German Business Criminal Defence Lawyers

Corruption and bribery allegations in commercial transactions can severely affect businesses’ reputations, operations, and legal standing. Under German law, regulations such as Section 299 of the Criminal Code (StGB) govern bribery in business dealings, aiming to uphold fair competition and protect enterprises’ economic integrity.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, we provide robust legal defence services for businesses accused of engaging in corruption. Our experienced team of German business crime defence lawyers understands the intricacies of German anti-corruption laws and is dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights and interests.

Whether your company is facing allegations of accepting or offering advantages in exchange for unfair competitive advantages or breaching duties towards the company through bribery, our legal experts are here to assist you. We carefully analyse the details of each case, develop tailored defence strategies, and provide vigorous representation in legal proceedings. Accusations of corruption and bribery can have far-reaching consequences, but with the right legal counsel, businesses can effectively defend against these allegations.

In today’s digital age, businesses are increasingly vulnerable to cybercrime threats, including hacking, data breaches, and online fraud. If your company is facing allegations of engaging in cybercriminal activities in Germany, prompt legal action is crucial to protect your interests. At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our German business crime lawyers specialise in providing comprehensive defence strategies tailored to combatting cybercrime accusations.

Our experienced legal team understands the severity of cybercrime allegations and their potential impact on your business’s operations. We offer robust legal representation with the complexities of cybercrime investigations and legal proceedings. From data breaches to phishing scams, our lawyers have the expertise to mount a strong defence and safeguard your company’s future.

Accusations of cybercrime can be misdirected or based on misunderstanding, making it imperative to seek legal counsel immediately. Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte stands by your side, leveraging our in-depth knowledge of German cybercrime laws to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. Please do not hesitate to contact us to learn how we can defend your business against cybercrime and related white-collar crime activity allegations.

Defamatory statements can have severe repercussions in the corporate world, affecting a company’s reputation, market position, and financial stability. Whether slander (spoken) or libel (written), defamation can undermine trust and disrupt business operations. For international businesses operating in Germany, understanding the legal landscape surrounding defamation is crucial for protecting and defending their interests.

Defamatory statements about a business or its executives can lead to significant harm, including loss of clients, investors, and market value. These statements can range from false accusations of financial misconduct to damaging lies about business practices or product quality. In Germany, defamation is taken seriously, and businesses have the right to seek legal redress to protect their reputation. However, Germany’s legal framework also balances the protection of standing with the constitutional rights of freedom of opinion and freedom of the press as guaranteed by Article 5 of the German Basic Law. While businesses can defend against unwarranted defamatory attacks, the law ensures that legitimate public discourse and criticism are not stifled.

Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte specialises in providing robust legal defence services for international businesses facing defamation charges in Germany. Our business crime lawyers are well-versed in German defamation law and understand the nuances of protecting a business’s image while respecting free speech.

Our services include:

• Defamation defence,
• Reputation management,
• Legal counsel and representation
• Crisis communication,
• Preventive measures.

Whether you are defending against defamation charges or seeking to address harmful statements made against your business, Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte is your trusted partner. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your business and secure its future in the competitive international market.

Embezzlement allegations can have severe consequences for both international and German corporate clients. Under § 246 (1) StGB, individuals who unlawfully appropriate another person’s movable property for themselves or a third party can face prosecution for embezzlement. Within a corporate setting, embezzlement often occurs due to inadequate bookkeeping, inventory management, or accounting practices. Weaknesses in the control system can further facilitate embezzlement by employees, allowing for the misappropriation of work equipment, orders, or funds. Typical forms of embezzlement include the falsification of receipts or financial records.

It’s essential to distinguish between simple embezzlement under § 246 (1) StGB and aggravated embezzlement under paragraph 2 of the same standard. Aggravated embezzlement is typically punished more severely than simple embezzlement, with the actual penalty depending on the specifics of the individual case.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our business crime defence lawyers have exceptional expertise and experience handling embezzlement cases. We are dedicated to providing our clients with skilled and committed defence strategies for their unique circumstances. If your business faces allegations of embezzlement or suspect wrongdoing within your organization, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to provide the skilled legal representation and strategic guidance you need to defend your business and protect its future.

The regulatory landscape surrounding environmental protection has grown increasingly stringent in recent years, with many laws and regulations implemented to safeguard the environment. As outlined in the German Criminal Code (StGB) and the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG), environmental offences delineate actions that endanger the public and environmental well-being. However, it’s crucial to note that not all breaches of environmental regulations constitute criminal offences; less severe infractions may be categorised as administrative offences.

Allegations of environmental wrongdoing, from hazardous waste disposal to air and water pollution, can jeopardise a company’s reputation, finances, and future viability. Our experienced team of criminal law specialists at Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte is dedicated to providing robust defence strategies suited to each case’s unique circumstances. We work closely with businesses to thoroughly investigate allegations, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and mount a vigorous defence in administrative and criminal proceedings.

Facing German environmental law complexities is essential for German and international businesses operating in Germany to ensure compliance and mitigate legal risks. Our dedicated business crime defence team offers expert guidance on German environmental law matters, assisting companies in understanding and adhering to environmental regulations pertinent to their operations. We strive to educate our clients on the regulatory landscape relevant to their business activities, empowering them to make informed decisions and mitigate potential legal liabilities.

Extradition cases are inherently complex and require the expertise of experienced legal professionals to be handled effectively. At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our team of seasoned extradition defence lawyers possesses in-depth knowledge and extensive experience dealing with international extradition cases, including the challenging removal of Interpol Red Notices. Leveraging our global network and legal expertise, we have successfully defended clients against extradition orders in numerous high-stakes cases.

Facing extradition proceedings can place individuals and businesses in extraordinary and distressing situations, with potential impacts on their lives, liberty, and physical integrity. It is crucial to have legal representation that is both competent and committed to protecting the rights of the accused.

We offer comprehensive extradition defence services, including:

• Challenging extradition requests and warrants
• Advising on international legal obligations and treaties
• Representing clients in extradition hearings and appeals
• Assisting with the removal of Interpol Red Notices
• Providing strategic legal counsel to mitigate the risks associated with extradition

Our approach combines meticulous legal analysis with strategic advocacy to protect our clients’ rights throughout the extradition process. Whether you are an international business executive facing extradition to Germany or a German national threatened with extradition abroad, our team is prepared to defend your interests vigorously.

Allegations of fraud can significantly damage personal and professional reputations. When facing such accusations, businesses require the support of seasoned legal professionals who understand the intricacies of criminal defence in Germany. At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our team of experienced business crime defence lawyers is ready to provide expert legal representation to German and international corporate clients.

Our approach begins with a comprehensive analysis of the allegations and the circumstances surrounding the case. We understand that every fraud case is unique, and therefore, we tailor our defence strategies to our clients’ specific needs and objectives. From subsidy fraud to Bitcoin and cryptocurrency fraud, investment fraud, and litigation fraud, our lawyers possess the knowledge and expertise to navigate a wide range of fraud-related matters in Germany.

Pre-trial planning is crucial to the success of any white-collar crime defence strategy. That’s why we emphasise the importance of early intervention and proactive legal counsel. Our lawyers guide clients through every step of the criminal proceedings, clarifying German legal processes and ensuring they are fully informed about what to expect during trial.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our business crime lawyers prioritise protecting our clients’ interests and rights. We aim to achieve the best possible outcome for each case, whether through negotiation, settlement, or litigation. Committed to meticulous preparation and diligent advocacy, we strive to safeguard our clients’ standing and mitigate the potential consequences of fraud and other related white-collar crime allegations.

Delaying insolvency proceedings can have profound legal implications for national German companies and international businesses operating in Germany. Under Section 15a (1-3) InsO, the late or incorrect filing of an application to open insolvency proceedings is punishable by law. This obligation extends to legal entities and companies without legal personality, meaning representatives must file for insolvency without delay, typically within three weeks of insolvency or over-indebtedness.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our team of business crime lawyers provides expert legal advice and defence services in cases involving allegations of delaying insolvency proceedings. Our goal is to face the legal complexities surrounding insolvency criminal law and effectively protect our clients’ interests.

We understand the importance of early intervention and proactive legal counsel in insolvency-related matters. Our criminal defence lawyers work diligently to discontinue proceedings without an incriminating main hearing, obtain acquittals, or secure the lowest possible penalties for our clients. We employ a comprehensive range of legal strategies and defences to challenge the accusation of the intentional commission of the offence and protect our clients’ legal rights.

Tax evasion, which involves deliberately underreporting income, inflating expenses, or utilising illegal tax shelters to evade tax liabilities, can lead to severe legal repercussions and damage to a company’s reputation. At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, we understand the gravity of allegations of tax evasion against businesses in Germany.  Our legal team provides strong defence strategies to protect the interests of companies facing such allegations.

Tax evasion accusations can arise from various sources, including tax audits, whistleblower reports, or investigations by tax authorities. Our experienced business crime attorneys work tirelessly to challenge the prosecution’s allegations, identify any procedural errors, and advocate vigorously on behalf of our clients in court.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, we prioritise protecting our clients’ rights and interests throughout the legal process. We understand the complexities of tax law and leverage our expertise in negotiations with tax authorities, exploring potential settlement options, and minimising the possible consequences for our clients. Whether you are facing allegations of tax evasion or seeking proactive legal advice to ensure compliance with tax regulations, our dedicated legal team is here to provide the strategic counsel and advocacy you need.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, we understand that businesses can be severely impacted by fraud, cybercriminality, extortion and blackmail, embezzlement and other criminal activities. Whether your company has fallen victim to CEO fraud, embezzlement, website spoofing, blackmail, or company identity theft, our expert legal team is here to provide comprehensive advice and support. We support corporate clients facing German and international law complexities, ensuring you receive the protection and justice you deserve. Our experienced lawyers will work diligently to investigate the crime, recover assets, and hold the perpetrators accountable, all while safeguarding your company’s operations.

In today’s increasingly interconnected business environment, companies of all sizes are vulnerable to sophisticated scams such as CEO fraud, data theft, and phishing attacks. CEO fraud, also known as business email compromise (BEC), involves cybercriminals impersonating senior executives to trick employees into transferring company funds or sensitive information. This type of fraud, along with other forms of corporate fraud, can result in significant financial losses and reputational damage.

Large multinational companies operating in Germany are often prime targets for these frauds due to their substantial financial resources and intricate corporate structures, making detection and prevention more challenging. Conversely, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) might lack robust compliance departments and security measures, making them easier targets for fraudsters.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our seasoned corporate criminal lawyers support businesses victimised by CEO fraud and other corporate frauds. We offer comprehensive legal services to help your company deal with the aftermath of a fraud incident and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. Our services include:

• Legal Representation: We work closely with law enforcement authorities to identify and prosecute the perpetrators. Our team will guide you through the legal processes, from reporting the fraud to pursuing criminal charges against the offenders.
• Damage Recovery: We assist companies in enforcing their claims for damages and seeking compensation for financial losses incurred due to fraudulent activities. Our lawyers are skilled in asset tracing and recovery, helping mitigate your business’s financial impact.
• Preventive Measures: To protect your business from future fraud attempts, we advise on and help implement robust internal controls and compliance programs. This includes training employees to recognise and respond to potential scams, strengthening cybersecurity measures, and establishing clear protocols for verifying financial transactions and communications.
• Crisis Management: In the wake of a fraud incident, managing the impact on your company’s standing is crucial. Our legal team provides strategic advice on public relations and communication to stakeholders, ensuring that your business’s reputation remains intact while effectively addressing fraud.

If fraudsters have targeted your company or if you want to protect your business from such threats proactively, do not hesitate to contact Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte. Our dedicated team of corporate criminal lawyers is here to help you safeguard your assets, defend your interests, and secure your company’s future.

Businesses in Germany are increasingly vulnerable to cybercriminal activity, including corporate identity theft and online fraud. If your company has fallen victim to cybercrime in Germany, timely legal assistance is essential to mitigate the damage and restore your business’s security. At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, we offer comprehensive legal support to businesses affected by cybercriminal activity.

Our experienced legal team understands the profound impact that cybercrime can have on your business, from financial losses to reputational damage. We provide strategic counsel and representation to help you navigate the aftermath of cyber incidents, including corporate identity theft and online fraud. From conducting thorough investigations to pursuing legal remedies, we work tirelessly to protect your interests and hold the perpetrators accountable. We offer personalised legal advice and practical solutions to help you recover from cyber incidents and strengthen your company’s cybersecurity measures.

Extortion and blackmail present significant threats to businesses. Perpetrators often demand ransom under the threat of disclosing damaging information or causing harm. Such criminal activities can severely impact a company’s reputation, operations, and financial stability. International businesses operating in Germany must be vigilant against these threats and prepared to take swift legal action.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, our experienced lawyers specialize in providing robust legal support to businesses facing extortion and blackmail. We assist clients in dealing with the complexities of these criminal activities, offering strategic advice and representation to protect your company’s interests. Our legal team works closely with law enforcement to pursue those responsible, leveraging our expertise to bring perpetrators to justice and mitigate the impact on your business.

In addition to reactive measures, Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte advises on preventive strategies to reduce the risk of extortion and blackmail. We help companies establish internal policies, enhance security measures, and develop crisis management plans. By implementing these safeguards, businesses can better protect themselves from potential threats and maintain their integrity and stability in the face of criminal challenges.

At Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte, we understand the importance of proactive measures to prevent allegations of corruption and other criminal activities within companies. One such essential measure is the establishment of robust whistleblowing systems and compliance protocols. These systems empower employees to report potential misconduct internally, providing a vital mechanism for early detection and prevention of extortion, corruption, embezzlement, and other unlawful behaviors.

Our full-service law firm offers comprehensive advisory services to companies seeking to enhance their compliance frameworks and implement effective whistleblowing systems. We work closely with clients to develop tailored strategies that align with their business objectives and regulatory requirements. Our experienced lawyers provide guidance on designing and implementing whistleblowing policies, ensuring they comply with relevant laws and regulations while fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within the organization.

In addition to advising on compliance measures, Schlun & Elseven Rechtsanwälte offers Lawyer of Trust (Ombudsman) services to companies. Our trusted legal professionals serve as independent intermediaries, providing confidential channels for employees to report concerns or suspicions of misconduct. By appointing a Lawyer of Trust, companies demonstrate their commitment to ethical conduct and provide employees with a safe and secure platform to raise issues without fear of retaliation.