criminal law procedures, D&O liability matters and the assertion of claims. The practice is led by Georg Streit, who recently assisted with restructurings in the real estate, energy, healthcare, public transport and automotive sectors, and includes Kai Uwe Büchler (restructuring of pension liabilities). Catrin Merten, Michael Pauli and David Loszynski are all experienced in both insolvency law and dispute resolution and made partners in January 2022 (Merten as salary partner and Pauli and Loszynski as equity partners).Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge of the relevant area of law, assertiveness, perseverance and clarity characterize the restructuring team around Prof. Dr. Georg Streit; ahead of many others!’
‘Prof. Dr Georg Streit convinces with his excellent knowledge of the entire insolvency law, in which he achieves impressive, scientific depth, but at the same time knows how to advise pragmatically and assertively.’
‘The team and Georg Streit is always approachable. In time-critical situations, one can always count on a suitable response time.’
‘One doesn’t just get correct, legal explanations, but also sufficient pragmatism.’
‘Georg Streit has been a reliable partner in the field of restructuring for years. With him at my side, I always knew I was in good hands and could always sleep peacefully.’
Trade and distribution > Trade, distribution and logistics Tier 3
The trade, distribution and logistics team at Heuking has a dual focus on two sub-areas: the design of national and international supply relationships and the creation of distribution systems. Here, the team also advises on distribution antitrust law and is frequently instructed by companies from the technology and automotive sectors. Practice head Reinhard Siegert is well versed in distribution antitrust law, while Martin Imhof covers the interface to corporate law. The firm’s Corporate Social Responsibility Task Force, which is jointly headed by Christoph Schork and Birgit Schreier, is also increasingly active in matters pertaining to the supply chain law and other ESG-related topics.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek’s wide range of skills paired with an extremely high degree of professionalism is always convincing.’
‘The extremely high level of commitment and the understanding of very specific issues are particularly appreciated.’
‘Sebastian Jungemeyer has outstanding expertise and was able to convince in a direct comparison to his colleagues from other law firms.’
Transport > Advice to the transport sector Tier 3
Heuking is renowned for its advice to the public sector on public transport procurement projects. The team covers the segments transport, traffic and infrastructure and, thanks to industry expertise and an interdisciplinary approach, advises on various matters, such as transport, logistics and corporate law. Practice head Carsten Schrader is well versed in supporting infrastructure projects; he jointly heads the team with Martin Imhof, who regularly assists with international joint ventures and cross-border transactions. Ute Jasper specialises in public sector issues, particularly the procurement of public transport services and rail vehicles. Cord Tomhave (transport and shipping law) left the firm in summer 2022.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘In addition to a high level of professionalism, Heuking is characterized by a high level of innovation in the design of complex contracts in the infrastructure sector.’
‘The cross-practice and multi-location cooperation enables the comprehensive, interest-based processing of the mandate.’
‘With Ute Jasper, Heuking has one of the outstanding experts in Germany for this field.’
‘The broad-based procurement law team at HKLW stands out from the competition in particular thanks to its wealth of experience, its pragmatic approach and its outstanding technical expertise.’
‘The team is well connected in the law firm.’
‘Ute Jasper has a sure instinct and professionally convincing authority for complex and politically explosive mandates and brings solution-oriented, individual proposals to the negotiations.’
‘Outstanding expertise in consulting. Solution-oriented approach when dealing with problems, taking current legislation into account.’
‘These are excellently trained lawyers who are not afraid to acquire the specialist knowledge required for the necessary infrastructure areas and operational issues. There is absolute equal treatment among each other, which creates a very harmonious atmosphere for the client in all meetings.’
Banking and finance > Investment funds Tier 4
Heuking's investment fund practice is headed by Michael Dröge, who covers investment funds, corporate law, M&A and real estate, which is characteristic of the firm’s full-service approach. The team advises capital management companies on various regulatory issues pertaining to mutual and special AIFs, including fund launches, sales issues and compliance. The practice also assists clients with the defense against investor claims under capital investment law, where the team exclusively represents sellers.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Christoph Gringel; Sven Johannsen; Julia Cramer
Testimonials
‘Long-established track record and thus excellent wealth of experience in all conceivable specialist areas on this topic.’
‘The team is characterized by competent, effective and timely processing and offers one-stop advice for all required service modules.’
‘Even for non-lawyers very understandable and comprehensible way of expression – excellent work (think outside the box, present sensible options/alternatives, know all practical implementation possibilities).’
‘Christoph Gringel: Very pragmatic and precise, to the point (you get exactly what you ask for and want; no long statements where you have the feeling that the fee/hourly rates are being pushed up unnecessarily) .’
‘The collaboration with Mr. Dröge on conception/prospecting topics is very pleasant.’
Capital markets > Equity capital markets Tier 4
Heuking's consulting approach is tailored to medium-sized companies which, in addition to advice on capital increases, listings and reverse IPOs, also seek assistance with related corporate issues such as restructuring. This cross-over expertise also mirrors practice head Mirko Sickinger‘s focus.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Thorsten Kuthe; Anne de Boer
Testimonials
‘The practice is very competent and experienced (also internationally), extremely reliable, quick to respond, open and honest in communication.’
‘With a central contact person, projects are very efficient with this practice.’
‘USP: Profound capital market know-how and strong cross-office team in capital market law; transparent billing at moderate hourly rates.’
‘I have known Mirko Sickinger for many years. He contributes his professional competence to every question and small discussions, without immediately trying to working towards an instruction.’
‘Dr. Sickinger always works in a solution-oriented and cost-efficient manner, deadlines and commitments are always met. In addition to his professional competence, I appreciate his open, fair, binding and friendly manner in dealing with people.’
‘Dr. Thorsten Kuthe: Very solution-oriented; good contacts to courts and supervisory authorities.’
Work highlights
- Advising Enapter AG on a capital increase (around €30 million) as part of a complex transaction, including a pre-placement through an accelerated book building process with the issuance of an EU reconstruction prospectus.
- Advising Orange Horizon Capital Group SA on the formation and issue of dematerialized shares in Luxembourg and subsequent inclusion in the general over-the-counter market of the Düsseldorf Stock Exchange by means of a so-called shelf listing.
Dispute resolution > Arbitration (including international arbitration) Tier 4
Heuking's arbitration team recently acted in post-M&A and commercial disputes and is jointly led by Elke Umbeck, who is experienced in shareholder and energy law disputes, and Daniel Froesch, who is well versed in post-M&A conflicts, among other matter.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Large and dedicated team that is always available quickly and competently. Any expertise that we required could be drawn on directly from them. In addition, there was a huge wealth of experience from which we benefited greatly.’
‘In our opinion, the arbitration practice is characterized by a highly motivated and highly competent mixed team of very experienced arbitrators on the one hand and very talented young colleagues on the other. The lawyers are always available, communicate very well and proactively, provide practical and goal-oriented advice.‘
‘Dr Elke Umbeck: Very good management/leadership of the matter, strong communication, very good integration and motivation of the in-house team, binding but tough negotiations, healthy sense of proportion in the expectation setting, excellent arbitrator. ‘
‘HKLW’s dispute resolution practice around Dr. Elke Umbeck is characterized by the fact that she independently and proactively familiarizes herself with the facts relevant to the dispute with the greatest precision and accompanies us as clients reliably and tactically extremely cleverly through all procedural steps. In doing so, she benefits from her excellent network, especially with other arbitrators, which enabled us to select the arbitrator perfectly.’
‘What matters most in arbitration is accurate, perceptive briefing and meticulous preparation for the cross-examination of witnesses. In our case, this could not be surpassed .’
‘Dr Elke Umbeck: Perfect preparation and submission of to-the-point (and not overly lengthy) pleadings. The questioning of the witnesses was prepared in detail and carried out in a tactically clever manner. All of this has led to the fact that we were able to fully win a complex process.‘
‘Dr Elke Umbeck: A very experienced and well-connected litigator who conducts the entire arbitration procedure very confidently and thus supports the client in the best possible way.‘
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation Tier 4
Under the joint leadership of Thomas Wambach and Christian Strasser, Heuking primarily represents German, but occasionally also European companies in trade, supply and post-M&A disputes and is also regularly instructed with D&O liability disputes. In the context of cross-border disputes, the practice can also access its China and French desks. Alongside corporate litigation, Daniel Froesch is further experienced in arbitration proceedings.Practice head(s):
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Intellectual property > Trade marks Tier 4
Located within its IP, Media & Technology practice group, Heuking's expertise in trade mark law ranges from registrations and trade mark administration to representation in court disputes. Product piracy and domain disputes form just as much a part of the team's competencies as do design and copyright-related issues. Markus Lennartz and Dominik Eickemeier jointly head the practice that also includes Georg Jacobs.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Good team that can also handle large cases with suddenly increasing workloads.’
‘Clear information on opportunities and risks.’
‘Very consistent and reliable work. Always a very pleasant cooperation.’
‘In addition to legal precision, Dominik Eickemeier has a clear view of entrepreneurial decision-making processes. Particularly helpful when choosing strategic legal protection.’
Public sector > Planning and environment Tier 4
Heuking's team applies its construction planning expertise in large office and residential projects and advises on development plan procedures and urban planning contracts among other matters. Wolfram Sandner represents federal states in proceedings to ward off a diesel driving ban demanded by the German Environmental Aid, while Thomas Nickel is the key contact for environmental and building planning issues.Other key lawyers:
Real estate and construction > Real estate Tier 4
Heuking ‘s real estate team covers asset management, transactions, financing and leases. ESG matters as well as subsequent sustainability-related contract regulations constitute recent growth areas. In January 2022, Christoph Nöhles, who is experienced in real estate law and brokerage law as well as tenancy and lease law, made partner. Practice head Stephan Freund covers a similarly broad range of topics and also supports clients in litigation and arbitration proceedings. In October 2022, new salary partner Jeannine Drossart (project development, tenancy and lease law), previously at AHB Arends Hofert Bergemann Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater PartGmbB, joined the team, while counsel Kathrin Paulet (transactions and tenancy, lease and property law) joined Eversheds Sutherland in December 2021.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Dr. Peter Zimmermann: Excellent real estate transaction lawyer. Always available and responsive. Solution-oriented and not argument-oriented.’
‘If our primary contact person is unavailable or it does not relate 100% to his area of competence/preferred area of law, a colleague from the law firm can always take over and continue the legal advice. Our primary contact person is kept informed at all times and is proactively involved.’
‘Dr. Zimmermann advises with very good specialist knowledge and great commitment. His competent demeanor coupled with his calmness makes him a very reliable and important representative and advisor for our company, even in difficult contract negotiations.’
‘Very, very high technical know-how; absolute reliability; strong negotiation leadership in contract negotiations with customers.’
White-collar crime > Advice to individuals Tier 4
Heuking‘s white-collar crime team fields André-M. Szesny and Susanne Stauder and offers compliance advice as well as the representation of companies and individuals in criminal proceedings; Düsseldorf-based Stauder made partner in January 2022 and specialises in AML matters. Pertaining to the individual defence capacities, the team regularly represents board members and executives in preliminary investigations and main proceedings in the context of money laundering, corruption, fraud and embezzlement allegations as well as suspected tax evasion; here, cum-ex matters remain a core focus of the practice, which is also well versed in criminal employment and environmental law issues.Practice head(s):
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Germany > Antitrust Tier 5
Heuking assists with merger control as well as cartel damages and antitrust fine proceedings, but is also instructed to provide ongoing antitrust advice; the team has an additional strong focus on distribution antitrust law, with clients being advised on R&D cooperations, supplier agreements and purchasing cooperations. The unit operates internationally via various networks, which is particularly important when it comes to merger control issues. Stefan Bretthauer (focus on sales antitrust law) took over the practice management from Rainer Velte in March 2022, who will remain with the team and has expertise in merger control and antitrust compliance. Anita Bohn , active in merger control and distribution law, made salary partner in January 2022.Practice head(s):
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Key clients
AGCO Group
AUDI AG
EGGER-Gruppe
Esso Deutschland GmbH
FUNKE Mediengruppe
Getir
Jungheinrich AG
Land Baden-Württemberg
Messe Frankfurt
Ministerium des Landes NRW für Mittelstand, Arbeit, Gesundheit und Soziales (MAGS)
ORLEN
RheinEnergie AG
Shell Deutschland GmbH
Easypark Group AS
Rheinmetall Technical Publications GmbH
Work highlights
- Representation of FUNKE media group in merger control proceedings at the Federal Cartel Office in connection with the acquisition of sole control of Ostthüringer Zeitung (phase II) and in the subsequent merger control proceedings in connection with the acquisition of joint control of Ostthüringer Zeitung by SIGNA Medien GmbH.
- Representing Shell Deutschland AG against Bundesverband deutscher Banken regarding damages claims brought against the Girocard cartel.
- Extensive assessment for an internationally renowned brand manufacturer on antitrust limits of information exchange in dual sales structures.
Germany > Employment Tier 5
Heuking‘s employment group is headed by Bernd Weller and Astrid Reich, both of whom are well versed in assisting with restructuring, compliance issues and works constitution matters; Weller complements this with litigation experience and was recently particularly active in individual employment disputes. Other recent matters included advice on management board separation scenarios, pandemic-related short-time work issues as well as use of external staff and co-determination. Utz Andelewski possesses special expertise in church employment law, while Markus Schmülling, who made partner in January 2022, regularly applies his expertise for clients in the automotive sector. Alexander Bork (international focus; advising stock corporations on management board contracts) and Volker Voth (restructuring and negotiating with works councils) made partner in January 2023.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Very high level of knowledge, always up-to-date. Excellent transfer into practice.’
‘Dynamic team.’
‘Johan-Michel Menke is an excellent negotiator.’
Media > Entertainment Tier 5
Integrated into the firm's IP, Media & Technology group, Heuking's media team is jointly led by Dominik Eickemeier in Cologne and Markus Lennartz in Frankfurt, both of whom have in-depth expertise in advising the TMT sectors. Companies and broadcasters from the television and radio industry instruct the group primarily on copyright and contract law matters, while a strong focus is on media regulatory issues. Michael Schmittmann comprehensively advises in the gambling sector.Practice head(s):
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Key clients
Deutsches Musik Fernsehen
Hertha BSC
MEGANCY,
Münchenstift
net digital AG
NHK WORLD-JAPAN
OnGoing Media
pferdewetten.de AG
Veltmeijer Group
Vertragsgemeinschaft Television
Bibel TV
DiMaBay
Dr. Leise GmbH & Co. KG
Gemeinde Nümbrecht GmbH
Metropol FM
PROdigitalTV e.V.
Sarig
Sazka Group
WestCom Medien GmbH
Zattoo
Compliance Tier 6
Heuking‘s team grows increasingly independent from the firm’s commercial criminal law practice and offers support on internal investigations and an increasing workload in the preventive compliance area, where the two taskforces Foreign Trade Law and Corporate Social Responsibility take the lead. Among the client base are medium-sized and listed companies, which frequently draw on the team’s expertise in money laundering prevention, sanctions list screening, know-your-customer checks and the whistleblower protection guideline. The interdisciplinary practice regularly assists with the set-up and implementation of compliance management and whistleblowing systems; the specially developed legal tech tool WhistleFox for the management of whistleblower hotlines is also utilised here. Criminal lawyer and practice leader André-M. Szesny as well as Susanne Stauder are part of the core team; the latter specialises in AML and made partner in January 2022.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Germany > Tax Tier 6
Heuking's tax law expertise includes advice on restructuring and transactions in the M&A and private equity fields, with the practice being primarily instructed by companies and investors. Restructuring also represent one of the mainstays of Düsseldorf-based practice heads Marion Sangen-Emden and Marc Scheunemann. With the arrival of Jörg Michelsen in early 2022, the team welcomed an in-house expert who is adept at transfer pricing for large construction projects among other matters.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Client-oriented; always available and approachable; excellence; innovative; on the pulse of time; very good results in first mover projects.’
‘Creative solutions stand up to scrutiny by third parties and public authorities.’
‘Pragmatic solutions.’
‘Easy collaboration with other teams at HKLW and third party service providers.’
‘Strong in structuring new service offerings.’
‘Henrik Lay: Solution-oriented, strong in implementation, pays attention to small details and the bigger picture.’
Capital markets > Debt capital markets
Heuking > Firm Profile
With more than 400 lawyers, tax advisors and notaries providing legal services across eight offices in Germany , HEUKING is one of the major commercial law firms in Germany.
The spectrum of our legal advice ranges from German and foreign medium-sized companies to international (including listed) large corporations in all matters of commercial law. Another focus of our client support lies in public law in which we counsel decision-makers on all levels of administration.
International matters
Our more than 400 lawyers speak over 22 different languages. Our expertise allows us to advise foreign clients in Germany comprehensively and to support German clients successfully in overseas business.
Over the years, our clients have come to focus on certain territories, which are represented by our Country Desks for China, French, India, Japan, Russian/CIS & Turkey.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Banking and finance, capital markets, private equity | |||
Competition, merger control, antitrust | |||
Corporate, partnerships and general commercial | |||
International M&A | |||
Distribution and trade | |||
Energy | |||
Entertainment, media, publishing, copyright | |||
Employment and labour | |||
German and international tax | |||
Healthcare, pharmaceuticals and life science | |||
Insolvency and restructuring | |||
Insurance and reinsurance | |||
Intellectual property rights, patent | |||
Litigation, arbitration and mediation | |||
Private client and family office | |||
Public procurement, PPP | |||
Real estate transactions, construction | |||
Structuring and set up of investment funds, closed-end funds | |||
Telecommunications and IT | |||
White-collar and criminal compliance |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Dr Hans Markus Wulf | Dr Hans Markus Wulf is a lawyer and partner at HEUKING. He… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 400+ :Languages
Chinese Czech Dutch English French German Greek Hungarian Icelandic Italian Japanese Norwegian Polish Portuguese Romanian Russian Spanish Swedish TurkishOther
Other offices : Berlin Other offices : Chemnitz Other offices : Cologne Other offices : Frankfurt Other offices : Hamburg Other offices : Munich Other offices : Stuttgart Other offices :Diversity
Because we as a law firm are committed to equal rights, we signed the “Charter of Diversity” in 2014. At the heart of the initiative is the promotion and appreciation of all employees regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, age or ideology. By signing the Charter of Diversity, the promotion of diversity in our law firm has become an important aspect of our corporate culture.
We currently employ staff from 22 nations in our firm. Within the scope of our cooperation with national and international clients, the most diverse people come together. For this reason, it is a matter of course for us to work together without prejudice and with respect. Sexual identity and disability play just as little a role here as ethnic origin.
Comparative Guides
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Germany: Class Actions
Published: June 2023
Authors: Daniel Froesch
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Class Actions laws and regulations applicable in Germany.
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Germany: Merger Control
Published: October 2023
Authors: Dr. Frederik WiemerDr. Stefan BretthauerDr. Reinhard SiegertDr. Rainer Velte
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Merger Control laws and regulations applicable in Germany.
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Germany: Data Protection & Cybersecurity
Published: April 2023
Authors: Dr Hans Markus Wulf
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Data Protection & Cybersecurity laws and regulations applicable in Germany.
- Public sector > Public procurement
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and M&A > M&A
Firm Rankings
- Corporate and M&A > Corporate
- Industry focus > Energy
- Information technology > Data protection
- Information technology > Information technology and digitalisation
- Information technology > IT transactions and outsourcing
- Insurance > Insurance litigation
- Intellectual property > Patent litigation: solicitors
- Intellectual property > Unfair competition
- Private clients and non-profits
- Real estate and construction > Construction (including construction litigation)
- Restructuring and insolvency > Restructuring
- Trade and distribution > Trade, distribution and logistics
- Transport > Advice to the transport sector
- Banking and finance > Investment funds
- Capital markets > Equity capital markets
- Dispute resolution > Arbitration (including international arbitration)
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation
- Intellectual property > Trade marks
- Public sector > Planning and environment
- Real estate and construction > Real estate
- White-collar crime > Advice to individuals