Antitrust- and competition law in Germany is an area that businesses need to consider when planning for the future. In doing so, careful adherence can offer strategic opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. Therefore, knowing the relevant rules in Germany and applying them smartly creates important advantages for businesses. But when in breach, it can lead to potential pitfalls, such as sanctions and damage claims, as well as void contracts and significant reputational damages. For this reason, our legal team at Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte advises clients with the necessary expertise that goes beyond pure legal consultation creating real added value for your business.
Antitrust Law: Purpose
Antitrust- and competition law aims to protect competition and to uphold the trade market by regulating anti-competitive behaviour of businesses. Essentially the goal is to promote fair competition, protect consumers and increase the efficiency of the economy.
Hence, this field of law deals with practices such as market monopolies, anti-competitive arrangements and improper behaviour of businesses, that occupy a market-dominating position using it to negatively influence the market. Therefore, business mergers and acquisitions, through which such a position could be reached, are also affected and an essential part of antitrust law. If a company is suspected of holding a market-dominating position, the respective regulatory authorities may initiate proceedings with the aim to prohibit cartels that negatively affect the market. For this purpose, sanctions can be imposed in cases of violations.
To summarise: the purpose of antitrust law is to guarantee competition under equal conditions and therefore a dynamic and fair market that supports the growth and efficiency of the economy.
Antitrust Law: Specific Services
We consult on the following specific areas of Antitrust law:
Antitrust Compliance
- Development of tailored compliance programs
- Performance of training sessions and workshops for employees
- Creation of compliance handbooks
- Implementation of internal reporting procedures
- Performance of risk assessments and regular audits
Merger Control and M&A Support:
- Filing of merger notifications
- Conducting antitrust due diligence reviews and guidance through clearance procedures with competition authorities
Antitrust Fine Proceedings:
- Defense in investigation and fine proceedings by competition authorities, including leniency applications
Private Enforcement of Claims:
- Representation in damage claims for antitrust violations (both on plaintiff and defendant side)
Abuse Proceedings:
- Advisory services regarding allegations of abuse of dominant market position
- Representation in related proceedings
Cooperation Structuring:
- Structuring of joint ventures
- Research and development co-operations or other corporate collaborations
Antitrust Market Analyses
- Development of relevant market definitions
- Determination of market shares
In the complex world of competition law, it is strategic decision making that decide over a business’ success. Our law firm provides precise, future-orientated legal advice, that support your business goals and minimises legal risks. With solid expertise we guide our clients through this challenging law field so that you can focus on the essential: Leading your successful business.
Practice Group: German Competition Law
Practice Group:
German Competition Law
Contact our German Competition and Antitrust Lawyers
Please use our online form to outline your request to us. After receiving your request, we will make a brief initial assessment based on the facts described and provide you with a cost offer. You can then decide whether you would like to engage our services.
