Dr iur Christian Schmelz > Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) > Vienna, Austria > Lawyer Profile

Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) fields a team of environmental experts and also exhibits proficiency across product compliance, gaming, pharma and public transport-related mandates. Noted by clients for offering a ‘full service on all aspects of public law’, the firm is especially recommended for its experience with environmental impact assessments, permission procedures, public procurement, and regulatory issues in the tech sector. Christian Schmelz heads the planning & environment team and is described as ‘the leading expert in his field’, while Bernd Rajal leads the firm’s public law group and Günther Leissler heads up the data protection & privacy group. Johannes Stalzer leads on public procurement matters, while Benjamin Schlatter‘s focus areas are environment, energy and tech.

With ‘huge experience’ in handling complex projects, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) is frequently instructed on energy generation projects requiring special permits and environmental impact assessments, having assisted with such matters in connection with several major renewable energy projects. The team also advises clients on applying for project tenders and represents clients in appeals following unsuccessful bids, while acting for successful bidders in procurement matters. Leading the team is the trio of Bernd Rajal, who assists with administrative, energy and environmental law issues, planning and environmental specialist Christian Schmelz, and Johannes Stalzer, who focuses on public procurement matters. Christoph Cudlik is noted for his administrative and constitutional law work, with a particular niche in climate change and planning law.

Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) is noted for its work in the energy and infrastructure sector, where it supports developers on planning and construction issues, while also advising on the forward sale of residential and office developments. Leading the team is the ‘standout’ Constantin Benes, focusing on industrial construction projects and disputes. Assisting him in steering the team are managing partner and real estate specialist Michael Lagler and Christian Schmelz, who advises on planning and environmental matters. Former co-head Peter Madl left the partnership in 2023, but continues to advise investors on real estate investments as a counsel.