International Commercial Litigation Lawyers
Last updated on April 8, 2026
While most business relationships are formed and structured with the intent to benefit both parties and prevent future litigation, the complexity of international laws and ever-changing markets can still result in disputes. At Urban Thier & Federer, P.A., we offer legal counsel and litigation assistance to businesses in the United States and abroad, particularly those that do business in German-speaking nations such as Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
The representation of our attorneys is grounded in their immense experience in corporate law. You can rely on our proven team to resolve issues in your favor while minimizing the domestic and international implications of such disputes. We represent clients in litigation matters directly in New York and Connecticut, with additional U.S. locations in Texas and Florida. In other states, we retain local co-counsel to assist our international client base.
Obtaining Economical Solutions That Protect Your Interests
We counsel our international clients regarding the correct strategies to pursue in the United States courts, with a particular focus on obtaining the most economical solution available. You can turn to us to help protect your legal interests and your bottom line in international business disputes involving:
- Corporate trade matters
- Domestication and enforcement of foreign judgments
- Business control issues
- Uniform commercial code
- Declaratory judgment
- Insurance and banking matters
- Real estate contracts
- Construction and real estate development
- Government contracts
- Hague Convention on the International Sale of Goods
How Long Does Commercial Litigation In Germany Usually Take?
The duration depends on the complexity of the case and the court’s workload. Straightforward disputes may be resolved in under a year, while complex commercial cases involving multiple parties or appeals can last several years.
What Are The Main Costs Involved In German Litigation?
Court fees and attorney fees are calculated according to statutory fee schedules based on the amount in dispute. The losing party typically pays both sides’ costs (“loser pays” principle), although statutory reimbursements may not fully cover actual attorney fees.
Can Foreign Companies File Lawsuits In Germany?
Yes. Foreign companies may bring claims in German courts, especially if the dispute relates to contracts with German entities, business conducted in Germany, or if jurisdiction is specified in the contract. Representation by a licensed German attorney is required at higher-level courts.
Is Evidence Handled Differently In Germany Compared To The U.S.?
Yes. Germany does not have broad discovery. Each party presents the evidence it intends to rely on, and the court determines which submissions are admissible. This reduces litigation costs but also places the burden on parties to collect and preserve their own documentation early.
Are Alternative Dispute Resolutions Method Common In Germany?
Absolutely. Arbitration and mediation are widely used, particularly in international disputes. Germany is a signatory to the New York Convention, making arbitral awards enforceable in more than 160 countries.
Can Judgments Issued In Germany Be Enforced Abroad?
Yes, but the ease of enforcement depends on international treaties and the jurisdiction where enforcement is sought. Within the EU, judgments are generally recognized and enforced without a separate proceeding. Outside the EU, bilateral treaties or international conventions may apply.
Do German Courts User Juries For Commercial Cases?
No. Commercial disputes are decided by professional judges. In some specialized chambers, lay judges with business experience may participate, but there is no jury system, making proceedings more predictable and focused on legal arguments.
What Types Of Commercial Disputes Are Most Common In Germany?
Typical disputes involve breach of contract, shareholder disagreements, supply chain conflicts, intellectual property infringements, and unfair competition claims. Cross-border issues are also common for international companies.
Can German Litigation Be Conducted In English?
Generally, court proceedings are conducted in German. While some documents may be submitted in English with certified translations, having German-speaking counsel is essential for filings, hearings, and official communications.
How Can Companies Minimize Litigation Risks In Germany?
Clear contracts with detailed dispute resolution clauses, proper documentation, and early consultation with experienced German attorneys or advisors are key. Considering arbitration or mediation clauses can also provide a faster, more flexible alternative to court litigation.
Place Our International Legal Knowledge On Your Side
The laws of the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany provide a wide range of remedies for aggrieved businesses and individuals. Our firm has experience in navigating clients through domestic and international disputes ranging from collections of unpaid invoices for goods or services to complex, multiparty lawsuits involving jurisdictional, venue and choice of law issues.
Whether you are starting a new business or have run into difficulties with a business partner or unrelated entity, we can help you. We are trial experienced and are highly strategic and efficient in our planning for your case. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or establish an attorney-client relationship.