Noerr’s state aid practice is noted for its work at the intersection of EU regulatory policy and industrial projects. The team advises on state aid issues arising from the green transition, including hydrogen initiatives, electromobility infrastructure and related digitalisation measures. It also handles eligibility questions and matters under the EU Foreign Subsidies Regulation. Former practice head Sarah Blazek left the firm for Jones Day in January 2026.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The practice demonstrates solid expertise and a professional approach to client service. I appreciate the team's reliability and commitment to meeting expectations. Compared to other firms, the team performs well and shows a good understanding of client needs. Some innovations—such as efforts around billing transparency, use of technology, and diversity—are present, though there's room to further differentiate in these areas. Overall, the team provides competent service with a steady, dependable style.’
- 'Unerring approaches to solutions - very good understanding of the client's concerns - ready-to-use solutions as a separate claim always in the foreground - legally sound and up-to-date '
Key clients
- Bundesrepublik Deutschland - Finanzagentur GmbH
- Companies of the Schwarz Group
- Condor Flugdienst GmbH
- DFL Deutsche Fußball Liga GmbH
- HGV Hamburger Gesellschaft für Vermögens- und Beteiligungsmanagement mbH
- Japan Pulp & Paper
- Northvolt
Work highlights
Advising Northvolt regarding the partial state financing of the construction of a Gigafactory in Germany.
Advising Japan Pulp & Paper on its intended acquisition of various Inapa Group companies in Germany and France, including the notification of the transaction under the Foreign Subsidies Regulation (subject to considerable time pressure due to the ongoing insolvency proceedings).
Advising Bundesrepublik Deutschland on the legally compliant structuring of a planned sale of repayment claims resulting from several State aid payments granted to the FTI Group in the form of financial instruments in the amount of several hundred million euros.
Other key lawyers
Jens Peter Schmidt; Alexander Birnstiel