What legal form is best suited for my startup?

The choice of legal form depends on various factors: liability limitation, tax aspects, capital requirements and planned investor structure. For most startups, we recommend the GmbH or UG (limited liability), as these offer clear liability separation and are attractive to investors.

What does it cost to set up a GmbH?

The formation costs of a GmbH consist of the minimum capital (€25,000, of which €12,500 must be paid immediately), notary fees (approx. €500-1,500), commercial register entry (approx. €150) and possibly consulting costs. With a UG, you can start with lower initial capital from €1.

When do I need a shareholder agreement?

An individual shareholder agreement is always advisable when multiple shareholders are involved. It regulates important topics such as voting rights, profit distribution, transfer restrictions, succession rules and exit scenarios. A well-thought-out agreement prevents later conflicts.

How does a financing round work legally?

A financing round typically includes negotiating a term sheet, due diligence by investors, drafting investment agreements, and executing a capital increase. We guide you through the entire process and ensure your interests are protected.

Corporate Law

Company formation, shareholder agreements, financing rounds and corporate governance.

Formation of Companies

We help setting up and managing operating and holding companies. Includes handling of notary's offices, commercial and transparency registers.

Shareholder and Investment Agreements

We specialize in drafting and negotiating comprehensive shareholder agreements that clearly define rights, responsibilities, and exit strategies for all parties involved, as well as structuring investment agreements that protect your interests while facilitating growth.

M&A and Exit Strategies

From strategic acquisitions to trade sales or IPOs – we guide mergers, spin-offs, asset deals and share deals from start to finish. Our expertise includes complete SPA drafting, post-merger integration and tax-optimized exit structures.

Litigation

When push comes to shove, we are your go-to experts evaluating, strategizing, and providing comprehensive legal support to protect and enforce your rights against third parties - both in and out of court.

Corporate Governance & Compliance

Solid governance strengthens your negotiating position with investors and authorities. We implement D&O insurance concepts, provide Business Judgment Rule training, and establish compliance programs for data protection, AML and ESG reporting.

Your Benefits

Why you should work with us on corporate law matters

Startup Experience

As founders of a software startup ourselves, we understand the challenges and needs of founders firsthand.

Fast Response Times

We understand that time is money in business. Urgent requests are prioritized.

Transparent Pricing

No hidden costs. We work with fixed prices or clear hourly rates by agreement.

Network

Access to our network of notaries, tax advisors and investors for holistic solutions.

Typical Clients

Founders during company formation
Startups in financing rounds
SMEs in shareholder disputes
Investors in equity participations
Managing directors in corporate governance

Our Target Groups

Tailored advice for every company type

Founders & Startups

From seed stage to Series C – legal precision meets entrepreneurial understanding.

Legal form selection: UG, GmbH or AG
Customized articles of association
Drag-along/Tag-along clauses
IP protection and competition law

SMEs & Established Companies

Practical solutions for established businesses and family companies.

Succession planning
Restructuring
Capital measures
Cross-border transactions

VC & PE Investors

Professional support from due diligence to exit.

Investment agreements and term sheets
LBO/MBO structuring
Anti-dilution protection
Exit optimization

Financing Structures

From seed to growth – the right structure for every stage

Financing Type	Target Group	Our Services
Seed Financing	Founders, Business Angels	Term sheet negotiations, cap table management, ESOPs for early employees
VC Rounds (Series A+)	Scale-ups, VCs	Due diligence coordination, shareholder and investment agreements, anti-dilution protection
PE Transactions	SMEs, PE Funds	LBO/MBO structuring, earn-outs, warranty & indemnity insurance
Mezzanine & Debt	Growth companies	Convertible loans, SAFE instruments, venture debt, revenue-share models

Corporate Law FAQ

Answers to common questions about company formation and management

: The choice of legal form depends on various factors: liability limitation, tax aspects, capital requirements and planned investor structure. For most startups, we recommend the GmbH or UG (limited liability), as these offer clear liability separation and are attractive to investors.
: The formation costs of a GmbH consist of the minimum capital (€25,000, of which €12,500 must be paid immediately), notary fees (approx. €500-1,500), commercial register entry (approx. €150) and possibly consulting costs. With a UG, you can start with lower initial capital from €1.
: An individual shareholder agreement is always advisable when multiple shareholders are involved. It regulates important topics such as voting rights, profit distribution, transfer restrictions, succession rules and exit scenarios. A well-thought-out agreement prevents later conflicts.
: A financing round typically includes negotiating a term sheet, due diligence by investors, drafting investment agreements, and executing a capital increase. We guide you through the entire process and ensure your interests are protected.