White-Collar Crime and Criminal Tax Defense for Decision-Makers and Organizations

Ideally, before formal criminal proceedings have even begun. In many situations, legal risks, potential escalation, and significant adverse consequences can be managed far more effectively when specialist advice is sought at an early stage – for example, during internal investigations, in connection with high-risk business decisions, or following the first enquiries from regulatory or law enforcement authorities.

We represent both organizations and the individuals who lead them. Our clients include companies, public institutions, board members, managing directors, supervisory board members, senior executives, entrepreneurs, and other key decision-makers. In complex proceedings, effective defense often requires a coordinated strategy that protects both the organization and the individuals involved.

Yes. Many white-collar and tax crime matters involve cross-border elements, including international corporate structures, parallel investigations in multiple jurisdictions, or mutual legal assistance proceedings. We regularly coordinate domestic and international defense strategies and work closely with leading specialist lawyers in other jurisdictions whenever required.

Time is often critical. Whether responding to a dawn raid, a criminal investigation, or another corporate crisis, we aim to provide immediate guidance, assess the situation without delay, and coordinate the next strategic steps as quickly as possible.

Yes. Although our office is based in Munich, we represent clients throughout Germany and internationally, depending on the nature of the matter. Our geographical location does not limit our practice.

The first consultation is designed to provide clarity. We discuss your situation, assess the legal and commercial risks, identify the most appropriate next steps, and provide an honest, realistic assessment of your position. Naturally, every conversation is treated in the strictest confidence.

A specialist boutique offers depth rather than breadth. At stetter Rechtsanwälte, our exclusive focus on white-collar and criminal tax law – combined with decades of courtroom experience – allows us to deliver highly specialized advice and defense at the highest level. Where matters require expertise beyond our core practice areas, we collaborate with carefully selected specialists who share our commitment to excellence. Every defense strategy is personally developed and supervised by Dr Sabine Stetter. She remains directly involved in every mandate and is always available as a point of contact, even where matters are handled by a wider team. For our clients, this means direct partner involvement, consistent quality, and no delegation of strategic responsibility to inexperienced associates.

Dr Sabine Stetter is both a Certified Specialist Lawyer in Criminal Law (Fachanwältin für Strafrecht) and a Certified Specialist Lawyer in Tax Law (Fachanwältin für Steuerrecht) – a rare dual qualification in Germany. She also gained several years of experience handling appellate criminal proceedings before the German Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof) and has devoted more than 25 years exclusively to white-collar and criminal tax law.

Dr Sabine Stetter has acted in more than 650 mandates over a period exceeding 26 years as a criminal defense lawyer. Her experience includes numerous highly complex corporate investigations, executive defense matters, cross-border proceedings, and cases involving corporate fines reaching into the hundreds of millions of euros.

Yes. We regularly advise international clients and handle matters involving the United Kingdom, the United States, and other jurisdictions. Legal advice, strategic consultations, and client meetings can all be conducted in English.

It reflects our philosophy. We believe in rigorous legal analysis rather than empty promises. Our clients receive honest risk assessments, transparent communication, and defense strategies built on the realities of the case – not on unrealistic expectations or publicity.