Morrison Foerster primarily advises producers and financial institutions in connection with the funding and production of films and television shows and also covers related copyright issues. Other mainstays include the expertise in licensing law, where the team frequently advises in connection with AI matters. Co-head Christoph Wagner, who supports clients in the course of M&A transactions as well as the licensing of broadcasting rights, is also experienced in AI-related regulatory issues. Co-head Christiane Stützle is regularly instructed by US-based companies from the film and music sectors on the development and marketing of new projects. Counsel Christoph Nüßing frequently advises platforms, including social media companies and streaming service providers, on compliance at national and EU level.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Fast, practice-oriented advice. The team presents legal topics in a way that is easy to understand.'

  • 'What sets Christiane Stützle and her team apart from others is that they are excellent lawyers who proactively keep us informed about new developments, have in-depth knowledge of the film and media industry and also have a very good technical understanding.'

  • 'Christiane Stützle is known to us both as a valued consultant and lecturer in the film and media industry and as a proven expert in copyright law. Patricia Ernst, who focuses her advice on the threshold of compliance and film and media law, is also worthy of mention, an area that is becoming increasingly important, especially in the film industry.'

  • 'The team is very responsive and professional. The advice covers legal aspects as well as a balanced commercial expertise. They have excellent knowledge of intellectual property and are active in advising on new legal areas such as AI.'

  • 'With Christiane Stützle and Christoph Wagner the care and attention is very detailed and precise. I enjoyed the firm's atmosphere and the media environment. They work in various areas of this sector and have knowledge acquired over many years. The expertise and connections they have are authentic and highly respected.'

  • 'Christoph Wagner always impresses with his many years of practical experience and expertise, which is why he clearly stands out from his competitors.'

  • 'Morrison Foerster is characterized by a top-class team of top lawyers. There is no matter that cannot be handled to satisfaction, if not in-house, then through the enormous, worldwide network.'

  • 'Christiane Stützle in particular stands out with her expertise in the legal field as well as her knowledge of the film and television industry. Her exceptional advice always ensures that contracts are concluded quickly and that legal advice is provided in the event of disagreement.'

Key clients

  • National Football League
  • SoundCloud
  • Public.Resource.Org, Inc.; Right to Know CLG
  • Galerie Johann König
  • Galerie Deschler
  • Sony Music Entertainment Germany GmbH
  • Twitch Interactive, Inc.
  • Tele Columbus AG
  • Radio NRJ
  • 1&1 IPTV
  • Jazzradio

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Christoph Nüßing
Morrison Foerster
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Christiane Stützle
Morrison Foerster
Christoph Wagner
Morrison Foerster

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Christoph Wagner, Christiane Stützle