Temporary suspension of the obligation to file for insolvency and accompanying regulations

The federal government intends to offer companies that are negatively impacted by the corona crisis and their corporate representatives time to conduct the necessary financing and restructuring negotiations. This has now been affected by the Act on the Temporary Suspension of the Obligation to File for Insolvency and to Limit the Liability of Corporate Bodies in […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Impact of COVID-19 on running IT agreements

There are currently many uncertainties and questions in connection with the coronavirus and the fulfilment of running IT contracts. Are the contractual partners released from their obligation to perform? Must the software developer also perform in the event of infection or illness and is he still entitled to his agreed remuneration? When can the software […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Effects of the corona crisis on commercial and residential leases

The current corona crisis raises a number of issues in terms of tenancy law. Among other things, questions arise from the fact that tenants may not be able to pay part or all of their rent and thus landlords could also find themselves in considerable difficulties, specifically where they are heavily dependent on rental income, […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Overview of the most important aspects of short-time work as part of the coronavirus crisis

As already reported, the German government, parliament and state representatives have addressed important aspects of the issue of short-time working. On Friday, 13 March, a fast-track procedure was used to decide on easing the burden on companies. The following three modifications to short-time working will come into force for a limited period (until the end […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Recommended action for companies and self-employed individuals

One of the most pressing problems of companies, freelancers, and self-employed individuals in the coronavirus crisis is the associated liquidity bottleneck. For this reason, we are presenting some of the emergency measures that are already available. In this regard, Bavaria provides liquidity to those affected (item 1), besides Federal measures like tax relief (item 2), […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Supply problems caused by COVID-19: Are suppliers able to invoke force majeure?

In the course of the coronavirus pandemic, some suppliers are experiencing difficulties in meeting their supply obligations. This is frequently discussed under the aspect of force majeure where suppliers are supposedly able to be released from their duties by invoking it. Is this correct? While the concept of force majeure is not governed by German […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Is it possible to hold general meetings now also in digital form?

Although compulsory presence has been controversially discussed for a long time and had already been handled differently in other countries, it has not yet been possible in Germany to date. Due to the current ban on holding meetings, the obligation to attend general meetings is now set to be relaxed with the intention of making […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Special: Corona

The current situation in the face of the coronavirus (COVID-19) is a challenge for companies in all industries. In this section, we provide you with answers to the most relevant legal questions. If you need concrete support, please send us an e-mail to [email protected]. We will gladly call you back at short notice. Answers to stock corporation […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Margret Knitter features in the recent PTMG Newsletter – Opportunities in Medical Cannabis in Germany

The legalization of medical cannabis in 2017 has turned into an attractive destination for related businesses. New business perspectives have opened up; however, anyone wishing to do business with cannabis should be familiar with its complex legal framework. Medical marijuana has been legal in Germany since March 2017. Since this date, doctors have been able […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

#Influencer Act – Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection is planning a change of law for more legal certainty in influencer marketing

Author – Corinna Sobottka Influencers demanded it for a long time, and now the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection is reacting: The Ministry intends to establish a clear legal framework for free recommendations and product reviews from influencers and bloggers. A proposal for an amendment of the law was published on February 13, […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Is SKY the limit? ECJ rules on extensive lists of goods and trademark applications in bad faith

Good news for trademark owners: Trademarks with extensive lists of goods and general terms can generally neither be cancelled for bad faith nor for being contrary to public interest. This has now been confirmed by the European Court of Justice (ECJ). The ruling could nevertheless have an impact on the examination practice of the trademark […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte

Confectionery Industry Special 2020 edition

On the occasion of the upcoming International Sweets and Biscuits Fair in Cologne (Germany), we are pleased to introduce our newsletter providing current information for the confectionery industry. This year you may find articles regarding the following topics: Intellectual Property / Competition Law “Sweet brands” – Current case law on German and European level The […]

Margret Knitter LL.M.Partner, SKW Schwarz Rechtsanwälte