Clifford Chance's integrated white collar, regulatory & compliance practice comprehensively covers preventive compliance matters and advises on embezzlement, fraud, money laundering and corruption, as well as current issues pertaining to whistleblowing, Russia-related sanctions and equal pay in the context of employment law compliance. The team focuses on the finance, healthcare, industry, logistics and manufacturing sectors and is also well versed in matters at the ESG interface, including the support in supply chain due diligence, corporate sustainability, human rights and compliance with environmental and climate protection requirements. Healthcare compliance expert Peter Dieners jointly heads the practice with Heiner Hugger (criminal compliance, internal investigations). Michael Dietrich (antitrust compliance) left the team at the end of 2023 and has since co-founded Dietrich Graf Zedtwitz Rechtsanwälte.
Compliance in Germany
Clifford Chance
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Thomas Voland; Ines Keitel; Gunnar Sachs; Julia Baedorff; Marc Besen; Stefan Menner; David Pasewaldt
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising a global French consumer goods group on issues regarding compliance with EU sanctions against Russia in connection with the activities of Russian subsidiaries.
- Advising a German real estate investment group on an internal investigation in connection with whistleblower reports concerning allegations of embezzlement and fraud.
- Advising a US banking group on money laundering compliance issues, particularly with regard to the planned new EU anti-money laundering package.
Gleiss Lutz
Gleiss Lutz‘s integrated compliance & investigations practice advises companies from the automotive, pharmaceutical, media, IT and consumer goods industries as well as public sector clients and increasingly supports clients across the financial sector. The team is well versed in preventive compliance as well as crisis management and assists with the design and implementation of compliance management systems and corporate governance issues. Most recent instructions pertain to sanctions, supply chain compliance, cybersecurity and ESG. This is complemented by expertise in advising governing bodies on D&O liability, including cross-border matters. Eike Bicker (corporate governance, design and implementation of compliance management systems) heads the team. Hendrik Howaldt (antitrust compliance and internal investigations) moved to BRP RENAUD in early 2024.
Kernmandanten
Deutsche Bahn AG
Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
Atlas Elektronik/ThyssenKrupp
Carl Zeiss Meditec
Dantherm Group A/S
Deutsche Beteiligung AG
INEOS Styrolution Group GmbH
Merz Pharma
One Equity Partner
PUMA
Solaris SE
Highlight-Mandate
- Supporting Deutsche Bahn AG in the course of a voluntary compliance monitorship for three years following an internal investigation into possible failures in the maintenance of railway infrastructure in Germany due to a train derailment in 2022 with five deaths and more than 70 injuries.
- Cross-border advice to Deutsche Beteiligungs AG on compliance due diligence in M&A transactions and on the implementation of compliance standards in portfolio companies worldwide.
- Ongoing cross-border advice to PUMA SE on compliance issues, including organisation, policies, risk assessments, whistleblowing and audits.
Hogan Lovells International LLP
Hogan Lovells International LLP fields a diverse team and follows a cross-locational approach in advising on preventive compliance measures. The practice focuses on ESG, supply chain due diligence, sanctions and product liability as well as the implementation of compliance management systems and the support in compliance audits. This is complemented by expertise in interfacing antitrust and corporate sustainability matters, which is regularly called upon by companies in the pharmaceutical, automotive, life sciences, medical device as well as financial sectors. Practice head Sebastian Lach is experienced in supporting US-related mandates and also acts as co-CEO of the in-house legaltech brand ELTEMATE, thus placing an industry focus on technology and IT matters. Simone Ridder, who is experienced in criminal law, moved to Eversheds Sutherland in November 2024.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Désirée Maier; Olaf Schneider; Christian Ritz; Philip Matthey; Sebastian Gräler; Angelina Leder; Lukas Ritzenhoff
Referenzen
‘The team provides excellent practical advice and understands the challenges that in-house lawyers face in implementing efficient and effective compliance measures. Therefore, their work products match the business reality and are not ‘by lawyers for lawyers’, but rather language and advice tailored to the real needs of the business.’
‘Philip Matthey is very experienced, brings a lot of knowledge from previous in-house positions and knows where the corresponding challenges lie. His advice is excellent.’
‘Hogan Lovells’ compliance practice is at the top of the market. Due to the interdisciplinary nature and size of the team, it provides comprehensive advice on all compliance issues and handle internal investigations from a single source. The team’s ability to manage complex projects and achieve outstanding results for clients is unique. The team not only advises on issues, but also solves clients’ problems. The team also has innovative LegalTech solutions at its disposal that offer real added value and are constantly being developed together with the LegalTech brand Eltemate.’
Kernmandanten
Alpha Reisebüropartner GmbH
Amedes Group
Armira Growth
Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (BaFin)
Cariad SE
Caterpillar
CureVac Corporate Services GmbH
Evonik
Holcim
Ingram Micro
Merz Gruppe
Motel One
Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
Rhenus Assets & Services GmbH & Co. KG
Sartorius AG
UN Global Compact Network Germany
Viatris
Vitesco
WWF
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising Sartorius AG on the compliance management system and compliance reporting systems based on the EU Whistleblower Directive as well as on ESG compliance, in particular on the implementation of the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act.
- Ongoing advice to Vitesco Technologies in the conception and further development of the Vitesco Technologies Legal Compliance Management System as well as conducting an internal investigation on various technical conformity issues.
- ESG compliance advice to currently more than 30 companies, including Caterpillar, CureVac, Ingram Micro, Merz Group and Motel One on various ESG topics. In addition to advising on the implementation of and compliance with the human rights and environmental due diligence obligations of the new supply chain law, the main focus is on the EU Deforestation Regulation and the EU Battery Regulation as well as on the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive.
Pohlmann & Company
Pohlmann & Company's renowned practice offers comprehensive advice on corporate governance, ESG, compliance audits, supply chain due diligence, whistleblowing, environmental law, compliance monitorships, corporate sustainability and D&O liability issues. The client roster includes players from the healthcare, electronics, telecoms, energy, construction materials, infrastructure, transport, chemicals, finance, PE, industrial and marine technology sectors, which the team supports in compliance and risk analyses and in the design and implementation of compliance management systems. Nicole Willms, who is experienced in US-related compliance monitorships, jointly heads the practice with Christian Beer, who focuses on governance matters and the development and implementation of compliance processes and tools. Sascha Kuhn is experienced in compliance monitorships and data protection and joined the team from Simmons & Simmons in June 2024, while Thomas Lüthi, is well versed in compliance management systems; former practice head and compliance expert Andreas Pohlmann switched to of counsel status.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Uwe Erling; Julia Kahlenberg; Martin Schorn; Sascha Kuhn; Thomas Lüthi; Andreas Pohlmann; Thomas Lüthi
Referenzen
‘Good mix of experience from an external and internal perspective. Legally sound, but also with a management and governance perspective.’
‘Nicole Willms is very experienced and knowledgeable. She is well versed in compliance best practices and offers practical solutions that a company can actually implement. She is personable and fun to work with!’
‘Quick response to inquiries within one day, even when agreed appointments have to be changed; great willingness to provide support even when inquiries are outside the scope of the mandate given; comprehensive, neutral advice; very good preparation and familiarization with the company-specific features.’
Kernmandanten
Telefonaktiebolaget L.M. Ericsson
Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA
Knorr-Bremse AG
Evonik Industries
Highlight-Mandate
- US DoJ/SEC Compliance Monitorship for Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson with a term of four years to review, evaluate and further develop the effectiveness of the central compliance management system and internal control system.
- Ongoing advice and support to Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA in the regular adequacy/effectiveness review and continuous development of its group-wide hybrid risk and integrity management system.
- Supporting Knorr-Bremse AG in the further development of its compliance management system based on international best practice standards and the expansion of a relevant compliance organization and governance within the Group.
Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie offers a full-service approach in preventive compliance and advises global corporations and DAX40 companies from the automotive, construction, consumer goods, logistics, energy, chemical, IT and financial sectors on corporate governance, ESG, anti-corruption, money laundering and data protection as well as sanctions and export control. This is complemented by expertise at the interface with antitrust, criminal tax and employment law as well as experience in cybersecurity, fraud prevention and product compliance; the latter three segments are core strengths of Nicolai Behr, who co-leads with Anika Schürmann, who is experienced in compliance audits and risk assessments. Schürmann took over the role of co-head from Andreas Lohner (D&O liability and anti-corruption), the latter retired in July 2024.
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising a DAX40 company in connection with proceedings brought by the US Securities and Exchange Commission.
- Advising a DAX40 company on the comprehensive realignment of its anti-corruption compliance program.
- Advising a German pharmaceutical company on the comprehensive re-orientation of its anti-corruption compliance program.
Dentons
Dentons's full-service approach also covers cross-border matters and the team advises on traditional compliance topics, such as data protection, money laundering, compliance management systems, foreign trade law, capital markets and securities compliance as well as compliance issues at the interface with tax, antitrust, corporate and employment law. Current growth areas include AI, data governance, supply chains and ESG matters. These competencies are regularly called upon by clients from the healthcare, energy, insurance, automotive, banking and financial sectors. The team is jointly led by Judith Aron (co-chair of the global compliance and investigations practice), who is experienced in the implementation of compliance management systems, and Christian Schefold (data protection, money laundering prevention). Gabriele Haas, who is experienced in energy issues, moved to Noerr in mid 2024.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Peter Braun; Josef Hainz; René Grafunder; Julia Pfeil; Sebastian von Haldenwang; Nico Winter
Referenzen
‘Christian Schefold impresses with his efficient way of working and his pragmatic, solution-oriented approach.’
‘René Grafunder is top, top, top!’
‘Extremely hands-on, super fast.’
Kernmandanten
Alibaba
Allianz SE
Audi/HDY Group
Daimler Truck AG
EB-Sustainable Investmanagement GmbH
Europlasma
Evex Aquico
Geodis S.A.
Harting Stiftung GmbH & Co.KGaA
Cherry Hub
ISKA Schön GmbH
Jetbrains
KSB SE & CO. KG aA
Mercedes-Benz Group AG
OHHH! Foundation e.V.
Jugend gegen Aids e.V.
Provinzial Holding AG
Resonac Graphite Group
SmileDirectClub LLC
Vitronet Gruppe
Vivy GmbH
Volkswagen AG
Wavestone
Yamaha Music
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising a market leader in the German defense industry on compliance issues, setting up EU/NATO subsidiaries, further development of the compliance management system, export control and investigation of compliance incidents.
- Counsel and representation of a global leader in dialysis services in investigations by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the U.S. Department of Justice regarding violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, including investigations, remediation, and negotiations leading to a non-prosecution agreement and settlement with the SEC.
- Advising a technology company on the establishment of a Europe-wide whistleblower system and on the implementation of the Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) involving 15 jurisdictions worldwide.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper is well versed in whistleblower protection, money laundering, HR compliance, sanctions, antitrust compliance, due diligence, compliance management systems and supply chain due diligence as well as data protection violations, cyber attacks, MeToo-related matters as well as product and tax compliance. The team offers a cross-practice as well as cross-locational approach, which is complemented by capacities at the criminal law interface as well as expertise in internal investigations. Co-head Christian Schoop is experienced in compliance due diligence and co-leads with Jens Kirchner, who is experienced in HR compliance.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Emanuel Ballo; Ludger Giesberts; Guido Kleve; Gunne Bähr; Volker Lemmer; Moritz von Hesberg
Referenzen
‘Christian Schoop: Absolutely reliable, very well-founded and up-to-date knowledge, targeted advice, quick processing of our inquiries, uncomplicated cooperation.’
‘Emanuel Ballo: Very clever mind who finds practical solutions even for complex situations.’
‘A great team with very experienced lawyers. High team power, quick response.’
‘We recommend Emanuel Ballo. He provides efficient and high-quality advice.’
‘The DLA Piper legal team that I have had the pleasure of working with have consistently delivered an excellent performance in their work. They have a long track record of delivering timely results and their professionalism and expertise have been invaluable in supporting my needs.’
‘We can only recommend Guido Kleve.’
‘Christian Schoop: Very good overview of complex procedures.’
Kernmandanten
Borg Warner Inc.
Emirates Airlines
Frankfurter Volksbank eG
Highlight-Mandate
- Ongoing advice to Borg Warner Inc. on national and cross-border compliance matters in Europe and support in the further development of compliance structures, including whistleblower structures for all countries in the European Union.
- Advising an OEM of electric vehicles on product compliance, including the implementation of product recalls and the design of end customer communication.
- Advising an aircraft MRO services provider on an international project, including export control and customs compliance requirements for local branches and subsidiaries.
CMS
CMS' preventive compliance expertise is primarily requested by companies from the pharmaceutical, medical technology, logistics and manufacturing sectors in connection with corporate governance, D&O liability, money laundering, data protection and HR compliance, as well as issues at the interface with corporate, antitrust, employment and tax law. The team also covers ESG-related topics, such as supply chain matters, human rights and environmental law. Florian Block and practice head Harald Potinecke, who are experienced in product liability and the implementation of compliance management systems, are among the key contacts.
Referenzen
‘Smooth collaboration, honest reactions and recommendations, foresight across multiple disciplines.’
‘Comprehension, quality, preparation, reliability, reaction speed, precision, fast reaction times.’
‘Harald Potinecke: Very experienced in all facets.’
‘Very quick-reacting, motivated and extremely efficient team. All team members are highly professional, yet human, friendly and empathetic.’
‘CMS has a very strong compliance team in Germany with whom we have been cooperating in this area for years. The team is hands-on, responsive and not only provides very good technical input, but also economically driven suggestions that round off an overall decision.’
‘Very close and success-oriented cooperation. Outstanding level of communication skills and commitment.’
‘Harald Potinecke works thoroughly and is service-oriented. He always leads his associates in a thoughtful and focused manner.’
Highlight-Mandate
Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP
In addition to its forensic capacities, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP also comprehensively advises clients from the automotive and financial sectors on preventive compliance. The practice regularly assists with export control, sanctions, data protection, cybersecurity, ESG and money laundering as well as antitrust and regulatory issues. The team routinely acts across practices and locations. Among the key contacts are Benno Schwarz, who is experienced in anti-corruption and FCPA compliance, Katharina Humphrey (sanctions, anti-corruption and anti-money laundering) and Finn Zeidler (criminal law interface, cross-border advice). Mark Zimmer, who is experienced in HR compliance, moved to ADVANT Beiten in October 2023.
Referenzen
‘Extremely high level of responsiveness. Colleagues are always looking for ways to use technical developments to not only improve and accelerate work results, but also reduce costs.’
‘Gibson Dunn has provided exceptional service in compliance matters. The team’s expertise in navigating the complex landscape of regulatory requirements is unparalleled. They provide proactive and comprehensive advice that not only addresses current compliance issues but also anticipates potential future challenges. The lawyers are not only highly knowledgeable but also extremely approachable, ensuring that all questions are answered clearly and thoroughly. Their commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice is evident in every interaction.’
‘Benno Schwarz has the ability to develop practical solutions and not to get caught up in unnecessary theoretical considerations. His many years of experience in working with top management and the supervisory bodies of large, internationally active companies also helps with this.’
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising Mercedes-Benz on criminal law issues under German and US law in connection with regulatory proceedings in the diesel context, which were successfully concluded with the discontinuation of the criminal investigation in the US.
Hengeler Mueller
Hengeler Mueller advises numerous well-known international corporations and listed German companies from the real and financial economy on preventive issues pertaining to export control, whistleblower protection, corporate governance, money laundering, product liability, HR compliance and ESG, including supply chain due diligence and greenwashing; the team also covers sanctions, including in connection with Russia. The key contacts include Fabian Quast (public law, forensic compliance), Vera Jungkind (data protection, public law) and Wolfgang Spoerr, who is well versed in regulatory issues and administrative law. Counsel Carolin Raspé, who is experienced in data protection compliance, joined YPOG as a partner in late 2024.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Vera Jungkind; Fabian Quast; Wolfgang Spoerr; Dirk Uwer; Maximilian Ohrloff; Markus Ernst; Christian Hoefs; Constantin Lauterwein; Sven Schneider; Christoph Stadler; Daniel Weiß; Johanna Wirth; Malte Wundenberg
Highlight-Mandate
Linklaters
In addition to its traditional focus on banking and finance, Linklaters‘ cross-practice and cross-location compliance offering focuses on the energy, aviation, industry, automotive and technology sectors. The team advises on various topics, including supply chain due diligence, whistleblower protection, human rights, corporate governance, D&O liability and cybersecurity as well as MeToo-related issues, antitrust matters and sanctions; the latter is a key strength of managing associate Jacqueline Engineer. Criminal lawyer Kerstin Wilhelm (financial, automotive, industry and technology sectors) co-leads the team with Staffan Illert (corporate governance, internal investigations); Illert recently took over the co-management from Hans-Ulrich Wilsing (corporate governance), who simultaneously switched to the of counsel position.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Daniel Pauly; Christian Hundeshagen; Timon Grau; Jacqueline Engineer; Hans-Ulrich Wilsing
Referenzen
‘Strong team that works well together and efficiently masters all compliance challenges.’
‘Kerstin Wilhelm impresses with her in-depth specialist knowledge, excellent subject matter knowledge and strategic vision.’
‘Comprehensive banking expertise and networking in the industry.’
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising a DAX company in connection with parallel antitrust proceedings in the European Union and other jurisdictions as well as an internal investigation concerning large parts of the company with numerous interviews and a forensic data analysis.
- Supporting an industrial company in conducting an internal investigation into suspected violations of the EU sanctions against Russia.
- Advising a global logistics service provider in over 40 jurisdictions in connection with a cyber incident.
Noerr
Noerr follows a full-service approach in advising German companies on corporate governance, anti-money laundering, product compliance, supply chain due diligence and sanctions and thus also covers interfacing topics, such as the recent growth area ESG. Recently, the team experienced several changes: Julia Sophia Habbe, who is well versed in ESG compliance, moved to White & Case LLP in April 2024, and Volker Rosengarten, who is experienced in cybersecurity, moved to Ashurst LLP in the summer of 2024. Simultaneously, Gabriele Haas (ESG, energy sector) joined from Dentons. In January 2025, Torsten Fett, who is experienced in advising banks and financial service providers, handed over the practice management to a trio consisting of Ingo Theusinger (corporate governance, compliance management systems), criminal lawyer Christian Pelz (compliance management systems) and Rainer Wilke, who is well versed in M&A and corporate law.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Thomas Klindt; Andre Happel; Alida Gölz; Bärbel Sachs; Karolin Fitzer; Philipp Gergen; Torsten Fett; Gabriele Haas
Referenzen
‘Flexible, responds quickly to client needs.’
‘Extremely high level of competence in the respective specialist areas. Very well networked (internationally).’
Kernmandanten
Bosch-Gruppe
OWH SE
CARIAD SE
Commerzbank AG
Deichmann
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising the Bosch Group on issues regarding the group-wide export control and sanctions compliance program, including advice on Russia-related sanctions.
- Advising CARIAD SE on the implementation of the new supply chain law and related issues.
- Commissioned by the special representative with management authority appointed by BaFin and the liquidator, the team supports OWH SE iL in the handling of its business in the interests of creditors and deposit protection. A key pillar of the activity here is ensuring compliance with sanctions law.
Taylor Wessing
Taylor Wessing's full-service approach includes forensic compliance as well as matters at the criminal law interface and is regularly requested by medium-sized companies and international corporations, particularly from the technology and financial sectors. The team is well versed in anti-corruption, compliance management systems, corporate governance, antitrust and foreign trade law issues, data protection, ESG, money laundering and whistleblowing as well as product, healthcare and HR compliance. Martin Knaup (corporate governance, internal investigations) and Jan-Patrick Vogel (HR compliance) jointly lead the team.
Referenzen
‘Professional team with multinational thinking and perspective.’
‘Very good specialist knowledge, very good networking with the authorities.’
‘Very experienced, well-coordinated team.’
‘Jan-Patrick Vogel: Very solution-oriented, thinks economically like the client.’
‘We can only recommend Martin Knaup.’
‘My contact Mike Goldammer is a very reliable and considerate external partner. It is really nice to work on challenging topics with such a great external colleague.’
‘Jan-Patrick Vogel is not only a very good lawyer, but is also able to present his achievements to the board of directors in the right light.’
Kernmandanten
Audi
CEE Group
Flink
HAYS
Mitegro
thyssenkrupp AG
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising the general works council of Audi AG with regarding false remuneration that may be relevant under works constitution law and criminal law as a result of the Federal Court of Justice ruling on works council remuneration at VW.
- Advising Flink on antitrust and merger control law in its joint venture with Yassir and in the establishment of the French New Flink France SAS and a Series A financing by Yassir.
- Advising HAYS on corporate governance issues and all compliance matters, including supply chain law, trade secret law and whistleblowing.
White & Case LLP
White & Case LLP is experienced in advising companies from the financial, automotive and pharmaceutical sectors as well as online services providers on anti-corruption and anti-money laundering as well as on gambling law matters, AFC, liability, ESG and HR compliance. Recently, the team increasingly acted on behalf of companies from the digital sector in connection with the EU Digital Services Act. In April 2024, Julia Sophia Habbe, who is well versed in ESG compliance, joined from Noerr and has since co-led the team with Daniel Zapf; the latter is experienced in the implementation of compliance management systems and anti-money laundering.
Referenzen
‘Solution-oriented, pragmatic, highly responsive and cost-efficient. Always able to understand the client’s needs. Keeps an eye on legal developments in the compliance area and prepares solutions tailored to the client’s needs.’
‘Daniel Zapf impresses with his outstanding ability to familiarize himself with the client’s needs. He is therefore always able to adapt legal expertise and current legal developments to the respective company needs and thus offer efficient and pragmatic legal advice at a high legal level.’
Highlight-Mandate
A&O Shearman
Companies from the financial, technology and life sciences sectors regularly instruct A&O Shearman in connection with anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, data protection and HR compliance issues as well as the implementation of compliance management systems, sanctions and due diligence in the transaction context. The expertise in the financial sector was strengthened with the appointment of David Schmid to partner in May 2024. Tim Nikolas Müller is is experienced in embezzlement and fraud matters and leads the team. Ellen Birkemeyer, who is experienced in tax compliance, moved to WTS in November 2023.
Referenzen
‘The team consists of extremely capable lawyers who are also personally convincing.’
‘In my opinion, Tim Nikolas Müller is one of the best in his field.’
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising an international German company in the field of mobility and logistics on the establishment of a global compliance management system, including the drafting of a total of 21 compliance guidelines on topics such as corruption prevention, money laundering prevention, antitrust law, compliance with economic and financial sanctions, data protection, information security and ESG.
- Transaction-related compliance advice to a software company on money laundering, sanctions and corruption risks within the framework of legal due diligence.
- Advising various banks and financial institutions in connection with ESG regulation, in particular on the Disclosure Regulation, the Taxonomy Regulation and the adaptations of the delegated acts to MiFID II.
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP's cross-locational approach is regularly called upon by companies from the financial, automotive and TMT sectors, which the team advises on corporate governance, money laundering, fraud, corruption as well as export controls and related sanctions. The team is also experienced in crisis management, the advice to governing bodies and the implementation of compliance management systems. Bernd Mayer (compliance management systems, internal investigations) leads the team.
Kernmandanten
Continental AG
ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE
Citigroup, Inc.
Visa Inc.
Renault Group
L’Occitane
Halliburton
Ball Corporation
International Paper Company
Sylvamo Corporation
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising the supervisory board of Continental AG on an internal investigation regarding diesel emissions and related corporate governance issues.
- Advising the supervisory board of ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE on an internal investigation in connection with possible violations of regulatory requirements by a subsidiary.
- Advising two major multinational investment companies on EU sanctions against Russia, including disaster planning.
AGS Legal
AGS Legal advises international medium-sized companies and their governing bodies from the engineering, automotive, trade, construction and real estate sectors on issues at the interface between compliance and employment, civil and criminal law. Practice head Jan Kappel is well versed in advising governing bodies, including criminal law issues, and is supported by Florian Junkers (asset Tracing and recovery).
Referenzen
‘The compliance team at AGS Legal consists of proven experts and opinion leaders in the industry. I would recommend AGS Legal at any time.’
‘Jan Kappel offers absolute top-level expertise with real practical relevance. Here, the client always has the feeling that the in-house topics are understood by a professional. In addition to his outstanding technical work, he always brings a personal touch to the mandate and thus creates the perfect basis of trust.’
‘Jan Kappel: Very good compliance know-how; very pragmatic.’
Kernmandanten
ADAC
GERES Group
Interhomes AG
Kempinski Hotels SA / Kempinski AG
Kraftanlagen Energies & Services GmbH
Libyscher Staatsfonds
SIXT SE
Highlight-Mandate
- Representation of an insolvency administrator in the investigation of a pyramid scheme with almost €100 million in losses for investors.
- Representation of the former head of diesel engine development in the internal investigation. In addition, representation before law enforcement authorities in Germany and coordination of the investigation and representation in the USA together with co-counsel in the US.
FS-PP Berlin Part mbB
Berlin-based boutique FS-PP Berlin Part mbB focuses on compliance and commercial criminal law and offers preventive advice on whistleblower protection, data protection, criminal tax law, corruption, money laundering, criminal employment law as well as medical and criminal medical law. The team is also experienced in implementing compliance management systems and is regularly instructed by major industrial companies and public sector clients. Key contacts include Niklas Auffermann (anti-money laundering and criminal law), David Albrecht (criminal employment law and internal investigations), Sebastian Vogel (medical and criminal medical law) and of counsel Rainer Frank (compliance and whistleblower systems).
Referenzen
‘Good Team in the Berlin market.’
‘Sebastian Vogel is a particularly strong communicator.’
‘The team around Niklas Auffermann is one of the leading compliance and criminal law boutiques. It is well networked and very well positioned in terms of expertise and personnel.’
Kernmandanten
Autobahn GmbH des Bundes
Axel Springer SE
Berliner Sparkasse
Berliner Wasserbetriebe AöR
Berliner Bäder-Betriebe
BIM Berliner Immobilienmanagement GmbH
BImA Bundesanstalt für Immobilienaufgaben AöR
Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit & Entwicklung
Bundesministerium des Inneren und für Heimat
Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Condecta AG
Deutsche Bahn AG
Deutsche Klassenlotterie Berlin AöR
DEGES Deutsche Einheit Fernstraßenplanungs- und -bau GmbH
Deutsche Wohnen SE
DigitalService GmbH des Bundes
DUO PLAST AG
FBB Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH
First Sensor AG
Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit
GASAG Gruppe
GESOBAU
Gesundheit Nord – Klinikverbund Bremen
Gewobag Wohnungsbau-AG Berlin
Goodyear Dunlop Tires Germany GmbH
Grosskraftwerk Mannheim AG
KBB Kulturveranstaltungen des Bundes Berlin GmbH
Kieback & Peter GmbH & Co. KG
Labor Berlin – Charité Vivantes GmbH
Lacomed Klinik
Landeshauptstadt Potsdam
LEAG – Lausitz Energie Bergbau AG
Leipziger Gruppe
Lotto Berlin – Deutsche Klassenlotterie Berlin AöR
Märkische Kliniken Gesundheitsholding GmbH & Co. KG
Messe Berlin GmbH
PANGEA Unternehmerkapital GmbH
Plansee Group
PWO AG
Schindler AG
Schrobsdorff Bau AG
Schultheiss Wohnbau AG
Scout 24 AG
Siltronic AG
Schwanhäuser Stabilo
Stromnetz Berlin
Stadtwerke Erfurt Gruppe
Techniker Krankenkasse
TLG Immobilien AG
Toll Collect GmbH
Trockland Immobilien Gruppe
TUI Cruises GmbH
Universitätsklinik Greifswald
Vattenfall
50hertz Transmisson GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising a medical device manufacturer on sanctions regarding exports to Russia.
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP
Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP advises across practices and locations on preventive measures pertaining to corruption, money laundering, sanctions, fraud, embezzlement and cybercrime and is also instructed on the development and implementation of compliance management and whistleblowing systems. Practice head Dirk Seiler comprehensively advises on compliance and criminal law matters and is particularly experienced in corporate defense; senior associate Nathalie Thorhauer focuses on cross-border compliance and D&O liability.
Referenzen
‘The team around Dirk Seiler has an extremely high level of expertise in compliance matters and is service-oriented and experienced.’
‘Dirk Seiler is a personified encyclopedia when it comes to compliance issues. With his experience, his advanced expertise and his personable demeanor, Mr. Seiler is the first choice when we work with colleagues on compliance issues.’
‘Nathalie Thorhauer is very thorough and assertive, highly recommended!’
Kernmandanten
Microsoft Deutschland GmbH
Microsoft Corporation (USA)
Ford-Werke GmbH
Pfizer Inc. (USA)
Pfizer Products Inc. (USA)
Pfizer GmbH (Deutschland)
Highlight-Mandate
- Criminal compliance advice to a pharmaceutical and biotech company on corruption-related issues in several jurisdictions.
- Compliance advice to an energy company on money laundering issues in several jurisdictions.
- Ongoing criminal law and compliance advice to Microsoft Deutschland GmbH.
Latham & Watkins LLP
Latham & Watkins LLP's traditional strength in transaction support also extends to preventive compliance matters, where the team advises on due diligence, corporate governance and whistleblower systems. This is complemented by expertise in ESG and supply chain due diligence as well as misconduct in the workplace matters. The practice is jointly led by Thomas Grützner (criminal law and internal investigations) and Tim Wybitul (regulatory proceedings and data protection). Former co-practice head Tobias Larisch (corporate governance, corporate law and M&A) moved to Kirkland & Ellis International LLP in mid 2024.
Highlight-Mandate
Oppenhoff
Oppenhoff advises companies from the life sciences, automotive and insurance sectors as well as from the manufacturing industry on D&O liability, HR compliance, corporate governance and data protection and also supports risk analyses and internal compliance matters, including compliance management and whistleblower systems. The team is also well versed in advising on ESG and sanctions related to Russia. Stephan Müller (anti-corruption, money laundering and internal investigations) and Daniel Dohrn (sector focus on automotive, trade, aerospace) jointly lead the team.
Referenzen
‘Very good support in the area of compliance, including very good knowledge in the area of CMS; pleasant cooperation.’
‘The team has a very high and broad professional competence, works quickly and well. I would particularly like to emphasize that they always keep an eye on the economic efficiency of the activities for the client. They work in a very solution-oriented manner and do not produce unnecessarily long written documents and are binding on the matter.’
‘They bring in colleagues when needed them for a particular area of law; there are no large groups of lawyers with participants who do not contribute anything of their own.’
Kernmandanten
Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) e.V.
VHV Holding AG
Bundesverband Deutscher Kinderausstattungs-Hersteller e.V.
TIP Trailer Services Germany GmbH
NETINERA Deutschland GmbH
Adient Germany Ltd. & Co. KG
Finatem Fonds Management Verwaltungs GmbH
Suzuki Deutschland GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising Suzuki Deutschland GmbH on the revision of its compliance management system.
- Advising Adient on anti-money laundering compliance, in particular with regard to the review of business partner risks as well as risk management and the fulfillment of anti-money laundering due diligence obligations.
- Advising KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG on requirements for defense companies within the framework of CBAM.
SZA Schilling, Zutt & Anschütz Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft
SZA Schilling, Zutt & Anschütz Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft primarily advises medium-sized and DAX40 companies on the development and implementation of compliance systems and on increasing the efficiency of existing compliance measures as well as suspected money laundering audits, risk analyses and due diligence; the team is also well versed in cybersecurity and supply chain due diligence issues. The four-strong management includes Jochem Reichert (corporate and M&A), Nicolas Ott (corporate governance, D&O liability), Christian Gehling (corporate governance and supply chain due diligence) and Cäcilie Lüneborg (D&O liability and compliance management systems). Maximilian Goette regularly covers matters at the corporate law interface and was appointed to counsel in January 2025.
Referenzen
‘The team offers a holistic approach in the area of compliance and, where necessary, involves colleagues from other disciplines so that the client can take the entire legal framework and any implications into account and resolve them in a practical manner.’
‘In working with Cäcilie Lüneborg, I value her approachability and solution-oriented approach and practical relevance, especially with regard to the requirements for the implementation of the LkSG and HinSchG.’
‘As far as the implementation of compliance systems and their further development is concerned, we rely on Jochem Reichert, who is very experienced in this field and always provides sound advice. He has extremely fast response times.’
‘The Compliance practice team at SZA is characterized by a high level of legal expertise, a strong customer focus and an efficient way of working. Every team member is extremely friendly, reliable and available to us at any time. The team keeps us as clients proactively informed in all cases and explains even the most difficult legal contexts in an understandable way.’
‘Legal excellence combined with a deep understanding of practice.’
‘Highest professional competence and strategic sharpness.’
‘Whenever we have compliance issues, we always contact SZA Schilling, Zutt & Anschütz. They advise us conscientiously and carefully. They also operate our compliance hotline, offer training and keep us up to date. This is especially true now with regard to the Whistleblower Protection Act. The responses of the SZA compliance team are always quick and reliable, and their advice is pragmatic and easy to implement.’
‘Maximilian Goette’s constant availability and extremely reliable and effective work in the area of compliance are worth highlighting.’
Kernmandanten
BayWa AG
ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE
BASF SE
GBG Mannheimer Wohnungsbaugesellschaft mbH
Krone Unternehmensgruppe
Mektec Europe Gruppe
Renolit SE
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising the executive board of ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE in connection with possible violations of financial supervisory regulations by the subsidiaries Jochen Schweizer and mydays.
act legal
Industrial companies and private equity investors regularly instruct act legal on the design and implementation of compliance management systems and on whistleblower protection, supply chain due diligence, embezzlement and tax compliance matters. Michelle Wiesner-Lameth (white collar criminal law and compliance) and Marcus Columbu (financial regulation and compliance) jointly head the practice.
Referenzen
‘Excellent team!’
‘Michelle Wiesner-Lameth: Very competent and well connected, pragmatic.’
‘Marcus Columbu: Responsive, reliable, to the point, assertive, smart.’
Kernmandanten
DLE Group AG
POSSEHL Spezialbau GmbH
Paulsen-Gruppe
Nedschroef-Gruppe
Berlin Last Mile GmbH
Halder GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Conducting a compliance risk analysis for an international biotechnology company in multiple jurisdictions.
- Advising an industrial group on the clarification of facts in connection with a competition case, the passing on of business secrets to the competitor, and the initiation of criminal proceedings. In addition, successful civil law enforcement of injunction claims in interim legal protection.
BRP RENAUD
BRP RENAUD supports medium-sized companies from the automotive, insurance and industrial sectors in identifying and assessing compliance risks and implementing compliance management and whistleblower systems, including the advice on violations and subsequent internal investigations. This is complemented by experience in advising governing bodies and corporate governance matters. The team is jointly led by Stefan Reuter (anti-money laundering, whistleblower protection and D&O liability) and Martin Beutelmann (compliance management systems and antitrust law). Hendrik Howaldt (antitrust compliance, internal investigations) joined from Gleiss Lutz in early 2024.
Referenzen
‘The team around Martin Beutelmann and Stefan Reuter has been supporting us for several years with outstanding quality in the area of compliance.’
Kernmandanten
MAHA Maschinenbau Haldenwang GmbH & Co. KG
VOV GmbH
Ehemaliger Vorstand der ÜSTRA Hannoversche Verkehrsbetriebe AG
Witzenmann GmbH
Insolvenzverwalter der ItN Nanovation AG
Highlight-Mandate
- Compliance advice to Witzenmann GmbH, including company-wide risk analysis, establishment of an internal whistleblower system and an external complaints procedure, as well as the establishment of an international compliance network at the subsidiaries.
- Advising a large construction company on the compliance management system and its strategic development, including setting up the whistleblower system and complaints procedures.
- Advising the insolvency administrator of ItN Nanovation AG on the legal enforcement of claims for damages amounting to €20 million, including against former management and supervisory board members for breaches of compliance and due diligence obligations, as well as against the D&O insurer. In addition to the German jurisdiction, the Chinese and Irish jurisdictions are also involved.
GSK Stockmann
GSK Stockmann primarily advises medium-sized companies, family offices and corporations from the real estate, pharmaceutical and logistics sectors as well as from the manufacturing industry on supply chain due diligence, including compliance risk analyses as well as whistleblower protection, corporate governance, D&O liability as well as the design and implementation of compliance management systems. The team also covers corporate sustainability and sanction-related issues. Practice head Eric Mayer focuses on technology, automotive and healthcare. Gerhard Gündel (focus on the financial and insurance sector) moved to GÖRG Partnerschaft von Rechtsanwälten mbB in 2023.
Referenzen
‘Eric Mayer is the key contact person who has extensive and longstanding expertise in compliance. Eric Mayer is always approachable and always practical when solving problems.’
‘Eric Mayer: Excellent partner.’
‘Eric Mayer, absolute hands-on mentality when solving compliance issues. Extremely high personal commitment to the client’s interests!’
Kernmandanten
Amandus Kahl GmbH & Co. KG
CANCOM SE
Dethleffs GmbH & Co. KG
elobau GmbH & Co. KG
EUROPA-CENTER AG
Lupin Atlantis Holdings SA
Ravensburger Verlag GmbH
Sponge Compliance
Sponge Germany GmbH
Süss MicroTec SE
Vetter Pharma-Fertigung GmbH & Co. KG
Vonovia SE
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising VONOVIA SE on the further development of the compliance management system and the operation of a whistleblower hotline.
- Advising SUSS MicroTec SE on the further development of the compliance management system.
- Advising elobau GmbH & Co. KG on the design and implementation of the compliance management system.
Heussen Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH
Heussen Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH focuses its preventive compliance support on the financial sector and is experienced in transactions as well as real estate funds, financing and investments. The team is experienced in the implementation of compliance management systems and the support in compliance risk assessments. Franz Clemens Leisch, who is experienced in fraud, corruption and money laundering prevention, heads the practice.
Highlight-Mandate
- Compliance and employment law advice to a public company in the context of inappropriate behavior of management and employees.
- Compliance advice to an internationally operating German company on export restrictions, in particular on circumventing sanctions when delivering to third countries.
- Advising a credit institution and its subsidiaries on financial sanctions, antitrust law and other criminal offenses, including a compliance risk analysis.
Kapellmann und Partner
Kapellmann und Partner advises medium-sized companies and DAX30 corporations from the real estate, construction and logistics sectors as well as from the manufacturing industry on issues pertaining to antitrust, criminal, employment, corporate and data protection law. The team is experienced in compliance systems, compliance audits and liability issues. Ivo du Mont is well versed in antitrust and competition law compliance and jointly heads the team with Christine Janhsen (corporate law and corporate governance); Janhsen took over the co-management from Julia Lange (criminal and antitrust law compliance) in mid 2024; Lange left at the same time to take on an in-house position.
Highlight-Mandate
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright is regularly instructed by international companies from the industrial, aviation, automotive and consumer goods sectors on matters pertaining to the prevention of money laundering, corruption and fraud. The team is also experienced in the implementation of compliance management systems and supply chain due diligence. Practice head Alexander Cappel too focuses on anti-corruption and anti-money laundering matters. In February 2024, Jens Steger (antitrust compliance, compliance management systems) joined the team from K&L Gates LLP.
Oppenländer Rechtsanwälte
Oppenländer Rechtsanwälte advises family offices, medium-sized companies, listed stock corporations and corporations on D&O liability, whistleblower protection and antitrust compliance, with most recent instructions pertaining to ESG and the reporting and disclosure obligations in accordance with CSRD and CSDDD. Thomas Kreuz (corporate law and D&O liability) and Florian Schmidt-Volkmar (antitrust compliance) co-lead the practice. Clemens Birkert (data protection and IT law) joined the partner roster in January 2024.
Kernmandanten
HUAC AG
Staatliche Toto Lotto GmbH Ba-Wü
Waldmann Elektrotechnik GmbH
Herbert Waldmann GmbH & Co. KG
Verkehrsbetriebe Karlsruhe GmbH
Bürgerwerke eG
UNO INO eG
Fraunhofer Gesellschaft e.V.
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising Herbert Waldmann GmbH & Co. KG and associated group companies on whistleblower protection (HinSchG) and on the establishment of an internal hotline and its implementation.
Rosinus Partner
Frankfurt-based white collar criminal law and compliance boutique Rosinus Partner demonstrates particular expertise in supporting digital compliance issues, including IT and cybersecurity as well as crypto-related matters. The team also advises on supply chain due diligence, compliance management systems, whistleblower protection and anti-money laundering. The practice is co-lead by criminal lawyers Christian Rosinus and Mathias Grzesiek. Mirjam Steinfeld (EU sanctions, anti-money laundering) was appointed to salary partner in February 2024.
Referenzen
‘Committed, motivated and highly qualified team that is available at any time!’
‘The young team at Rosinus Rechtsanwälte is highly specialised and very approachable. Our collaboration is always pleasant, especially when dealing with complex issues and the search for innovative solutions, and has been consistently successful so far.’
‘The team around Christian Rosinus and Mathias Grzesiek has extensive experience with complex issues and corresponding procedures. Both individual and corporate representation are their strengths.’
‘We work particularly frequently with Janina Brandau and Mathias Grzesiek and are consistently impressed by their approachability and practice-oriented solutions.’
‘Excellent team, characterized by the most diverse characters and thus achieving excellent results!’
‘The team is fast, works effectively and always has the best result for the client in mind.’
‘Mathias Grzesiek always keeps track of changes in digital topics. In-depth knowledge of the digital world is required everywhere. Added to this is his expertise in cybersecurity.’
‘Christian Rosinus is an expert in his field with a very good understanding of the clients’ financial situation.’
Kernmandanten
Condor Flugdienst GmbH
Frosta AG
MHI Gruppe
VDE
Magura Bosch
GEW Wilhelmshaven
Tsambikakis & Partner Rechtsanwälte
Renowned companies from the healthcare, real estate and construction sectors as well as from the sports betting and gambling industries instruct Tsambikakis & Partner Rechtsanwälte on various preventive compliance issues, including whistleblower protection, money laundering, embezzlement, risk analyses and the implementation of compliance management systems. Ole Mückenberger (criminal tax law and internal investigations) jointly heads the practice with Michael Tsambikakis and Daniela Etterer, who are both experienced in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
Kernmandanten
Bundesministerium für Gesundheit
Robert-Koch-Institut
Paul-Ehrlich-Institut
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising the Federal Ministry of Health/Robert Koch Institute/Paul Ehrlich Institute on the implementation and management of a whistleblower system in accordance with the Whistleblower Protection Act; acting as an external hotline using the firm’s own whistleblower portal.
- Compliance advice to a high-tech FinTech company on the development and implementation of an anti-money laundering system.
- Supporting a municipal hospital group in Westphalia in operating a whistleblower system as an external hotline in accordance with the HinSchG.
WilmerHale
WilmerHale's German team cooperates closely with the US-based experts and thus regularly advises on cross-border matters, such as monitorships in the US for industrial and pharmaceutical companies. The team is also experienced in the implementation of compliance management systems, sanctions and transaction-related due diligence. Practice head Jan Wendler regularly assists with DOJ matters and increasingly advises on ESG-related issues.
Referenzen
‘In my view, the team has a prominent position in advising on compliance mandates that involve preventive or forensic third-party due diligence and management.’
‘Tried and tested knowledge in compliance pertaining to regulatory enforcement.’
‘Extremely extensive experience. Very high level of competence.’