Environmental damages cases represent a traditional large-scale and long-term damages area which, especially in the commercial and industrial sector, can tie up claims processing for decades. Moreover, decisions on environmental damages taken at an early stage can determine the course of rulings, sometimes irrevocably. Since the general public is directly affected by the environmental conditions of soil, air and water, as well as flora and fauna, local and regional media interest is often aroused, even in the case of minor damages in the private sector, which requires experience in dealing with claimants and local authorities. Our specialised lawyers work closely with experts selected by you or suggested to us and, at your request, can also take on the out-of-court handling of entire damages claims (see also extrajudicial claims handling) or legal monitoring.
In the area of environmental liability, we advise insurers on all damages-related civil and public law legal issues that may arise within the framework of the diverse legal structures in Germany, such as with regard to the Environmental Liability Act, the Environmental Damage Act, the Federal Soil Protection Act, the Federal Water Act and, last but not least, of course, the German Civil Code. At your request, we not only represent your policyholders in civil liability proceedings, but also offer a wealth of experience in administrative proceedings and administrative litigation in this specialised area, which we implement to benefit you and your policyholders.
Finally, our lawyers are glad to further assist you with their expertise in all coverage questions that arise regarding coverage concepts available on the market, both out of court and in the course of legal representation.
