Cerha Hempel > Vienna, Austria > Firm Profile
Cerha Hempel Offices

PARKRING 2
1010 VIENNA
Austria
Cerha Hempel > The Legal 500 Rankings
Austria > Capital markets Tier 1
Managing partner Clemens Hasenauer now solely heads the team at Cerha Hempel. His specialism in M&A and corporate law serves as a reflection of the team's expertise in this intersection spanning a wide range of debt and equity transactions with much of its recent work falling into the DCM space. Volker Glas is a key contact for this and has recently led on a number of bond placements, including green bonds. Other regular instructions stem from financial services providers requiring assistance with the update of debt issuance programmes and with regulatory matters. The latter are typically led by Peter Knobl, while senior counsel Christian Aichinger provides wide-ranging capital markets, finance and corporate support. Edith Hlawati left the firm in February 2022 to take up a position on the management board of Österreichische Beteiligungs AG (ÖBAG).Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘By far most experience in real estate DCM in Austria.’
‘Volker Glas is very experienced, pragmatic and client-orientated, very pleasant to work with.’
Key clients
S IMMO AG
CA Immobilien Anlagen AG
IMMOFINANZ AG
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Vienna Bar Association (RAK Wien)
Windkraft Simonsfeld AG
ING Groep NV
ING Bank NV
Kames Capital Plc (now renamed Aegon Asset Management UK Plc)
Immovate Realita GmbH
EnBW Trust e.V.
SPAR
Raiffeisenlandesbank NÖ-Wien AG
nextbike GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised S IMMO AG on its issue of a €150m retail green bond with a tenor of seven years.
- Advised the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) on exercising its voting rights in Addiko Bank AG’s annual general meeting.
- Advised CA Immobilien Anlagen AG in connection with its €350m debut placement of a fixed-rate senior unsecured green bond with a maturity of 5 years and an annual coupon of 1.0%.
Austria > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Cerha Hempel 'delivers the greatest value for money due to its vast industry knowledge and experience and ability to quickly transform business needs into legal arrangements'. With a strong presence and know-how in the CEE region, the team is regularly involved in large-cap, cross-border M&A transactions. Other areas of expertise are public deals, corporate governance advice, and in the private equity and venture capital space. Albert Birkner's 'understanding of his client's business, the issues arising, and the particular challenges of the project is always second to none.' He leads the practice together with takeover law specialist Clemens Hasenauer and Johannes Aehrenthal . Thomas Trettnak can also offer expertise in insolvency and restructuring. Nadine Leitner was recently promoted to the partnership and senior associate Martin Eichinger provides additional support.Practice head(s):
Albert Birkner; Clemens Hasenauer; Johannes Aehrenthal
Other key lawyers:
Johannes Prinz; Thomas Trettnak; Thomas Trettnak; Harald Stingl; Lorenz Pracht; Martin Eichinger; Nadine Leitner
Testimonials
‘We consider them by far the most competent and most professional M&A legal advisors in CEE region. The level of their professionality, their systematic approach to any topic that might arise and their dedication to such transaction and whole process is something you simply do not get from other legal counsels.’
‘Very renowned practice in Austria, with long track record.’
‘Thomas Trettnak is our go-to lawyer.’
‘Albert Birkner is, without any doubt, the best lawyer I have ever had privilege to work with. First of all, there is not a topic in M&A transaction that he does not know, in depth. Secondly, he is not just a pure advisor that rejects any responsibility, quite contrary, he truly leads the discussions, defends his clients’ points of view, negotiate on your behalf…I mean, I have worked with dozens of law offices and nothing can match the work of Albert Birkner. Extremely dedicated professional.’
‘Strong know-how, very good business relation, client focused, reliable.’
‘Full service law firm with excellent quality of advice and service in all legal areas. High quality of client updates.’
‘Clemens Hasenenauer: Exceptional legal knowledge and ability, exceptional negotiation skills and business oriented advice.
‘Johannes Prinz: Exceptional legal knowledge and ability, excellent negotiation skills and business oriented advice.’
Key clients
OMV AG
RHI Magnesita
XXXLutz
Agri Europe Cyprus Ltd
thyssenkrupp AG
Alfred Ritter GmbH & Co KG
Frequentis AG
Amisola Immobilien AG
AT & S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik AG
gbtec Holding GmbH (Main Capital)
Verbund AG
EnBW AG
FWU AG
Karl Wlaschek Privatstiftung (KWPS)
Voith Group
red-stars.com data AG
San Pacific Investments Pte Ltd
TSR Recycling Holding GmbH and TSR Recycling GmbH & Co KG (part of Remondis Group)
STRABAG AG
Teufelberger Group
Credit Suisse
Georg Fischer AG
Immundiagnostik AG
Elin Motoren GmbH
SES-imagotag
LifeNet Health Group
Work highlights
- Advised OMV AG on the sale of its German filling station business to the British EG Group.
- Advised San Pacific, San Venture and Erich Erber in the sale of a direct and indirect shareholding in Erber Group to the Dutch Royal DSM.
- Advised SIX Payment Services (Europe) SA and Worldline SA in connection with the consummation of the tender offer of stock listed Worldline SA for stock listed Ingenico Group SA.
Austria > Dispute resolution: white-collar crime (including fraud) Tier 1
Cerha Hempel is a respected player representing individuals, including top management, and companies in investigative and court proceedings, which have recently included allegations of breach of trust, bid rigging, (tax) fraud and embezzlement. Alongside its criminal defence expertise, the team is equally well versed in handling international investigations and puts another focus on crime prevention and compliance advice. Key contacts include senior counsel and criminal law specialist Peter Lewisch, whose mandates routinely involve international elements, Hans Kristoferitsch, who frequently takes the lead in internal investigations, and Stefan Huber, who has a specialism in matters at the intersection between white-collar crime and export control law.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team of Cerha Hempel is very knowledgeable and extremely responsive. It is able to advise clients on and represent them in the most complex white-collar crime matters with highly qualified staff.’
‘Univ.-Prof. DDr. Peter Lewisch is one of the most well-known criminal lawyers. Despite being very busy, he is still able to react very swiftly and, due to his wealth of knowledge, he is able to bring the most complex issues to the point very easily. Dr. Lewisch is an admirable practitioner, very competent and with a fair billing practice.’
‘Dr. Hans Kristoferitsch is another notable member of the Cerha Hempel team providing very excellent work and advice. Clearly this is due to his deep knowledge and experience in the field of white-collar crime law and practice.’
‘We decided to work with Cerha Hempel because of their background in white-collar crime cases and the very good impression their specialised team and especially professor Peter Lewisch made on me personally.’
‘Our main contact is professor Peter Lewisch. Over the time we also worked with Mr. Stefan Huber. I can underline their extensive knowledge of the white- collar crime domain, sophisticated analysis of the procedural issues, well-organised working style, all in all, high professionalism.’
‘Peter Lewisch: I most appreciate his professional competence, i.e. deep understanding of the business processes (which is fundamental, in my opinion, for success in white-collar crime cases), innovative approach of the legal issues, out-of-the-box thinking, friendly attitude, extensive availability.’
‘Cerha Hempel’s white-collar crime practice is to be considered top notch in Austria. It is known for its vast knowledge in criminal law and able to deliver outstanding results.’
‘The fabulous Prof. Peter Lewisch is undoubtedly one of Austria’s top defence attorneys. His legal knowledge and his ability to understand the issues of a case in no time are second to none in the industry. He is surely the safest bet one can make when a white collar-crime issue arises in Austria.’
Key clients
GATX Rail Austria GmbH
Wiener Stadtwerke / Wien Energie GmbH
STRABAG SE
Work highlights
- Secured an acquittal for four high-ranking officials from the Federal Ministry of the Interior in embezzlement and abuse of power charges.
- Acted for a Bulgarian businessman subjected to online fraud allegations, avoiding an extradition request from Germany.
Austria > Employment Tier 1
Clients praise Cerha Hempel’s employment team for its ‘pragmatic solutions’ and ‘great wealth of experience’. The practice advises clients on both day-to-day matters and on larger projects, most recently including Covid-19 related issues such as short-time work. Termination of employment and closure or transfer of operations also constitutes a growing area for the firm. Practice head Julian Feichtinger is ‘able to think outside of the box, always available and a perfect sparring-partner’. Senior counsel Susanne Molitoris is particularly focused on employment disputes, M&A-related employment matters, restructurings and European labour issues.Practice head(s):
Julian Feichtinger
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Speed of processing: The receipt of the respective request is confirmed at short notice. A substantive answer is given quickly, usually within 24 hours.’
‘Pragmatic solutions: Risks in the case of consequences under labor law are raised and the potential consequences are presented.’
‘Great wealth of experience in respect of ruling practice of labour courts.’
‘Accessibility: RA Mag. Peitsch is very accessible.’
‘Perfect knowledge of Austrian and European labour law, fair billing, great value for money;’
‘Julian Feichtinger is an exceptional labour law expert, able to think outside of the box, always available and a perfect sparring-partner. It’s always a pleasure to be working with him.’
‘Cerha Hempel has a very hands-on approach and is keen to understand the company’s problems and provide tailored solutions. Also, the employment team has a great international network and can also help with cross-border issues.’
‘CERHA HEMPEL has a great team, which is knowledgeable about Austrian employment law – the deliver advice that the clients really appreciate.’
Key clients
Ritter Sport (Alfred Ritter GmbH)
Booking.com (Österreich) GmbH
Wolfgang Denzel Auto AG.
Global Blue
Grünenthal Austria GmbH
MODUL University Vienna
Dentsu Aegis Network
Primark Mode Ltd & Co KG
SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG
Unibail-Rodamco Austria Management GmbH
Verkehrsverbund Ost-Region (VOR) GmbH
Work highlights
- Advising CNH and its subsidiaries, including Iveco, on all questions under Austrian employment law.
- Successful representation of Verkehrsbund Ost-Region GmbH in proceedings initiated by the works council concerning one of its business partners.
- Acting for Alfred Ritter GmbH as outside employment counsel.
Austria > EU and competition Tier 1
Cerha Hempel acts for domestic and multinational clients in EU and international merger control proceedings, foreign direct investments, cartel proceedings, and state aid matters. As part of the firm’s wider CEE competition practice group‚ the team headed by Bernhard Kofler-Senoner is well equipped to advise clients on cross-border questions. The private enforcement of damage claims constitutes another strength of the practice. Kofler-Senoner acts for high-profile clients in cartel cases and merger proceedings while ‘superb lawyer‘ Anna Wolf-Posch is involved in a variety of matters at a domestic and EU level.Practice head(s):
Bernhard Kofler-Senoner
Other key lawyers:
Anna Wolf-Posch; Michael Mayer
Testimonials
‘Business oriented and practical advice, very responsive and great to work with.’
‘Bernhard Kofler: outstanding lawyer and great to work with.’
‘Very strong competition law practice. They are very familiar with the Austrian Federal Competition Authority, where they have good relationships.’
‘Anna Wolf-Posch is a superb lawyer–always impressive, insightful, and authoritative. Organized, reliable, and precise, she is one of the finest lawyers I have encountered in Austria.’
‘Very reliable team. Always a pleasure to work with them especially on merger control issues.’
‘Anna Wolf-Posch is clearly the rising star in Austria. She is smart, business oriented, efficient and has a great knowledge of the way the Austrian competition authority will react in all situations. I would recommend her without any doubt to anyone that faces merger control or antitrust issues in Austria.’
Key clients
Wendel Group
Compagnie de Saint-Gobain S.A.
B&C Industrieholding GmbH
OMV AG
Advance Publications, Inc.
Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk (MDR)
Attestor Capital LLP
Marni (OTB Group)
Pittel + Brausewetter Gesellschaft m.b.H.
Investindustrial Group Holdings S.A.
Talend SA
Amphenol Corporation
Semperit AG
Wirtschaftskammer Österreich
San Pacific Investment Pte. Ltd. and San Venture Biotech Pte. Ltd.
City of Vienna (Stadt Wien)
WIENER STADTWERKE
KTM AG
Hain Celestial Group
Mohrenbrauerei Vertriebs KG
STRABAG
SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG
RHI Magnesita GmbH
Cisco Systems, Inc.
Isovolta AG
Austrian Power Grid
Samsung Electronics Austria GmbH
Republic of Austria
ÖBAG
Work highlights
- Advising B&C Industrieholding GmbH on its acquisition of 80% of the shares in Schur Flexibles Holding GmbH.
- Advised OMV AG (“OMV”) as transaction counsel on the sale of OMV’s filling station business in Germany to the British EG Group.
Austria > Tax Tier 1
The ‘highly professional and service-oriented’ tax practice at Cerha Hempel provides comprehensive advice on matters including international taw law, real estate, tax litigation, and transactional tax aspects. The firm counts domestic and multinational corporations from a broad range of sectors among its clients. Johannes Prinz focuses on corporate tax and restructuring and Benjamin Twardosz is particularly experienced in tax litigation and stamp duty; they jointly head the team. Head of the banking and insurance group Peter Knobl is well versed in all matters of banking and finance-related tax law.Practice head(s):
Johannes Prinz; Benjamin Twardosz
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They have a very pragmatic and commercial view. Their advice is clear.’
‘Very responsive.’
‘The team are highly professional and service-oriented.’
‘Benjamin Twardosz is a leading practitioner and gives clear and timely advice.’
‘CERHA HEMPEL supported us in a very complex cross border operation. They have been very reactive, with a very strong result oriented mindset and very constructive. They have been successful in the discussion with the tax authorities with a process which has been very well managed.’
‘Benjamin Twardosz has been instrumental in the operation. He has a very strong knowledge of the Austrian tax law and good connection with the tax authorities. He came up with a solution which solved the issue we had.’
Key clients
Worldline SA / SIX Payment Services
Aéroports de Paris
OMV AG
Klabin S.A. / Klabin Austria GmbH
nextbike GmbH
William Hill
White Oak Global Advisors, LLC (San Francisco, CA)
Strategic Investment Funds UCITS plc (Dublin, Ireland)
Suzano SA/Suzano International Trade/Suzano Austria
Dutch Infrastructure Fund (DIF)
Deutsche Beteiligungs AG
Ground Truth Solutions
HP IT Solutions GmbH
Citrosuco GmbH
Work highlights
- Advising Worldline SA / SIX Payment Services (Europe) SA on Austrian aspects of the acquisition of Ingenico and the transfer of its business to PAYONE.
- .Advised Deutsche Beteiligungs AG (DBAG) and DBG Advising GmbH & Co KG together with Linklaters on the tax structuring of multiple investments in Austria.
- Advising OMV AG on (i) the acquisition of an additional 39% stake in Borealis AG and (ii) the sale of its shares in GAS CONNECT AUSTRIA.
Austria > Administrative law and public sector Tier 2
Cerha Hempel's team is 'unique in its legal knowledge, combining a hands-on approach with academic excellence’. The group's administrative law and public sector team sits in the firm's recently founded regulatory, IP/IT and white-collar crime practice group. It has a notable focus on regulated industries, environmental law, hospital law and higher education as well as consumer product regulation. Public law litigation at both a national and EU-level is another strong suit of the team, which is headed by Hans Kristoferitsch and Stefan Huber. ‘Dedicated, responsive and reliable’ Armin Schwabl, who was promoted to the partnership in early 2022, is well versed in the areas of life sciences, data protection and trade law.Practice head(s):
Hans Kristoferitsch; Stefan Huber
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is very responsive and is able to coordinate with different offices of the firm to provide pan-European advice covering several Eastern EU Member States.’
‘Armin Schwabl in the Vienna office is very dedicated, responsive and reliable. He provides good practical advice and can be trusted.’
‘Customer-minded. Flexible fees.’
‘The team from CERHA HEMPEL is unique in its legal knowledge – combining a hands on approach with academic excellence, in their responsiveness and their knowledge not only of our market, but also of the politically sensitive environment.’
‘They are always available and come up with out of the box solutions, built on their impressive legal capacities.’
‘As regards billing, they always offer solutions that also benefit the client.’ ‘
‘The project team from CERHA HEMPEL is being led by Hans Kristoferitsch, who has not only in depth legal knowledge but brilliantly manages authority contacts as well as requests from our company’s top management.’
‘Stefan Huber’s responsiveness is impressive, and he has a clear view on strategic as well as technical questions.’
Key clients
Republic of Austria (Ministry of Finance)
Austrian Power Grid AG (“APG”)
ÖBAG
Philip Morris Austria
Graz University of Arts
SES Spar European Shopping Centers
Consortium D-TOLL (Atlantia S.p.A., Kapsch TrafficCom AG, Autostrade Tech S.p.A.)
Wien Energie
Vienna International Airport
ASFINAG
Via donau
Grünenthal GmbH
Ingenium Education GmbH
Coloplast
Spar Österreichische Warenhandels-AG
RHI Magnesita
RTR GmbH
Airport Klagenfurt
KMU Akademie AG
ASFINAG
Wiener Netze
Wiener Linien
Austrian Chamber of Pharmacists
Austrian Students’ Union
WIFI
Edith Saurer Fonds
Modul Private University
Vienna Business University
IST Austria
Danube Private University
dentsu X GmbH
Traumatologische Gemeinschaft Burgenland
Diagnosezentrum Urania
Work highlights
- Advising Vienna International Airport on a series of highly complex regulatory issues, mainly with regard to construction and aviation law as well as the rules regarding the transport of hazardous goods.
- Acting for the Republic of Austria in the so-called Hinkley Point case before the European Court of Justice, a challenge of the commission decision authorising a EUR 30 billion state aid by the UK to the Hinkley Point nuclear plant.
- Acting as legal counsel and representative vis-à-vis the authorities for shopping mall operator SES with regard to a number of its shopping malls, in particular with regard to the enlargement of Europark.
Austria > Banking and finance Tier 2
Cerha Hempel's banking and finance group is now solely led by managing partner and corporate expert Clemens Hasenauer. This setup is not least a demonstration of the team's interdisciplinary capabilities leading to regular instructions from lenders and borrowers requiring assistance with corporate, real estate and project finance transactions. Volker Glas and Thomas Zivny are key contacts in this space, while Peter Knobl is best known for his banking and capital markets regulatory expertise, advising on banking supervisory law, payment services and compliance as well as on administrative penalty proceedings. Edith Hlawati left to take up the role as the sole member of Österreichische Beteiligungs AG's management board in February 2022,Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘In-depth knowledge of the regulatory and finance landscape tailored to specific needs of clients.’
‘Accustomed to work under tight timeframes with creative legal solutions for hardship situations.’
‘Volker Glas gets directly involved in many sensible matters that require specialised knowledge.’
Key clients
Commerzbank AG (Vienna)
BTV AG
White Oak Global Advisors, LLC
Erste Group Bank AG
Commerz Factoring GmbH
voestalpine AG
UniCredit Bank Austria AG
Aberdeen Asset Management Deutschland AG
Work highlights
- Assisted Commerzbank AG with a cash pooling arrangement with a major European oil provider and distributing group, and conducted a legal due diligence of its cash pooling documentation.
- Advised XXXLutz Group in connection with the acquisition of Imobilia Kik s.r.o, a real estate company holding several former Kika store sites in the Czech Republic, from Erste Group Immorent International Holding GmbH.
- Advised White Oak Global Advisors on the distribution, marketing and supervisory legal requirements alongside the tax treatment of a placement of units in a Luxemburg Feeder AIF for a Luxemburg Master Credit AIF.
Austria > Dispute resolution: arbitration and mediation Tier 2
Irene Welser heads the team at Cerha Hempel and has recently been particularly active as party-appointed (co-)arbitrator but the team is also well versed in party counsel work. Recent mandates include various national and cross-border commercial and contractual disputes including those pertaining to power plants as well as infrastructure and construction projects.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘CHSH has in-depth knowledge of arbitration and broad practical experience in international proceedings. Both help to effectively navigate through all arbitration processes. Apart from this, we experienced awareness of problematic legal issues plus solution-oriented work to approach and solve them.’
‘Close liaison with clients, understanding of client’s internal structures and work style, fast and efficient in case of emergencies while not losing track of details, listens to client’s concerns.’
Key clients
MACON A.B.
Work highlights
- Representing MACON A.B., a Swedish manufacturer of refractory materials, in a VIAC proceeding against the Russian owner of a steel mill pertaining to a refurbishment project of a rotary kiln.
Austria > Dispute resolution: commercial litigation Tier 2
Cerha Hempel's dispute resolution group is led by litigator and arbitrator Irene Welser, who has a specialism in liability cases but, together with her team, she has recently been most active in shareholder disputes alongside competition, construction and (Covid-19-driven) tenancy law-related litigation. Its client base spans various industries, most notably retail, real estate, finance and energy, and also includes private clients and private foundations, who benefit from Welser's expertise in inheritance law, as well as public sector players. With Holger Bielesz, the team is also well placed to handle matters at the intersection with white-collar crime and compliance alongside work for financial intuitions faced with consumer claims.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team around Irene Welser works very professionally and has given me perfect advice on my long court proceedings and has always given me the best advice on how to deal with my case.
‘Irene Welser tried very hard to win the case. The pleadings were extraordinary, which you can see in comparison with the pleadings of the other side.’
‘I find it unique that no matter how complex the topic is, a complete and comprehensive review takes place within a very short time. All aspects are regularly examined.’
‘Michaela Siegwart leaves nothing to chance, nothing escapes her attention. She always points out all problems and possible solutions that present themselves. The same applies to Irene Welser, who does an outstanding job, especially in mediation.’
‘The team around Holger Bielesz and Irene Welser is outstanding and smart. They have been a tireless and indispensable resource for our group of companies.’
‘Their advice and transparency, advising against actions just to increase the amounts on their billing statements have been a true lifesaver in countless instances. This leads to much more precise and focused attacks and better outcomes for their clients.’
‘Their knowledge in commercial litigation and their insights into the specifics of forensics and the software and IT landscape let them stand out in a very small market like Austria but even shine in an international setting.’
‘The team around Dr. Bielesz and Prof. Welser is one of the rare occasions, where you feel they are just as fired up to win the battles as you are, with you in the trenches and still later on the victory road.’
Key clients
SPAR AG/ASPIAG Management AG
Karl Wlaschek Privatstiftung (KWP)/AMISOLA Immobilien AG
Immovate Management GmbH
City of Vienna / WIENER STADTWERKE
HERVIS Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.
Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
SmartStream Technologies Limited
UNIQA Versicherungen
ASFINAG
ÖBB –Infrastruktur AG
McDonald’s GmbH
DIE ERSTE Leasing Immobilienverwaltungs- und vermietungsgesellschaft m.b.H.
Apleona HSG GmbH
SES Spar European Shopping Centers GmbH
Hey Communications & Production GmbH
INTERSPAR Gesellschaft m.b.H.
Mona Naturprodukte GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised SPAR, as a minority shareholder of dm drogerie markt GmbH, on several corporate disputes.
- Advising NOVOREAL on proceedings against a well-known coffee house operator in Vienna pertaining to unpaid rent following the lockdown measures.
- Advising Stadt Wien (the City of Vienna) and WIENER STADTWERKE on their antitrust damage claims against five trucks manufacturers involved in the trucks cartel.
Austria > Private client Tier 2
Cerha Hempel's private client practice is jointly led by Albert Birkner and Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein. Real estate, corporate matters, wealth planning and asset management are among the areas covered by the practice, and matters frequently have a pan-European bent. Foglar-Deinhardstein is regularly instructed in disputes and reorganisations within trusts as well as in corporate law, takeover law, and succession law. Birkner’s expertise covers private clients, trusts and foundation law. Benjamin Twardosz regularly advises individuals on tax law.Practice head(s):
Albert Birkner; Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The individually composed team of CERHA HEMPEL under the leadership of Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein and Florian Wünscher offers an absolutely flexible support for all our investments. Especially in the area of billing, we are offered attractive models for each case that – unlike rigid and outdated hourly billing – fit us perfectly.’
‘Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein is a profound expert in all aspects of corporate law, a relaxed negotiator in stressful situations and has an eye for all essential details at all times.’
‘CERHA HEMPEL operates a strong team in the areas we are active in. We use them in Corporate/M&A, real estate, commercial and private clients business. We always talk to the same people at Cerha Hempel, which makes dealing with this firm very easy and unique. You don’t have various partners you need to talk to but can rely on a one stop shop principle.’
‘Albert Birkner needs to be singled out. He has been our main contact partner for nearly 20 years now and has never disappointed our expectations. When others go home, Albert goes the extra mile and we always get our work in time and in the quality that we expect.’
‘Albert Birkner is an excellent lawyer, a reliable person and always on top of things. When Albert is in fighting mode, you cannot stop him. His work product is excellent, his legal skills are awesome and on top of that he simply is a nice person.’
‘The teams works for the clients’ needs with great commitment and endurance. Always responsive, on time with great flexibility when needed.’
‘Flexibility, commitment, know how and determination to achieve clients needs, also sensible when needed in special cases /situations.’
Key clients
Kwizda
Karl Wlaschek Privatstiftung (KWPS)
Pichler Privatstiftung
ITI – International Theological Institute
Batthyany-Strattmann
St Johanns Club
Ronald McDonald Kinderhilfe (Children Charities)
Souveräner Malteser Ritterorden
KR Ing. Franz Hrachowitz
Alexander Silber
Alex Schütz Familienstiftung (C-Quadrat)
Dr. Pscheidl Privatstiftung
Dr. Günter Eichhübl
Mag. Dominik Brunner
Mag. Robert Tencl
Erich Erber Phd
Peter Duschek
Andrea KOLLAR (https://www.andreakollar.at/)
Work highlights
- Advising the Karl Wlaschek Group on a regular basis on all corporate, M&A and real estate related issues.
- Advising Welser Profile on various structuring and corporate related issues, in particular regarding a comprehensive review and revision of the current shareholders and intra-group agreements and various joint ventures in Austria and China.
- Advising Ronald McDonald Kinderhilfe on the legal aspects of the housing facility, as well as new housing facility developments.
Austria > Projects and energy Tier 2
Energy, infrastructure, electronic tolling, oil and gas as well as real estate are among the areas covered by Cerha Hempel’s cross-departmental projects and energy practice. The firm counts airports, governmental institutions, and power companies among its clients, which it acts for on cross-border matters including transactions and project developments. Through the cooperation of several practice groups the team is able to seamlessly advise clients on the intersections with other areas of expertise including public law and M&A. Clemens Hasenauer, Johannes Aehrenthal, Hans Kristoferitsch and Peter Vcelouch are the practice heads.Practice head(s):
Clemens Hasenauer; Johannes Aehrenthal; Hans Kristoferitsch; Peter Vcelouch
Testimonials
‘The team from CERHA HEMPEL is unique in their legal knowledge combining a hands on approach with academic excellence, in their responsiveness and their knowledge not only of our market, but also of the politically sensitive environment.’
‘They are always available and come up with out of the box solutions, built on their impressive legal capacities.’
‘The whole team was brilliant.’
‘As regards to billing, they always offer solutions that also benefit the client.’
‘Their seamless work with other specialists from their firm (if required) as well as with technical advisors has to be stressed.’
‘The project team from CERHA HEMPEL is being led by Hans Kristoferitsch, who has not only in depth legal knowledge but brilliantly manages authority contacts as well as requests from our company’s top management.’
Key clients
OMV
ASFINAG
Vienna International Airport
Republic of Austria
CEGH
Austrian Power Grid AG
EnBW Trust e.V.
via donau
Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH and all of its subsidiaries, including Wien Energie GmbH
Voith Group
STRABAG AG
Elin Motoren GmbH
TSR Recycling Holding GmbH and TSR Recycling GmbH & Co KG (part of Remondis Group)
Work highlights
- Advised OMV AG on the sale of its German filling station business to the British EG Group.
- Advice with regard to the conclusion of contracts to cover summer peaks of energy demand with energy producers (“network reserve”).
- Advising the Austrian operator of all waterways, via donau, on the implementation of a pan-European communication and logistics system which is to be used for all vessels in the EU.
Austria > Construction Tier 3
Cerha Hempel's cross-practice approach translates into regular mandates that, alongside construction law expertise, also require a deep understanding of real estate, public and corporate law alongside public procurement and dispute resolution. Based on this setup, the team is able to handle all aspects pertaining to real estate developments; recently this has mostly been in the residential and retail space. Team head Peter Vcelouch reflects this approach and assists clients, including construction companies, investors, retailers and real estate developers, with matters at the intersection between construction and real estate law as well as with associated litigation and arbitration.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Peter Vcelouch was a very valuable support because he has not only excellent knowledge of the legal aspects involved but has also outstanding skills as a negotiator even under difficult circumstances.’
‘Peter Vcelouch stands firm also under pressure and does his utmost to support his client.’
Key clients
LIDL Österreich
Flughafen Wien AG
SES Spar European Shopping Centers
thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions AG
Value One
numa group
AVEST Immobilien
VALORE Immobilien
Aberdeen Standard Investments
Work highlights
- Advising thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions AG on a large-scale industrial construction project in the south of Austria.
- Advising numa group GmbH on its expansion into the Austrian hospitality market.
- Advising Lidl Österreich on an ongoing basis; this includes advice on several real estate development projects, real estate acquisitions pertaining to new shop locations in Austria and several construction law issues.
Austria > Data privacy and data protection Tier 3
Cerha Hempel acts for a diverse set of clients from the energy, retail, IT and transport sectors as well as public clients. The team provides advice ranging from complex IT outsourcing projects, cloud computing solutions and international data transfers to the implementation of the directive on security of network and information systems. EU-regulatory expert Hans Kristoferitsch heads up the practice, he is supported by several associates including Franziska Paefgen, who contributes broad expertise in GDPR compliance, and Armin Schwabl, who is admitted to the bar both in Austria and New York.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm firm stands out with its high quality.’
‘Dr. Kristoferitsch is among the best data protection lawyers because he also brings a lot of practical experience.’
‘Excellent expertise in data protection law and excellent service also with regard to strategical issues’
‘The firm delivers high quality output which is understood by lawyers AND management.’
‘In addition to Hans Kristoferitsch’s legal knowledge, he knows how and when to give credit to the inhouse lawyers.’
Key clients
AT & T
Autobahnen- und Schnellstraßen- Finanzierungs-Aktiengesellschaft (ASFINAG)
CA Immobilien Anlagen AG
Carpacity GmbH
Flughafen Wien AG
Fundermax GmbH
Hewlett Packard Inc
Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria)
Isovolta AG
NTS Netzwerk Telekom Service AG
OMV Aktiengesellschaft
Samsung Electronics Austria GmbH
Semperit Aktiengesellschaft Holding
SES Spar European Shopping Centers GMBH
SPAR Business Services GmbH
SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG
Via donau – Österreichische Wasserstraßen GmbH
web eXXpress Medien Holding GmbH
Wien ENERGIE GmbH
Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH including its subsidiaries
WienIT GmbH
Wiener Netze GmbH
Österreichischen Fonds zur Dokumentation von religiös motiviertem politischen Extremismus (Dokumentationsstelle Politischer Islam)
ÖRAG Immobilien Vermittlung GmbH
Work highlights
- Advising SPAR on all data protection and IT matters, for example in negotiations with large IT-providers, online marketing and communication with data subjects both to the legal department as well as to SPAR’s IT-subsidiary SBS.
- Advising the Austrian Bundesland (federal province) Vorarlberg in connection with all privacy aspects of the procurement, negotiation and implementation of a unified communication infrastructure allowing for an integrated up-to-date communication between citizens and government.
- Advising Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH and its subsidiaries on privacy related issues, in particular on the implementation of a group-wide login system and projects on data exchange between the group companies.
Austria > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 3
With offices across the CEE region, Cerha Hempel is an attractive partner for cross-border insolvency, restructuring and reorganisation work including distressed M&A and related employment, tax and commercial issues. Alongside its multijurisdictional capabilities, clients also benefit from the team’s multidisciplinary approach combining expertise in insolvency law, corporate, finance and litigation. This skill set is mostly called upon by creditors such as national and foreign banks and other lenders, including business partners of insolvent or near insolvent companies, but its client portfolio also includes debtors. Thomas Trettnak heads the practice and covers a wide range of insolvency and pre-insolvency matters.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Growing team with wide experience.’
‘Thomas Ttrettnak is a terrific practitioner and Holger Bielesz is a great contribution to Trettnak’s team as he brings 20 years of litigation experience.’
‘The team stands out in handling cross-border aspects of restructuring and insolvency law. They have in-depth knowledge with a practical approach.’
‘I was impressed by the high-quality and accurate advice provided by Thomas Trettnak in a rather brief time frame. In fact, the case has developed according to the client’s wishes.’
‘Very quick and great service.’
‘High legal quality.’
‘Very knowledgeable insolvency team in Austria; quick and experienced.’
Key clients
CELEBI Aviation Group
EMIRATES Airlines Group
NIPPON Express Europe
NORTHWOOD International Acquisitions Ltd.
Johnson Controls Austria GmbH & Co OG
AIDA Cruises – German Branch of Costa Crociere S.p.A.
FIAT/CNH Group
SB Slipform Limited
PharOS Group
Polymed Medizin Technik Group
Shipyard de Hoop Group
Landesbank Baden Württemberg
SMS group GmbH
BDO Group
BIA Separations Group
TechnipFMC plc
RAFAKO S.A. w restrukturyzacji
Work highlights
- Advising CELEBI Ground Services GmbH on reorganisation matters in Austria as well as on the successful enforcement of a claim in the insolvency of LEVEL Europe GmbH.
- Advising FIAT/ CNH Group in the course of Fahrzeug- u. Maschinenbau-Prototypen-GmbH (FMP)’s insolvency proceedings.
- Advising long-lasting client EMIRATES Airlines Group as Austrian local counsel on the restructurings of its operations in Austria.
Austria > Public procurement Tier 3
Public entities and infrastructure providers often turn to Cerha Hempel for questions relating to the procurement of infrastructure projects. The firm has registered a growth in workload on the bidder side in recent years as well as in bid rigging and self-purification cases. Public law litigation at both a national and EU level and advising the medical sector are additional strengths of the team, which is led by Georg Konrad, Stefan Huber and Michaela Siegwart.Practice head(s):
Georg Konrad; Stefan Huber; Michaela Siegwart
Key clients
Wien Energie
CeMM – FORSCHUNGSZENTRUM FÜR MOLEKULARE MEDIZIN GmbH
Vienna Business University
Austrian Power Grid AG (“APG”)
Airport Klagenfurt
Coloplast
IST Austria
Consortium D-TOLL (Atlantia S.p.A., Kapsch TrafficCom AG, Autostrade Tech S.p.A.)
Stadler Rail Management AG
dentsu X GmbH
Traumatologische Gemeinschaft Burgenland
Österreichische Hochschülerinnen- und Hochschülerschaft (Austrian Union of Students)
Staytuned
Work highlights
- Advised Wien Energie on the impact of Covid-19 related questions of ongoing and planned tenders.
- Advised D-Toll consortium on the tender procedures regarding the Sale of the Shares in Toll Collect GmbH and Conclusion of a new Operating Agreement between the Federal Republic of Germany and Toll Collect GmbH.
- Advising companies of the Switzerland-based Stadler group on tender procedures regarding the development, manufacturing and delivery (and maintenance, if applicable) of trains for various Austrian railways.
Austria > Real estate Tier 3
Cerha Hempel regularly assists real estate companies, developers and investors with sizeable real estate developments across the hotel, retail, office, logistics and residential (including student housing) sectors. Its expertise in the last-mentioned segment has recently led to a number of forward purchase and forward funding transactions, while other typical instructions are construction-related. This offering is complemented by expertise in lease and management agreements - which has recently been called upon by shopping centre and supermarket operators - alongside real estate litigation such as rent and eviction litigation. Team head Peter Vcelouch has a specialism in construction-related work.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘We appreciate the firm’s deep knowledge in both corporate and real estate law, especially when it comes to real estate transactions (in particular share deals). What we have recognised is the firm’s strong network in the real estate sector.’
‘The real estate team of CERHA HEMPEL shows a great level of empathy for our needs and implements our desired solutions without any compromise, no matter what it takes.’
‘Besides outstanding legal knowledge you will benefit from a high degree of transaction experience, giving you access to alternative solutions for stuck situations.’
‘They also cover new issues affecting the real estate industry such as the EU Taxonomy, which many competitors seem not to care about.’
‘We regularly work together with Mark Krenn, in particular in transactions in the CEE region. Mark is a highly experienced transaction lawyer, who has lifted transaction management to a new level. We very much appreciate his negotiation skills as a real bonus. Most important, he is very easy to work with and flexible; you can always expect him to be available when needed. Besides, you can discuss legal topics also on a non-billable basis with Mark.’
‘Mark Krenn: Extremely good collaboration, full commitment to his customers, fully represents the customer in front of other parties, highly experienced, full trust.’
‘CERHA HEMPEL responds very quickly and offers a very wide field of expertise. Their network in SEE and CEE countries, which are quite important markets for us, is excellent.’
‘Mark Krenn and his team offers excellent work in our real estate transactions. He points out the legal issues but at the same time offers solutions, which also consider economic factors. With his team he can also cover other languages (Croatian, English, Slovenian, Hungarian etc.).’
Key clients
Value One
SES Spar European Shopping Centers
numa group
S Immo
AVEST Immobilien
VALORE Immobilien
LifeNet Health
ARE/areos development
Aberdeen Standard Investments
CA Immo
eyemaxx real estate group
BUWOG
ÖRAG
Heta Asset Resolution AG
Lidl Österreich
KWPS / AMISOLA Immobilien AG / NOVOREAL Immobilieninvest AG / ESTRELLA Immobilieninvest AG
ACRON
Raiffeisen Property International
VGP European Logistics
Work highlights
- Advising numa group GmbH on its expansion in the Austrian hospitality market including assistance with lease agreements and hotel management agreements.
- Advised a listed fund managed by Aberdeen Standard Investments on the acquisition of a residential development project in Vienna encompassing more than 300 apartments.
- Providing Lidl Österreich with ongoing advice on several real estate development projects and real estate acquisitions pertaining to new shop locations in Austria.
Austria > TMT Tier 3
Regulatory aspects concerning telecoms and technology, outsourcing, and contracts are part of the service portfolio of the TMT practice at Cerha Hempel, which acts for domestic and multinational blue-chip clients. With strong ties to the firm’s corporate and M&A practice group, the team is able to provide seamless advice on TMT matters related to transactions and mergers. Lead partner Hans Kristoferitsch is regularly involved in issues ranging from e-commerce and outsourcing to behavioural advertising and cloud computing.Practice head(s):
Hans Kristoferitsch
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
SPAR
AT & T
Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH and all of its subsidiaries
Wien Energie GmbH
Wiener Netze GmbH
ASFINAG Autobahnen- und Schnellstraßen-Finanzierungs-Aktiengesellschaft
SES Imagotag Group
CA Immobilien Anlagen AG
Carpacity GmbH
web eXXpress Medien Holding GmbH
via donau – Österreichische Wasserstraßen-Gesellschaft mbH
Humetrix Security
Consortium D-TOLL (Atlantia S.p.A., Kapsch TrafficCom AG, Autostrade Tech S.p.A.)
Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
Work highlights
- Advising web eXXpress Medien Holding GmbH on all legal matters in relation with the launch of its online media outlet eXXpress and its platform www.exxpress.at.
- Advising ASFINAG on the use of tolling data for logistics purposes and the development of a “ETA-Service” (Estimated Time of Arrival) for freight companies as well as their customers.
- Advising Wiener Netze GmbH in connection on the roll-out of smart meters and related administrative and court proceedings.
Austria > Intellectual property Tier 4
In addition to its strong base in the food and beverages and tobacco industry, the IP practice at Cerha Hempel has gained life sciences and media clients. It 'provides excellent legal advice', represents clients in contentious cases and offers IP support in transactions. Mark Krenn, who has experience in distribution and licensing agreements, heads the team.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘CERHA HEMPEL’S IP practice provides excellent legal advice in any field of IP and unfair competition law.’
‘The team provides precise legal advice also on non-contentious IP matters such as copyright, trademark and patent licensing agreements. While the practice might not be the largest in the market, its members deliver high-quality products with a remarkable responsiveness. Apart from their legal work the team’s ability to understand the clients‘ businesses to offer pragmatic solutions is noteworthy.’
‘Kind and welcoming. Flexible, easy to talk to, easy to work with and committed. Different teams (IP, employment, corporate) worked very well together and coordinated very effectively.’
‘We had the pleasure to work with Irmgard Nemec who handled all our IP challenges. Working with her was a seamless experience. She was always flexible, kind and well-prepared. Her legal advice and communication was clear and concise and the execution efficient and reliable.’
Key clients
McDonald’s Corporation
Michael Pachleitner Group
San Pacific Investments Pte Ltd
SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG
LEAD HORIZON GmbH
web eXXpress Medien Holding GmbH
gbtec Holding GmbH
Andrea KOLLAR (https://www.andreakollar.at/)
Work highlights
- Responsible for the prosecution, administration and enforcement of trademarks of McDonald’s Corporation in Austria since 2018.
- Advised Lead Horizon GmbH, the producer and inventor of the PCR-gargle test to detect Sars-Cov-2 infections within 24hours, comprehensively regarding its patents, IP-rights strategy, licensing model, international distribution system, contracts with laboratories etc.
- Advised San Pacific and Erich Erber on IP issues regarding Erber’s remarkable IP portfolio, in the sale of a direct and indirect shareholding in Erber Aktiengesellschaft to Royal DSM.
Cerha Hempel > Firm Profile
Firm overview: CERHA HEMPEL is one of the leading corporate law firms in Central and Eastern Europe with its headquarters in Vienna. With a team of over 200 lawyers, the firm guarantees its clients experience and expertise in all areas of corporate and commercial law, both in Austria and Central and Eastern Europe.
CERHA HEMPEL is proud to be able to look back on a very successful history. Over the past 25 years, CERHA HEMPEL has been involved in a large number of the most significant transactions in Austria. The fact that the firm understands its clients’ businesses has helped CERHA HEMPEL achieve a high rate of success. It is no coincidence that CERHA HEMPEL is the first port of call for a number of long-term clients whom the firm advises comprehensively on all of their day-to-day legal matters. This expertise – combined with the firm’s years of experience in Central and Eastern Europe and its Lex Mundi network – ensures that its clients receive high-quality and sound advice, across disciplines and across borders.
M&A and corporate: The focus at CERHA HEMPEL is not only on classic M&A, but also on private equity transactions, and on resolving complex, often cross-border issues in a practical and commercially oriented manner, as well as providing ongoing corporate legal advice and handling and overseeing corporate reorganisations. CERHA HEMPEL has particular expertise in public M&A, including takeover law and regulatory compliance under financial markets laws.
Banking and finance: CERHA HEMPEL supports its clients in the borrowing and investment decisions they make, such as in the context of financial and liquidity planning and treasury operations. It advises both borrowers and lenders alike. Recognised as a leading corporate law firm in the regulatory sector, CERHA HEMPEL advises international banks on establishing Austrian branches and offices and with respect to selling and trading securities in Austria. As advisor to over 100 managed investment funds which it represents in Austria regarding trading and compliance issues, CERHA HEMPEL has extensive expertise in the banking and finance sector.
Capital markets: As one of the leading law firms specialising in capital markets law, CERHA HEMPEL has handled the largest capital markets transactions in Austria over the past 25 years and has set the standards for this area. It handles all aspects of IPOs, capital increases and bond issuances, advising potential issuers and underwriters on due diligence issues, as well as preparing prospectuses in accordance with international standards and drafting documentation for capital increases.
Real estate and construction: CERHA HEMPEL supports its clients in everything from project development, negotiating and drafting financing agreements, preparing planning and construction agreements, to residential and commercial leases and claims management. CERHA HEMPEL has outstanding contacts with the major market players, enabling it to offer its clients project management services as well.
Litigation and arbitration: Whether it be construction disputes, unfair competition, contractual interpretation, insurance law, warranty issues, or damages in contract or tort, CERHA HEMPEL’s success rate is enviable. The team at CERHA HEMPEL covers the entire spectrum of corporate and commercial law, and focuses on giving its clients a clear picture of the opportunities and risks involved. Members of the firm act as arbitrators, chairpersons and counsel.
Employment:CERHA HEMPEL provides first class legal advice on all aspects of employment law, from drafting contracts including options for greater flexibility in employment relationships, as well as implementing restructuring programmes.
Tax law: CERHA HEMPEL provides integrated tax and legal advice. The firm strives to provide clients with optimised tax solutions whilst taking into account all other legal aspects. CERHA HEMPEL offers clients comprehensive expertise on the tax-optimised structuring of transactions, especially with respect to mergers and acquisitions and corporate restructurings, as well as group taxation, holding structures, inbound and outbound investments, debt and equity financing and the taxation of financial instruments. The tax litigation team handles all aspects of tax disputes.
Public law and european law: CERHA HEMPEL advises and represents clients before public administrative authorities and courts, as well as the European Court of Justice regarding questions of aviation law, public procurement law and telecommunications law, all of which the firm has been handling since such sectors were liberalised by the EU. The firm’s lawyers have achieved an above-average rate of success in such cases. CERHA HEMPEL also has many years’ extensive experience in commercial licensing law, healthcare law, university law, construction law, environmental law, and medical and pharmaceutical law.
International experience: With offices in Bratislava, Bucharest, Budapest, Prague and Sofia, CERHA HEMPEL possesses an extensive network in Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, together with broad-based expertise and many years’ experience. On top of this, the firm maintains close relationships with renowned law firms in those countries in which it does not have an office. All offices employ local, highly qualified and multilingual staff. All CEE offices have continuous access to the resources of the entire CERHA HEMPEL network.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing Partner, Head of Department of Takeovers & Antitrust, Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate, Private Clients & Trusts, Private Equity & Venture Capital, Insolvency & Restructuring | Albert Birkner | albert.birkner@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 431 |
Managing Partner, Head of Department Corporate Transactions, Mergers & Acquisitions, Banking & Finance, Capital Markets, Corporate, Compliance & Investigations, Private Equity & Venture Capital | Clemens Hasenauer | clemens.hasenauer@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 321 |
Of Counsel, Litigation & Arbitration, Distribution Law | Benedikt Spiegelfeld | benedikt.spiegelfeld@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 111 |
Head of Department Contentious Business, Litigation & Arbitration, Corporate, Public Law & European Law, Real Estate & Construction, IP & Unfair Competition, Private Clients & Trusts | Irene Welser | irene.welser@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 121 |
Head of Employment Law | Julian Feichtinger | julian.feichtinger@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 191 |
Capital Markets, Banking & Finance, Corporate, Private Equity & Venture Capital | Volker Glas | volker.glas@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 231 |
Head of Real Estate & Construction, Litigation & Arbitration, Public Law & European Law, Insolvency & Restructuring | Peter Vcelouch | peter.vcelouch@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 251 |
Head of CEE, Head of Department Corporate & Commercial, Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate, Private Clients & Trusts, Real Estate & Construction, Distribution Law | Johannes Aehrenthal | johannes.aehrenthal@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 331 |
Banking & Finance, Capital Markets, Tax Law, Compliance & Investigations | Peter Knobl | peter.knobl@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 241 |
Head of TMT Practice Group, Corporate, Insolvency & Restructuring, Mergers & Acquistions, Compliance & Investigations, Public Procurement, IT & Privacy, Private Equity & Venture Capital | Georg Konrad | georg.konrad@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 561 |
Banking & Finance, Capital Markets, Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate | Thomas Zivny | thomas.zivny@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 131 |
Real Estate & Construction, Litigation & Arbitration, Mergers & Acquistions, Corporate | Manfred Ton | manfred.ton@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 311 |
Tax Law, Corporate, Mergers & Acquisitions | Johannes Prinz | johannes.prinz@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 471 |
Head of Insolvency & Restructuring, Corporate, Mergers & Acquistions, Private Equity & Venture Capital, Private Clients & Trusts, Distribution Law | Thomas Trettnak | thomas.trettnak@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 531 |
Head of Antitrust & Competition, Co-Head of CEE, Compliance & Investigations, Distribution Law, Mergers & Acquisitions | Bernhard Kofler-Senoner | bernhard.kofler-senoner@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 581 |
Head of Regulatory & White Collar Department, Public Law & European Law, Antitrust & Competition, Compliance & Investigations, IT & Privacy | Hans Kristoferitsch | hans.kristoferitsch@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 291 |
Corporate, Insolvency & Restructuring, Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Clients & Trusts | Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein | heinrich.foglar-deinhardstein@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 541 |
Tax Law, White Collar Crime, Corporate, Public Law & European Law, Private Clients & Trusts | Benjamin Twardosz | benjamin.twardosz@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 571 |
Responsible for Real Estate Transaction Team, Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate, CEE Real Estate, IP & Unfair Competition | Mark Krenn | mark.krenn@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 591 |
Public Law & European Law, Compliance & Investigations, White Collar Crime, Public Procurement, Litigation & Abitration | Stefan Huber | stefan.huber@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 304 |
Head of White Collar Crime, Public Law & European Law, Antitrust & Competition | Peter Lewisch | peter.lewisch@cerhahempel.com | +43 1 514 35 181 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Johannes Aehrenthal | PartnerHead of Department Corporate & CommercialAreas of practice: Mergers & Acquisitions Corporate… | View Profile |
![]() | Holger Bielesz | Partner Areas of practice: Litigation & Arbitration White Collar Crime Compliance &… | View Profile |
![]() | Albert Birkner | Managing Partner Head of Department of Takeovers & Antitrust Areas of practice:… | View Profile |
![]() | Julian Feichtinger | PartnerHead of the Employment Law teamAreas of practice: Employment Law | View Profile |
![]() | Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein | PartnerAreas of practice: Corporate Insolvency & Restructuring Mergers & Acquistions Private Clients… | View Profile |
![]() | Volker Glas | Partner Areas of practice: Capital Markets Banking & Finance Corporate Private Equity… | View Profile |
![]() | Clemens Hasenauer | Managing Partner Head of Department Corporate Transactions Areas of practice: Mergers &… | View Profile |
![]() | Edith Hlawati | Senior PartnerHead of Department Banking & Corporate FinanceAreas of practice: Capital Markets… | View Profile |
![]() | Stefan Huber | PartnerAreas of practice: Public Law & European Law Compliance & Investigations White… | View Profile |
![]() | Peter Knobl | Partner Areas of practice: Banking & Finance Capital Markets Tax Law Compliance… | View Profile |
![]() | Bernhard Kofler-Senoner | Partner Head of Competition Practice GroupAreas of practice: Antitrust & Competition Compliance… | View Profile |
![]() | Georg Konrad | PartnerAreas of practice: Corporate Insolvency & Restructuring Mergers & Acquistions Compliance &… | View Profile |
![]() | Mark Krenn | PartnerAreas of practice: Real Estate Mergers & Acquisitions Corporate CEE IP &… | View Profile |
![]() | Hans Kristoferitsch | PartnerHead of Department Regulatory and White CollarAreas of practice: Public Law &… | View Profile |
![]() | Peter Lewisch | Senior CounselAreas of practice: White Collar Crime Public Law & European Law… | View Profile |
![]() | Katharina Majchrzak | CounselAreas of practice: IP & Unfair Competition Food law Litigation | View Profile |
![]() | Michael Mayer | CounselAreas of practice: Antitrust & Competition Distribution Law Compliance & Investigations | View Profile |
![]() | Lorenz Pracht | PartnerAreas of practice: Mergers & Acquisitions Capital Markets Compliance & Investigations Corporate… | View Profile |
![]() | Johannes Prinz | PartnerAreas of practice: Tax Law Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions | View Profile |
![]() | Michaela Siegwart | PartnerAreas of practice: Public Procurement Litigation & Arbitration IP & Unfair Competition | View Profile |
![]() | Benedikt Spiegelfeld em. | Of CounselAreas of practice: Litigation & Arbitration Distribution Law | View Profile |
![]() | Harald Stingl | PartnerAreas of practice: Mergers & Acquisitions Corporate Banking & Finance Insolvency &… | View Profile |
![]() | Manfred Ton | PartnerAreas of Practice: Real Estate & Construction Litigation & Arbitration Mergers &… | View Profile |
![]() | Thomas Trettnak | PartnerAreas of practice: Corporate Mergers & Acquistions Insolvency & Restructuring Private Equity… | View Profile |
![]() | Benjamin Twardosz | PartnerAreas of practice: Tax Law White Collar Crime Corporate Public Law &… | View Profile |
![]() | Peter Vcelouch | PartnerHead of Department Real Estate and ConstructionAreas of practice: Real Estate &… | View Profile |
![]() | Irene Welser | Senior Partner Head of Department Contentious Business Areas of practice: Litigation &… | View Profile |
![]() | Anna Wolf-Posch, LL.M. | Partner Areas of practice: Antitrust & Competition Compliance & Investigations Mergers &… | View Profile |
![]() | Thomas Zivny | PartnerAreas of practice: Banking & Finance Capital Markets Mergers & Acquisitions Corporate | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of staff at CERHA HEMPEL : 260 Number of lawyers at the Vienna office : 110Languages
Armenian Bosnian Bulgarian Chinese Croatian Czech Dutch English French German Hungarian Italian Polish Romanian Russian Serbian Slovak Spanish TagalogMemberships
Aktienforum Alumni association of the University of St. Gallen American Bar Association Arbitral Women ASA Austrian Bar Association Austrian Arbitration Association Austrian-Brazilian Association of Commerce - Associação de Comércio Austro-Brasileira Austrian Corporate Law Society - Advisory Board Austrian Council of Shopping Centers Austrian Franchise Federation Austrian Spanish Lawyers Association AVCO - Austrian Private Equity and Venture Capital Organisation BWG Österreichische Bankwissenschaftliche Gesellschaft CELA - Chinese European Legal Association Czech Bar Association Deutsche Handelskammer EELA (European Employment Lawyer Association) Employment Law Alliance European Community Studies Association Austria (ECSA) EuroFranchise Lawyers (EFL Group) FIABCI Austria MB Founding member of Forum Restructuring and Turnaround Vienna (ReTurn) German-British Lawyers' Association German Fiscal Association (DtStJG) GVÖ Hungarian Bar Association IBA (International Bar Association) ICC Austria ICDR Young & International International Fiscal Association (IFA) International Tax Law Alumni Association Juridisch-Politischer Leseverein KSV LCIA (London Court of International Arbitration) Lex Mundi - The World's Leading Association of Independent Law Firms Managementclub Vienna New York Bar Association ÖGNI Österr. Amerikanische Gesellschaft (ÖAG) Österr.Franchiseverband Österr. Gesellschaft für Medizinrecht Österr. Japanische Gesellschaft Öst.Verein.Schiedsgerichtsarkeit Österreichische Vereinigung für Gewerblichen Rechtsschutz und Urheberrecht (ÖV) Real Circle ReTurn (independent authority center for restructuring, reorganizations and turnarounds) Scottish Arbitration Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes Studienvereinigung Kartellrecht The Law Society Turnaround Management Association UNION Viennese Society of Attorneys at Law VDRÖ Vienna Bar Association Vienna Bar Association (Council) Verein der Freunde Rechtswissenschaft. Wiener Advokatengesellschaft UNION YAAP Young Austrian Arbitration Practitioners Young Industry (platform within the Federation of the Austrian Industry for young economic operators from industry and related sectors)Other
Other offices : Bratislava Other offices : Bucharest Other offices : Budapest Other offices : Prague Other offices : SofiaInternational capabilities
CERHA HEMPEL is an international law firm headquartered in Vienna with offices in Bratislava, Bucharest, Budapest, Prague, and Sofia, whose experts have many years’ experience of advising clients in a wide array of legal fields. Through our international network, we are able to provide fully integrated cross-border services tailored to our clients’ needs. CERHA HEMPEL can count many major international companies as frequent clients.
The team
The members of CERHA HEMPEL’s diverse team have considerable experience of working in other countries. Many partners are also members of the International Bar Association as well as other associations. Furthermore, a large number of languages are spoken by our team, including Armenian, Bosnian, Bulgarian, Chinese, Croatian, Czech, Dutch, English, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Polish, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Slovak, Spanish, Tagalog, to name but a few, and advice and assistance can therefore be provided to clients in these languages should the need arise.
The network
CERHA HEMPEL is the exclusive member firm in Austria for Lex Mundi – the world’s leading network of independent law firms – with in-depth experience in 125+ countries worldwide. As part of the Lex Mundi global network, we can provide our clients with preferred access to more than 22,000 lawyers around the world – all from a single point of contact. CERHA HEMPEL is also a member of the International Fiscal Association, the Employment Law Alliance, the EuroFranchise Lawyers as well as a group member firm of the International Bar Association, which enables us to further strengthen our global set up and connections. On top of this, we maintain close relationships with renowned law firms in those countries in which we do not have an office. Each of our CEE offices has constant access to the resources and expertise of the entire CERHA HEMPEL network.
- Capital markets
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Dispute resolution: white-collar crime (including fraud)
- Employment
- EU and competition
- Tax
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Administrative law and public sector
- Banking and finance
- Dispute resolution: arbitration and mediation
- Dispute resolution: commercial litigation
- Private client
- Projects and energy