Baker McKenzie has expanded its expertise to include advisory services in the FinTech and Big Data sectors, while continuing to represent clients in contentious disputes and proceedings before supervisory authorities. It also advises on AI regulation, cybersecurity, and related areas of law, with particular emphasis on compliance with key EU legislation such as the Data Act, AI Act, and NIS2 Directive. Practice head Michael Schmidl advises on all contentious and non-contentious aspects of information technology law, including internet, software, and media law. Florian Tannen focuses on digitalisation, the data economy, and digital law, with particular expertise in the automotive, pharmaceutical, and healthcare sectors, while Simone Rieken specialises in IT outsourcing and IT transactions, including the drafting and negotiation of complex IT contracts.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team is very responsive and reliable.’
- 'Patrick Wilkening offers a rare combination of legal precision and technical fluency. He is not just an expert in IP, IT contract, and trademark law; he understands how these issues intersect with agile software development, licensing models, and collaborative innovation with OEMs.'
- ‘What sets this team apart is their deep understanding of the legal needs of innovative tech companies. In the fast-moving world of automotive software and testing automation, we need counsel who can keep pace, and this team does exactly that.'
- ‘Patrick Wilkening has been a trusted advisor to me for many years, and I can say without hesitation: he is one of the rare lawyers who combines razor-sharp legal intellect with genuine commercial intuition. Even in areas of significant legal ambiguity, he finds ways to navigate toward pragmatic and defensible outcomes. His efficiency is exceptional: despite his seniority and hourly rate, he delivers outstanding value.'
Key clients
- Automotive OEM
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Michael Schmidl
Other key lawyers
Florian Tannen; Simone Rieken; Michaela Nebel; Patrick Wilkening