SZA Schilling, Zutt & Anschütz Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft is widely acknowledged for its skill in private client and non-profit matters. The team advises on succession planning, inheritance and gift tax, cross-border asset transfers, estate administration, and family law, while also supporting the structuring and governance of charitable and family foundations. It routinely assists family businesses with corporate and tax matters and represents clients in inheritance-related disputes. The practice is led by a seasoned trio: Martin Feick, who is instructed on succession planning, asset structuring, and foundations governance; Stephan Scherer, an expert in inheritance law, corporate succession, and non-profit structuring; and Stefan Zeyher, who represents clients in inheritance disputes before state courts and arbitration tribunals.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Deep technical legal knowledge and expertise, smooth client handling.’
- ‘What makes the team unique is their client-centric approach, combined with knowledge, practicality, and a proactive mindset. They are known for their personalised service, attention to detail, and ability to tailor solutions.’
- ‘Stephan Scherer is highly experienced, highly skilled and an excellent client handler.’
- ‘It is a pleasure to work with Stephan Scherer, Martin Feick, and Tobias Krause. They demonstrate practicality, professionalism, and a quick grasp of the issues, making their recommendations highly actionable.’
- 'Great team spirit. Lawyers who work together very well. Very experienced partners who lead the team but allow the younger generation to make the best of it.'
- ‘Julian Schwalm is a rising star in foundation law in Germany. Robert Opris is very experienced and a skilled negotiator in family law. Martin Feick is very experienced in high-profile cases with complex client personalities.’ 'Martin Feick is top for private clients with individual focus.'
Key clients
- Heinz Hermann Thiele Familienstiftung
- Fontana Stiftung
- Helga und Edzard Reuter-Stiftung
- Shareholders of Voith GmbH & Co. KGaA
- Multiple shareholders of Freudenberg & Co.
Work highlights
Advised the Heinz Hermann Thiele Familienstiftung on a settlement with the preliminary heiress of the estate regarding its legacy, which is worth billions.
Acted as executor of the estate of Helga and Edzard Reuter.
Advised the Fontana Foundation on its day-to-day business.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Martin Feick; Stephan Scherer; Stefan Zeyher
Other key lawyers
Julian Schwalm; Lisa Hammes; Tobias Krause; Robert Opris