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CMS

CMS

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Germany • Corporate and M&A

1

M&A

CMS is rated for its deep sector expertise across technology, life sciences, energy, infrastructure, and finance. The firm frequently acts for private equity firms, corporates, government entities, and institutional investors on public and private M&A, divestitures, and strategic investments. The practice is led by an experienced trio: Richard Mitterhuber, known for his work on complex, cross-border M&A, buy-and-build strategies, and joint ventures; Kai Wallisch, who focuses on global carve-outs, share acquisitions, and corporate transactions; and Jacob Siebert, who specialises in M&A and corporate restructurings, including distressed deals and reorganisations. Patrick Lühr was promoted to partner in January 2025, while Ralf Kurney left the firm in June 2024. \n \n 
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Kai Wallisch is a fantastic M&A lawyer. He is a great negotiator with superior communication skills, especially in English.' \n'They are very focused on delivering on the client’s needs, always with an eye on realistic solutions to get a deal done. It is a pleasure working with the team because of their professional focus.' \n'Maximilian Grub and Yella Schick - it was an extraordinary experience working with two highly focused professionals with unrivalled knowledge, who were always available to advise on any legal needs during the transaction.' \n'Petra Schaffner and Rolf Leithaus are two partners who truly care about a client’s deal success.' \n'The CMS team is an exceptional choice for complex carve-outs. They possess strong business acumen, are thorough and detail-oriented, and maintain excellent and responsive client communication.' \n'Kai Wallisch exemplifies what it means to lead by example. Through a steadfast commitment to excellence, he and the other partners have cultivated a firm culture that is deeply rooted in reliability, hands-on collaboration, and proactive client service.' \n'The team was outstanding - business minded, creative and fast. They were fast to adapt to changes and suggested smart and business-friendly solutions to complex challenges.' \n'Maximilian Grub was instrumental in guiding us through a complex M&A transaction. His deep legal knowledge, attention to detail, and strategic advice gave us complete confidence. He communicated clearly, negotiated effectively, and was always responsive. A true professional and trusted partner—I highly recommend him for any M&A deal.'

Key clients

  • Luxcara
  • Aareal Bank AG
  • Vattenfall GmbH
  • CTS EVENTIM AG & Co. KGaA
  • Bruker Corporation
  • Federal State of Lower Saxony
  • Germany Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action
  • Exyte GmbH
  • Telefónica Deutschland Holding AG
  • VPI Holding Limited
  • SYNLAB International GmbH
  • IPG Photonics Corporation

Work highlights

Advised Encavis on a public takeover offer by KKR.
Practice head

Richard Mitterhuber; Kai Wallisch; Jacob Siebert

Other key lawyers

Maximilian Grub; Yella Schick; Petra Schaffner; Rolf Leithaus; Patrick Lühr

Comparative Guides