Next Generation Partners

Firms To Watch: Dispute resolution: commercial litigation

Boutique law firm HOFMANN-CREDNER Rechtsanwalts GmbH, under the leadership of Ralph Hofmann-Credner, specialises in litigation in the insurance sector, offering expertise at the intersection with white-collar crime.

Dispute resolution: commercial litigation in Austria

Binder Grösswang

With ‘an excellent reputation in the legal industry,’ Binder Grösswang fields a team of litigation experts and continues to act in a variety of cross-border disputes. Covering a large range of industries, the group is jointly led by Christian Klausegger, Stefan Albiez and Ingeborg Edel, with Klausegger offering particular experience in IT and insurance disputes, and Albiez being recommended for class & mass action defence. Edel excels in commercial and multi-jurisdictional litigation and has recently acted in numerous arbitration proceedings. Adrian Zwettler is described by clients as ‘competent and extremely committed lawyer,’ whereas Elisabeth Tretthahn-Wolski was appointed as judge and left the firm in January 2023.

Practice head(s):

Christian Klausegger; Ingeborg Edel; Stefan Albiez


Other key lawyers:

Adrian Zwettler


Testimonials

‘Since the firm employs a very large team for a wide variety of areas, all matters can be dealt with promptly, competently and to your complete satisfaction. Binder Grösswang’s excellent reputation in the legal industry and in court definitely pays off.’

‘The firm and especially Christian Klausegger was highly recommended to me by a friend, and I have never regretted the decision to hire them. Adrian Zwettler is a young, competent and extremely committed lawyer.’ 

‘Hands-on, good and experienced team.’

‘Stefan Albiez is a very smart and integer player at court.’

‘Stefan Albiez’s team is particularly active in class and mass proceedings, and is increasingly present for clients with their civil law claims in large criminal proceedings.’

‘The strength of Stefan Albiez lies in defending clients against class and mass actions and in representing and advising clients in cases involving both civil claims and criminal law implications.’

‘The team acts fast and flexibly, always has good ideas on how to tackle changing situations and is very creative in finding alternative approaches.’

Key clients

City of Vienna


Erste Bank AG


UNIQA Versicherungen


Austrian Federal Railways


Province of Carinthia


Renault


KIA


Samsung


Lenzing


Zürich Lebensversicherung AG


Work highlights


  • Represented the leading Austrian telecom provider in the defence against mass claims raised by customers.
  • Represented the Province of Carinthia in connection with the repurchase of Klagenfurt Airport.
  • Represented UNIQA in coverage cases following the insolvency of an Austrian bank.

DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Operating across the full spectrum of commercial and corporate disputes, DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH is noted for its ‘exceptional skill to provide very convincing risk analysis,’ and excels in financial and capital markets litigation, cross-border disputes and construction litigation. Another standout feature of the team is its dedicated insurance defence litigation team, which is led by Felix Hörlsberger. Practice head Florian Kremslehner is highlighted by clients for his ‘fantastic market knowledge,’ while Stephan Steinhofer handles cross-border enforcement proceedings and disputes arising out of technology contracts and public funding issues. Alexander Karl is well versed in mass litigation in the areas of finance, insurance and corporate law, whereas Georg Jünger specialises in product liability matters.

Practice head(s):

Florian Kremslehner


Other key lawyers:

Philipp Exenberger; Robert Keimelmayr; Stephan Steinhofer; Georg Jünger; Alexander Karl


Testimonials

‘They have been exceptionally helpful and were very uncomplicated and approachable, even on the partner level. It was always possible to speak to someone with detailed knowledge and experience on short notice and directly on the phone.’

‘I would like to emphasize their exceptional skill to provide very convincing risk analysis and estimates. It’s almost as if they can predict the future.’

‘Stephan Steinhofer is quite young, but already very well connected and experienced. Stephan’s knowledge of procedure and tactics in court proceedings are just exceptional. I would recommend him to anyone who really wants to win a dispute. I would like to also mention Alexander Karl, who also provides great quality advice and prepares good drafts.’

‘Very good knowledge of the local market, know how of commercial and legal aspects, quick in response, competent consulting and quick to respond’

‘Holistic approach, whatever the problem, they have/find a solution, which is a big plus. Knowledge of the topics is very deep, and they go the extra mile in fixing problems.’

‘Thorough, good case managers, attentive. ’

‘Stephan Steinhofer has always delivered concise advice based on a well-founded overall strategy. Stephan has also made sure to keep us in the loop and clearly communicated the status of the case and what to expect going forward. Excellent client service.’

‘Florian Kremslehner is great. Fantastic market knowledge and very committed.’

Work highlights


  • Advised Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft on recovering damages incurred to its property, a school in Salzburg, as a result of a fire caused by a construction company.
  • Advised Slovenian risk capital fund META Ingenium on a cross-border dispute against an Austrian insolvency administrator.

KNOETZL HAUGENEDER NETAL Rechtsanwaelte GmbH

Consisting of ‘smart lawyers and excellent team leaders,’ KNOETZL HAUGENEDER NETAL Rechtsanwaelte GmbH demonstrates prowess at the intersection of commercial litigation and white collar crime, and is regularly instructed by clients from an array of industries, including energy, banking and finance, construction, gaming, healthcare, and life sciences. Bettina Knoetzl leads the team and is praised by clients for her ‘sharp strategic mind,’ with her broad practice encompassing investor protection, liability claims and a variety of corporate, banking and insurance disputes. Judith Schacherreiter was appointed a judge at the Commercial Court in Vienna in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Bettina Knoetzl


Other key lawyers:

Katrin Hanschitz; Bert Ortner; Valentina Spatz; Natascha Tunkel


Testimonials

‘Always available. Partners take care of the case personally, and have good in-depth knowledge. Clients benefit from the great experience of the lawyers.’

‘Bettina Knoetzl is outstanding. Very strong presence in court, knows what she is talking about.’

‘Exceptionally competent, available and quick and accurate in processing.’

‘Extraordinarily experienced, competent and able to develop innovative ideas and solutions to problems. Very accessible and approachable. Very strong in pursuing the agreed goals and enforcing them in legal disputes.’

‘Very dedicated and focused. Smart lawyers and excellent team leaders. Detail oriented with strong follow up in every sense. Hard workers indeed.’

‘Bettina Knoetzl is a genuine leader and an excellent legal mind. A delight to work with.’

‘The team is very competent, professional and available at short notice.’

‘I consider Bettina Knoetzl to be the top litigator on the Austrian market. Bettina is not only a top expert in a variety of matters of material law (such as banking, finance, corporate, and civil law), she has a sharp strategic mind and an incredibly positive energy to throw in for her client, which is why Bettina’s reputation reaches far beyond the boundaries of the country.’

Key clients

Facebook/Meta


Dr. Heinz Schaden


Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)

Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s team, under the joint leadership of arbitration expert Christoph Lindinger and Andreas Natterer, is reputed for the depth of its expertise in cross-border litigation, and offers particular strength in defending national and international clients against injunctive claims from consumer protection associations.  Natterer’s multi-facetted practice includes contractual, product liability, and unfair competition claims, while Sara Khalil is recommended for her capabilities in data protection disputes and distribution law, with the latter encompassing compensation claims arising from termination of distribution and franchising agreements. Dual-qualified (Austria and Croatia) Bojana Vareskic is noted for experience in the energy and financial services segments, while Klara Kiehl departed the team to join fokus Rechtsanwälte GmbH in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Christoph Lindinger; Andreas Natterer


Other key lawyers:

Sara Khalil; Bojana Vareskic


Testimonials

‘Lawyers such as Sara Khalil put a lot of effort into achieving the client’s goals and achieving satisfying results in the courtroom.’

‘Sara Khalil cares about details, but at the same time has a great overview.’

Key clients

Raiffeisen Bank International


Funke Medien Group


UBER BV


Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd


KONE


Mondelez


Danone


Verband der Versicherungsunternehmen Österreichs (VVO)


HETA Asset Resolutioin AG iA


Adler Real Estate


 


 


Work highlights


  • Represented Meta in data protection proceedings against claims filed by data protection activist Maximilian Schrems in 2014.
  • Represented HETA Asset Resultion AG iA in civil proceedings before Vienna’s civil court against Land Burgenland.
  • Represented Adler Real Estate and its subsidiaries in nine disputes against different investment companies and investors based in Liechtenstein, Austria, and Germany.

Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG

With a particularly strong cross-border practice, Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG’s areas of expertise include construction, corporate and shareholder disputes, financial services and banking as well as product liability litigation. Valerie Hohenberg, the ‘extremely knowledgeable and business-minded’ Eva Spiegel and Clemens Trauttenberg lead the ‘highly capable, knowledgeable and proficient’ department, with Hohenberg and Spiegel handling a variety of the firm’s most complex cross-border litigations, and Trauttenberg contributing proficiency in white collar crime. Clients attest Alexander Zollner has ‘a bright future,’ with his areas of expertise including shareholder disputes, managing directors’ liability, post-M&A, as well as the full range of corporate disputes.

Practice head(s):

Valerie Hohenberg; Eva Spiegel; Clemens Trauttenberg


Other key lawyers:

Markus Taufner; Alexander Zollner; Wolfgang Mueller


Testimonials

‘Excellent team.’

‘Valerie Hohenberg is a great listener and advisor. With extensive experience in the commercial field, her ability to best manage the files allow us to have great confidence.’

‘Wolf Theiss has a strong dispute resolution team and is definitely one of the leading firms in Austria. They are highly capable, knowledgeable and proficient, efficient in their approach and very commercial with impressive case management.’

‘Eva Spiegel is an experienced, top litigator who knows how to handle disputes. She is extremely knowledgeable and business-minded with an outstanding strategic sense.’

‘Wolf Theiss has not only an exceptional regional reach, but also a deep knowledge of the financial and fintech sector.’

‘Wolf Theiss’ commercial litigation practice is known as No. 1 in the market. This doesn’t come as a surprise since the team has a very broad experience and, therefore, is exceptionally well placed for complex matters. Not only are documents are delivered in no time, but are of exceptional quality.’

‘Eva Spiegel is truly one of a kind. She is an excellent attorney, super pragmatic, solution-oriented, and combines legal expertise with a knowledge of the market.’

‘Alexander Zollner will have a very bright future. He is competent, reliable and works with perfection.’

Work highlights


  • Represented a Big Four company in a significant number of civil proceedings following the insolvency of Austrian real estate development group Wienwert.
  • Acted in a large number of disputes brought by Austrian-based gamblers concerning the recovery of losses incurred in online gambling for several major international online-gaming providers, one of their holding companies and a leading global payment services provider.

Cerha Hempel

Described as ‘a paragon of legal excellence,’ Cerha Hempel demonstrates proficiency in unfair competition and state aid litigation, as well as private enforcement proceedings, cartel law disputes and professional liability claims. The team operates in an array of industries such as automotive, insurance, fintech and financial services. Practice head Irene Welser handles the full spectrum of national and international litigation and arbitration, with notable specialisms in corporate, post-M&A and shareholder disputes. Michaela Siegwart takes the lead on the firm’s insurance disputes, whereas Holger Bielesz is regularly instructed on insolvency, corporate and banking litigation, as well as consumer claims.

Practice head(s):

Irene Welser


Other key lawyers:

Holger Bielesz; Michaela Siegwart; Paul Krepil; Alexandra Stoffl


Testimonials

‘Outstanding in every aspect: fast response times, precision and broad professional expertise.’

‘Holger Bielesz und Paul Krepil impress with their in-depth experience in commercial litigation, as well as their economic and practice-oriented approach.’

‘They offer impeccable knowledge and a profound grasp of commercial litigation. They are industry specialists who truly understand the nuances of the business world. The seamless coordination between different departments ensures that clients benefit from comprehensive solutions, drawing from varied expertise.’

‘The team shines not just in their proficiency but in the way they align their core values with client needs. Their innovative practices, combined with a genuine care for their clients, position them at the forefront of the legal sector.’

‘The firm houses an assembly of brilliant legal minds. However, two individuals, in particular, have consistently showcased unparalleled expertise, commitment, and a distinctive approach that sets them leagues apart from competitors. Irene Welser has expansive mastery in the field. Holger Bielesz pours dedication and passion into his work.’

‘The team remains a paragon of legal excellence. The combination of experience and fresh perspectives within the team reinforces my belief that this firm stands unmatched in its commitment to justice. ’

‘Cerha Hempel is a broadly positioned law firm that is also very competent in insurance law matters. It is characterised by excellent research work, comprehensive specialist knowledge and legal sensitivity, even in highly complex cases.’

‘We work closely with the team Michaela Siegwart and Irene Welser. Both partners are excellent lawyers who always find an answer to complex legal problems.’

Key clients

IRMA Investments GmbH


SPAR AG/ASPIAG Management AG


NOVOREAL Immobilieninvest AG


City of Vienna/WIENER STADTWERKE


Spar European Shopping Centers GmbH (SES)


UNIQA Österreich Versicherungen AG


DUNAKESZI JÁRMŰJAVÍTÓ KORLÁTOLT FELELŐSSÉGŰ TÁRSASÁG


HERVIS Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.


Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG


ASFINAG


ÖBB Infrastruktur AG


McDonald’s GmbH


Apleona HSG GmbH


Hey Communications & Production GmbH


INTERSPAR Gesellschaft m.b.H.


MACON A.B.


MTK Group


Work highlights


  • Represented SPAR AG against an animal welfare association (Verein gegen Tierfabriken) regarding dirty campaigning.
  • Represented STRABAG in enforcement proceedings of an ICSID arbitral award of €75m against Libya.
  • Advised the City of Vienna and Wiener Stadtwerke on their antitrust damage claims against five truck manufacturers involved in the trucks cartel, by way of private enforcement.

CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH

CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH works seamlessly with the firm’s other departments, in particular real estate, IP, public procurement and employment, being regularly instructed by clients from industries such as transport, energy, real estate and intellectual property. Johannes Reich-Rohrwig represents clients in both litigation and arbitration proceedings, and leads the group alongside Daniela Karollus-Bruner, who offers notable experience in tort, contract, corporate and competition law. The team was further strengthened with Lukas Peissl and Arno Zimmermann‘s promotion to partner, and the arrival of Anja Cervenka from DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH in October 2022, as well as Anna Freund from Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG in March 2023.

Practice head(s):

Johannes Reich-Rohrwig; Daniela Karollus-Bruner


Other key lawyers:

Thomas Böhm; Lukas Peissl; Arno Zimmermann; Anja Cervenka; Anna Freund


Key clients

Austrian Airlines


SAXINGER Rechtsanwalts GmbH

Noted for its cross-border capabilities, SAXINGER Rechtsanwalts GmbH has recently been instructed in major construction, engineering and automotive disputes, which are also focus areas of practice head Markus Fellner, who is also regularly instructed by clients from sectors such as infrastructure, medical devices and logistics. Nina Pichler combines expertise in dispute resolution, corporate matters and M&A, while Rupert Kreuml supports Fellner in construction litigation and provides additional knowledge of medical and competition law. Ria Kucera was promoted to partner in October 2022 and advises along the whole spectrum of commercial law, litigation, and arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Markus Fellner


Other key lawyers:

Ria Kucera; Nina Pichler Rupert Kreuml


Key clients

Bilfinger Bohr- und Rohrtechnik GmbH


HDI Global SE


LSW GmbH


HLSW GmbH


dm drogerie markt Verwaltungsgesellschaft m.b.H.


KTM AG


Pierer Mobility AG


HABAU Hoch- und Tiefbaugesellschaft m.b.H.


ÖSTU-STETTIN Hoch- und Tiefbau GmbH


Heaven Seven GmbH


Heaven Seven Swiss AG


Klenk & Meder GmbH


Work highlights


  • Represented LSW and HLSW in €1.2bn proceedings against a large furniture retail group.
  • Advised Bilfinger and its insurer HDI Global on claims arising from one of Europe’s worst industrial accidents.

Aigner Lehner Zuschin Rechtsanwälte

Investor protection litigation is at the heart of Aigner Lehner Zuschin Rechtsanwälte‘s practice, which is well known for its wealth of experience in the financial markets industry. Practice co-head Lukas Aigner is described by clients as ‘one of the most important pioneers of investor protection law in Austria,’ with his workload including disputes related to financial derivatives and hedge fund structures. He leads the team alongside Johannes Lehner, who is a specialist in civil procedure and tort law, and offers niche expertise in disputes tied to professional football.

Practice head(s):

Lukas Aigner; Johannes Lehner


Other key lawyers:

Georg Zuschin; Maximilian Weiser


Testimonials

‘Perfect combination of excellent legal skills, experience before court, personal empathy, and high efforts of creating trust.’

‘Excellent legal skills, straight communication and exceptional persuasiveness towards witnesses and clients in difficult situations . Georg Zuschin is representing all those characteristics.  Lukas Aigner is a mastermind & charismatic team leader.’

‘Good and thorough analysis of the problem before taking on a mandate. Working extremely precisely and goal-oriented.’

‘Johannes Lehner: very analytical, precise and accurate preparation for legal disputes.’

‘Very competent and fast working.’

‘I consider them to be one of the leading law firms in the field of dispute resolution and litigation. The firm stands out due to the direct involvement of the partners in litigation and trial planning. The firm has extensive experience in resolving disputes before both ordinary courts and arbitration tribunals.’

‘Lukas Aigner has been extremely successful in dispute resolution in numerous investor protection cases in recent years, including complex financial derivatives and hedge fund structures worldwide.’

‘Lukas Aigner can be described as one of the most important pioneers of investor protection law in Austria, and he has particularly profound experience in the enforcement of disputed claims, especially in capital market law cases.’ 

Key clients

CA Immobilien Anlagen AG


City Administration of the Provincial Capital City Linz


A group of CPI Immobilien Group investors


VIE Wohnimmobilien Getreidemarkt 16 Entwicklung GmbH


A group of Wienwert investors


Unitherm Beteiligungs GmbH


A group of Wirecard AG investors


Federal State of Upper Austria


The Financial Directorate of the City of Linz


Romcab S.A.


Management Beteiligungs-gesellschaft m.b.H.


Work highlights


  • Represented CA Immobilien Anlagen AG regarding civil law claims in connection with possible partial influence on the best bidder process concerning the privatisation of the federal cooperative property companies (BUWOG) in 2004.
  • Represented the City of Linz in a litigation against Austrian Bank BAWAG P.S.K. regarding a failed transaction linked to foreign currency, which caused a €640m loss to the City of Linz.
  • Advised hundreds of CPI Immobilien Group investors on the bankruptcy of the CPI real estate group.

E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH

E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s multifarious practice extends to corporate litigation, defence work in lawsuits filed by consumer protection associations, and disputes in sectors such as automotive, payment services, energy and real estate, and has noted an increase in instructions from pharmaceutical companies. Group lead Jana Eichmeyer specialises in employment law, while Mario Spanyi‘s vast litigation offering includes white collar crime. Thomas Krach specialises in distribution and insolvency law, as well as private antitrust enforcement.

Practice head(s):

Jana Eichmeyer


Other key lawyers:

Mario Spányi; Thomas Krach


Testimonials

‘Perfect and timely communication, great at explaining complex matters in simple words.’

‘Mario Spanyi is a great professional, always thinking in advance on potential issues.’

Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners

With the firm’s dispute resolution being integrated into the individual practice areas, Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners is lauded for handling disputes in the banking sector and places a focus on corporate litigation, defending banks against claims regarding general terms and conditions and improper investment advice. Gregor Schett and ‘real dealmaker’ Markus Fellner head the group, with Schett being well versed in class actions and other multi-party litigation, and Fellner offering expertise in M&A and finance transactions.

Practice head(s):

Gregor Schett; Markus Fellner


Other key lawyers:

Kurt Wratzfeld; Markus Kajaba; Stefan Adametz


Testimonials

‘A trusted one-stop-shop law firm with brilliant lawyers and great expertise. They do not operate in silos and communication with the firm is very efficient.’

‘The team is always up-to-date with the latest developments in the banking sector and technology, which is why they are our go-to firm for innovative financial products and services.’

‘The entire team impresses with its professionalism and competence. It brings not only its expertise, but also exceptional strategic planning and negotiating skills. A great team.’

‘Markus Fellner is an excellent partner who gives details and our business a high profile and he is always available.’

‘Gregor Schett – he is a fantastic partner with a unique feeling for the situation.’

‘Best law firm in restructuring cases if Markus Fellner is in charge.’

‘Markus Fellner is a real dealmaker with great know how and engagement, always focused to find the best economic solution for the client.’

Key clients

Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien


UniCredit Bank Austria AG


Work highlights


  • Advised UniCredit Bank Austria on the enforcement of its substantial minority rights as a shareholder of the 3Banks Group.
  • Represented Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien in comprehensive litigation against hundreds of investors asserting claims based on faulty investment advice when acquiring a share in closed funds.

Vavrovsky Heine Marth Rechtsanwälte

Vavrovsky Heine Marth Rechtsanwälte operates across the spectrum of dispute prevention and resolution, including the representation of clients before national courts and arbitral tribunals, the enforcement of judgements and protection of rights, with a particular focus on litigation in the real estate and construction sectors. The team, under the leadership of Nikolaus Vavrovsky, ‘outstanding litigator’ Dieter Heine, and Florian Stefan, offers a cross-method approach, which also includes expertise in arbitration and mediation. Nina Sterzl is sought out for advice on the purchase and sale of real estate and is one of the firm’s key contacts for construction disputes.

Practice head(s):

Nikolaus Vavrovsky; Dieter Heine


Other key lawyers:

Nina Sterzl


Testimonials

‘Nikolaus Vavrovsky provides insightful guidance paired with high level legal analysis.’

‘Nikolaus Vavrovsky perfectly combines vast experience in both real estate and dispute related matters. He regularly works with Nina Sterzl, a rising star in construction dispute resolution.’

‘The overall impression of the team is very positive. As clients, we also feel that there is a suitable approach to every inconvenience that we might have.’

‘I have been working with Dieter Heine and his broad know-how and vast experience make us choose him and Vavrovsky Heine Marth Rechtsanwälte over and over again. He is an outstanding litigator whose practice covers a wide range of disputes. We feel comfortable with him guiding us through any dispute and advising.’

‘The team shows strength in preparing strategy and documentation of the cases, especially towards the actual litigation in court. Written preparation of claims, pleadings and answers to a complaint is very well and quickly done.’

‘Nikolaus Vavrovsky: very quick and effective communication, excellent strategic and negotiation skills. Very strong in scenario analysis and preventive risk management.’

‘The overall impression of the team is very positive because of the structured way of work and the vast experience and know-how that especially Dieter Heine has.’

‘Dieter Heine is an outstanding litigator. I feel comfortable with him guiding us through any dispute, and I also feel that there is a suitable approach to every inconvenience we might have.’

Key clients

Geros Beteiligungsverwaltungs GmbH/Lifestyle Brands Investment Holding GmbH


Siemens AG Österreich


Novogenia GmbH


Salzburger Festspiele (Salzburg Festival)


Habeco Handelsgesellschaft m.b.H.


Energy Changes Projektentwicklungs GmbH


StreamView GmbH


Stadt Salzburg/City of Salzburg


Taxi 40100 Taxifunkzentrale GmbH


Work highlights


  • Advised Geros Beteiligungsverwaltungs GmbH on a multi-million-euro lawsuit regarding the recovery of alleged payments made by Steinhoff Europe to Geros.

BRANDL TALOS Attorneys at law

BRANDL TALOS Attorneys at law is sought out by banks, insurance companies and financial service providers, and is reputed for its strength in handling player-side litigation for national and international gaming and betting operators. Practice lead Christian Lenz is adept at banking and insurance matters, including securities regulation, while Anela Blöch‘s expertise extends to real estate and compliance matters. Anna Katharina-Radschek is a key contact for cross-border disputes.

Practice head(s):

Christian Lenz


Other key lawyers:

Raphael Toman; Patrick Mittlböck; Anela Blöch; Anna Katharina Radschek


Testimonials

‘Brandl Talos has a very hands-on team, always understanding our needs and professionally and efficiently working on finding practical solutions.’

‘The individuals we work with stand out with a high level of expertise and know-how. They are very friendly and client focused.’

‘The Brandl Talos team is well structured and organised. This enables clients to have a bespoke team to handle instructions. Their use of different levels of lawyers enable a high level of service.’

‘Patrick Mittlböck’s legal language knowledge is unrivalled.’

‘Knowledge of the gaming industry, 24/7 availability, solution driven approach.’

Work highlights


  • Represented a substantial number of claimants regarding the collapse of Commerzialbank Mattersburg.

Brauneis Rechtsanwälte

Brauneis Rechtsanwälte‘s recent workload includes insurance litigation, as well as liability, trade mark, and rent disputes. Work in the real estate sector is also one of the teams strengths, and the specialism of practice head Gerald Otto, who is praised by clients for his ‘outstanding knowledge and litigation skills.’ Former co-head Alexander Klauser left the firm at the end of 2022.

Practice head(s):

Gerald Otto


Other key lawyers:

Bernhard Girsch


Testimonials

‘Wide-ranging practice. Strong and good structured team with a mix of young and senior lawyers. Very reliable. Always have the client’s commercial goal in mind.’

‘Gerald Otto: very fast, excellent case analysis and strategy, very confident in the courtroom, with outstanding knowledge and litigation skills. Very high success rate.’

‘Very fast and professional response. Short response times in general. Very good expertise.’

‘Very understanding and supportive, very realistic and objective at the same time.’

Key clients

SPI Group


Wiener Linien


M7 Group


Former CEO of FACC


Frankstahl


Union Investment


Vienna Economic Chamber


Lohmann & Rauscher


Bühler Group


Euro Flight Aviation Services


Romizil GmbH


DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH

DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH's litigation and regulatory practice, under the leadership of Georg Krakow, leverages the firm’s global network to advise on complex multi-jurisdictional proceedings, and exhibits proficiency in mass litigation as well as arbitration. ‘Great negotiator’ Andreas Daxberger excels in commercial, insurance and construction disputes, while Claudine Vartian offers in-depth knowledge of competition law. Ricardo Gardini de Andrade, who has niche expertise in handling matters with ties to Brazil as part of his international litigation practice, joined in November 2022 from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. Triple-qualified (Austria, England and Wales, and New York) Nicole Daniel was promoted to partner in May 2023, and is noted for her experience in the gambling, automotive, and financial services sectors.

Practice head(s):

Georg Krakow


Other key lawyers:

Claudine Vartian; Andreas Daxberger; Ricardo Gardini de Andrade; Nicole Daniel


Testimonials

‘Extremely client-oriented.’

‘Andreas Daxberger goes the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction, great negotiator in the litigation process.’

‘The DLA team are highly co-ordinated. We value their strategic legal advice that is always commercial too.’

‘Nicole Daniel is a very competent partner in the team whose advice we always value.’

‘DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte is a highly recommended law firm. This firm is characterised by a high quality of work. Contact persons respond to enquiries within a reasonable period of time.’

‘Andreas Daxberger is an extremely competent advisor and lawyer. He is pragmatic and solution-oriented, works precisely and comprehensibly. He always responds to enquiries within exemplary time.’

‘DLA has a strong partnership with clients, demonstrating a high level of involvement in the c in cases that are sponsored by them, which contributes to increase the chances of success.’

‘Ricardo Gardini de Andrade is highly qualified, extremely available and easy to work with.’

Key clients

Entain Group


SEARA Alimentos Ltda


J&F Investimentos S.A


Tesla Inc.


JBS S.:A.


GRAF ISOLA

GRAF ISOLA deals with disputes in the areas IP, employment, real estate and construction, with insolvency litigation being one of the team’s core strengths. Dual-qualified (Austria and New York) Jakob Widner leads the practice, while ‘top-notch attorney’ Ferdinand Graf acts in M&A disputes, and offers expertise in commercial, competition and regulatory law. Sebastian Mahr joined the team in October 2023 from PHH Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH, strengthening the team’s expertise in the insurance sector.

Practice head(s):

Jakob Widner


Other key lawyers:

Ferdinand Graf; Sebastian Mahr


Testimonials

‘The team is highly skilled and results-oriented. The Graf Isola team always is well prepared, understands and masters the legal landscape and is adroit with the facts so that the clients are well-positioned to make good choices. The team is very collaborative, with the clients, themselves, and coordinating counsel.’

‘The individuals I have worked with, including Ferdinand Graf, are top-notch attorneys. The team is creative and seeks solutions that are tailor-made for the client.’

‘The competence that we particularly value is support through crises.’

Key clients

Christof Industries Austria


KTM Fahrrad GmbH


Borckenstein


Tröpfl Privatstiftung


Star Agro


Consortium of Creditors/CTP


Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH

Led by the ‘outstanding’ Stephan Lenzhofer, Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH‘s ‘competent and reliable’ dispute practice is reputed for the depth of its expertise in matters related to public law, and regularly acts for banks, insurance, and pharmaceutical companies as well as manufacturers. Lenzhofer combines knowledge of both public and private law, with focus areas including banking, capital markets and insurance law.

Practice head(s):

Stephan Lenzhofer


Other key lawyers:

Christoph Herbst


Testimonials

‘They explain things straight forwardly.’

‘They always make time to explain things in detail. They are very informed about every relevant aspect of a matter.’

‘Competent, fast responding, diligent.’

‘Stephan Lenzhofer: very kind, competent, diligent, fast responding and outstanding person.’

‘Professional excellence linked with a good sense for economic and practical requirements.’

‘Very commercially minded; great response time; the team is always one step ahead; profound know-how; the firm delivers on point.’

‘Stephan Lenzhofer is very empathetic but also sharp. He has an excellent understanding for the needs of his client and the opponent.’

‘A competent and reliable team.’

Key clients

GIS Gebühren Info Service GmbH


Optimist Inc.


Mahmoud Charr


Deloitte Tax Wirtschaftsprüfungs GmbH


ESIM Chemicals GmbH


 


Work highlights


  • Represented GIS in a class action brought against GIS and ORF regarding an allegation of unauthorised collection of 10% VAT.
  • Advised Optimist Inc. on claims arising from the construction of the James Bond Museum in a major Austrian ski resort.
  • Represented three former members of the supervisory board of Kommunalkredit Austria AG, who had been appointed by the former shareholder Dexia, in complex proceedings regarding the alleged breach of the duty of care before and during the financial crisis.

KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH

KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s team is recognised for its ‘great understanding of complex technical processes,’ and offers established experience with disputes in the construction sector. Exemplifying this is practice head and ‘top lawyer’ Thomas Frad, who is an expert in this field. Georg Karasek offers additional construction expertise, and also well versed in procurement and architectural law.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Frad


Other key lawyers:

Georg Karasek; Clemens Berlakovits; Jan Philipp Schifko; Elisabeth Fischer


Testimonials

‘Jan Schifko – exceptional effort, great solutions. Clemens Berlakovits – always finds the best solutions for the client.’

‘Jan Schifko and his team provide profound legal advice and handle the huge workload in a very efficient and goal-oriented manner. They have a great understanding of complex technical processes.’

‘Jan Schifko always responds very quickly and in an understandable fashion.’

‘KWR has an exceptionally good working team of top lawyers for any legal need a company may have. They are still small enough to be accessible on partner-level, but deeply specialised for any legal action you may need. Besides that, they are part of an impressive international network. ’

‘Thomas Frad is a top lawyer not only from a strategic point of view, but also when it comes to battle in court.’

‘Honest assessment: great legal (litigation) experience, excellent know-how of different legal aspects.’

Key clients

Land Niederösterreich


PSC Errichtungsgesellschaft m.b.H.


Kamper


Schüller


Heidenbauer


Implenia AG/ Implenia Bau GmbH


ATP Innsbruck GmbH


AY-KA Bau


Schrack Technik GmbH


Handler


Joint Venture of AXIS and Jabornegg & Palffy Architects (ARGE GP Parlament)


Work highlights


  • Represented Land Niederösterreich in asserting claims for damages against cartel participants.
  • Represented ATP in civil proceedings regarding the development of a shopping centre in Slovenia.

petsche pollak attorneys at law

petsche pollak attorneys at law is a boutique law firm focused on dispute resolution and representing clients in all areas of civil and criminal litigation, combining expertise in commercial disputes and white-collar crime. A strong pedigree in construction and pharmaceutical disputes is another standout feature of the team, which is under the joint leadership of Simone Petsche-Demmel and Andreas Pollak.

Practice head(s):

Simone Petsche-Demmel; Andreas Pollak


Key clients

Kaefer s.a.


Octapharma group


Eurosilicone


GC aesthetics


Propellets Austria


SGS Privatstiftung


Work highlights


  • Advised an international company in the construction industry on a dispute regarding cost over-runs in the amount of several million Euros, arising out of a landmark project in Poland.
  • Represented an international producer of pharmaceuticals in disputes arising out of construction and turnkey projects around the globe.
  • Represented a manufacturer of medical devices in proceedings related to product liability and tort cases.

Pitkowitz & Partners

Pitkowitz & Partners operates across a range of sectors, with the team’s recent workload including disputes in the manufacturing, retail and energy sectors. Nikolaus Pitkowitz has a track record of real estate disputes, and leads the group alongside Roxanne de Jesus, who focuses on advising international clients in cross-border litigation. Peter Machherndl joined the firm in September 2022 from CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH, with his practice extending to advice on investment-related claims, corporate disputes and class actions.

Practice head(s):

Nikolaus Pitkowitz; Roxanne de Jesus


Other key lawyers:

Peter Machherndl


Testimonials

‘Personal engagement.’

‘Competence.’

‘Roxanne de Jesus did a great job.’

‘Nikolaus Pitkowitz gives calm assurance on every issue and brings great leadership skills. At the top of the tree.’

‘Supported by the brilliant Roxanne de Jesus, who leaves no stone unturned for her clients.’

‘Great attention to detail.’

‘Nikolaus Pitkowitz is a very sound courtroom lawyer. Besides his skills in international arbitration, it is always a joy to meet him in court.’

‘Nikolaus is an extremely clever lawyer but yet very practical, astute and really knows his law. He is always sensible, has a good sense of judgment and has a very elegant style of expressing himself.’

Key clients

Allianz-Slovenská poisťovňa, a.s.


Calunius


Fux Zrt.


General Dynamics


Kinve Solar Power


McArthurGlen


Shandong Bin Ao Aircraft Industries Co, Ltd.


Spraying Systems


Tyson Foods


Vereinigte Bühnen Wien


Vetoquinol


Work highlights


  • Advised Calunius Capital on commercial litigation funding in relation to its financing of a class action on behalf of thousands of Austrian claimants, tied to the Volkswagen emissions scandal.
  • Represented General Dynamics in a dispute with a key supplier for automotive engines in connection with multiple complex contract and damage claims in the amount of €20m.

Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH

Frequently assisting clients in mass litigation, construction, investor, and product liability disputes, Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH works seamlessly with the firm’s other departments, such as IP/IT and real estate, and is noted for comfortably handling multi-jurisdictional disputes. Practice head Wolfgang Kapek is particularly known for employment disputes, while Ivo Deskovic focuses on the financial sector.

Practice head(s):

Wolfgang Kapek


Other key lawyers:

Ivo Deskovic; Stefan Turic


Testimonials

‘Taylor Wessing has supported us with a multidisciplinary team that has been indispensable when tackling complex legal matters. The team’s extensive knowledge, cross-sectorial and versatile approach distinguishes them from other law firms. In the face of complex legal challenges, their guidance has consistently proven to be an investment in protecting our interests.’

‘Stefan Turic is the litigator you want in your corner – knowledgeable, assertive, and strategically top-notch. He’s not just a litigator; he’s our competitive edge.’

‘Promptness, responsiveness in processing a request, professionality and qualification.’

‘Very strong litigation team. A pleasure to work with.’

‘Ivo Deskovic knows how to deal with very complex and delicate matters.’

Key clients

HSBC Bank Middle East & Arab Jordan Investment Bank


Nestle Österreich


Slovenská Sporiteľňa


The Change Group Wechselstuben GmbH


Vorwerk


Work highlights


  • Represented former members of the supervisory board of Kommunalkredit AG against the bank’s damages request for alleged breach of supervisory duties.
  • Advised a global manufacturer of heat treatment equipment on a dispute involving EU sanctions against Russia.