English overview · DE – Gesellschaftsrecht
We advise on formation, investments and corporate governance. 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
Constitutional documents and side agreements govern cooperation, funding and disputes. Voting, reserved matters and information rights should work together. Departure provisions need valuation, compensation and liquidity planning. Corporate office and directors‘ service contracts are legally distinct. Notices, resolutions and minutes often matter in disputes.
Four practical examples
These examples illustrate typical issues. They do not describe specific client matters.
Example 1
Founders contribute different assets. Capital, work and IP need allocation.
Example 2
An investor requests vetoes. Minority protection and workable governance must align.
Example 3
A shareholder requests records. Scope and implementation of information rights are reviewed.
Example 4
A director leaves. Corporate resolutions, service terms and handover are addressed separately.
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.