Competition/European Law

Frank Montag has a well-established reputation as a top Brussels-based competition lawyer. He is best known for his merger control work, having handled notable Phase II investigations on behalf of manufacturers. He offers additional experience in abuse of dominance investigations and appeals against cartel decisions. He is also German law-qualified and is a sought-after adviser to well-known German companies.

"He has been one of the leading lights for a long time."

"He has a perfect overview of what is happening in a case."

Martin Klusmann remains a market-leading individual in Germany, particularly in the field of merger clearance. He is additionally able to handle complex challenges to decisions to prohibit mergers on competition law grounds. He has a strong behavioural practice, representing clients in cartel investigations and defending them in subsequent damages actions. He is particularly popular with clients from the automotive industry.

"He is the best lawyer I have ever met."

Thomas Wessely attracts particular praise for his activity in significant cross-border transactions in the telecoms sector. Thomas Wessely is based in Brussels and is also qualified to practise in Germany, where his work also includes advising clients on antitrust risks.

"Thomas Wessely is an excellent guy and super easy to work with."

"Thomas Wessely provides well-balanced and pragmatic advice not only in merger control but in general competition law aspects."

"He is good to work with because he is really adaptive in how he works."

Based in the firm's Berlin office, Helmut Bergmann often advises clients on merger control mandates. In addition, he represents clients in investigations into possible cartels.

"He is very knowledgeable on multiple European jurisdictions and is thoughtful on tactics."

Based in Düsseldorf, Tobias Klose acts for clients on merger control filings and foreign direct investment notifications, as well as representing them in follow-on damages claims arising from cartel investigations. He has additional experience in cartel proceedings.

Uta Itzen boasts a broad competition law practice, assisting clients with merger clearance filings, behavioural investigations, antitrust compliance and follow-on damages litigation.

"She is very open in communication and gives a good understanding of the risk or areas for justification."

"She is very friendly and easy-going, really fun to work with."

"Uta gave strong and consistent advice and guidance throughout the process."

"She is responsive, gives actionable advice, is open to adapt and has the ability to receive feedback and be there for a dialogue."

Berlin-based Thomas Lübbig assists clients with merger clearance notifications and foreign direct investment filings.