Outside Publication
Freelancer Engaged? This Mistake Can Cost Companies Dearly Years Later, Markt und Mittelstand
June 09, 2026Partner Philipp Schäuble authored an article for Markt und Mittelstand examining the legal and financial risks associated with false self-employment (Scheinselbstständigkeit) in Germany and the resulting challenges for businesses that engage freelancers.
The article examines how German authorities determine employment status, recent court decisions affecting freelance arrangements, and the risks of worker misclassification. Philipp also analyzes proposed reforms that would create a new category of self-employment with clearer classification criteria, highlighting the potential benefits and remaining uncertainties for companies and independent contractors alike.