Best Corporate Governance Lawyers in Germany

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Annerton Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Founded in 2020
English
Annerton Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH stands out as a premier law firm in Germany, specializing in offering exceptional legal services within their expert domains. Their team of seasoned attorneys is renowned for combining legal proficiency with in-depth industry insights. They are dedicated to...

Founded in 2007
English
BK-LAW Bottermann Khorrami Rechtsanwälte PartGmbB is a Berlin-based law firm specializing in comprehensive legal, tax, and business advisory services. The firm offers a 360° approach to client support, integrating legal expertise with commercial considerations to deliver practical and...

Founded in 1955
English
Anwalts- und Notarkanzlei Brettschneider & Partner, located in the heart of Sulingen's historic district, has been a cornerstone of legal expertise for over 70 years. Founded by Dr. Wilhelm Rauter and later succeeded by his son, Wilhelm Rauter, the firm is now led by Rechtsanwalt and Notar a.D....
W | S | H | P Rechtsanwälte und Notare
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

English
W | S | H | P Rechtsanwälte und Notare is a distinguished legal practice in Germany renowned for its comprehensive expertise across various legal disciplines and notarial services. Their team of proficient attorneys and notaries demonstrate a deep understanding of both domestic and international...
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Founded in 1931
1,100 people in their team
English
German
Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for the past 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...

Founded in 2020
English
ADICK LINKE Rechtsanwälte PartG mbB is a boutique law firm specializing in white-collar and tax criminal law, with offices in Bonn and Frankfurt am Main. The firm offers the quality standards of a large commercial law firm combined with the efficiency of a highly specialized unit. Their clientele...

Founded in 2017
English
LAT Legal | leaves and trees | Rechtsanwaltskanzlei, based in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, specializes in employment and migration law, residency law, and business formation within Germany. The firm offers comprehensive legal services, including advising on work visas, work permits, and business...
Gassmann & Seidel law firm
Stuttgart, Germany

Founded in 1993
50 people in their team
German
English
competent - ​​specialized - excellentWe have been supporting our clients nationwide with passion and expertise for 40 years. Our work is based on a clear philosophy. We provide specialized and personal advice. We place the highest demands on our work in order to achieve the goals of our...

Founded in 2019
English
Anwaltskanzlei Hesselnfeld-Jost & Moye, located in Emstek, Germany, has been providing expert legal counsel for over 20 years. The firm offers comprehensive services across various legal domains, including general civil law, labor law, construction and crafts law, data protection law (GDPR), family...
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About Corporate Governance Law in Germany

Corporate Governance in Germany refers to the framework of rules, practices, and processes by which companies are directed and controlled. It aims to balance the interests of a company's many stakeholders, such as shareholders, management, customers, suppliers, financiers, government, and the community. In Germany, Corporate Governance is shaped by mandatory legal requirements, voluntary codes, and market practices. Specific attention is given to how companies are managed and supervised, ensuring transparency, accountability, and fair treatment of all stakeholders.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advice in the field of Corporate Governance is essential for both businesses and individuals. Common situations requiring legal assistance include setting up a company, drafting internal rules, dealing with breaches of duty by management, resolving disputes between shareholders, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. A lawyer can also assist in navigating changes to board structures, mergers, acquisitions, and regulatory investigations. Consulting a legal expert helps to mitigate risks and prevent costly mistakes in the complex area of Corporate Governance.

Local Laws Overview

German Corporate Governance is primarily governed by the German Stock Corporation Act (Aktiengesetz), the Commercial Code (Handelsgesetzbuch), and the German Corporate Governance Code (Deutscher Corporate Governance Kodex). The law establishes specific requirements for the two-tier board structure consisting of the Management Board (Vorstand) and the Supervisory Board (Aufsichtsrat) in stock corporations. The Code contains both binding rules and recommended best practices for good governance, such as transparent reporting, fair remuneration, and effective stakeholder participation. Companies must disclose their compliance with the Code's recommendations under the "comply or explain" principle. This means a company must state either that it complies with recommendations or explain why it does not.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the two-tier board system in Germany?

The two-tier system separates management and supervisory functions into two distinct boards: the Management Board, which is responsible for daily operations, and the Supervisory Board, which appoints and monitors the Management Board. This structure is mandatory for stock corporations in Germany.

Are all companies in Germany required to follow the German Corporate Governance Code?

The Code is mandatory for listed companies. Non-listed companies are not legally required to follow the Code, but many adopt its principles voluntarily to enhance transparency and trust.

What are typical duties of management members under German law?

Management members must act in the best interest of the company, exercise due care, and avoid conflicts of interest. They are also responsible for accurate reporting and regulatory compliance.

Can shareholders influence management decisions?

Shareholders in general meetings have certain powers, such as electing members of the Supervisory Board and approving significant corporate actions, but they do not directly manage the company.

What happens if there is a breach of duty by a company director?

Directors found in breach of their duties can be held personally liable for losses caused to the company. Enforcement is typically through claims filed by the company or, in some cases, by shareholders.

What is "comply or explain" in relation to the Corporate Governance Code?

"Comply or explain" means that a company must disclose whether it follows specific Code recommendations. If not, the company must explain its reasons for deviating from those recommendations.

Are there requirements for diversity on boards?

Yes, Germany has legal requirements and recommendations regarding board diversity, including gender quotas for supervisory boards in large listed companies.

Do foreign stakeholders face specific Corporate Governance rules?

Foreign stakeholders must generally follow the same governance laws as domestic stakeholders. However, language and administrative procedures may pose challenges requiring qualified legal assistance.

What role do employee representatives play in Corporate Governance?

In many large German companies, particularly those with over 500 employees, employee representatives must be included on the Supervisory Board according to codetermination laws. This ensures employee interests are considered in corporate decisions.

How often should Corporate Governance practices be reviewed?

It is recommended that companies review their Corporate Governance arrangements annually and whenever there are significant changes in laws or business circumstances.

Additional Resources

Several important organizations and resources are available for those seeking more information or advice on Corporate Governance in Germany:

  • Federal Ministry of Justice (Bundesministerium der Justiz) - Responsible for Corporate Law
  • German Corporate Governance Code Commission (Regierungskommission Deutscher Corporate Governance Kodex)
  • German Stock Exchange (Deutsche Börse AG)
  • Chambers of Commerce and Industry (Industrie- und Handelskammern)
  • German Bar Association (Deutscher Anwaltverein) for finding qualified lawyers

Next Steps

If you are seeking legal advice on Corporate Governance in Germany, begin by clearly outlining your situation and identifying your goals. Gather any relevant company documents and details about your issue. Next, consider reaching out to a qualified lawyer who specializes in corporate law and governance. During your initial consultation, discuss your concerns, request an overview of your options, and inquire about the potential costs and timelines. Stay informed by reviewing additional resources and keeping up with changes in local laws that may affect your company. With proper legal guidance, you can ensure that your company remains compliant and operates according to best governance practices.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Germany through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Corporate Governance, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Germany - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.