Best Structured Finance Lawyers in Germany

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English
Wintermann Rechtsanwälte, Fachanwälte & Notare, Kanzlei Wietmarschen, offers comprehensive legal services to individuals, businesses, and public entities. The firm's team includes specialized attorneys and notaries with extensive experience in various legal fields, ensuring clients receive expert...
Kanzlei77 - Dr. Braun GmbH
Offenburg, Germany

12 people in their team
English
Kanzlei77 - Dr. Braun GmbH is a German law firm serving private individuals and businesses throughout the Ortenau region with multiple offices for convenient local access. The firm combines broad legal coverage with focused experience, offering counsel in employment, family, inheritance, corporate...
Covington & Burling LLP
Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Founded in 1919
English
Covington & Burling LLP is renowned for its sophisticated legal expertise and strong presence in Germany, catering to a diverse clientele with a range of specialized services. The firm's lawyers are well-versed in various practice areas including corporate law, regulatory and public policy matters,...
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...
SAMP SCHILLING & PARTNER
Berlin, Germany

English
SAMP SCHILLING & PARTNER is a Berlin-based law firm specializing in real estate, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and energy law. The firm's attorneys have extensive experience from leading international law firms, providing clients with comprehensive legal expertise and a deep understanding of...

Founded in 2008
English
Rechtsanwälte Stühlein, Barthelmes & Kollegen, established in 2008, is a dynamic and client-focused law firm located in the heart of Bamberg, Germany. The firm offers comprehensive legal services in civil and criminal law, catering to both individuals and businesses. Their team comprises...

Founded in 1957
English
Anwaltskanzlei Dr. Willi Thoma und Partner PartG mbB, located in Waldkirch, Germany, offers specialized legal services in areas such as construction and architectural law, insurance law with a focus on fire damage, and commercial and corporate law. The firm's team includes attorneys with...

English
Lowack & Angerer, Rechtsanwälte und Fachanwälte, is a distinguished law firm renowned for its comprehensive legal services and deep expertise across various practice areas. The firm's team of highly qualified attorneys brings a wealth of experience, ensuring clients receive informed and effective...
Hahn und Partner
Hamburg, Germany

Founded in 1960
200 people in their team
German
English
Lawyers Hahn and Partners in HamburgThe law firm was founded on January 1, 1960 by attorney Gustav-Adolf Hahn († on February 21, 2011).Connections to independent medical associations formed the basis from which medical law initially developed as one of the main pillars of the law firm....
Watson Farley & Williams LLP
Hamburg, Germany

Founded in 1982
5,000 people in their team
German
English
We are an international law firm advising on complex transactions and disputes through local knowledge and an integrated international network. We have a strong sector focus, combining our technical excellence with deep industry knowledge across energy, transport and associated infrastructure.Our...
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About Structured Finance Law in Germany

Structured finance in Germany refers to complex financial transactions that go beyond traditional lending or investing. These transactions usually involve pooling various financial assets, using derivatives or securitization, and creating tailored financing solutions for corporations, financial institutions, or other entities. In the German context, structured finance plays a significant role in facilitating large infrastructure projects, real estate investments, and corporate acquisitions. The practice requires an in-depth understanding of both German law and international regulations, as such transactions often have cross-border elements. Structured finance law in Germany blends principles from banking, securities, tax, insolvency, and contract law to create legal frameworks that promote both flexibility for businesses and protection for investors.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are multiple scenarios where seeking legal advice in structured finance becomes crucial. If you are a corporation looking to raise capital through securitization or issue asset-backed securities, the legal landscape is intricate and requires expert guidance. Investors and financial institutions participating in structured products must ensure compliance with German and EU regulations. Legal representation can also be indispensable when structuring cross-border transactions, navigating tax implications, or addressing regulatory approvals from the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin). Additionally, in the event of restructuring debt, handling distressed assets, or managing defaults, an experienced lawyer can help safeguard your interests and ensure proper documentation and risk management.

Local Laws Overview

Germany’s structured finance market is primarily governed by a range of local and European laws. The key legal aspects include:

  • Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz or KWG) - Regulates banking and financial services including licensing requirements and supervision.
  • Securitization - Asset-backed securities and cover pools are regulated both by local laws and the EU Securitization Regulation (Regulation EU 2017/2402).
  • Securities Law - The German Securities Trading Act (Wertpapierhandelsgesetz or WpHG) and the EU Prospectus Regulation apply to public offerings and trading.
  • Taxation - Tax rules affecting structured finance can be complex, impacting both the structuring and profitability of transactions.
  • Insolvency Law - German Insolvency Code (Insolvenzordnung) governs the priority of creditors’ claims, which is central to structured finance deals.
  • BaFin Supervision - The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) oversees capital markets, ensuring regulatory compliance and consumer protection.
  • European Influence - EU Directives and the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) have a direct effect on structured finance in Germany, especially in terms of transparency, risk retention, and investor protection.

Non-compliance with any of these legal aspects can lead to severe penalties, loss of investor confidence, or invalidation of deals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is structured finance?

Structured finance involves complex financial instruments and techniques, such as securitization or derivatives, to raise capital or manage risks that are not easily addressed with traditional financing.

Who typically uses structured finance in Germany?

Corporations, banks, insurance companies, real estate developers, and public institutions commonly engage in structured finance transactions in Germany, often seeking large-scale capital or risk management.

What are asset-backed securities?

Asset-backed securities (ABS) are financial instruments backed by a pool of assets, such as loans or receivables, allowing originators to transfer risks and liquidity to investors.

What is the role of BaFin in structured finance?

BaFin supervises and regulates financial markets in Germany, including the approval of certain structured finance transactions, monitoring compliance, and ensuring investor protection.

Is securitization legal in Germany?

Yes, securitization is permitted in Germany but must meet requirements under German law as well as EU Securitization Regulation, focusing on transparency, risk retention, and legal structure.

What risks are associated with structured finance?

Risks include credit risk, market risk, legal risk, operational risk, and reputational risk. Legal advice helps identify, mitigate, and appropriately allocate these risks within transaction documents.

What documents are typically involved in structured finance deals?

Key documents include offering memoranda, prospectuses, pooling and servicing agreements, security agreements, trust arrangements, and various disclosure statements.

Do structured finance transactions require regulatory approval?

Many do, particularly those involving public offers of securities or sophisticated cross-border structures. BaFin or other authorities may need to approve documentation and processes.

Are there tax implications in structured finance?

Yes, German tax law impacts the structure and efficiency of these transactions. Legal and tax advisors are essential to avoid adverse tax consequences such as double taxation or withholding tax issues.

How can a lawyer assist in a structured finance transaction?

A lawyer can advise on transaction structure, draft and negotiate documentation, secure regulatory approvals, identify risks, ensure regulatory compliance, and help resolve disputes if issues arise.

Additional Resources

For those seeking further information or help, several organizations and governmental bodies are key:

  • Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) - The main regulator for financial services and structured finance transactions in Germany.
  • German Banking Association (Bundesverband deutscher Banken) - Offers resources and information on banking practices, including structured finance.
  • European Central Bank (ECB) - Provides guidance and regulations applicable across the Eurozone, including Germany.
  • German Bar Association (Deutscher Anwaltverein) - Can help you find qualified lawyers specializing in finance law.
  • Chamber of Commerce - Provides business services that sometimes include legal and financial advisory support for structured finance.

Next Steps

If you are considering or already involved in a structured finance transaction in Germany, take the following practical steps:

  • Assess the scale, complexity, and legal implications of your financing needs.
  • Gather all pertinent documentation such as financial statements, asset details, and intended transaction structures.
  • Consult with a qualified lawyer specializing in structured finance and German financial regulation as early as possible.
  • Prepare to discuss your objectives, timelines, and any cross-border considerations with your legal advisor.
  • Stay informed about local and EU legal developments that might affect your transaction.
  • If in doubt, contact one of the listed regulatory or professional bodies for further guidance or to verify the credentials of your advisors.

With the right legal support, you can navigate the structured finance landscape in Germany safely and efficiently, helping your business achieve its financial goals while staying compliant with all necessary regulations.

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 Structured Finance, 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.

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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.