IT · AI · Software
IT and AI lawyers in Hannover, Germany
Software, cloud, data and artificial intelligence: we draft IT contracts, support digital projects and make the use of AI compliant with EU law – with a technical background in computer engineering.
IT and AI law with technical understanding
Almost every business relies on software, cloud services and data – and more and more use AI. Who owns custom software? What happens when an IT project fails? Which obligations does the EU AI Act impose on providers and deployers of AI systems?
Our founding partner Michael Horak studied computer engineering before becoming a lawyer. We understand architectures, interfaces and development processes, which allows us to negotiate contracts and disputes on an equal footing with your engineers.
We advise software companies, SaaS providers, IT service providers and users from Germany and abroad.
Our services in IT and AI law
Typical cases from our practice
What mandates in this area often look like – from the first call to the solution.
Failed ERP project
Situation: A wholesaler commissioned an ERP system. After 18 months it is still not usable, and the vendor demands further payments.
Our approach: We analyse the contract, specifications and project records, clarify cooperation duties and defects and develop a strategy between restart, settlement and termination.
AI chatbot in customer service
Situation: An insurance broker plans to use an AI chatbot for customer enquiries.
Our approach: We review obligations under the AI Act and the GDPR, transparency notices and liability for wrong answers, and negotiate the contract with the AI vendor.
Copyleft in a product
Situation: A due diligence reveals that a software product contains GPL-licensed components.
Our approach: We assess the risk, show routes to licence compliance and support the technical clean-up.
Note: These examples are anonymised, typical scenarios. They do not describe specific mandates and do not promise any outcome – every case is assessed individually.
Four steps to a solution
Your contacts
Depending on the matter, we combine attorneys and – where technology is involved – patent attorneys in one team. All our lawyers advise in English.
Dipl.-Ing. Michael Horak, LL.M.Attorney · Certified Specialist in IP Law · Certified Specialist in Copyright & Media Law
Andreas FriedleinAttorney
Julia ZiegelerAttorney · Certified Specialist in IP Law · Certified Specialist in Copyright & Media Law
Dipl.-Phys. Andree EckhardGerman Patent Attorney · European Trademark & Design Attorney
Detailed profiles are available in German.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns software developed by a contractor?
Under German law, copyright remains with the developer. You only receive the rights of use granted by contract – clear provisions are essential.
Does the EU AI Act apply to my company?
It applies to providers and also to deployers – companies that merely use AI systems. Obligations depend on the risk class and apply in stages; some, such as AI literacy, already apply.
Can software be patented in Europe?
Not as such. Computer-implemented inventions that solve a technical problem by technical means can be patented. Our patent attorneys assess this case by case.
Your lawyer for IT & AI Law in Germany
Tell us about your matter. We usually reply within one business day – faster where deadlines apply.
Georgstrasse 48 · 30159 Hannover · Germany
Phone +49 511 35 73 56-0
Email hannover@fachanwalt-hannover.com
Mon–Thu 8:00–17:30 · Fri 8:00–17:00 (CET) · Video meetings available