Turning complexity into clarity and practical, sustainable solutions – always focused on what truly drives your success. With experience, foresight, and a holistic mindset, we guide you along the way - because lasting success comes from integrating tax, legal, and business perspectives.
A law and tax firm with offices in Cologne and Berlin. Four partners who, together with their staff, are there for their domestic and international clients. We advise you in German and English at the highest level on matters of tax law, corporate law and in connection with financing transactions.
Personally and with passion, always keeping an eye on what matters most, we pursue practical, holistic solutions—making full use of modern technologies and digital tools.
Freelancers, tradespeople, entrepreneurs, founders, start-ups, artists, media professionals, sportspeople, small and medium-sized enterprises
Tax consulting is more than ticking boxes. Our approach is holistic and forward-looking. We take a deep look at your unique situation, consider every angle, and create tailored solutions that balance both short-term needs and long-term goals. Beyond reducing your tax burden, we help you stay compliant and build a solid foundation for lasting success.
Monthly financial accounting
Submission of VAT pre‑returns and OSS returns
Payroll tax filings
Preparation, submission and review of tax returns, e.g. income tax, corporation tax, trade tax, joint assessment declarations, VAT returns, inheritance tax and gift tax returns
Completion of necessary year‑end closing procedures
Preparation and audit of annual financial statements, including balance sheets and profit & loss accounts, with publication or formal filing as required
Appeals and formal requests related to tax returns
Comprehensive guidance on all matters of tax law
Real Estate Tax
Dedicated expertise in tax advisory for freelancers, artists and media professionals
Inheritance tax and gift tax matters
Tax aspects of business and wealth succession planning
Structuring of family companies from both tax law and corporate law perspectives
Corporate tax law
Tax advice for corporate acquisitions and restructuring
Transaction structuring advice
Tax due diligence
Business transactions are complex undertakings that require careful planning and proven expertise. We provide advice in German and English on company formations, acquisitions, disposals, as well as corporate and acquisition financings. From the initial planning stages to closing, we support you throughout national and international transactions – offering the security and confidence needed for a successful outcome.
Company formation (including GbR, OHG, GmbH & Co. KG, GmbH, AG)
Capital and corporate restructurings (mergers, change of legal form, demergers, carve-outs)
Drafting and reviewing articles of association and shareholders' agreements
Shareholders’ resolutions
Ongoing corporate law advisory
Advising on corporate acquisitions (share and asset deals)
Drafting and negotiating shareholder agreements and corporate contracts
Vendor loans
Tax and legal structuring of transactions
Leveraged buy‑outs (LBOs), management buy‑outs (MBOs), management buy‑ins (MBIs) and rollover arrangements
Employee equity‑participation schemes
Tax and legal due diligence for corporate and real estate transactions
Management of the transaction process
Corporate loan agreements
Acquisition financing (senior and mezzanine financing), including LMA and vdP‑standard
Project finance
Venture debt financing
Real estate financing
Subordination and intercreditor agreements
Deferral and standstill agreements
Security agreements (including pledges, security assignments, security transfers, land charges)
Legal opinions in connection with financing transactions
Factoring and leasing agreements
At Trapp Lauterborn Schmitt, we combine tax and legal expertise with team spirit and flat hierarchies. We offer an inspiring workplace in a dynamic environment that provides room for personal growth and diverse responsibilities.
Collaboration is at the heart of what we do – because we believe that only as a team can we achieve our goals. Ongoing training and structured career development support your individual path, while flexible working hours help you balance your professional and personal life.
For our Berlin office, we are looking for talented and motivated individuals who want to take on responsibility and grow with us – whether you are just starting your career or bring years of experience.
We look forward to your application!
