Commercial litigation in Germany
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Roman Mallmann; Martina de Lind van Wijngaarden; Boris Kasolowsky; Michael Rohls
Gleiss Lutz
Gleiss Lutz' dispute resolution group is 'highly committed' and covers a wide range of issues, including corporate, insolvency and antitrust disputes. Especially with regards to the latter as well as to related follow-on lawsuits, the practice in general and Andrea Leufgen in particular demonstrate extensive expertise. Moreover, the team takes on contentious commercial and financial matters as well as disputes following compliance violations where it benefits from its cross-practice cooperation. Stefan Rützel heads the practice, which also includes David Quinke (focus on disputes with shareholders and board members as well as those arising from capital market transactions, company acquisitions and energy supply contracts) and Eric Wagner, who assists with insolvency-related matters. Post-M&A disputes are one of Stephan Wilske's main areas of expertise, while Tobias Boecken impresses with industry expertise in the energy and healthcare sectors.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Andrea Leufgen; Eric Wagner; David Quinke; Stephan Wilske; Tobias Boecken
Testimonials
‘High level of commitment, unpretentious in appearance, excellent preparation of complex issues and resulting legal consequences; willingness to listen, quick and yet thoroughly established reactions, linguistically and stylistically outstanding briefs that are characterized by compelling logic.’
‘David Quinke: Always friendly, always well prepared, deeply immersed even in very complex matters and legal problems, consistent communication, even if uncomfortable for the client; high level of combat and operational readiness, good sense of process tactics, in short, a picture-perfect litigator.’
‘The team always perfectly coordinates with the client. Pitfalls are recognized in advance and taken into account for the argumentation. Schedules are reliably adhered to. We feel that we have received competent advice all round. The pleadings are always easy to understand and well thought out – also for the client.’
‘Tobias Boecken: Very competent and experienced, maintains an overview and makes optimal use of the know-how of his colleagues.’
Work highlights
- Defending Daimler AG against customer lawsuits in connection with the diesel issue.
- Defending an international financial services provider against compensation claims related to cum-ex transactions.
- Advising the insolvency administrator of Wirecard AG on the internal processing of allegations and claims enforcement under civil law.
Hengeler Mueller
Hengeler Mueller impresses with a broad advisory portfolio and in-depth experience in a range of contentious matters. Synergies usually arise with the corporate, finance, antitrust and insolvency practices, while the group recently assisted with numerous technology and e-mobility-related disputes. The team also has strong capabilities in the finance, automotive and telecommunications sectors. The client base includes DAX companies and global players which the team advises on cross-border issues in cooperation with other law firms. Philipp Hanfland is increasingly sought after for transaction-related disputes while Carsten van de Sande focuses on assisting with contentious technology issues. Other important team members include Markus Meier (entire spectrum of civil dispute resolution), Viola Sailer-Coceani (corporate and commercial litigation) and Maximilian Bülau (focus on capital markets, contracts and corporate law disputes) as well as Henning Bälz and Antonia Hösch (both contract and corporate disputes).
Other key lawyers:
Markus Meier; Philipp Hanfland; Carsten van de Sande; Viola Sailer-Coceani; Henning Bälz; Antonia Hösch; Maximilian Bülau
Testimonials
‘Very good organisation, strong factual and legal knowledge; pragmatic solutions.‘
‘Dr Markus Meier: High professional competence, clear communication, efficient working methods and pragmatic solutions. Very high availability.‘
Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie fields a team that 'thinks outside the box' and has strong infrastructure, construction, engineering, post-M&A and pharma expertise. The group regularly advises national and international companies across locations. Günter Pickrahn, who increasingly advises on post-M&A disputes, and Heiko Haller, who is experienced in contract disputes involving pharmaceutical companies, jointly head the practice. Ragnar Harbst specializes in disputes in the railway industry, while Jörg Risse has experience in handling disputes arising from infrastructure projects. Associate Tobias Höfling frequently represents companies in the construction sector.
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Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great team that very clearly thinks and advises in an interdisciplinary way as well as “outside the legal box”.’
‘For many years, Prof. Dr Jörg Risse has been impressing with his interdisciplinary thinking (also teaches in this area at various universities).’
‘Dr. Heiko Haller is an excellent litigator.’
‘Dr. Ragnar Harbst has excellent out-of-court dispute resolution skills.’
Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance offers a broad spectrum of advice on contentious matters to German and global companies. Through its close cooperation with the antitrust, corporate, banking and commercial practices, the group is able to cover contentious issues relating to D&O, post-M&A and compliance violations as well as capital markets comprehensively. The practice is also increasingly active in data litigation, with practice head Michael Kremer and counsel Jan Conrady being particularly well versed. Christine Gärtner has extensive experience in advising on corporate and banking disputes, which is similar to the advisory portfolio of Burkhard Schneider, who complements this expertise with his experience in arbitration proceedings. Sebastian Rakob specializes in the technology and energy fields, while Uwe Hornung focuses on post-M&A proceedings and auditor liability.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Christine Gärtner; Uwe Hornung; Burkhard Schneider; Sebastian Rakob; Jan Conrady
Hogan Lovells International LLP
Hogan Lovells International LLP proves to be 'highly qualified' in contentious individual and mass proceedings and alongside its extensive expertise, also impresses with the size of its practice. Contentious instructions primarily relate to commercial, corporate, antitrust and insolvency law, with the team focusing on the energy, automotive, pharmaceutical and technology sectors while consistently expanding its advice in those industries. Most recently, the group assisted with an increasing number of cyber and data litigation matters. Practice head Tanja Eisenblätter is a renowned life sciences specialist. The German practice also includes Detlef Haß, who focuses on the automotive and mobility sectors, counsel Michael Penners, who is frequently instructed to defend clients against damages claims, and Carolin Marx, a specialist in supply chain and antitrust law disputes who made partner in January 2021.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Detlef Haß; Olaf Gärtner; Kim Lars Mehrbrey; Christian Ritz; Michael Penners; Jürgen Johannes Witte; Carolin Marx
Testimonials
‘The team is highly qualified and offers complete expertise for maximum support.’
‘The lawyers are always available and translate difficult legal knowledge and material into understandable language.’
‘We work very quickly and very well here. As a client, you can confine yourself to the facts and have complete trust in the team.’
‘Dr. Tanja Eisenblätter: highly professional. Her analytical talent is impressive, incredibly quick learner and she is very good at assessing the client’s description of the situation and making the client understand what the central, important points are.’
‘Fast response, broad lineup on secondary issues.’
‘ Tanja Eisenblätter & Michael Penners: outstanding expertise; understand how the pharmaceutical market works, good knowledge of the products, good assessment of the respective situation.’
‘Expertise and professionalism, availability and efficiency.’
‘Very knowledgeable in the automotive sector, very pragmatic and solution-oriented.’
‘Detlef Haß: Very confident and experienced.’
Work highlights
- Defending Dr. Ing. hc F. Porsche AG against civil damages claims.
- Representing Volkswagen Group in a dispute with former supplier Prevent.
- Representing Hyundai Motor Deutschland GmbH in a large number of legal disputes.
Latham & Watkins LLP
Latham & Watkins LLP's litigators 'provide one-stop advice across offices and borders' while handling a wide range of contentious matters; these include commercial, securities and post-M&A disputes as well as professional liability and shareholder disputes as well as issues pertaining to insolvency and antitrust law. The client portfolio is composed of national and international companies as well as corporations. Counsel Stefan Patzer frequently acts in corporate disputes, while at associate level, Alena McCorkle and Anne Löhner stand out for their cross-border skills and additional arbitration expertise. The dispute resolution practice is headed by the renowned Christoph Baus. Georg Weidenbach joined Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP in November 2020.
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Testimonials
‘We have been successfully working with Latham in litigation/dispute resolution for many years and particularly appreciate their cross-border litigation expertise and their profound know-how of the automotive industry and our company.’
‘Christoph Baus is quite rightly one of the leading litigators in the country. I would recommend him unreservedly and appreciate his coolness under pressure.’
‘Alena McCorkle is one of the outstanding talents of her generation and a real rising star. In addition to broad court experience before German regional and higher regional courts (and before the Federal Constitutional Court) in disputes of all kinds, she probably has the most comprehensive track record in cross-border disputes, including substantial knowledge of the US system and its differences to German law. Her close connection to the US practice is an invaluable interface function in order to repeatedly bridge the gap linguistically, culturally and legally.’
‘Christoph Baus is an excellent strategist and very strong in written and oral arguments. He approaches his cases with calm and composure, but can also fire up when necessary. He is a figurehead of the German litigation practice.’
‘In my opinion, the commercial litigation practice at Latham & Watkins is characterized in particular by the outstanding cross-border competence and the smooth cross-border cooperation. In this regard, I see a clear differentiator to the competition, in addition to brilliant legal work and excellent case management in large-scale proceedings.’
‘Christoph Baus, as head of the German litigation practice, is an outstanding litigator. Legally enormously astute, rhetorically winning and with great organizational and management skills for complex large-scale and mass proceedings.’
‘Christoph Baus and Stefan Patzer: Great strategists, great briefs and a very good feel for the oral hearing.’
‘Senior Associate Alena McCorkle is characterized by a high level of professionalism, competence, motivation and commitment. She is an expert in cross-border litigation and US discovery and knows how to retain clients over the long term through her binding, pleasant and unpretentious manner. She brings outstanding academic skills, is pragmatic and responsive. Particularly noteworthy is her ability to examine circumstances down to the last detail with patience and perseverance and to provide a well-founded legal assessment.’
Key clients
Air Berlin
Bundesverband deutscher Banken e.V. – Einlagensicherungsfonds
Daimler AG
Liberty Global
Royal London Mutual Insurance Society
Scholz Holding
Scottish Widows
Work highlights
- Advising Daimler before higher regional courts throughout Germany in relation to diesel emissions.
- Representing Facebook in proceedings before the Federal Cartel Office on suspicion of abuse of a dominant position related to data protection and antitrust regulations.
- Representing Liberty Global and Unitymedia in a high-profile damages case against Deutsche Telekom regarding abusive practices related to the use of cable ducts.
Linklaters
The Linklaters team, led by Alexandros Chatzinerantzis, is experienced in advising on contentious commercial, antitrust, energy and insolvency matters, while also covering directors' liability and post-M&A issues. Clients traditionally stem from the banking and finance, life sciences, automotive and manufacturing sectors and are regularly advised across locations. Kerstin Wilhelm is a key contact for mass proceedings and criminal matters, while Julia Grothaus frequently appears in cartel damages proceedings. Other team members include Rupert Bellinghausen and Kirstin Schwedt, who are both experienced in corporate disputes, and chemicals specialist Daniela Seeliger.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Rupert Bellinghausen; Daniela Seeliger; Kirstin Schwedt; Kerstin Wilhelm; Julia Grothaus
Testimonials
‘Kirstin Schwedt is an excellent young partner who does excellent client work in complex arbitration proceedings. She also has an excellent reputation for technology-based disputes.’
‘Very experienced, great legal and commercial/technical expertise in the energy market, very good advice, very good briefs.’
‘Dr. Alexandros Chatzinerantzis: Excellent lawyer, very experienced, clear advice.’
‘Extensive litigation and arbitration experience, excellent availability, strongly solution-oriented.’
‘Alexandros Chatzinerantzis: Clear and structured advice, calm and considered. You always get clear statements and a clear recommendation. The support and “guidance” of the client is at the forefront, strongly solution-oriented. You have the feeling of being in very good hands.’
Noerr
Noerr has broad expertise in various contentious matters, including in relation to post-M&A, corporate and capital markets as well as in issues touching on insolvency law. Arbitration expert Anke Meier frequently handles matters entailing North American aspects, while co-head Oliver Sieg has experience in commercial and liability issues. He jointly heads the practice with Hans Christian Kirchner, who is well versed in mass proceedings; Christine Volohonsky focuses on financial and corporate law disputes. The group broadened its interdisciplinary capabilities with the arrival of criminal lawyer Volker Rosengarten from Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP, while Michael Molitoris (experience in mass damages proceedings) joined SZA Schilling, Zutt & Anschütz Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH in April 2021.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
- Defending a former board member of Solarworld AG against damages claims brought by the insolvency administrator against former board members; legal dispute before the Regional Court Bonn.
SZA Schilling, Zutt & Anschütz Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH
SZA Schilling, Zutt & Anschütz Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH's dispute resolution practice fields an 'interdisciplinary and flexible team' with strong links to its corporate and M&A practice. These synergies result in regular instructions from German companies and listed players to assist with approval procedures, disputes related to resolution deficiencies, preliminary legal protection proceedings and contractual disputes. The group is under the joint leadership of corporate law experts Jochem Reichert and Thomas Liebscher, whose areas of focus also include group and capital markets law. The group recently experienced personal growth with the arrival of the Munich-based Michael Molitoris from Noerr in April 2021; he is well versed in mass damages proceedings, . Marc Löbbe (corporate law and M&A), Stefan Zeyher (corporate and commercial law matters), Christoph Nolden (corporate and liability law disputes) and Ben Steinbrück (in addition to litigation also active in out-of-court dispute resolution) are other key contacts.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Marc Löbbe; Stefan Zeyher; Christoph Nolden; Ben Steinbrück; Michael Molitoris
Testimonials
‘Interdisciplinary, flexible team at a particularly high legal level. Practical advice.’
‘Assertiveness, practice-oriented, creative, reliable.’
‘Dr. Stefan Zeyher and Dr. Ben Steinbrück: Both very professional and careful, quick learner, good understanding of economic relationships, both absolute specialists in the field of dispute resolution at the highest level.’
‘Michael Molitoris’ team is excellent. Excellent legal quality, responsive, exact legal advice.’
‘Dr. Stefan Zeyher combines corporate and procedural law expertise in an excellent way. In addition to his work as a party representative, he also does an excellent job as an arbitrator.’
‘Prof. Jochem Reichert is a brilliant academic.’
‘SZA’s representation before German courts and arbitral tribunals is highly professional, effective, efficient and creative in the choice of argumentation and procedural strategy.’
‘I have had outstanding experiences with Dr. Ben Steinbrueck. He is sharp in his legal and strategic analysis, effective in communication and highly professional in dealing with clients, counter party and court.’
Key clients
Bayer AG
NIKE European Operations Netherlands B.V.
Volkswagen AG
Deloitte NL
Vossloh Group
Società Italiana per le Sviluppo dell’Elettronica, S.I. SV.EL., S.p.A.
Isaria Wohnbau AG
Diebold Nixdorf Inc.
Work highlights
- Defending Bayer AG against damages claims brought by investors related to alleged breaches of disclosure requirements in connection with the takeover of Monsanto.
- Legal representation of the insolvency administrator of Wirecard AG in disputes against the auditing company Ernst & Young and against an institutional investor.
- Advising and representing NIKE European Operations Netherlands BV and Converse Netherlands, BV in several legal disputes.
White & Case LLP
White & Case LLP‘s team has broad expertise in contentious commercial, corporate and insolvency matters, which are managed across countries and jurisdictions and stem from national and international players; recently, there has also been a noticeable demand for assistance with pandemic-related disputes. Christian Theissen has extensive experience in the field of autonomous driving, which is part of the firm’s technology and automotive industry focus. Chemistry and energy production represent further focal points, with matters in the latter area often being overseen by Thomas Burmeister. Christian Wirth and Sonja Hoffmann both assist with finance-related disputes, while the team is headed by Markus Langen, who is adept at liability issues. Gero von Jhering (litigation and arbitration) and Sara Vanetta (focus on insurance law) both made partner at the beginning of 2021.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Sonja Hoffmann; Christian Wirth; Thomas Burmeister; Christian Theissen; Sara Vanetta; Gero von Jhering
Testimonials
‘Very good cross-practice group collaboration between litigation: Christian Wirth, Sara Vanetta, Christian Theissen and the regulatory practice.’
‘Excellent cooperation with other law firms in co-counsel situations.’
‘Sara Vanetta in particular has excellent communication skills and knows how to connect with clients, co-counsels and/or the courts – indispensable for a litigator.’
‘Very broad, strong team with proven regular court practice before all German courts.’
‘Particularly outstanding in oral negotiations: Christian Theissen and Sara Vanetta. Strategically strong: Christian Theissen.’
Key clients
Land Baden-Württemberg
Air Berlin
Daimler
Baltic Cable AB
German Pellets
Infinus
Systaic
Credit Suisse
Allianz RE
Work highlights
- Support for Allianz SE (Re) in enforcing and processing Covid-19 insurance claims reinsured by the client from more than 50 retrocessionaires worldwide.
- Representation of the insolvency administrator of Air Berlin in national and cross-border legal disputes and advice on insolvency, contract and procedural law issues.
Allen & Overy LLP
Allen & Overy LLP's team advises German and international companies as well as financial services providers and auditing firms on various contentious issues with particular expertise in professional and executive liability as well as in insurance or contract-related commercial disputes. The team is led by Marc Zimmerling, who specializes in auditor liability and also handles alternative dispute resolution. The team also includes the two senior associates Charlotte Willemer and Angélique Pfeiffelmann, who are well versed in commercial and corporate disputes.
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Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team looked after all the details relevant to the process in our very complex, tax-driven and lengthy process. It was present at all times and has excellent legal knowledge in order to be able to evaluate and counter every step taken by the other side.’
‘For one thing, all the members of the team we deal with are subject matter experts. You have a deep knowledge of substantive law as well as procedural knowledge. In addition, they also have a good understanding of economics and are able to quickly understand the economic context and circumstances on which the disputed proceedings are based, as well as the customs, in order to be able to defend the client’s position as best as possible.’
‘In addition to understanding, they think very strategically and always several steps ahead and also “out of the box” and come up with new ideas and suggestions that are not obvious, but still promising .’
‘Communication on the matter is always very precise, target-oriented and proactive. Necessary contributions from the client are flagged at an early stage and specific proposals for processing are made. After all, it is also very pleasant to work with all team members on an interpersonal level.’
Key clients
Deutsche Bank AG
Aloys Wobben Foundation (AWS)
Uniper SE
CMS
Based on its sizeable and versatile practice, CMS is well equipped to handle corporate, energy, post-M&A, banking and infrastructure litigation as well as international trade disputes. Most recently, the group advised the German federal government on Covid-19-related PPE equipment deliveries. The practice assists corporations as well as medium-sized and blue-chip companies on national and international level and can, if necessary, also rely on support by offices across the globe. The practice is jointly led by climate protection expert Thomas Lennarz and Nicolas Wiegand, who splits his time between Munich and Hong Kong. Other important team members include Tilman Niedermaier (commercial law disputes), Matthias Schlingmann (court proceedings, arbitration proceedings and ADR) and Claus Thiery (executive liability cases among other matters).
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Testimonials
‘Great team.’
Key clients
Daimler
Bundesministerium für Gesundheit
CTS Eventim
STRABAG
Hochtief
E.ON
Vodafone
Roland Berger
Work highlights
- Advising Daimler AG on damages claims brought by diesel vehicle customers.
- Representing the German Federal Ministry of Health in court proceedings against providers of respiratory masks purchased as part of an open house tender.
- Representing an energy company in court proceedings related to a fraud scandal.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper's dispute resolution practice assists with various commercial disputes and, thanks to its full service offering, is well positioned to advise on cross-practice matters which the group frequently handles in close cooperation with its global network. The team works very closely with the firm's corporate practice and has an advisory focus on contentious D&O issues. Interdisciplinary expertise is in frequent demand in relation to tax, finance and insurance issues. Litigation lawyer Ludger Giesberts heads the group, which also includes class action expert Thomas Gädtke and Frank Roth, who is experienced in joint venture disputes. Other key contacts for both litigation and arbitration are Wolfgang Jäger, Christian Schneider and counsel David Buntenbroich. Counsel Sebastian Schneider (also litigation and arbitration) joined GLNS Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater in September 2021.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Thomas Gädtke; Frank Roth; Wolfgang Jäger; Christian Schneider; David Buntenbroich
Testimonials
‘Wolfgang Jäger is recommended for German commercial litigation; very client-oriented.’
‘Good full-service offer, also deals with special topics that are relevant to us, such as inland shipping law.’
‘Frank Roth: experienced litigation lawyer; well-structured in communication; very efficient advice – always keeps an eye on the cost-benefit ratio. I have never had any unpleasant surprises here. Our “go-to litigator” for proceedings in Germany.’
Key clients
Atos
ProSiebenSat.1 TV Deutschland GmbH + Sat.1 Satelliten Fernsehen GmbH
Spiegel-Verlag
Zurich
Work highlights
- Advising a lawyer as insolvency administrator on the assets of BEV Bayerische Energieversorgungsgesellschaft mbH in a model declaratory action against Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband eV in connection with the consideration of a new customer bonus in energy supply contracts.
- Representation of Atos in proceedings against a software company after a previous procurement law review procedure related to a failed IT project of one of the largest federal authorities.
- Representing ProSiebenSat.1 TV Deutschland GmbH + Sat.1Satellite Fernsehen GmbH in a dispute against state media authorities before the Federal Administrative Court regarding Sat.1’s broadcasting license.
WACH UND MECKES und Partner Rechtsanwälte PartGmbB
WACH UND MECKES und Partner Rechtsanwälte PartGmbB is a renowned dispute resolution boutique in Munich that predominantly handles disputes in the corporate, post-M&A, commercial and capital markets spheres, both on national and international level. This advice offering is complemented by expertise in insolvency and financial services disputes. Tom Petsch is a key contact for commercial and contract law disputes and Robert Straubmeier for insolvency-related issues. Frank Meckes and Karl Wach frequently handle contentious post-M&A matters and associate Arno Riethmüller has finance know-how.
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Work highlights
- Advising and representing a global aviation company against damages claims brought by the insolvency administrator of a German airline.
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP represents clients – in particular from the automotive, banking and energy sectors – in contentious proceedings with antitrust, employment and corporate origins. In recent years, there has been constant personnel growth, including the addition of Georg Weidenbach, who joined from Latham & Watkins LLP in November 2020 and is well versed in cartel damages claims. In addition to an expansion of its associate level, the group also promoted IT specialist Kai Gesing to the partnership at the beginning of 2021. Other key contacts include Finn Zeidler and Markus Rieder, who each focus on compliance and criminal law issues, as well as Mark Zimmer (focus on labor disputes).
Other key lawyers:
Markus Rieder; Finn Zeidler; Mark Zimmer; Kai Gesing; Georg Weidenbach
Testimonials
‘High level, very strategic orientation, dogmatic depth, practical relevance.’
‘Markus Rieder: A thoroughbred litigator, very sharp-witted, yet able to compromise where necessary and very pleasant to work with.’
‘Very experienced, competent and committed, very good negotiation skills.’
Key clients
Daimler AG
Douglas GmbH
UniCredit S.p.A.
Work highlights
- Advising Daimler AG on the coordination of consumer disputes in Germany.
- Representing UniCredit SpA in multi-jurisdictional shareholder actions following a reorganization.
- Advised Douglas GmbH in arbitration proceedings in connection with a squeeze-out.
Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek
Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek‘s team primarily represents German companies and listed players and also provides expertise in adjacent practice areas such as insurance and finance law. The case load is dominated by contentious corporate, antitrust and commercial issues, while the team also covers insolvency disputes. With regards to cross-border matters, clients particularly benefit from its China Desk. Thomas Wambach and Christian Strasser jointly head the litigation department within the newly structured dispute resolution team which also includes corporate and criminal lawyer Daniel Froesch.
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Work highlights
- Representation of the Albrecht heirs in appeal proceedings before the Düsseldorf Higher Regional Court in relation to kick-back payments.
- Advising Sichuan Wie Jing Group on the reversal of a joint venture after fraudulent misrepresentation.
- Advice on sales contract law and legal representation of Chiquita Europe BV in court proceedings regarding the assertion of unlawfully withheld fees from the delivery of bananas to major customers.
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright provides 'practicable solutions' to corporate, post-M&A and shareholder disputes, D&O liability matters, financial disputes and contentious product liability issues. Further interdisciplinary competencies exist with regards to contentious insolvency and real estate matters. Constanze Bandilla-Dany, who is the key contact for the latter area, banking litigator Christian Wolf and the two counsels George Stanka and Nikolas Smirra form the core team of Jamie Nowak's practice; he is experienced in corporate and commercial law. Litigator Sven Förster left the firm in early 2021 and joined Clyde & Co LLP.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Christian Wolf; Constanze Bandilla-Dany; George Stanka; Nikolas Smirra
Testimonials
‘Very homogeneous team with excellent expertise in the commercial litigation field. The thoroughness of the work and advice combined with practical solutions is striking.’
‘George Stanka is an expert in corporate litigation and post-M&A disputes. His many years of experience in this area distinguish his advice.’
‘ Nikolas Smirra is an expert in procedural law and in the area of product liability and impresses with his holistic approach.’
‘Very proactive approach and strong familiarization with the precise matter details.’
‘Christian Wolf: very professional and creative approach to matters. Immediate operational readiness. Support in every respect, including linguistic issues.’
Key clients
Wavetouch Denmark A/S
Credit Suisse International
Globus LLC
AIG
Stukeley Capital Ltd.
Barclays PLC
INEOS Styrolution Europe GmbH
Depo Auto Parts Industrial Co. Ltd
Taylor Wessing
Taylor Wessing's dispute resolution practice is experienced in distribution, commercial, corporate and transaction-related disputes. Recently, the group saw an increase in instructions pertaining to contentious tech matters where it was able to provide cross-practice and cross-border advice thanks to the firm's full-service approach. The team is led by Philipp Behrendt and frequently represents companies in the life sciences, energy, pharmaceutical and consumer goods sectors. Other important contacts are IT specialist Jörg Wimmers, Volker Herrmann and Donata von Enzberg, both of whom are experienced in assisting with proceedings before arbitration and federal courts.
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Testimonials
‘The team is very well attuned and works very well hand in hand. Even more complex issues are recorded and processed quickly and comprehensively.’
‘Donata von Enzberg: Very quick learner, gets to grips with the case very quickly and efficiently. Very responsive.’
‘Philipp Behrendt: Very extensive international experience, very responsive and broad expertise.’
‘Large team, interdisciplinary expertise, legally excellent, very well thought-out and strategically great.’
‘Donata von Enzberg is an excellent young partner who is doing an excellent job in both state litigation and arbitration. In addition to representing the parties, Ms. von Enzberg is also an experienced arbitrator.’
‘High intercultural competence, very good communication skills in legal contexts.’
‘Taylor Wessing has a lot of experience and a very realistic view of the possibilities and risks in litigation matters.’
‘They examine legal issues down to the last detail and are also familiar with purely practical considerations. The team seems to work well together, so processes have always run smoothly and results have been worked out quickly.’
Key clients
Adobe
Breitfeld & Schliekert
BVG (Berliner Verkehrsgesellschaft)
Douglas
eBay
Gebr. Heinemann
Giesecke & Devrient
Grünenthal
Kaesler Nutrition
Karl Mayer Textilmaschinen
Melitta
Nintendo
Prowise
RFA International
Salzgitter Mannesmann International
TikTok
Volkswagen
Zeppelin Group
Work highlights
- Defending Melitta against cartel damages claims brought by Schlecker’s insolvency administrator.
- Instructed by Volkswagen to defend against consumer claims relating to the diesel issue.
WilmerHale
WilmerHale is instructed by German and international companies in conflict situations and has particular expertise in interdisciplinary civil and regulatory disputes, often working across practices with the firm's competition, antitrust, corporate, patent and data protection teams. In the latter area, Hans-Georg Kamann is particularly adept, while Stefan Ohlhoff covers antitrust disputes; they jointly head the practice with litigator Vanessa Wettner.
Practice head(s):
Key clients
alpha beta asset management GmbH
Becton Dickinson B.V.
Bitmanagement Software GmbH
Bundesinnung der Hörgeräteakustiker (biha)
Bundesrepublik Deutschland – Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie
Bundesverband Öffentlicher Banken Deutschlands VÖB
Deutsche Bahn AG
Deutsche Lufthansa AG
Deutsche Telekom AG
Hugo Boss
INC SpA und Consorzio Stabile Sis SCpA
Jugendherberge Berlin Ostkreuz gGmbH
Katjes Fassin GmbH & Co KG
Medtronic
OPAL Gastransport GmbH & Co. KG
Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press
Work highlights
- Representing Facebook in numerous proceedings, in particular regarding GDPR and NetzDG.
- Successful defense of Medtronic against injunctive relief claims from a brand troll known across Europe.
- Advising Becton Dickinson on matters of competition, product liability and distribution law, in particular representation against a former distribution partner’s compensation and damages claims.
Dentons
Dentons' dispute resolution team provides expertise in disputes related to antitrust and capital markets law and has a strong focus on the energy, automotive and plant engineering sectors. Key contacts are counsel Matthias Hadding, who is experienced in plant construction projects, co-practice head Heiko Heppner, who is adept at contentious competition issues, and co-head Thomas Nebel, who focuses on international commercial disputes. In cooperation with its international network, the team also regularly advises on interdisciplinary and cross-jurisdictional disputes.
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Testimonials
‘Extensive knowledge of day-to-day business and special topics such as M&A. The experience is the decisive, positive difference!’
‘Very flexible, customer-oriented and competent with a very large spectrum that they cover professionally. A law firm with worldwide coverage, which is absolutely essential in complicated cases.’
‘They are led by heart and knowledge. The knowledge of digitization and B2B software was always above average. You have a team by your side with which you can overcome the biggest crises and never feel alone.’
‘The dispute resolution practice has grown to an impressive size. The teams in Frankfurt and Düsseldorf can also assist with large mass proceedings before German courts. The Frankfurt team, led by co-head Heiko Heppner, has particular strengths in complex cross-border civil litigation, particularly with US or China links. Heiko Heppner has built up an extremely diverse team of lawyers from a wide range of backgrounds, whose cultural diversity means that they have a particularly deep insight into the way of thinking of foreign litigants.’
‘Thomas Nebel’s and Matthias Hadding’s experience in German and international construction proceedings is impressive. Like Heiko Heppner, Thomas Nebel stands for the highest legal quality.’
‘Thomas Nebel is a lawyer who, like Heiko Heppner, stands for the highest legal quality. I would instruct him in construction law disputes.’
‘Matthias Hadding: Extremely intelligent, very broad expertise, extraordinarily energetic.’
‘The team has experienced a really outstanding development in recent years, which is reflected in increasingly visible matters. The decisive factor is the extremely successful connection of “young wild ones” – highly motivated lawyers of the next generation who are greedy for exciting cases and at the same time extremely competent and personable.’
Key clients
Fresenius Medical Care
Daimler AG
Bundesrepublik Deutschland (Bundesgesundheitsministerium)
König & Bauer
Work highlights
- Defending and advising a major German automaker against thousands of consumer and corporate claims.
- Defending an international chemical company against claims for repayment and damages in connection with the non-delivery to Iranian companies in view of US anti-terrorist and anti-proliferation sanctions and associated existential risks for the client.
- Representing a large European state in enforcing claims for material defects in connection with the procurement of personal Covid-19 protective equipment.
Eversheds Sutherland
In the dispute resolution field, Eversheds Sutherland's team has expertise in commercial, antitrust, insolvency and corporate law disputes which is not least based on the close cooperation across practices and locations. The group also assists with arbitration proceedings and contentious product liability matters, as well as compliance-related issues, which are regularly overseen by practice head Joos Hellert. Ralf-Thomas Wittmann is experienced in insurance disputes and Stephan von Marschall, who made partner in May 2020, is well versed in in post-M&A and D&O liability disputes.
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Testimonials
‘Global presence was very helpful as multiple jurisdictions were involved.’
‘Stephan von Marschall: Great competence, communication and great service. You feel taken seriously.’
Key clients
Allianz
Burger King
Johnson Controls
Mettop
Securitas
Tönnies
Wolff & Müller
Work highlights
- Advising and representing Burger King in distribution law disputes, among other matters.
- Advising and representing the British Financial Services Compensation Scheme in connection with the insolvency of the German Property Group.
- Advising a German semiconductor manufacturer in connection with allegedly defective car chips.
Jones Day
Jones Day's dispute resolution team welcomed two new team members within a short period of time: Amy Kläsener joined the firm in May 2021 from Dentons as well as the previously self-employed Thomas Weimann in August 2021. Both are well versed in cross-border litigation and arbitration. The group is frequently instructed to assist with disputes in the aviation and media sectors as well as disputes relating to building rights, and often draws on the expertise of neighbouring practice groups and international offices. Dieter Strubenhoff and Johannes Willheim jointly head the practice and are both experienced in contentious energy law issues.
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Testimonials
‘Johannes Willheim: Rhetorically top. Assertive.’
Key clients
Gazprom Austria
PJSC Gazprom und Gazprom export LLC
Work highlights
- Successful representation of Gazprom Austria in an appeal before the Austrian Supreme Court as the Supreme Cartel Court.
- Advising a Japanese company in connection with damages claims.
- Representing a global company in a post-M&A dispute.
Kantenwein Zimmermann Spatscheck & Partner
Kanteswein Zimmermann Spatscheck & Partner offers a wide range of advice on dispute resolution, including commercial and contractual matters, with particular know-how in assisting with disputes in the financial services and energy sectors. Alexander Kröck, who is well versed in liability issues, leads the team, which also includes Stefan Hackel, who is active in corporate and commercial law. Additional skills are provided by energy expert Nico Köppel and Marcus van Bevern, whose predominantly focuses on banking and financial disputes.
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Testimonials
‘All of the lawyers in the law firm are characterized by a high level of specialist expertise, which is used in a practical and efficient manner for creative solutions.’
‘Dr. Alexander Kröck combines a high level of technical expertise with creativity and tactical and strategic planning. The great objectivity and the openness and honesty in dealing with the circumstances of the proceedings he oversees are convincing. Initiative and determination are self-evident.’
‘It is this combination of empathy and high professional competence that distinguishes the law firm. Added to this is the speed and precision with which the work was done.’
‘ The various lawyers with whom we were allowed to work complemented each other very well and impressed both individually and as a team. Ultimately, this mix also helped us to successfully deal with various issues (contract law, tax law).’
‘I would like to give special mention to Dr. Alexander Krock. In addition to his excellent technical expertise, his special qualities include his negotiating skills. He was often the calming influence in difficult situations: calm, precise in his choice of words, polarizing only where appropriate, balancing and yet consistently keeping an eye on the common goal. His protocols are unsurpassed, which are not only precise in terms of content, but also convincing in terms of language.’
Work highlights
- Representing a solar company in international proceedings regarding a claim for rescission of a supply contract after the sale of a portfolio of non-performing loans (NPL) to an international hedge fund.
- Advising and representing a foreign bank regarding recourse claims in connection with cum-ex transactions.
Pinsent Masons Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater Solicitors Partnerschaft mbB
Pinsent Masons Rechtsanwälte Steuerberater Solicitors Partnerschaft mbB fields a 'highly motivated, professional and competent' dispute resolution team that recently experienced strong growth at associate level. Sibylle Schumacher, who is experienced in cartel damages, heads the team which assists German and international companies with contentious matters in the manufacturing, energy and infrastructure sectors. Construction law expert Martin Eimer and Johanna Weißbach, who focuses on the automotive and finance sectors, are other key contacts. Christian Schmidt and senior associate Moritz Maßen are well versed in tech disputes, while Attila Bangha-Szabo routinely advises on cross-border insolvency disputes.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Martin Eimer; Johanna Weißbach; Christian Schmidt; Attila Bangha-Szabo; Moritz Maßen
Testimonials
‘Mr Eimer organizes his team, is informed at all times about the status of the work and coordinates it. I’ve never had the problem of people being unprepared and there is a willingness to learn and understand complex technical issues. The technical understanding of the employees is exceptional (unusually high in the industry). The cooperation is cooperative, whereby we as a client are also part of the team.’
‘The end products are clearly structured and always have a clear “red thread” that is based on the process strategy.’
‘Martin Eimer clearly stands out from the good team. He can clearly name and differentiate between the important and unimportant aspects, thinks ahead and is informed at all times – or prepares within a very short period of time. Very good discussion partner in finding a solution together.’
‘Christian Schmidt is doing solid, valuable work. In short: brilliant mind with a good team.’
‘Sibylle Schumacher: Probably the best kept and most underestimated secret of the German dispute resolution scene.’
‘Mrs. Schumacher’s team is highly motivated, professional and competent. We felt very well looked after and the results speak for themselves. We were able to assert all of our claims. Responsiveness, speed, empathy and competence are excellently combined here.’
‘Sibylle Schumacher has many years of experience in the field of commercial litigation and has been known to us as a consultant for almost 20 years. Her experience and her ability to correctly assess complex legal issues and personal motivations of the parties (counter party) represent a specialty in the market. Ms. Schumacher’s advice is always very valuable to us and was the basis for many correct business decisions. ‘
‘Very hands-on and excellent business acumen, top responsiveness.’
Key clients
Volkswagen AG
Land Baden-Württemberg
Augusta Ventures
f | solar GmbH
AGC Glass Europe S.A.
SKW Schwarz
SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte is experienced in corporate, commercial, finance and liability law issues and has most recently been entrusted with contentious supply chain matters and cross-border trade disputes. The firm has a longstanding focus on technology and media and thus also covers related IT and data protection disputes. Arndt Tetzlaff, who is experienced in mediation and arbitration, heads the group, which also includes counsel Kerstin Aust, who acts before state and arbitration courts, and Oliver Korte, who specialises in commercial and distribution law disputes. Andreas Seidel joined Schalast & Partner Rechtsanwälte in late summer 2020.
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Testimonials
‘The practice at SKW Schwarz is extremely service-oriented. In addition, the entire law firm has been very strong in digital communication for years, which simplifies many steps and is simply up-to-date.’
‘Mr. Tetzlaff has in-depth specialist knowledge in his field and an exceptionally pleasant personality, which impresses with professionalism and humor in the right place. In addition, he can communicate at eye level, is approachable and at the same time a very assertive lawyer in court.’
‘Very good accessibility and fast processing by the team. High quality of processing by all team members.’
‘Frequent collaboration with Arndt Tetzlaff. Comprehensive reconsideration of legal positions. Convincing representation in pleadings and very flexible/spontaneous response in court when required. Clearly indicates the risks in advance during the consultation.’
‘The law firm has specialists in practically every field. You can fall back on this even if you are working with a specific person on the case.’
‘Mr. Tetzlaff has outstanding ideas and is able to take unconventional paths at the client’s request.’
‘Arndt Tetzlaff: Very good thematic induction, proactive recommendations for action, clever process strategies.’
‘Very good team for complex civil litigation. The litigation team at SKW convinces with the good cooperation of specialists across all locations and departments of the law firm. In court proceedings, tax and corporate law aspects are also perfectly prepared in this way and convincingly presented to the court by SKW’s litigation team.’
‘Arndt Tetzlaff is an excellent litigator with a very quick grasp of complex issues, including some of our very exotic issues. As a skilful negotiator, he was able to position our interests and intentions very well in difficult cases and at the same time protect our open flanks.’
Key clients
Home Away Inc.
Telekom Deutschland GmbH
Signal Iduna Gruppe
Schufa Holding
Expedia Inc.
IKEA
Hanwha Q Cells
Netflix
GEHE Pharma Handel GmbH
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP is primarily instructed to assist with corporate and competition disputes as well as contentious insolvency and restructuring matters, while the team also increasingly focuses on IP and IT issues. The client portfolio includes various players, including German banks and international companies. Practice head Britta Grauke focuses on corporate and capital market disputes.
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Testimonials
‘Britta Grauke is an experienced partner in the litigation field with a deep understanding of facts and a reliable assessment. She enjoys a very high level of trust up to the management board and supervisory board level and is able to convey the content of the advice in a comprehensible and pragmatic manner.’
Key clients
Ryanair
Work highlights
- Successful representation of a financial services company in an insolvency challenge action.
- Advising a financial investor on a dispute arising from an M&A transaction.