Chambers HNW High Net Worth Guide, 2018

Chambers, one of the most prominent international ranking guides, launched its 2018 High Net Worth Guide with a list of the top experts for private client work in each country.

P+P has "a formidable outfit with deep expertise in a variety of private wealth matters". A market insider reports: "I am particularly impressed with their ability to maintain a very strong and consistent level of client service. They have a really enviable client base." The firm is highlighted for its work in connection with asset management, particularly for single family offices. "They are very good at dealing with private equity and investment fund matters, so they are very adept at handling the investment side of things." The firm is further praised for its "strong focus and expertise on tax matters" and is "one of the leading firms in this market".

This is particularly due to the efforts of Munich partner Stephan Viskorf and his Berlin colleague Andreas Richter, who is described as "the leading light in German private wealth matters" and who "acts for some of the wealthiest German clients". He primarily deals with estate planning and business succession, while also advising on tax, charity and foundation law. "He is the big expert on trust law matters for German clients and he has a formidable intellect", states a legal source, while another adds that "he is very strong technically and his answers are spot-on". Richter's links with the high net worth community in Germany are also acknowledged by his peers. "He is well connected with local entrepreneurs and high net worth German businessmen." A private client expert also highlights his cross-border expertise and explains that "he has a very solid reputation in the international marketplace".
His colleague Stephan Viskorf advises on a range of private wealth matters, including estate planning, private asset management and business succession. He is highlighted for his expertise in tax law: "He is very knowledgeable on inheritance tax and business allowances when dealing with succession matters." Another peer adds that "he has expertise in many aspects of tax planning". Sources also recognize his frequent academic contributions on tax law subjects and he is acknowledged as "a prominent name who can handle tricky tax issues".