Data privacy and data protection in Austria

DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH

DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s data protection practice works across multiple jurisdictions, utilising its strong connection to the firm’s other European offices. Practice co-head Axel Anderl is referred to by one client as ‘the number one go-to lawyer in data protection in Austria‘, and places a strong emphasis on such matters as outsourcing, software projects and copyright. Fellow practice co-head Nino Tlapak, who is particularly familiar with IT security law on top of data protection law, ‘handles very urgent cases in a professional manner.’

Practice head(s):

Axel Anderl; Nino Tlapak


Other key lawyers:

Alexandra Ciarnau


Testimonials

‘Axel Anderl and his colleague Nino Tlapak give quick and profound responses. Their advice is outstanding.’

‘Nino Tlapak is quick, focused on the main topics and gives detailed advice for us. Axel Anderl as a senior partner gives overall advice for specific items. Therefore their joint work is fantastic.’

‘Very flexible, business-oriented advice, high competence – you get your answer during the call.’

‘They are always reachable at short notice. They have in-depth knowledge of our sector (pharma, life sciences) and really understand our needs, requirements and business models. This enables them to provide solid but pragmatic advice, in particular in complex legal and strategic scenarios.’

‘I want to highlight Axel Anderl – in my opinion the number one go-to lawyer in data protection in Austria – as well as Nino Tlapak at partner level. They are knowledgable in all areas of GDPR, privacy and security and also cover complex outsourcing and cloud projects. Finally, Alexandra Ciarnau is worth mentioning as her market reputation is increasingly growing, in particular when it comes to AI, blockchain and whistleblowing.’

‘The DORDA team under Axel Anderl is very experienced in data privacy matters. They are well known in the Austrian market and have a good network to various stakeholders (industry and government).’

‘Axel Anderl is ‘the expert’ in the subject matter in Austria but also internationally recognized with a lot of cross-border activities. He is a lecture at various universities but is still hands-on. Even if it does not 100% fall under his domain, he will try to get an answer for the client asap and point them in the right direction. Niko Tlapak handles very urgent cases in a professional manner and will reply immediately. He is able to explain the subject to “non-legal” clients and gives well-structured and clear advice without lengthy legal wording.’

‘A great deal of specific and well-founded know-how in the area of data protection, so that exceptional issues in the area of data protection are solved in an excellent and practice-oriented manner.’

Work highlights


Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG

Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG, which displays ‘outstanding expertise and business focus‘, assists international clients as well as domestic clients and has a particular niche in such as fields a social media, search engines, and cloud computing. Practice head Lukas Feiler is noted for being a ‘pragmatic problem solver in challenging cases’, and is well supported at associate level by Alexander Hofmann, who joined the group from PHH Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH in February 2022 and has strengthened the group’s offering in contentious matters.

Practice head(s):

Lukas Feiler


Other key lawyers:

Maximilian Raschhofer; Alexander Hofmann


Testimonials

‘Lukas Feiler helps us every day to successfully navigate the complex requirements and increasing legal disputes in the digital field.’

‘Lukas Feiler advised me and I have valued him for many years as a highly efficient and pragmatic problem solver in challenging cases. His razor-sharp analytical skills enable him to quickly penetrate complex cases and his foresight enables him to provide watertight strategies, especially in litigation matters.’

‘Excellent individual practitioners.’

Key clients

Accenture


CRIF


STANDARD Verlagsgesellschaft


Work highlights


  • Representing CRIF in proceedings before the ECJ against an individual represented by Maximilian Schrems’ NGO.
  • Representing Accenture in the acquisition of Austria’s largest data center, ARZ.

GEISTWERT

Described as having adopted a ‘collegial partner-only approachGEISTWERT team is comprises five partners, namely Juliane MessnerMax Mosing, Alexander Schnider, Rainer Schultes, and Constantin Kletzer, who solely handle all matters at partner level. Sector wise, their work relates to the energy, environment, infrastructure and waste management areas. The group offers a full service for not only data protection and data privacy, but also for TMT generally, with strong focus on online business.

Practice head(s):

Juliane Messner; Max Mosing; Alexander Schnider; Rainer Schultes; Constantin Kletzer


Testimonials

‘The law firm’s partner-only approach is a distinctive feature, ensuring vast experience with many of the client’s topics. Pleasantly informal, the firm understands the needs of its clients well and aims at delivering tailor-made solutions.’

‘Due to their collegial partner-only approach, both our lawyers appear simultaneously both in emails and calls, which makes a clear distinction between them difficult.’

Juliane Messner and Max Mosing are clear experts in their field, understanding the legal, commercial and technical dimension of a client’s needs and stand out for their knowledge of current legal developments and state of the art technology.’

Key clients

Red Bull


Red Bull Media House


NOVOMATIC


Netflix


CGM – CompuGroupMedical


Mayr-Melnhof


The Vienna Tourist Board (a legal and public entity)


Mi’pu’mi Games GmbH


Blackshark.ai


HGV – South Tyrolian Hotel Association


LTS – South Tyrol Association of Tourism Organisations


ASFINAG


Altstoff Recycling Austria AG (ARA) and Saubermacher AG


DOUGLAS


Life Brain


Vet-webinar


BAXTER


IQVIA


Work highlights


  • Representing Red Bull Media House in all DP related matters, especially in International Data Transfer matters and regarding launches of new services
  • Advising and representing several clients in front of the Austrian Data Protection Authority and Austrian Courts in proceedings regarding International Data Transfer.
  • Advised Altstoff Recycling Austria AG (ARA) on the dp impact of the implementation of a recycling system for cans and plastic bottles with an “electronic deposit system” (“Elektronisches Pfandsystem”).

Knyrim Trieb Rechtsanwälte OG

Data Protection and IT law boutique Knyrim Trieb Rechtsanwälte OG is led by ‘solution-orientedGerald Trieb and Rainer Knyrim, who has experience with public authorities. As a full service firm, the group ‘provides very patient support with the extensive topic of data protection‘, and the practice covers areas such a GDPR compliance, but also advises on developing and using new technologies. The practice supports clients from an array of industries, such as energy, software, consumer goods and new technologies.

Practice head(s):

Rainer Knyrim; Gerald Trieb


Testimonials

‘Gerald Trieb is for me the go-to data protection lawyer in Austria. He has good experience, has good contacts with the local authorities and is always available.’

‘We highly appreciate the collaboration with them and the legal guidance provided on a broad range of data protection questions and questions related to other legal fields.

‘Rainer Knyrim is outstanding and our whole team highly appreciates working with him – in terms of communication and his guidance.’

Key clients

European Crohn´s and Colitis Organisation – ECCO


Otto Bock Healthcare Products GmbH


Wienerberger AG


Greiner AG


REWE International, Unser Ö-Bonus Club GmbH


Sanitas GmbH


Sozialversicherungspensionskasse AG (Austrian Social Insurance)


Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG


SWAROVSKI AG


Schrack Seconet GmbH


Stadtwerke Kitzbühel e.U.


KIA AUSTRIA Gesellschaft m.b.H.


LOOMIS ÖSTERREICH GMBH


Austrian Association of Electricity Companies (Österreichs Energie)


Lenzing AG


Atos IT Solutions and Services GmbH


Immofinanz AG


Grindr LLC


KELAG-Kärntner-Elektrizitäts-Aktiengesellschaft


Work highlights


  • Advised Wienerberger AG on new implementation of Wienerberger group employee share purchase program under GDPR.
  • Represented Grindr LLC. in a data subject access request complaint procedure in front of the Austrian data protection authority.
  • Represented Atos in negotiations with a potential customer (a word-wide industry leader in the packaging industry) outsourcing its entire IT-maintenance and IT-support to Atos.

Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)

Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)'s deep bench of practitioners offer clients advice on GDPR related topics, but also offer interdisciplinary support. Hailed as 'exceptional in matters of European and national data protection law' the team has a strong track record in this domain, having operated in this space for many years. Günther Leissler, the head of the privacy and data protection team, has worked in this area for over 20 years. Elsewhere, counsel Veronika Wolfbauer's expertise lies in new technology matters and issues related to online services.

Practice head(s):

Günther Leissler


Other key lawyers:

Veronika Wolfbauer


Testimonials

‘It’s a large law firm, with all the advantages and disadvantages of large firms.’

‘Günther Leissler is extremely competent, calm, sympathetic, meticulous, strategic, and diligent.’

‘They have a great data protection team which offers strategic and sensible advice.’

‘Günther Leissler is a very experienced, responsive and knowledgeable practitioner.’

‘Exceptional in matters of European and national data protection law.’

‘The lawyers solve unusual data protection matters.’

Key clients

Meta


Österreichische Post AG


Vienna Insurance Group (VIG)


Austrian Insurance Association


Raiffeisenlandesbank Oberösterreich


HDI Insurance Company


Verkehrsverbund Ost Region


ORF (Austrian Broadcasting Association)


Voest Alpine Group


Novomatic Group of Companies


Admiral Sportwetten


Roche Diabetes Care Austria Gmbh


COVID-19 — Finanzierungsagentur des Bundes GmbH


Work highlights


  • Representing Meta, Inc. in highly publicised data protection proceedings against claims filed by data protection activist Maximilian Schrems (currently pending before the CJEU).
  • Represented Österreichische Post AG in criminal administrative proceedings under GDPR, resulting in the reversal of the highest ever imposed fine under administrative criminal law.
  • Advised Novomatic regarding a request aimed at the disclosure of Novomatic employee data by the parliamentarian fact-finding committee established in connection with the “Ibiza Affair”.

Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG

Possessing a ‘unique knowledge of data protection in Austria in combination with procedural law and related laws’, Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG has a high volume of data privacy and protection cases pending before the courts. Practice head and certified EuroPriSe expert Roland Marko is a specialist in information technology law and IT-compliance, and is well supported by counsel Paulina Pomorski. Recently the pair defended Austrian Post against the first-ever series of claims in Austria, which are pending in the CJEU.

Practice head(s):

Roland Marko


Other key lawyers:

Paulina Pomorski; Kurt Retter


Testimonials

‘Unique knowledge of data protection in Austria in combination with procedural law and related laws.’

‘Ongoing support, and extremely good explanations. You feel very well looked after.’

Key clients

Austrian Post


UniCredit


REWE International


Lifebrain


Addiko Bank


Scanpoint


Feibra


Bank 99


Peek & Cloppenburg


Work highlights


  • Defending Austrian Post against the first-ever series of claims in the country, where a large number of people (allegedly) affected by data protection violations are suing for damages, which is pending before CJEU.
  • Assisting Addiko Bank, operating across the Balkans, on data protection issues related to the approval process of its Binding Corporate Rules.
  • Defending a number of clients against complaints by Max Schrems’ NOYB, which are part of a large-scale action launched by the NGO against allegedly unlawful cookie banners.

Binder Grösswang

Clients instructing the dedicated team at Binder Grösswang range from international companies, to SMEs and start-ups. The team is noted for its expertise and strong ties to data protection authorities, and is headed up by Ivo Rungg and Angelika Pallwein-Prettner. Among the team’s varied workload are employment related data protection matters and on broader data protection compliance matters.

Practice head(s):

Ivo Rungg; Angelika Pallwein-Prettner


Testimonials

‘The team works on the important topics our company needs the most. Especially finding solutions and legal differences between Austria and Germany cause, and the support of the correct use is most important for us.’

‘Competent, quick, friendly. They give good advice.’

‘You can tell that they have a great deal of expertise.’

Key clients

ByteDance (TikTok)


Société Générale


Jazz Pharmaceuticals


Renault


BNP Paribas


Vaya Fieberbrunn


HELLWEG Baumärkte


CCT Software Solutions


Österreichische Post


Stadt Wien


Austrian Federal Ministry of Finance


Buildtelligent


SF Filterdienst


Glaxo SmithKline plc


AUDI


OBI Bau- und Heimwerkermärkte Systemzentrale GmbH


Easy Park


Work highlights


  • Advising Jazz Pharmaceuticals on admissibility of collecting sensitive data in connection with Diversity and Inclusion initiatives
  • Advising Chinese internet giant ByteDance on data protection matters in connection with new video creation tools.
  • Advising large DIY store chain HELLWEG on data protection matters in connection with General Terms & Conditions and customer cards.

Cerha Hempel

Referred to as a ‘dynamic team', Cerha Hempel works with a varied client base on IT and telecommunication mandates. Such cases include technical data privacy and data security, as well as complex IT outsourcing projects and international data transfers. Group practice head Hans Kristoferitsch and technical data protection expert Boris Treml have ‘comprehensive and practical knowledge‘ in data protection and at associate level Stephanie Maier-Herbeck’s forte lies in representing clients in proceeding before the Austrian Data Protection Authority.

Practice head(s):

Hans Kristoferitsch


Other key lawyers:

Boris Treml; Armin Schwabl; Stephanie Maier-Herbeck


Testimonials

‘Dynamic team with modern advice. The team works together as a practice and is solution-oriented.’

Hans Kristoferitsch and Boris Treml have comprehensive knowledge and practical knowledge. They offer quick client-oriented solutions that are formulated precisely and understandably, and a good understanding of the needs of our company.’

‘Responsive, open minded and creative.’

‘Great knowledge and unique empathy.’

‘Service level is very high. The response times are short and agreed response dates are kept reliably. Highly committed and professional team that is coordinated, works quickly and works efficiently.’

‘Hans Kristoferitsch is an expert and advises using his experience. His advice is always legally sound.’

Key clients

SPAR


Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH including its subsidiaries


Wien ENERGIE GmbH


Wiener Netze GmbH


Wiener Linien GmbH


ASFINAG Autobahnen- und Schnellstraßen-Finanzierungs-Aktiengesellschaft


NTS Netzwerk Telekom Service AG


CA Immobilien Anlagen AG


Hervis


Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria)


Via donau – Österreichische Wasserstraßen GmbH


Land Vorarlberg


Österreichischen Fonds zur Dokumentation von religiös motiviertem politischen Extremismus (Dokumentationsstelle Politischer Islam)


OMV AG


Coloplast


ÖRAG Immobilien Vermittlung GmbH


Hervis Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.


Austrian Power Grid AG


COVID-19 Finanzierungsagentur des Bundes GmbH


HeldYn Care GmbH


Fundermax GmbH


Isovolta AG


Work highlights


  • Advised Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH and all of its subsidiaries on a group-wide project introducing a Single-Sign-On mechanism and a centralized user account for customers of all group entities.
  • Advised Hervis on the introduction of an app-based members club, which is targeting customers in seven countries.
  • Advised via donau on the successful implementation on an EU-wide data hub for waterway RIS-data.

CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH

CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH handles the full spectrum of matters on both the data privacy and protection side, and assists a range of clients from the fintech industry. Practice head Johannes Juranek is active in the technology and consumer products sector and at associate level, Johannes Juranek often works on matters at the intersection of data protection and unfair competition. Klaus Pateter regularly represents clients in litigation and before public authorities.

Practice head(s):

Johannes Juranek


Other key lawyers:

Johannes Scharf; Klaus Pateter


Testimonials

‘I highly appreciate the competence of this firm in the field of data privacy and data protection and its services which it provides in this field. The competence of the firm in this area is so highly respected that its partners and associates are even regularly invited to teach in this field at universities.’

‘I have been regularly working with Johannes Juranek. I really appreciate his extensive knowledge in this field.’

Key clients

ENEROX GmbH


St Anna Kinderspital


Universal Edition AG


Reactive Reality


ALPLA


Novid20


REWE


Sky


Work highlights


  • Represented the client before the data protection authority, the Federal Administrative Court and the Administrative Court in relation to alleged violations of the GDPR (official investigation and criminal proceedings with an imposed fine of EUR 2 million).
  • Providing the data protection legal advice regarding the client data, public appearance, and international data transfer.
  • Providing legal advice on various data protection issues to the leading European manufacturer of reliable energy storage solutions including the data protection compliance.

E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH

E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH is noted for ‘being at the cutting edge of this area of law ‘ as well as on IT issues, and is instructed on mandates involving due diligence in the run-up to corporate acquisitions, contract drafting and review, and enforcement, as well as contentious work. Data protection law expert Helmut Liebel ‘is always able to distill concepts to their most critical and present solution‘. Practice head Andreas Zellhofer leads the group and often works on matters at the intersection of IT/data privacy and unfair competition law.

Practice head(s):

Andreas Zellhofer


Other key lawyers:

Helmut Liebel


Testimonials

‘The team is very smart, and provide answers in a detailed manner.’

‘The team members I work with can express themselves very well, They provide us with concrete answers to our questions.’

‘As the concept of data protection grows, we have extreme confidence in the team because they have been at the cutting-edge of this area of law over the past several years. They are experts in advising on data protection compliance, and we have benefitted greatly from their input on IT-situations, from the basic to the complex. It is clear that the team is committed to being leaders in this newer area of law, and we can rest assured that we are being assisted by top minds in the field. The firm also has a Legal Tech Enabler, helping them to stay at the forefront of developments that can streamline processes for clients.’

‘Few attorneys are as well-versed in data protection law as Helmut Liebel. His knowledge of the application of this area of law is constantly increasing and keeping pace with new developments and requirements. Despite his wide-ranging expertise, he is always able to distill concepts to their most critical and present solutions that are easily implemented. Helmut Liebel is our number one resource for data protection and is an indispensable business asset to every company.’

Key clients

Microsoft


Toyota


OMV


Honda


Immofinanz


öGIG


Knauf


Riverside / GFP


Stark Group


Work highlights


  • Advising Microsoft on the lawful use of “Office 365” cloud computing services for Austrian customers.
  • Advising LinkedIn on the new Austrian “hate speech” law.
  • Advised Stark Group on the acquisition of Dach & Wand.

Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH

Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH stands out for its work in GDPR compliance and for its work advising start ups, as well as being prominent in the pharma, biotech and IT sectors. Practice head Sonja Hebenstreit is supported at associate level by Anna-Maria Minihold, who joined the group in April 2021 and is considered 'a stand out'. 

Practice head(s):

Sonja Hebenstreit


Other key lawyers:

Anna-Maria Minihold


Testimonials

‘Good knowledge about the topic with a reasonable/pragmatic, solution-driven approach.’

‘Accessibility and fast response times make it a good working relationship.’

‘Perfect team work, very sophisticated organisation, but most importantly, very experienced people with the best knowhow.’

‘We have worked with Anna-Maria Minihold who has excellent knowledge, a lot of experience, extreme flexibility, and displays an optimal performance in all required services.’

‘Herbst Kinsky’s practice is very practical and the recommendations are clear and easy to implement. You always get a clear answer to a question.’

‘We value Herbst Kinsky’s strong expertise and in-depth knowledge of data protection/privacy law. The team is very client-oriented and combines excellent legal knowledge with a pragmatic approach.’

‘We work with Sonja Hebenstreit who is a true expert in data protection matters, is extremely responsive and is pragmatic. Her out-of-the-box thinking usually finds solutions we had not even thought of. Cooperation with her is always a pleasure. Anna-Maria Minihold stands out – she combines excellent knowledge of data protection law with a very pragmatic approach and a special understanding for all tech-related matters. Also very pleasant to work with.’

Key clients

BOREALIS AG


CIRSE Group


Next Research GmbH


Gilead Sciences GmbH


Boritea GmbH


Timebite Solutions GmbH


EBG Medaustron GmbH


Probando GmbH


Donhauser GmbH/Vapiano


Work highlights


  • Advises CIRSE and its various entities on their GDPR implementation and compliance processes regarding their different fields of activity.
  • Advising Borealis AG and its Austrian entities in GDPR compliance questions on a permanent basis
  • Supported Boritea GmbH with contracting and data protection matters regarding their development and launch of their software for the execution of tests.

Jank Weiler Operenyi

Jank Weiler Operenyi‘s clients benefit from its membership of the global Deloitte network and the one-stop-shop that it provides in an international setting. Practice head Sascha Jung has a strong track record in data protection law, as well as IT and IP issues. Christian Kern joined the group in 2022 and also specialises in these areas. Among the sector strengths for the group are healthcare, real estate, and banking/finance.

Practice head(s):

Sascha Jung


Other key lawyers:

Christian Kern


Key clients

Arctic Paper S.A.


Bankhaus Denzel AG


BUWOG Holding GmbH


Deloitte Austria


Exploreal Future GmbH


Japanese Ministry of Health


Johnsons & Johnson


Marina City Entwicklungs GmbH


Österreichische Beamtenversicherung


Österreichische Bischofskonferenz


PUIG Deutschland GmbH


PUIG France S.A.S.


Raiffeisen-IMPULS-Leasing Gesellschaft m.b.H.


Sage GmbH


TwoNext GmbH & Alles Clara Verein


Via Donau – Österreichische Wasserstraßen Gesellschaft mbH


VIER PFOTEN Internationalgemeinnützige Privatstiftung


Work highlights


  • Advising BUWOG Holding GmbH on the implementation of GDPR and advising on all data protection relevant issues.
  • Advising Vier Pfoten (Four Paws) with legal expert opinions as to international data flows.
  • Advised the Japanese Ministry of Health as part of a global assessment by Deloitte Legal Global on particular privacy questions with respect to the processing of health data.

KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH

‘Collaboration is seamless’ at KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH, and the group are particular experts in privacy and trade secrets law. Co-heading up the team are Anna Mertinz and Barbara Kuchar, who have significant cross-practice expertise. Mertinz leads the firm’s employment practice and often works on cases with an overlap between employment law and data protection law. IP practice head Kuchar handles matters which involve the implementation IP, trade secrets and data protection measures.

Practice head(s):

Anna Mertinz; Barbara Kuchar


Testimonials

‘Collaboration is seamless in terms of the timely manner in which assistance is provided. They go the extra mile to cover all bases before proceedings.’

‘Anna Mertinz was always available, putting in the extra work to consider even the smallest detail, and providing solutions. The foresight and understanding of all the possible occurrences was excellent. As a group, they close all the legal loop holes and provide counsel and advice in a way that makes you feel supported.’

Key clients

DIALOG Bildungs- und Beratungsinstitut GmbH


myneva Austria GmbH


engcon Austria GmbH


Chiesi Pharmaceuticals GmbH


Teoxane Deutschland GmbH


Coca-Cola HBC Austria GmbH


Lauda (subsidiary of Ryanair)


Mister Spex AG


FUTRUE GmbH


Nemo Healthcare BV


System 7 group


TIAN/Venuss Bewusst GmbH


International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE)


Rohde & Schwarz Österreich GesmbH


MAHLE Filtersysteme Austria GmbH


ASSA ABLOY Austria GmbH


Familie & Beruf Management GmbH


Diversity Think Tank Consulting GmbH


Arbeitswelten Consulting


Luther Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH


Austria Bio Garantie GmbH / agroVet GmbH


De’ Longhi Kenwood GmbH


Edizon Innovation GmbH


Ivellio-Vellin IT Services


Willis Towers Watson Austria GmbH


Work highlights


  • Supported myneva in the introduction of several highly complex tech tools in the area of employee data protection and were called in due to our outstanding expertise in both data protection and employment law as well as our deep technical knowledge of IT-related matters.
  • Assisted Coca-Cola HBC Austria GmbH with developing a complete data protection concept and to support its implementation.
  • Assisted Familie & Beruf Management GmbH with the development of a complete data protection concept.

Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partners Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm)

Practitioners at Saxinger, Chalupsky & Partners Rechtsanwälte GmbH (SCWP Schindhelm) are commended for providing ‘business-oriented legal advice‘, and have a history of advising on data protection issues, and in particular in 2021/2022, the group has amplified its work on advising government bodies. Practice head Michael Pachinger leads the team.

Practice head(s):

Michael Pachinger


Testimonials

‘Very good availability, business-oriented legal advice.’

‘The specific know how in data privacy and data protection was the main reason for our cooperation with the team. The experience and practical examples improved our processes.’

‘The cooperation with Michael Pachinger was excellent. The special/individual topics concerning data privacy have been dealt with excellently.’

‘Very professional team focusing on tangible results with very comprehensive knowledge and fast response times. We highly appreciate the personal and prompt response.’

‘Michael Pachinger is proactive and always does his best to show us the full picture. It is a pleasure working with him.’

Key clients

Ulla Popken GmbH & Co.KG.


E. Breuninger GmbH & Co.


dm -drogerie markt GmbH


durchblicker.at YOUSURE Tarifvergleich GmbH


Hagleitner Hygiene International GmbH


Resch und Frisch


Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT)


ATTC Austrian Traffic Telematics Cluster


warrify smart product assistance GmbH


Matchmaker Sports GmbH (Dtl)


Work highlights


  • Advising Ulla Popken GmbH & Co.KG. on a Cookie-Warning Letter based on the allegation of a violation of the GDPR through Cookie settings.
  • Advising Resch & Frisch on implementing a whistleblowing system using SCWPs in-house provider.
  • Assisting Peneder Group with various data protection issues.

Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH

At Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH, 'the team's structure is centered on efficiency, transparency and commerciality'. Practice head Andreas Schütz advises clients on the full spectrum of unfair competition and IT law and is a 'well-known expert in data protection.' Among the standout team members is associate Christopher Bakier, who assists Schütz on matters relating to IT law, as well offering advice related to data protection and administrative law.

Practice head(s):

Andreas Schütz


Other key lawyers:

Christopher Bakier


Testimonials

‘The data protection team gives us advice on every aspect of our business, with a focus on the implementation of data protection regulations. The team, like other Taylor Wessing teams, has a strong, effective, on-point, and pragmatic partner leadership. The team’s structure is centered on efficiency, transparency and commerciality, which truly distinguishes them from other firms. Another evidence of Taylor Wessing’s excellent leadership and the strength of its teams is incredibly effective and straightforward communication. They are also constantly on the lookout for new trends and innovations in the market.’

‘Andreas Schütz and Christopher Bakier truly combine proactiveness, business acumen, and practical counsel in a brilliant way. Andreas is a well-known expert in data protection, and he always performs above and beyond to uphold his stellar reputation.’

Key clients

„Dach und Wand“ Handels GmbH


Agrana Beteiligungs-Aktiengesellschaft


ALSO Austria GmbH


Angelini Group


Axa France IARD Societe Anonyme


Da Vinci Lab OG


Die Menu-Manufaktur GmbH


Easy Park


Elektra Bregenz AG


Fielmann GmbH


Functional Software GmbH


Great Lenghts Haarvertriebs GmbH


GroupM OG


Haberkorn GmbH


Haberkorn Holding AG


Hiscox Insurance Company Ltd


Immobilien Deutinger GmbH


Lafarge Perlmooser AG


Lafarge Perlmooser GmbH


Lafarge Zementwerke GmbH


Nestlé Österreich GmbH


Nespresso Österreich GmbH & Co OHG


NEW WORK AUSTRIA XING kununu Prescreen GmbH


Norske Skog Industrier ASA


Österreichische Apotheker-Verlagsges.m.b.H.


Perlmooser Beton GmbH


Pirelli Österreich GmbH


Ricoh Austria GmbH


Ricoh Europe PLC


Ruggable LLC


Salonmeister GmbH (Treatwell)


Shiseido Group


SHOW FACTORY Entertainment GmbH


Tyrol Equity AG


Urban Massage Limited


Valentino S.p.A.


Volkshilfe Wien Gemeinnützige Betriebs-GmbH


Vorwerk & Co KG


Workiva Inc.


XING SE


Work highlights


  • Advised Easypark Group on the implementation of data protection requirements, data protection issues concerning a new app advice in connection with all data protection matters regarding Austrian data protection regulations.
  • Advised Nespresso Österreich GmbH & Co OHG on the implementation of data protection requirements and provides advice in connection with all data protection matters.

DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH

The fashion industry is a particular sector strength for DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s data privacy and protection team, and the group counts Loro Piana as a key client. Sabine Fehringer, who has a background in data protection, heads up the team and is well supported by counsel Stefan Panic, who ‘has very good knowledge about GDPR in general and data privacy cases‘.

Practice head(s):

Sabine Fehringer


Other key lawyers:

Stefan Panic


Testimonials

‘I appreciate their practical approach. The lawyers are trying to come up with realistic advice, which is necessary for our business.’

‘Sabine Fehringer always understands what we need and gives perfect advice. Her entrepreneurial approach is unique. Stefan Panic has very good knowledge about GDPR in general and data privacy cases.’

Key clients

Loro Piana S.p.A.


International Biathlon Union


ABOUT YOU SE & Co. KG


Work highlights


Eversheds Sutherland | Stolitzka & Partner RAe OG

The multijurisdictional practice at Eversheds Sutherland | Stolitzka & Partner RAe OG is led by Georg Röhsner, a practitioner with ‘profound expertise‘ in this area. Michael Röhsner was promoted to legal director in 2021, and his ‘expertise in data security and GDPR is outstanding’ according to one client. Recently, the team has seen an increase in mandates in the social sector, specifically NGOs, who are particularly susceptible to experiencing data protection issues.

Practice head(s):

Georg Röhsner


Other key lawyers:

Michael Röhsner; Manuel Boka


Testimonials

‘The team’s advice is always of high quality. They are also innovative, practicable and on time.’

‘We value their hands-on approach to problems, always putting our business interests first.’

‘We have worked with Georg for many years. His experience and precise advice is very valuable to us. Michael Röhsner is an up and coming lawyer – always available, innovative and ready to have a fresh perspective on legal matters, particularly in the area of data protection.’

‘Georg Röhsner always knows how or where to find the answer to your question. Due to his profound expertise he is an outstanding consultant to all our needs. The precision of Michael Röhsner’s expertise in data security and GDPR is outstanding.’

‘We value Eversheds Sutherland’s in depth understanding of the data protection rules in Austria and the EU. They help us keep on top of all new rules and developments and help us to understand the best possible solutions for our business. Their advice is always on time, practical and innovative.’

‘Georg Röhsner has been advising our business for approximately two decades now and has been an invaluable support. We value his experience and his proactive approach, helping us to find the best possible solutions for our business.

‘Michael Röhsner has an outstanding in depth understanding of data protection laws and is always informed of all new developments, also keeping us updated on such developments with regular LinkedIn posts and webinars. He is always quick to propose a direct and practical solution, tailored to our needs.’

Key clients

nLIGHT


Aximpro


VertretungsNetz


WAG Assistenzgenossenschaft


ORF Enterprise


Radio Eins Privatradio GmbH


Phoron Group


Österreichische Kinderkrebshilfe


MAKAM Research GmbH


Die Berater


WashTec Cleaning Technology GmbH


SIXT Autovermietung


Experian Group


MOL


Kering Group


Biogena Management Holding GmbH.


Work highlights


  • Representing a private client in a complaint against a media company, leading to the Federal Administrative Court challenging the media privileges in the Austrian Data Protection Act at the Constitutional Court.
  • Advised a large international logistics provider in matters of employee data protection, obtaining coordinated and structured advice from over 20 jurisdictions
  • Providing pro-bono advice for Österreichische Kinderkrebshilfe regarding processing children’s health data for the purpose of patients and survivor support.

GRAF ISOLA

Practitioners at GRAF ISOLA have cross-practice expertise, and the group often do not work on data protection matters in isolation. Experienced co- practice head Marija Križanac comes recommended as 'very smart, creative, knowledgeable and a great litigator' and also has particular expertise in GDPR matters. Križanac leads the team alongside firm founding partner Ferdinand Graf.

Practice head(s):

Marija Križanac; Ferdinand Graf


Other key lawyers:

David Seidl


Testimonials

‘The team responsible for data protection is very competent, responsive and absolutely client oriented.’

‘The team at GRAF ISOLA handles our matters at the highest professional level, always with an entrepreneurial approach and timely. They are always accessible and responsive, also billing is reasonable. They handle every assignment with dedication to their customer. We have never experienced a better legal service.’

‘David Seidl is extremely accessible and responsive. He handles our cases at the peak professional level with a strong entrepreneurial approach. His reaction times are unparalleld, while always being on point with his legal advice.’

‘The practice is top-notch – very solution-oriented and quick advice, and transparent. Marija Križanac is a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Marija and her practice.’

‘Marija Križanac impresses with a sharp mind and a high level of expertise. She always gives easy to understand, on-point advice – even in complex/challenging matters – which is much appreciated.’

‘With GRAF ISOLA Rechtsanwälte GmbH, you always have a direct line to the practice head Marija Križanac, who is very responsive and quick in coming up with feasible solutions.’

‘All praise to Marija Križanac. She is intelligent, quick-witted and knows her stuff when it comes to the GDPR. I have recommended her many times.’

‘Marija Križanac is a well-perceived data protection lawyer. She is very smart, creative, knowledgeable and a great litigator. She is my first choice for all privacy-related matters.’

Key clients

LUKOIL International GmbH / LUKOIL Group


VELUX A/S; VELUX Österreich GmbH, VKR Holding A/S


Irving H. Picard (Trustee for the substantively consolidated SIPA liquidation of Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC & Bernard Madoff)


Open Society Foundations


Victorinox


therapie-info PSISYS GmbH


Logwin Group


JobRad GmbH


MEWA Textil-Service GmbH


EMTensor


Leggett&Platt Inc / Schukra Berndorf GmbH


BDO


kraftwerk | Agentur für neue Kommunikation GmbH


MyHomeRoast GmbH


Hausservice Objektbewirtschaftungs GmbH


AM Baugeräte und Handels GmbH


KOPFWERK Datensysteme Ges.m.b.H.


Ineltro Electronics GmbH


Cortical.io AG


DANUTEX GmbH


neckermann.at GmbH


MAG machines GmbH


CoPlanner GmbH


Work highlights


  • Advised EM Tensor on clinical studies conducted on stroke patients, inter alia in the preparation of a new clinical study to be carried out by an Austrian university clinic.
  • Successfully defended therapie-info PSISYS GmbH in a yearlong landmark case stretching over multiple court proceedings (the last one being before the Federal Administrative Court).
  • Advised LUKOIL on intra-group data transfers.

KPMG Law - Buchberger Ettmayer Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Clients instructing the team at KPMG Law - Buchberger Ettmayer Rechtsanwälte GmbH include public law entities, public sector companies, start-ups, investors, and blue-chip companies. Associate Karin Bruchbacher, the group practice head, concentrates on digitalisation projects, and another key team member is Hannah Kercz, an attorney at law who joined the team in January 2022.

Practice head(s):

Karin Bruchbacher


Key clients

Microsoft Österreich GmbH


Amundi Austria GmbH


bank99 AG


PEPCO Poland Sp. z o. o. / PEPCO Austria GmbH


Salzburg AG


Austrian Reporting Services GmbH


Barracuda Holding GmbH / CTS Eventim Austria GmbH


FINABRO GmbH


SANAG GmbH


Ycy GmbH


Work highlights