Firms To Watch: TMT

Eversheds Sutherland AG‘s TMT team, co-led by Markus Naef in Zurich and Oliver Beldi in Berne, advises domestic and international clients on information technology, outsourcing, service and operating models, and licensing agreements. The team has seen notable expansion with the joining of one partner and two associates in Spring 2023.

TMT in Switzerland

MLL Legal

MLL Legal represents and advises a broad range of clients such as software companies, e-commerce platforms, IT outsourcing service providers, and TV broadcasters on a host of TMT-related matters including IT outsourcing, licensing maintenance, regulatory issues, cybersecurity, and e-commerce projects. The team also has particular expertise in advising on the legal implications of emerging technologies, like AI or blockchain, and technology transfer projects. Nicola Benz, who co-heads the practice, supports clients such as investors and suppliers across the life sciences and technology industries in outsourcing, licensing, joint ventures, and collaborations, as well as associated intellectual property issues. Co-head Lukas Bühlmann advises domestic and international clients on matters relating to e-commerce, data protection, advertising, and the legal aspects of the digital economy. Michael Reinle has extensive expertise in areas such as software development, licensing, and data transfers. Michael Schüepp sports a special focus on e-commerce, data protection as well as unfair competition and antitrust law in the online context.

Practice head(s):

Nicola Benz; Lukas Bühlmann


Other key lawyers:

Michael Reinle; Michael Schüepp


Testimonials

‘Very specialized practice. Extremely well staffed with excellent attorneys.’

‘Lukas Bühlmann: Excellent legal expertise. Enormous business acumen. Business-minded. Always on top of new legislative and technical developments. Great negotiations skills.’

‘Michael Reinle: Excellent legal expertise.’

‘Very strong team with a good grip on the market. Quite innovative. They are constently growing and shaping their profile.’

‘Lukas Bühlmann is a very capable, well connected IT and data protection lawyer. He is very pragmatic and solution orientated. It is a pleasure working with him together.’

‘MLL Legal has excellent skills and an enviable client list. Their comprehensive knowledge and excellent communication make it a true pleasure to work with them across a wide variety of TMT matters. They are reliable with very practical solutions. ’

‘Lukas Bühlmann is a brilliant TMT lawyer whose team is a joy to work with, consistently making complex matters easy for the clients to digest and make smart business decisions upon.’

‘Reliable and resourceful.’

Key clients

International Trade Center (ITC)


Avobis Ltd.


Schweiz Tourismus


HANDELSVERBAND.swiss


IFPMA – Intl. Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations


Web 3.0 Technologies Foundation


Avanade Schweiz GmbH


British American Tobacco (BAT)


Alife Health


Tillotts Pharma AG


Emmi Management


isolutions


Swiss Textiles


Work highlights


  • Advised Web 3.0 Technologies Foundation on various aspects of Swiss law relating to the so-called web3.0.
  • Advised BAT Switzerland in drafting and negotiating IT contracts with suppliers, in regulatory matters, in particular the placement of new nicotine-only snus and tobacco heating products as well as compliance with the new Swiss data privacy law.
  • Advised the Avobis Group of companies on a broad range of legal issues relating to the digitalisation of underlying business models and compliance with data privacy regulation.

Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd

Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s ‘excellent’ team uses its expertise in information technology, telecommunication, and intellectual property law to provide specialist knowledge in various industries such as finance, health sciences and pharma, and construction. The practice supports clients in international arbitrations arising out of ICT contracts and provides advice for the legal implications of emerging technologies such as big data, Internet of Things, and AI. Team head Roland Mathys advises in all matters relating to software development, digital platforms, technology licensing, and outsourcing transactions. Alongside being a competition law specialist, David Mamane has expertise in telecommunication law and license agreements. Lorenza Ferrari Hofer has great experience in TMT and data privacy and data protection’ as well as media and leisure (including social media), advertising, marketing, and sponsoring matters. Samuel Klaus departed the team in April 2023 for an in-house position.

 

Practice head(s):

Roland Mathys


Other key lawyers:

David Mamane; Lorenza Ferrari Hofer; Amalie Wijesundera; Kenzo Thomann; Philipp Groz


Testimonials

‘The team is excellent. The service provided is highly qualified and managed to deliver very satisfactory work results even in the case of low budget constraints. Uncomplicated and more goal-oriented work than others.’

‘We started working with Lorenza Ferrari Hofer about 5 years ago when she was partner at Pestalozzi and have always been so satisfied with her work. She has great experience in TMT and data privacy and data protection but also on general commercial matters. She is highly professional, pragmatic, trustworthy and also just a great person.’

‘Excellent legal skills enable the team to support on various matters also on short notice and give competent, clear advice straight to the point.’

‘Philipp Groz has deep expertise and is highly committed to his clients.’

 

Key clients

ABB


AddLife AB


Aity AG


Amazon


Amazon Web Services (AWS)


Aon


Axpo


BEKB / Berner Kantonalbank


CommVault


CSS Insurance


DHL


DocuSign


Facebook


Fairtiq


Husqvarna / Gardena


Intertrust


INLEAD


Kardex


Lindt & Sprüngli


Manor


Mettler Toledo


Novartis


Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI)


Oryx Gaming


Ringier


Salesforce


Swiss Digital Initative (SDI)


SIX Paynet


Sonova


Standard Chartered


Swizzonic


Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)


Tesla


Vifor


Voi


Youplus Assurance SCHWEIZ


Work highlights


  • Advising BEKB in its earlier outsourcing of its banking platform and IT infrastructure to Hewlett Packard (now DXC).
  • Advising CSS in all legal questions of the setup of a digital health platform for patients and health service providers, including ICT, data protection, corporate/governance, IP, regulatory and competition (JV merger control clearance).
  • Advised SIX Paynet AG on the sale of its B2B and B2C E-Invoicing Business to PostFinance AG.

VISCHER

VISCHER supports companies and public institutions with cloud migration projects, specifically when relating to sensitive data and applications, regulatory solutions for streaming media and entertainment content, and licensing agreements. The team is co-headed by Rolf Auf Der Maur, who advises domestic and international companies on TMT-related matters, especially regarding digitalisation and online businesses, and David Rosenthal, who has broad experience in advising and representing national and multinational clients in the areas of data protection, technology law, eDiscovery, and technology arbitration. Christian Wyss handles collaborations and joint ventures, and has extensive experience with technology transfer and licensing as well as technology-related issues in M&A deals.

Practice head(s):

Rolf Auf der Maur; David Rosenthal


Other key lawyers:

Christian Wyss; Elias Mühlemann; Samira Studer


Testimonials

‘The firm works in a very straightforward way. They combine expertise and what is relevant to the business well together. I appreciate the cooperation very much.’

‘I have worked closely with David Rosenthal for years and appreciate his pragmatic approach. I know whenever I have a problem in the area of data protection, IT, technology, that I can rely on him there.’

‘Vischer has a team that has a lot of experience in the TMT market, in addition to international know-how also in the local Swiss market. Both are essential for us. What sets Vischer apart is the parallel expertise available in tax issues relating to the TMT market. This reduces the interfaces in a project and helps keep administrative costs low.’

‘Vischer is very professional and still remains agile. Vischer reacts quickly and well in unexpected situations. Vischer, especially Rolf auf der Maur, is a very strong negotiator with a clear view of entrepreneurial interests. Rolf auf der Maur and his team have helped us several times in difficult negotiations to find a solution that took our interests into account and was acceptable to the other party.’

Key clients

Netflix


World Economic Forum


Allianz


AXA


Swisscom


Ringier


Additiv AG


CH Media TV AG


UBS


Raiffeisen


Comparis


Open Systems


Lyfegen


Radicant


Bucher Industries


Insel Spital


Implenia


Twint


Work highlights


  • Advised Netflix on copyright issues on the Swiss market.
  • Advised over two dozen banks (including of the Cantonal Banks of Berne, Lucerne, Argovia, Basel and Zurich), cantonal hospitals (including of Basel and Bern) and public authorities (including Zurich) on how to move to the cloud.
  • Advised two Swiss banks and one health insurance company in implementing generative AI solutions involving sensitive and highly confidential data.

Walder Wyss Ltd.

Walder Wyss Ltd. has ‘profound knowledge’ in advising high-profile clients on a wide range of TMT-related matters including cloud migration projects for regulated industries, multi-stream projects, and litigation. David Vasella, who advises domestic and international clients on compliance implementation projects, data monetization, cloud outsourcing arrangements, and IT projects, heads the team. Hans Rudolf Trüeb specialises in technology transfer, licensing, distribution, cooperation and outsourcing projects, while Mark Reutter supports corporate and private clients in matters relating to technology and digitalisation. Jürg Schneider has expertise in comprehensive licensing, system integration, and global outsourcing projects. Michael Isler has a particular focus on regulated sectors such as life sciences and fintech.

Practice head(s):

David Vasella


Other key lawyers:

Hans Rudolf Trüeb; Mark Reutter; Jürg Schneider; Michael Isler; Martin Zobl; Monique Sturny; Hugh Reeves; Annemarie Lagger; Lena Götzinger


Testimonials

‘Profound knowledge adapted to start-up companies.’

‘David Vasella: responsive, detailed, precise, knowledgeable, great communication skills.’

‘The team handles even the most complex matters with the utmost precision, professionalism and care. Its work is of the highest legal standard compared to its peers, and it is focused on solving practical problems rather than focusing on theoretical work.’

‘The usage of new technology to support their clients is also a core benefit when engaging with them.’

‘Walder Wyss is one of the leading firms in the field of technology. They are very responsive and always have a very business-oriented and practical approach.’

‘David Vasella is a very tech-savvy lawyer with a good understanding of business models and the data flows/technology involved. He is particularly strong in data protection and AI regulation, but is very knowledgeable across the board.’

‘Not only is David Vasella knowledgeable about the newest regulatory developments, but is also always informed about the latest technological trends. Being ahead of the curve in knowing about the latest tech developments is a key differentiator today, and David does this exceptionally well.’

Key clients

ABB


Avaloq


AXA


Bobst


Cembra


Citrix


Credit Suisse


CSS


Emmi


FIFA


Galenica


gategroup


Helsana


Helvetia


Hitachi Energy


Intrum


Kantar Media


Kuoni


Legartis


Leonteq


LGT Capital Partners


Loylogic


Microsoft


Migros


Mobiliar


MySmartHeart


OTTO’S


Beyond Gravity (formerly RUAG)


Sanitas


Santesuisse


SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA


SBB


STOXX


Swiss Federation


Swisscard


Swisscom


Swissmedic


Sygnum Bank


TX Group


Viseca


Zur Rose


Zurich Insurance


Zurich University


Work highlights


  • Advised SGS Société Générale de Surveillance SA on their IT-outsourcing to Accenture.
  • Advised Swissmedic in the procurement of cloud solutions including compliance with official secrecy, data protection, use of the cloud services, and negotiation of agreements with hyperscalers.
  • Advise Sygnum, a pioneering Swiss digital asset bank, offering a range of financial services related to cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, on a range of data protection matters in these regards as well as with general data protection compliance.

Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG

Baker McKenzie Switzerland AG has a special focus on providing comprehensive legal advice to international clients on legal compliance for new products in the areas of distribution lines and internet-based sales and services. Drawing on its global network, the team supports on the structuring and implementation of new technology related privacy and compliance programs across multiple jurisdictions. Practice head Alessandro Celli has expertise in Swiss data protection and GDPR compliance programs and related implementation projects. Eva-Maria Strobel advises clients on IP-related matters. The team is supported by telecommunication law expert Johanna Mösch, Muriel Binder who has a particular focus on new technologies, copyright specialist Sandra Marmy-Brändli , Nadine Charrière who focuses on IP, and data protection specialist Nicole Schön who joined the team in May 2023 from MLL Legal.

Practice head(s):

Alessandro Celli


Other key lawyers:

Eva-Maria Strobel; Johanna Mösch; Muriel Binder; Nadine Charrière; Sandra Marmy-Brändli; Nicole Schön


Testimonials

‘Responsiveness and care of our needs is exceptional.’

Work highlights


Bär & Karrer Ltd.

Bär & Karrer Ltd.’s team advises and represents telecommunication companies, cable network providers, social media companies, and broadcasting companies on the full spectrum of TMT matters from outsourcing projects, complex software contracts, regulatory advice to media rights-related arbitration procedures or joint ventures in the IT industry. The team is co-headed by Michele Bernasconi and Christian Kunz, with Bernasconi having expertise in international litigation and arbitration as well as in commercial and transactional work relating to TMT activities, and Kunz having advised on data-driven business models and platform solutions as well as advanced technology projects, AI, digital infrastructure, and technology transactions. Markus Wang, who handles both contentious and non-contentious work in the pharmaceutical, biotech and IT sectors, and Corrado Rampini, who is an expert in Swiss and international data protection and privacy law, both support the team.

Practice head(s):

Michele Bernasconi; Christian Kunz


Other key lawyers:

Markus Wang; Corrado Rampini; Jonas Bornhauser; Rehana Harasgama


Testimonials

‘The TMT team is top-notch in terms of skills and experience. They listen carefully to the customer before analyzing the subject and creating a comprehensible solution. Their approach is highly customer specific, the related outcome always flawless. Their proven track record speaks for itself.’

‘Christian Kunz is a renowned lawyer; his expertise is second to none. His is not only an absolute and trustworthy authority on the TMT bread-and-butter business, but he also considers overlapping areas comprehensively. He is able to break down complex issues and illustrate the conclusions to different audiences easily.’

 

Key clients

Zoom Voice Communications, Inc.


Union des Associations Européennes de Football (UEFA)


FRUSS


Zermatt Tourism Authority/Bonfire Ltd.


Work highlights


CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd.

CMS von Erlach Partners Ltd. provides a full service for all TMT-related matters including IT-procurement and sourcing, IT-based offerings in insurance and finance sectors, and regulation of telecommunications companies. Practice head Dirk Spacek has a primary focus on new business models arising in the media, internet, and technology sectors, as well as data commercialisation and intellectual property law. Alain Raemy has particular expertise in network-based industries and technology matters. Simone Brauchbar Birkhäuser advises clients in connection with contentious and non-contentious issues relating to trade marks, copyrights, unfair competition, and advertisement.

Practice head(s):

Dirk Spacek


Other key lawyers:

Alain Raemy; Simone Brauchbar Birkhäuser; Julia Nitschke


Testimonials

‘Dirk Spacek is an outstanding professional with a great understanding of our commercial and technical implementation needs in larger projects and implications of data-driven business models under privacy regulations. His team has great expertise in IT, IP and privacy matters.’

‘Dirk Spacek is a genuine pleasure to work with. I am amazed by the overall breadth of expertise the team has both in TMT, IP and data privacy matters but also interconnected areas of law such a contract negotiations, public/regulatory law and litigation support in disputed matters.’

‘Dirk Spacek has been a collaboration partner for a long time period. He is a very quick thinker with great knowledge on the IT- and technology-sector and has a good sense of commercial pragmatism. His team is well aligned and ensures broad capabilities in the TMT-sector and a quick turnaround time.’

 

Key clients

Aon Schweiz AG


Commerzbank AG


Aequitec AG


All4 Education GmbH


mobile Health AG


nChain Group


GENUI


Voigt Holding AG/Phoenix Pharma Switzerland


Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG (HIF)/EIM Global


Merck AG


Work highlights


  • Advised Aon on all legal aspects of it entering into a strategic cooperation with GLOBAZ with respect to a pension administration IT solution.
  • Advised nChain on all aspects of IP-, software-, copyright- and blockchain-specific data protection matters with respect to two nChain Group entities relocation from Antigua and Barbuda to Switzerland.
  • Advised Merck AG on the process of updating all internal data protection matters and documents with a view on the new data protection legislation in Switzerland.

Homburger

Homburger acts as lead counsel for various high-profile TMT clients in high-value, complex transactions and matters such as setting up apps and cloud migration projects. The team employs an interdisciplinary approach often drawing on the knowledge and expertise of specialists in other practice areas within the firm. Practice head Georg Rauber represents clients in litigation and arbitration proceedings in IT projects, IT outsourcing, technology transfer and licensing, telecommunications, and media. Gregor Bühler has a special focus on media law, privacy-related litigation, information technology and intellectual property law. Luca Dal Molin, who co-heads the technology group, has extensive knowledge in software, IT, and other technology transactions.

Practice head(s):

Georg Rauber


Other key lawyers:

Gregor Bühler; Luca Dal Molin; Philippe Baumann


Testimonials

‘The Homburger TMT team is outstanding. They are my go-to advisors for anything relating to IT contracts or outsourcing matters.’

‘Luca dal Molin is my go-to Swiss lawyer. He is always available and a pleasure to work with. He is no-nonsense and helps me get deals over the line. For technical contracts, he stands above competitors in the Swiss market.’

‘Georg Rauber combines legal expertise with strategic farsightedness and the ability to effectively manage a high-performing team.’

‘The team’s strength is their ability to quickly deep dive into the topic by gathering all the relevant information. Supported by a State-of-the-art infrastructure that makes the exchange easy. The availability of all team members was more than satisfying. The task allocation within the team was great.’

‘Profound knowledge of and expertise on the law, but also of the business, very business-oriented approach, always looking for constructive solutions. Extremely responsive, not afraid of making the last mile, just top notch.’

‘It certainly feels like having a partner when Homburger’s team works with us. They are ready to engage in all sorts of matters and provide valuable advice around the clock. Their performance is superb, and they deliver an optimum work product.’

‘Gregor Bühler is a tremendous leader. He knows how to put forward a solid team to cover all aspects of a deal.’

‘I am very satisfied with the services rendered by Homburger. Georg Rauber is proactively guiding the Homburger team working for us and is providing excellent strategic advice.’

Key clients

Google


Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX)


Swisscom


Infront Sports & Media


Aosphere (Allen & Overy)


MAN Group


UBS


Novartis


Roche


eBay


BlackFin Capital Partners


Rivean Capital


BlueVoyant


Avaloq


Zur Rose Group


Liberty Global


Swiss Post


Helvetia


wefox


Scaled Agile


StoneX


H.I.G. Capital


LMG Life Sciences


U.S. Cotton


Nestlé Nespresso


Implenia


Clear Channel


Solenis


Noema


Affective


Juuri Partners Oy


GLOBOGATE


OC Oerlikon


Atlantic Bridge Capital / OpenOcean


Bosch Rexroth


Work highlights


  • Advised Zur Rose Group on IT matters in carve-out and sale of Swiss business to retailer Migros.
  • Advised and represented Clear Channel in sale of its Swiss advertising business to Goldbach Group.
  • Advising SpaceX on market launch of Starlink products in Switzerland.

id est avocats sàrl

id est avocats sàrl is ‘highly skilled’ handling the whole life cycle of complex cross-border IT outsourcing, cloud deployment, and integration projects and often collaborates with the corporate, data and IP teams to provide comprehensive advice to their clients. Michel Jaccard, who has extensive expertise in innovative technologies such as AI, digital transformation, deeptech, cloud, and fintech, and Juliette Ancelle, who advises clients on new media and social media issues, both head the team. Alexandre Jotterand specialises in data protection, cybersecurity, data management, and IT, as well as advanced and frontier technologies.

Practice head(s):

Michel Jaccard; Juliette Ancelle


Other key lawyers:

Alexandre Jotterand


Testimonials

‘The team is available and able to deliver in a quick manner. Our top management appreciates the pragmatic approach of the firm and their capability to deliver easy-reading documents rather than long and complicated ones.’

‘Very accessible lawyers, highly skilled and showing true expertise in their areas of competences.’

‘This practice is a B-corp, forward-looking, and agile. They are very responsive, proactive, and extremely pleasant to work with because they make everything simple.’

‘Stand-out partners: Michel Jaccard and Alexandre Jotterand. They stand out because they manage to make complex issues simple to understand and to tackle, find solutions that are practical and easy to apply and are very accessible.’ 

Work highlights


Lenz & Staehelin

Lenz & Staehelin ‘incredible’ team offers a wide range of regulatory and transactional work in all areas of technology and digitalisation across various industries with a specific focus on TMT outsourcing transactions, licensing and sponsoring matters, telecom network outsourcing, and content regulation. Zurich team head Lukas Morscher advises domestic and international clients in the areas of technology, telecoms, and business sourcing. Geneva team head Guy Vermeil advises on international and domestic transactions in relation to IT and outsourcing matters. The team is supported by competition law expert Marcel Meinhardt and IP specialists Thierry Calame and Peter Ling, while Emilie Jacot-Guillarmod is a key name to note on associate level.

Practice head(s):

Lukas Morscher; Guy Vermeil


Other key lawyers:

Marcel Meinhardt; Thierry Calame; Peter Ling; Emilie Jacot-Guillarmo


Testimonials

‘Technically top notch, as well as offering sound and pragmatic commercially astute advice.’

‘The team is incredible and the collaboration outstanding. The quality, availability and workforce of the team is hard to match. ’

‘Guy Vermeil provides unvaluable strategic, business and practical advice on all our legal situation. It makes a world of difference.’

‘Great knowledge, amazing availability, solution oriented.’

‘L&S team is very technical and professional, composed of excellent lawyers. All of them have a deep knowledge of this practice, not only from a legal but also from a technical perspective. We appreciated their sharp and high level of legal advice.’

‘Emilie Jacot-Guillarmod’s and Guy Vermeil’s advice are always on point and have strong technical skills. Great response time, highly innovative. Available for meetings at short notice. Very dynamic, practical and solution driven.’

Key clients

ARICOMA Group


AT&T


Bank Vontobel


Banque Cramer & Cie SA


Carlo Gavazzi Group


Caterpillar Insurance Co.


China Telecom


ERNI Group


Generali


Intesa Sanpaolo


JP Morgan


Liberty Mutual


Partner One


Resolution Life


Sopra Steria SE


Truphone


Work highlights


  • Acted as legal advisor to Partner One on the successful acquisition of Stromasys SA.
  • Advising global insurance and investment broker group on legal, regulatory and contract aspects of the development and operation of an online platform for the cross-border intermediation and offering of collateralized reinsurance and related investment opportunities into Switzerland.
  • Advised operator of global platform for the issuance, custody and trading of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) in artworks and its envisaged redomiciliation into Switzerland, including general legal, regulatory and tax matters.

MME Legal | Tax | Compliance

MME Legal | Tax | Compliance supports companies and private individuals in various areas including technology and digitalisation, data law, and fintech. The team has particular expertise in IT agreements, outsourcing and cloud projects, and cybersecurity. The practice is headed by Michael Kunz who has extensive experience handling high-profile, complex matters for innovation leaders and internationally oriented technology companies. Martin Eckert has extensive knowledge in IT, IP and technology law, particularly in the blockchain, software, telecommunications, and high-tech sectors. Caroline Gaul advises domestic and international companies on IT contracts, complex contract negotiations and data protection law as well as in the field of artificial intelligence.

Practice head(s):

Michael Kunz


Other key lawyers:

Martin Eckert; Caroline Gaul; Luca Hitz; Tanja Müller


Testimonials

‘The know-how and the subject matter expertise of the team makes this practice unique. MME possesses a great wealth of knowledge which can be exploited very well.’

‘Following up the topic with the client / being persistent and perservering in the matter that products positive results for the customer. Consistency within a case (or a project) and between cases.’

‘Absolute quality in contract reviews and recommending the best for the client.’

Key clients

Microsoft


Zurich Insurance


Emil Frey Group


Beiersdorf


Sygnum Bank AG


GF Machining Solutions AG


InfoGuard AG


KIESER Australia


WealthArc GmbH


Symmedia GmbH


CKW AG


Riversand Technologies Europe AG


Safe Ecosystem Foundation


Work highlights


  • Providing ongoing advice to Microsoft on IT contracts with customers and data protection matters.
  • Advised Emil Frey Group, on the notification of more than 1.5m customers and authorities in 9 countries after they were hacked.

Niederer Kraft Frey AG

Niederer Kraft Frey AG‘s team possesses ‘in depth know-how’ of  matters such as IP and IT-related transactions, licensing deals, technology spin-offs, outsourcing, and AI. Team co-head András Gurovits has ‘great expertise’ in IT, telecoms, data privacys, and industrial projects. The team is also co-headed by Clara-Ann Gordon, who has a particular focus on outsourcing and data protection as well as representing clients in litigation and ADR proceedings. Jacques Bonvin, who joined from Tavernier Tschanz in January 2023, and Karim Piguet , who joined from Python in January 2023, use their corporate expertise to support on technology-related matters.

Practice head(s):

András Gurovits; Clara-Ann Gordon


Other key lawyers:

Jacques Bonvin; Karim Piguet


Testimonials

‘I have worked with Jacques Bonvin for more than 10 years and he is one of the best corporate lawyers I know.’

‘We appreciate the cooperation very much. The cooperation is very pleasant, and we always receive quick feedback and support in our legal matters.’

‘Andras Gurovits has a great expertise and helps us a lot in our legal matters or questions. It is a very pleasant cooperation.’

‘Very good quality of the delivery and with the team members we worked with, we feel well covered end to end.’

‘Great response time, team acting as trusted advisors.’

‘Highly competent.’

‘To the point, hands-on, responsive.’

 

Key clients

Capvis


Partners Group


EQT Future Fund


Cinven; Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board


Unit8 SA


Phoenix Systems AG


Nederman Holding AB


Microsoft Schweiz GmbH


BRUSA HyPower


HCL Technologies


Pitcher AG


Index Ventures


Accel


ClearSpace


SWISSto12


General Motors Europe


Belimo


ZimmerBiomet


RUAG


DXC


Winterthur Diesel & Gas


Bühler Group


Schindler


SR Technics


Work highlights


  • Advised Capvis on the acquisition of a majority stake in SCHURTER Group and conducted a review and assessment of all matters related to the SCHURTER Group’s technology, which was the key asset for this investment.
  • Advised Microsoft Schweiz GmbH with regard to the Public Clouds Contract concluded on 27 September 2022 with the Swiss Federation and assisted in the negotiations.
  • Advised BRUSA HyPower AGon an investment agreement with Bosch Rexroth, M&G Investments and Temasek.
     

burckhardt Ltd

burckhardt Ltd is a boutique firm that ‘delivers an outstanding service’ in the TMT field including regulatory compliance, contractual matters, and proceedings for telecoms, new technologies, blockchain, data protection, and outsourcing issues. Practice head Katia Favre advises on contractual issues in the field of SaaS, project agreements, licensing, M&A and employment law (IP and data protection). Alain Schmid  and Sarah Salzmann support the team on data-related issues.

Practice head(s):

Katia Favre


Other key lawyers:

Alain Schmid; Sarah Salzmann


Testimonials

‘The Burckhardt TMT team is truly excellent and a pleasure to work with. The team does an outstanding job at reducing complexity for the client and delivering fast solutions of high quality even under time constraints.’

‘In addition to the high level of technical expertise it is also the personal support and care that makes working with this team remarkable. As a client we can highly recommend working with this team.’

‘Katia Favre delivers an outstanding service both based on her excellent technical expertise in the field of TMT as well as her ability to deliver the kind of tailor-made and pragmatic solutions clients ar looking for and stands out with her calm and empathetic demeanor towards her clients.’

‘The team is composed of professionals specialised in the various fields of law, so that we always have access to a the most competent professional in the field is involved, while Katia Favre keeps the overview and provides overarching guidance.’

‘We appreciate the good international network of Burckhardt allowing us to find a professional abroad able to advise on our specific needs.’

‘We have worked for several years with Katia Favre and are extremely happy about the services she has provided us with. Katia keeps the overview in delicate situation and provides clear guidance and has leadership when required. She is very knowledgeable and hands-on, providing us with outstanding legal advice, always proposing excellent solutions. She communicates in a clear and concise way.’

‘burckhardt Ltd’s delivers an outstanding service in the abovementioned field.’

‘Katia Favre is our go-to person. She is very knowledgeable, approachable and just very good to work with. She works in a very customer-oriented, pragmatic and professional manner. She is highly specialized and constantly educates herself in her field. She is also a cheerful and positive sparring partner who is a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Microsoft Corporation


Work highlights


Kellerhals Carrard

Kellerhals Carrard provides interdisciplinary advice on contentious and non-contentious TMT matters for broadcasting and telecom companies, media companies, and clients active in the sports and life sciences industries. In Zurich, the team is headed by Daniel Alder, whose expertise covers the protection, enforcement and exploitation of all aspects of IP. Bern practice head Daniel Emch has a special focus on licensing and competition law within the TV and telecommunications sectors. Nicolas Mosimann, who has extensive knowledge on software, technology, IP, and life sciences, leads the Basel team.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Alder; Daniel Emch; Nicolas Mosimann


Other key lawyers:

Edgar Philippin; Ralph Gramigna; Cornelia Stengel; Christophe Rapin


Key clients

Magnolia International AG


Moonlake Immunotherapy


MNC SA


Orell Füssli AG


Stiftung Zewo


Swiss Broadcasting Company (SRG SSR)


Swiss Football League


Swisscom


T.R.B. International SA


Vivendi / Groupe Editis / Interforum


Work highlights


  • Advised Zewo Foundation regarding the requirements of the new Data Protection Act and its impact on the Swiss non-profit sector and proposed a new wording of the Zewo standard for the new data protection requirements that all Swiss charities certified by Zewo (e.g. Swiss Red Cross, Helvetas, WWF) will have to abide by.
  • Defends Interforum (subsidiary of Vivendi Group) in an appeal procedure before the Swiss Federal Supreme Court against a decision of the Competition Commission and further provides legal support in contractual issues such as distribution and licensing agreements.
  • Data protection and Regulatory advice in connection with a service that allows consumers to purchase public transport tickets via their smartphone and to be billed by their telephone operator.

Pestalozzi

The practice at Pestalozzi is known for providing legal advice and representation to leading domestic and international clients in various TMT areas such as IT services, online distribution and advertising, outsourcing, privacy, e-commerce, and e-discovery. The expanding team is headed by Lara Dorigo, whose practice focuses on IP enforcement and defence, technology transfer, new technologies, e-commerce, entertainment law, advertising, licensing, personality rights issues, and branding strategies. IP experts Michèle Burnier and Thomas Legler both represent clients before the Swiss courts and in arbitral proceedings, respectively.

Practice head(s):

Lara Dorigo


Other key lawyers:

Michèle Burnier; Thomas Legler; Sarah Drukarch; Markus Winkler


Key clients

CH Media


Coca-Cola


Infor Group


Johnson & Johnson group of companies


Leclanché


McDonald’s


Ringier


Sky Group: Sky International AG, Sky Deutschland GmbH, Sky UK Limited,


ZimmerBiomet


Work highlights


  • Assisted clients with respect to cyber attacks and all their legal consequences, including setting up a task force for overall crisis management and communications, data protection issues and data information requests by employees and third party stakeholders, filing criminal complaints and representation in criminal law proceedings.
  • Assisted clients with respect to the implementation of APPs in the automotive field.
  • Assisted clients with respect to the implementation of the revised data protection laws in Switzerland, including adaptations of internal policies and organisations, all contractual frameworks and privacy policies.

Sigma Legal

Boutique firm Sigma Legal provides TMT-related advice to all companies, from start-ups to multinational corporations, as well as non-profits and international organisations. The team is particularly active in media and IT disputes as well as contractual and regulatory work. Practice head Adrien Alberini ‘combines world-class technical skills with superior human interaction capabilities’ to advise and represent large public entities such as the State of Geneva, in tech-related legal and digital sovereignty issues. Kevin Guillet has extensive expertise in media law, whilst Zarmine Hussain has a special focus on data protection and private law.

Practice head(s):

Adrien Alberini


Other key lawyers:

Kevin Guillet; Zarmine Hussain


Testimonials

‘The advice given is always top notch, pragmatic and adapted to the corporate culture of the client. The team does not shy away from giving precise, clear-cut advice.’

‘Very professional on international topics. Fast feedback on outstanding questions and advice.’

‘Impressive availability and dedication, with immediate, accurate, and contextualized response. Adrien Alberini is an excellent partner who has provided us with invaluable help in all our legal matters.’

Key clients

State of Geneva


Electronic Monitoring Association


Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance


Geneva Chamber of Notaries


World Health Organization


Clinique la Prairie Group


Hôpital Ophtalmique Jules-Gonin


Liris Tech SA


Hublot


TAG Heuer


The Watch Library Foundation


Credit Europe Bank


Loterie Romande


Casino du Lac Meyrin


Non -Violence Licensing


Palexpo


TX Group


Le Temps


5G Media Action Group


Tune Insight


Work highlights


  • Representing TX Group in all disputes relating to the media operated by the Group and, in particular, in various actions engaged by politicians against newspaper articles published on controversial activities carried out by said politicians.
  • Assistance to the State of Geneva (Department of Territory) in relation to its smart city strategy (“Smart Geneva”).
  • Regular assistance to Loterie Romande in relation to its e-gaming platform.

Uto Legal

The newly formed Uto Legal advises domestic and foreign companies from the media, entertainment, communications, tech, IT, telecom and data industries. Alesch Staehelin has a special focus on IT security, social media, e-commerce, ESG, licensing, copyright, and entertainment and media law. Patrick Dehmer has extensive experience in intellectual property law (music, film, trade marks), as well as corporate, contract and competition law. Stephan W. Feierabend fields extensive knowledge of advertising and media law, while Annatina Menn represents domestic and foreign players in the  entertainment and creative industries. Marco Neeser advises music and film producers, publishers, and media companies.

Other key lawyers:

Alesch Staehelin; Patrick Dehmer; Stephan Feierabend; Annatina Menn; Marco Neeser


Work highlights


  • Advising global tech player in Swiss legal matters and representing the company’s Swiss subsidiary in complex, multimillion IT transactions.
  • Advising global aviation company in Swiss information security, IT law and data protection law matters.
  • Representing global industrial company in complex litigation regarding the copyrightability of APIs.

Arioli Law

TMT boutique Arioli Law has experience in various sectors including financial services, healthcare, software development, and the film and music industry. The firm also has extensive expertise in public law and technological innovations. Firm founder Martina Arioli employs a ‘highly pragmatic approach’ when supporting clients on matters relating to ICT, emerging technologies, cross-border outsourcing projects, and IT conflict management.

Practice head(s):

Martina Arioli


Testimonials

‘Martina Arioli is not only very responsive with her sound legal advice but has a highly pragmatic approach that perfectly fits our business and customer centric perspective. In her contract negotiation approach, Martina aims to balance the interests of all parties involved to but never loses sight of protective measures.’

‘Martina Arioli is incredibly good, fast and accurate.’

‘The team is very tech-savvy and responsive. They have a well above-average understanding of what it takes to advise international businesses and ask the right questions to understand what the client really needs and what is a proper way to deliver the message.’

Key clients

AB InBev (Anheuser Busch InBev)


Apps with love


Generali


Microshare


wemakeit


Gebana


Biophilic walls


Andy Prinz Publishing


BianchiSchwald LLC

BianchiSchwald LLC‘s team covers a broad range of TMT services including advising clients on the legal implications of AI, cloud computing, electrification of vehicles, and the Internet of Things, e-commerce, and IT contracts. The team is headed by Christoph Gasser whose long-standing practice includes advice and litigation in all areas of intellectual property and information technology law as well as trade mark and design prosecution. Thierry Burnens has broad knowledge on issues relating to licensing, e-commerce, and social media.

Practice head(s):

Christoph Gasser


Other key lawyers:

Thierry Burnens


Key clients

AVIA Vereinigung


WebStages GmbH


ZSC Lions Eishockey AG


Flux Mobility AG


Work highlights


  • Supporting a Swiss professional ice hockey team located in Zürich, playing in the National League in all data protection matters, including the implementation of the revised Swiss Data Protection Act.
  • Advising a Swiss start-up on their data protection compliance.

gbf Attorneys-at-law Ltd

gbf Attorneys-at-law Ltd advises international corporations and start-ups on TMT matters. In Zurich, the team is headed by Marco Novoselac who has significant expertise in data protection, technology, e-commerce and competition law. Bern team head Nando Stauffer von May advises domestic and foreign start-ups on data protection and technology issues. Thomas Hua, whose practice regularly covers supporting Chinese clients with matters relating to technology transfer and licensing, heads the Geneva team. David Mösch specialises in fintech-related issues.

Practice head(s):

Marco Novoselac; Thomas Hua; Nando Stauffer von May


Other key lawyers:

David Mösch


Testimonials

‘The firm has outstanding capabilities in technology and digital economies; competent and reliable legal advice.’

‘gbf’s practice is unique as it combines high end expertise with extreme reactivity and rapid responsiveness. ’

‘Thomas Hua is an extremely reliable partner with a deep knowledge of his fields of expertise. I really appreciate working with him because he knows how to put his skills and knowledge to good use and so I am always assured that I receive the best services. In resolving complex problems, Thomas Hua quickly gets to the heart of the matter and offers creative and pragmatic solutions. ’

‘Very diverse team with different focuses, know-how, language skills. Fantastic reliability, professionalism and transparency. Their way of cooperative, uncomplicated yet sophistocated wazs of working makes gbf our trusted partner.’

‘Marco Novoselac is an excellent lawyer on whose support, broad legal as well as economic knowledge I can always count. He is always market-oriented, easy to reach, pragmatic and open-minded. ’

‘The firm is open to flexible working models and can therefore advise clients when they need it.’

‘Apart from the impeccable professional competence, Nando Stauffer von May stands out for his enormous time flexibility. In complex cases, Nando Stauffer von May maintains an overview at all times and patiently advises the client on the next steps and also prepares the necessary documents.’

‘Outstanding service for clients. Always very client focused.’

Key clients

CYBERCRYPT


Megaport Ltd.


Tech 5 SA


VIA Science


Solarify GmbH / Solarify Holding AG


Chubb Insurance


AIG Europe


Amplify SA


Konsento AG


Terapet SA


Gamned SA


Catalyx SA


Impact Hub Geneva-Lausanne SA


Smood SA


Work highlights


  • Advising an Australian listed telecommunications company in the Swiss market mainly on regulatory and corporate law issues.
  • Advised Tech 5 SA on several financing rounds, assisted in acquisitions and set up of subsidiaries abroad and advised on licensing agreements.
  • Supported VIA Science Inc with its Swiss market entry and advised them on data protection, anonymisation and pseudonymisation of smart meter data as well as on corporate issues of the Swiss subsidiary.