Lawyer specializing in competition law, Frankfurt am Main

Tailor-made advice

Never trust a mass-market approach to legal matters that doesn't address your case individually, because you certainly won't receive optimal advice.

Only with tailored advice and representation can the best possible results be achieved for you, which is why I focus on individual advice for my clients in my law firm.

Effective Expertise

Are you looking for results-oriented legal advice that will represent you quickly and effectively?

Then you've come to the right place at Renz Recht. I specialize in intellectual property law and IT law.

Competent. Transparent. Precise.

Clear communication

Competition law is often difficult for laypersons to grasp. Clients are frequently presented with explanations of their legal issues using as many unhelpful technical terms as possible. You won't find that with me! I will explain your legal problem clearly and understandably so that you can make informed decisions.

What is a cease and desist letter under competition law?

Companies and online retailers often encounter competition or unfair competition law in the form of unpleasant and expensive mail: a cease-and-desist letter. These letters contain accusations from competitors of unfair business practices, or in short, of having committed a violation of competition law.

Typical violations of competition law

Competition law violations are so diverse that I cannot possibly list them all.

However, I would like to share with you some classic examples that are repeatedly the subject of cease-and-desist letters:

• An incorrect or missing imprint
• An outdated cancellation policy (it's almost hard to believe that there are still cancellation policies in circulation that have been subject to warnings since June 13, 2014)
• Missing or incorrect textile labeling
• Missing LUCID registration
• Conflicting terms and conditions
• Missing or incorrect electrical marking
• Contradictory information on the withdrawal period
• Artificial leather is called leather
• Missing mandatory information when selling food (especially wine)
• Misleading advertising claims
• Unfair pricing
• Violation of the Price Indication Ordinance

Why you shouldn't act rashly

Of course, the cost-effectiveness of the approach is always the primary consideration. However, the seemingly cheapest approach is not always the best one in the long run.

We can only warn against the hasty submission of a cease and desist declaration: you will pay for it in the end!

Why is that?

The courts require a cease-and-desist declaration with a penalty clause. Specifically, this means that if you make the same mistake again, you will pay a substantial sum to ensure you learn from your error.

How high is the contractual penalty exactly?

Well, that depends on the circumstances of the individual case. Typically, expect a high three- or four-figure sum.

The right strategy

In addition to error analysis and correction, I work with my clients to develop the best defense strategy. This includes examining:

• Is the warning justified?
• Is the requested penalty clause appropriate?
• Can the warning letter be rejected?
• Which costs can be reduced?
• How can you ensure your legal compliance on a long-term basis?

My expertise extends beyond defending against cease-and-desist letters – I also support you in enforcing your own rights when competitors violate competition law.

When can you take action against competitors?

• Misleading advertising or false statements of fact
• Unfair pricing or bait-and-switch tactics
• Imitation of your products or services
• Violation of legal labeling requirements
• Disruption of your business operations
• Disparagement of your company or products

The economy in Frankfurt am Main is diverse. My expertise in competition law covers all economically relevant sectors:

• E-commerce and online retail: Shops on Amazon, eBay, own webshops
• Retail: Retail stores, branches, pop-up stores
• Gastronomy and hotel industry: Restaurants, hotels, catering
• Financial service providers: Insurance companies, brokers, consultants
• Healthcare: Doctors, pharmacies, alternative practitioners
• Crafts and services: Craft businesses, service providers
• Creative agencies: Advertising agencies, marketing offices
• IT and software: Tech companies, start-ups

Is your industry not listed? Contact me – I'd be happy to advise you.

As a lawyer specializing in intellectual property and IT law, I understand the importance of considering each case individually, rather than the increasing prevalence of mass-produced cases. Particularly in the area of competition law, a detailed analysis of the case and a swift response are crucial for success.

Early in my career, I realized how important fair competition is for economic success and developed a deep fascination for competition law.

Many business owners make the mistake of taking cease-and-desist letters lightly or acting rashly. However, legal expertise and a strategic approach are needed to ensure long-term legal compliance.

My qualifications:

• Working as a consultant and as a litigator
• Extensive consulting experience in the field of new media
• Work in IT law, IT contract law
• Focus on eCommerce and Intellectual Property
• Certified data protection officer
• Long-standing experience as a lecturer in the field of IT law and intellectual property law
• Foreign languages: English, French
• Member of the GRUR
• Member of the IP-Coster-Network

The law firm Renz Recht has its main office in Saarbrücken and a branch office in Frankfurt am Main. From there, clients throughout Germany and beyond are advised.

Frankfurt am Main is a major economic hub characterized by high dynamism and international competition. Those who want to succeed here need more than just good products – they need legal certainty and a partner who consistently represents their interests.

As your lawyer specializing in competition law, I offer you individual advice, sound expertise and the unconditional will to protect you from unfair practices and enforce your rights.

Let's work together for your success.