English overview · DE – Außenwirtschaftsrecht
We advise on export control and sanctions. The following guide addresses matters under German law and relevant European rules. Cross-border cases require separate consideration of governing law, jurisdiction and local requirements.
Scope and legal approach
Matters involving export control and sanctions depend on the parties‘ roles and the relevant documents. Contract terms, actual events and administrative or judicial requirements must be considered together. The examples below illustrate different starting points and the questions requiring initial assessment.
Four practical examples
These examples illustrate typical issues. They do not describe specific client matters.
Example 1
A machine is exported. Classification and end use require review.
Example 2
A customer requests re-export. Circumvention risks are examined.
Example 3
A bank blocks payment. Parties and sanctions exposure need assessment.
Example 4
An agent is appointed. Screening and reporting duties need agreement.
Assessment and next steps
We first clarify the intended result, the parties involved and the relevant chronology. The documents are assessed alongside the actual course of events. Established facts, disputed assertions and matters requiring further evidence or technical expertise are distinguished. Deadlines and any need for urgent protection are considered at the outset.
Available options are compared by cost, timing, commercial value and evidential risk. Depending on the matter, the appropriate route may involve drafting or revising an agreement, negotiations, administrative proceedings or litigation. Interim measures require their own assessment. Any settlement should specify performance, deadlines, security and implementation, rather than leave the next disagreement unresolved.
Preparing an initial consultation
Please provide a short chronology, complete relevant contracts or decisions, amendments and correspondence. Record known deadlines and when important notices were received. Explain the outcome you need, such as completing a project, reducing exposure, enforcing a claim or defending a demand. We can then agree the scope of work and discuss costs.