legal contributions

Managing data protection, AI, and whistleblower systems from a single source avoids friction, identifies risks early, and creates legally compliant structures. This article explains why integrated compliance is crucial today.

The Munich Regional Court I has prohibited OpenAI from using copyrighted song lyrics without a license – a landmark ruling for all creative professionals. Whether musicians, photographers, or lyricists: AI cannot simply save, process, or output your work. For copyright holders, this opens up new avenues for injunctions, disclosure, and damages. For AI providers, compliance becomes mandatory.

In a digital world with e-learning and webinars, the question arises: Are in-person training still relevant? Yes – especially when it comes to complex topics, leadership, and interactive processes. Live training creates dynamics, exchange, and sustainability that no online format can replace. In-person training is therefore often the wiser investment – for greater impact, commitment, and genuine learning success.

North Rhine-Westphalia is investigating influencers who defrauded the tax authorities of around €300 million. 200 cases are already underway, with losses amounting to millions. A special team is examining 6,000 data records from social networks to prove tax evasion. North Rhine-Westphalia Finance Minister Optendrenk emphasizes: "The tax investigation department is taking a close look."

Influencer campaigns in Germany and the DACH region require more than just creative content – they require legally sound contracts. Advertising labeling, usage rights, and clear terms and conditions are regulated by law and often subject to legal warnings. As a German lawyer and compliance officer, I help agencies, managers, and brands avoid legal pitfalls – with contracts that work.

Want to make it as an influencer in Germany? Then good reach isn't enough – what's in your contract matters. The Influencer Legal Guide shows international creators what's legally important: from fair contracts and advertising labeling to protecting your content and rights.

In the dynamic world of influencer marketing, influencers have largely replaced traditional sales representatives, serving as authentic brand ambassadors to reach target audiences in real time. But behind the seemingly casual content lies a tough business. For brand owners and agencies, this presents not only new opportunities but also significant legal challenges.

The use of AI to create content raises numerous legal questions, especially with regard to copyright. Who is the author of AI-generated texts, images or videos? In our article, we clarify which legal uncertainties exist and what should be considered when using AI content on websites or social media.

The right combination of legal, technical and organizational measures (TOMs) is crucial to effectively protect confidential information while companies take advantage of AI tools. Integrate TOMs explicitly into your NDAs, require in-house training and protect yourself against new AI risks. I am happy to provide you with further support!

A landmark ruling by the Bavarian Supreme Court now allows the simplified integration of general terms and conditions (GTC) into business contracts between companies. Even if GTCs are only accessible online, they can be effectively incorporated into contracts, which offers companies considerable flexibility in contract design.

Read here more regarding new labor sentences as guidelines for employers handling matters in the D-A-CH Region.

Good news for international trade disputes! Germany has passed a law establishing specialized commercial courts and chambers that allow proceedings in English. This could enhance Germany's appeal as a litigation venue and reshape the landscape of commercial disputes. Stay tuned!

Cyber attacks are a growing threat to SMEs. Given geopolitical tensions, it is crucial to be prepared. If an attack occurs, immediate action should be taken: stop attackers, investigate the incident and assess the risk to those affected. Long-term security strategies help prevent future attacks. Acting quickly minimizes damage and strengthens security.

The development of generative artificial intelligence requires clear guidelines in companies to ensure employment law risks and the protection of personal data. Many employees already use private AI tools, which poses potential risks to company data. Employers should act proactively, offer training and introduce binding guidelines. A general ban is often not practical; a balanced approach is crucial.

Discover the benefits of an effective Compliance Management System (CMS) with our 3-pillar principle! Minimize risks, improve your corporate culture and increase your attractiveness to business partners. Invest in your CMS - contact us for a non-binding consultation.

Standardizing your contract templates in the DACH region increases efficiency, reduces costs and creates legal clarity. Harmonized contracts promote a consistent brand image and enable flexible adaptation to market conditions. Optimize your business processes and ensure sustainable success in the DACH region!

Small and medium-sized companies in the DACH region must adapt to strict compliance requirements. Compliance protects against reputational damage and offers competitive advantages. Effective management minimizes risks and optimizes processes. Long-term investments in compliance are crucial for corporate success and sustainability.

As an employer, you have the option of terminating an employee's employment if they make insulting and degrading comments about superiors and colleagues in a private WhatsApp chat. Read more about the Federal Labor Court's ruling here.

In the case, a works council chairman at Amazon was dismissed without notice because he made false statements about his working hours during a training course. The Lower Saxony State Labor Court confirmed that his behavior justified immediate dismissal because he attended private appointments and declared them as working hours.

A long-term employee was fired for violating the company's dress code. This decision, which ultimately led to the dismissal, was confirmed as legal by the Düsseldorf Labor Court. Find out more about it here.