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
The group at Cerha Hempel is led by the trio Volker Glas, Peter Knobl and Thomas Zivny, each with complimenting areas of expertise in the capital markets space. Praised as ‘one of Austria’s leading capital markets regulatory lawyers‘, a recent mandate for regulatory expert Knobl involved advising a large German financial services company on e-signatures for remote services agreements and the related compliance issues. Zivny, described as ‘accurate, efficient, available, and competent‘, often advises banks in relation to project financings. Glas is the key contact for corporate transactions, and Christian Aichinger is the primary name as senior counsel level.
Practice head(s):
Volker Glas; Peter Knobl; Thomas Zivny
Other key lawyers:
Andrea Harrich; Christian Aichinger
Testimonials
‘Thomas Zivny is accurate, efficient, always available, and competent.’
‘The practice is dedicated to delivering outstanding quality in its legal advice combined with general client-friendly behaviour. Peter Knobl is one of Austria’s leading capital markets regulatory lawyers.’
‘The team consisted of partner Peter Knobl and has always delivered advice to our full satisfaction. Follow-up questions have consistently been answered promptly and extensively as well.’
Key clients
AT&S
Morgan Stanley Investment Funds SICAV
Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien AG
WELSER Profile Beteiligungs GmbH
SPAR
S IMMO AG
Work highlights
- Advised AT&S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik Aktiengesellschaft on the issuance of a hybrid bond with a total volume of €350m.
- Advised Morgan Stanley Liquidity Funds (MSLF) and Morgan Stanley Investment Funds (MSIF) on the conversion of their whole fund range consisting of 62 UCITS subfunds offered in Austria.
- Advised Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien AG on the issuance of two benchmark size covered bonds (mortgage-backed pool of assets), with a volume of €750m each.
Austria > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
The ‘exceptional industry sector knowledge‘ within the team at Cerha Hempel reaches all areas of corporate and commercial work, and the team provides the full range of services, from strategic corporate governance advice to private equity and venture capital assistance to work on cross-border transactions. The cross-border work leans heavily towards the CEE region, owing to the firm’s offices in the region. Leading the team are Clemens Hasenauer, Albert Birkner and Johannes Aehrenthal. The trio are well supported by senior associate Wolfgang Sindelar, who regularly advises on high-value M&A transactions. Nadine Leitner was promoted to partner in February 2022.
Practice head(s):
Clemens Hasenauer; Albert Birkner; Johannes Aehrenthal
Other key lawyers:
Johannes Prinz; Wolfgang Sindelar; Thomas Trettnak; Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein; Nadine Leitner
Testimonials
‘Exceptional legal knowledge and ability. Exceptional industry sector knowledge. Exceptional responsiveness and accessibility.’
‘Johannes Prinz is an extremely knowledgeable and hard-working lawyer.’
‘They have suitable and accessible teams that take care of our issues. I see particular strength in the team’s ability to handle a number of transactions. They are reliable partners in our legal affairs.’
‘Great collaboration between team members and good gender equality.’
‘The team sees the wider picture. They are excellent problem solvers, but do not create additional problems and focus on the issues that matter. Their legal expertise is outstanding. It is combined with business understanding.’
‘For me, Albert Birkner is the best legal adviser for M&A, and other corporate matters. He stays on top of things and gets the job done without getting lost in unimportant aspects. He understands his client’s business and has loads of valuable experience. It is a delight to work with him.’
‘Cerha Hempel has a strong full service team in all major areas of business law. In my view they can perfectly handle numerous transactions at the same time. Accessibility and meeting timelines is never an issue.’
‘Excellent legal expertise and responsiveness, and outstanding partner availability.’
Key clients
XXXLutz Group
B&C Group (in particular B&C Industrieholding GmbH and B & C KB Holding GmbH)
OMV AG
Advent International
AVS Group
RHI Magnesita Group
Teufelberger Group
Minerals Technologies Inc.
AIK Banka a.d., Gorenjska Banka d.d. and Agri Europe Cyprus Limited
Saubermacher Dienstleistungs AG
MK Group
Andlinger & Co GmbH
Astara group
Moodys Corporation
Poke House
San Venture Service GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised XXXLutz Group on a share acquisition establishing a 50/50 partnership in Black Red White Group.
- Advised Austrian major stakeholder B&C Group on with the acquisition of 80% shares in the German Atlas Flexibles GmbH, the top holding company of the Schur Flexibles Group, from the US-based private investment firm Lindsay Goldberg.
- Advised OMV as transaction counsel on the sale of OMV’s filling station business in Germany to the British EG Group, encompassing 285 filling stations in southern Germany with a focus on Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.
Austria > Dispute resolution: white-collar crime (including fraud) Tier 1
Cerha Hempel’s white-collar crime department is in high demand for solving complex legal issues at the intersection of public, criminal, economic, and EU law. Public and private clients, including prominent national and international companies, financial institutions and individuals, value its expertise leading to regular mandates with cross-border elements in high-profile political matters, particularly in the CEE region; these often include allegations of fraud, breach of trust, embezzlement, and bid rigging. Key contacts include esteemed specialist Peter LewischPractice head(s):
Peter Lewisch; Hans Kristoferitsch; Stefan Huber
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘There is no other white-collar crime team in the Austrian market offering the same range of capabilities and qualities, from academic input to high-class white-collar crime litigation and in-depth knowledge not only of criminal law, but also of other relevant fields of law.’
‘The lawyers are well respected by the prosecution, the courts and other lawyers. They are skilful and easily accessible. When it comes to billing, their invoices are always transparent and fair.’
‘Peter Lewisch is maybe the most prominent Austrian white-collar crime lawyer, and rightly so! His knowledge, but also his legal skills as well as his handling of prosecutors is unparalleled.’
‘Hans Kristoferitsch is very diligent and has broad knowledge not only in criminal law, but also in administrative and data protection law. Moreover, he literally knows the whole Austrian legal community.’
‘Stefan Huber has maybe the shortest turn-around times I have seen with a lawyer and is always available. He is a strategic thinker with in-depth criminal law knowledge.’
‘The teams renders hands-on support that is relevant for the business and does not “over-legalise”. There is no need to translate the advice to decision makers from the business.’
‘Hans Kristoferitsch is the go-to person for any difficult questions when it comes to white-collar crime.’
Key clients
Gas Connect Austria GmbH
GATX Rail Austria GmbH
Wiener Stadtwerke
STRABAG SE
WIEN ENERGIE GmbH
Gal Barak
3P GmbH
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Gas Connect in a high-profile corporate criminal trial for alleged environmental crimes, leading to a full acquittal of the client and its staff.
- Advising managers of GATX Austria as well as the company (a subsidiary of the NYSE-listed GATX corporation) in criminal proceedings with regard to charges of negligent killing in the so-called Viareggio trial (relating to a railway disaster causing 38 casualties).
- Representing high-ranking public officials in regard to questioning by a parliamentary investigation committee.
Austria > Employment Tier 1
Cerha Hempel’s employment group is praised by clients for its 'excellent strategic approach'. Under Julian Feichtinger’s leadership, the practice advises clients both on day-to-day matters, and on larger projects including cross-border work, with an increasing focus on termination of employment and transfer of operations. In February 2023, Christopher Peitsch, noted for his expertise in employment litigation and employment-related administrative proceedings, made partner. Senior counsel Susanne Molitoris brings arbitration experience to the team, and 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
‘They have a great team dedicated to clients’ business needs with strong professional expertise in employment law, always responsive and finding the best solution.’
‘Christopher Peitsch is a confident team leader with great knowledge in employment law. I can always rely on him, his expertise and guidelines. He is not just a lawyer but an irreplaceable business partner managing his team in a way to ensure maximum satisfaction of the clients’ needs.’
‘Julian Feichtinger is a standout. Great experience and always able to provide valuable insights and pragmatic advice.’
‘Incredibly fast and focused advice, excellent strategic approach. They understand the company’s situation and look for the best solution to the problem at hand rather than focusing on what can’t be done.’
‘Christopher Peitsch has an extremely quick perception and can react immediately to new arguments. He is always very well prepared and knows the cases. He has a very pragmatic approach and focuses on solving problems instead of discussing theoretical details. Especially in negotiations, I want to be represented only by him. He is always available and responds quickly, it is the best assistance I have ever had in a law firm.’
‘The employment law team has excellent knowledge. At all times we feel well advised by the team. The department is human, competent and sophisticated.’
‘Christopher Peitsch is an excellent and sophisticated lawyer who has the know-how and knows how to apply it accordingly. Even in court, we feel well represented by his friendly manner and that our company is represented accordingly. Explanations are always very obvious and practice-oriented, and often accompanied by humor.’
‘Christopher Peitsch is a killer in court and an incredibly well versed, smart and seasoned advocate with highly persuasive writing skills. We never worked with someone stronger in employment cases and we’re really glad he’s on our side.’
Key clients
Flughafen Wien (Airport of Vienna)
Ecolab Group
PRIMARK
SV Group
Dentsu Aegies Network
Emirates
Lead Horizon
GATX
Kyocera AVX
Ritter Sport
Grünenthal
Universität für Bodenkultur (University for Agriculture and Life Sciences)
Knorr Bremse
Transaktionssysteme Austria
Unibail Rodamco
Work highlights
- Advised a management and business consulting company on its market entry into Austria.
- Advised Moody’s Corporation on the employment-related part of the acquisition of start-up 360kompany.
Austria > EU and competition Tier 1
Cerha Hempel’s diverse EU and competition team is well equipped to act for domestic and international corporations, and its typical workload includes co-ordinating international, EU and Austrian merger notifications, cartel investigations and proceedings, civil damage and enforcement proceedings, FDI screenings, and state aid matters, as well as advising on the implementation of compliance systems across multiple jurisdictions and, in particular, across the CEE region. Headed by Bernhard Kofler-Senoner, the team often appears in high-profile cases before the European Commission, with strength and expertise in litigation at the intersection of digital markets, sustainability and supply chains. Key contacts include Anna Wolf-Posch, Hans Kristoferitsch, Stefan Huber and Michael Mayer.Practice head(s):
Bernhard Kofler-Senoner
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Beyond the high-level legal expertise, the team provides very hands-on business advice and pays great attention to the specific situation of their clients.’
‘In our opinion, the strengths of the team lie in their ability to tailor their opinions to the needs of their clients, their professionalism, efficiency, responsiveness, and their deep knowledge and understanding of Austrian and EU competition and antitrust law.’
‘The cooperation has always been very professional and smooth. They are very well connected with the authorities and always up to date with current events and developments. We are always impressed by the efficiency, responsiveness and ability of practitioners to deal with challenging situations in a professional manner.’
‘Quality and service are exceptional. The response times are short and agreed response dates are kept reliably. Highly committed and professional team, coordinated, works quickly and efficiently.’
‘Bernhard Kofler-Senoner is our man regarding competition law and compliance. He has a singular knowledge about our group’s business fields and the people involved. In particular, our senior management relies upon his advice.’
‘It is a pleasure to work with them. Team’s strengths comprise super responsiveness and know-how about our industry environment, as well as our organisation.’
‘Bernhard Kofler-Senoner is passionate about competition law and knows all the trends and developments. He also quickly develops insight into the industry and relevant markets and understands the business aspects of the legal matter. The junior members of his team are always approachable, friendly and ready to jump in and answer our follow-up questions.’
‘Anna Wolf-Posch and Bernhard Kofler-Senoner are both top Austrian competition lawyers.’
Key clients
PIERER Mobility AG / KTM AG
RHI Magnesita N.V.
OMV AG
B&C Industrieholding GmbH
Teufelberger Holding AG
SPAR Holding AG
City of Vienna (Stadt Wien) & WIENER STADTWERKE
Hexagon AB
Pernod Ricard SA
Pittel + Brausewetter Gesellschaft m.b.H.
iMedia Brands, Inc.
Vienna International Airport
Republic of Austria
Austrian Power Grid / VÜN
Rundfunk und Telekom Regulierungs-GmbH (“RTR GmbH”)
MDR Media GmbH
Welser Profile Beteiligungs GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised PIERER Mobility on the establishment of a joint venture with MAXCOM for the production of e-bikes in Bulgaria.
- Advised RHI Magnesita on the establishment of a recycling joint venture with the Horn & Co. Group.
- Advising B&C Industrieholding on the merger control aspects of its acquisition of 80% of the shares in Schur Flexibles Holding.
Austria > Tax Tier 1
The deep bench at Cerha Hempel comprises ‘brilliant specialists with extensive knowledge and in-depth experience' and covers all important areas of tax law, from reorganisations, to wage taxes and VAT, as well as many others. Heading up the team are Johannes Prinz and Benjamin Twardosz. Elsewhere Christoph Schimmer, who joined from DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH in January 2022, has experience advising on the tax aspects of M&A deals and on corporate tax law issues. Prinz is particularly prolific in the banking and energy sectors, and also acts in contentious matters.Practice head(s):
Johannes Prinz; Benjamin Twardosz
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The strengths are mainly the ability to quickly understand the needs of a company in terms of taxation of financial products, to respond in a timely manner to questions asked, and to provide a detailed analysis of the problems encountered.’
‘It is an excellent team. It has brilliant specialists with extensive knowledge and in-depth experience. The team is very dedicated and committed to producing the best results.’
‘I have been working with Christoph Schimmer. He understands the business needs of the client and his advice is always on point and on time. I find him to be a highly competent professional who demonstrates excellent knowledge.’
‘Very competent, very responsive. They understand the needs of the client. They employ successful tactics.’
‘High level expertise, excellent communication, very competent, structured and calm.’
‘The advice provided is clear, concise and packaged in a way that is user-friendly for a commercial organisation.’
‘Personable, attentive and value-adding responses to legal queries.’
Key clients
Deutsche Beteiligungs AG
Ground Truth Solutions
Deutsche Telekom AG
Polar Capital Funds Plc
MFS Meridian Funds SICAV
Dutch Infrastructure Fund (DIF)
William Hill
Work highlights
- Advised Deutsche Beteiligungs on several tax structuring matters, in particular in relation to M&A transactions.
- Advising multiple UCITS umbrella funds on the Austrian supplement for UCITS’ prospectuses and related issues.
- Representing the former managing director of an Austrian stock corporation in financial criminal proceedings.
Austria > Administrative law and public sector Tier 2
Cerha Hempel is regularly instructed to plead cases before both Austrian courts and the ECJ, arguing cases that are at the intersection of public and EU law. Beyond this, the firm focuses on advising clients in regulated industries on matters of environmental, public procurement, hospital and higher education law as well as consumer goods regulations. EU, state aid and data protection expert Hans Kristoferitsch leads the team alongside Stefan Huber, who is a specialist in higher education law. Armin Schwabl advises on product regulation, focusing on the food, pharmaceuticals and medical devices sectors.Practice head(s):
Hans Kristoferitsch; Stefan Huber
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I am particularly impressed by the quality of the whole team. If one lawyer is not available, I can call any of his colleagues who is not only fully briefed but always gives the same top level advice. Their legal knowledge is as fantastic as is their strategic thinking.’
‘Hans Kristoferitsch is very diligent and has broad knowledge not only in administrative law, but also in criminal and data protection law. Moreover, he literally knows the whole Austrian legal community, which is a real asset.’
‘Stefan Huber has maybe the shortest turn around times I have seen with a lawyer and is always available. He is a strategic thinker with in-depth legal knowledge.’
‘Customer focused, speak in plain language.’
Key clients
SES Spar European Shopping Centers
RHI Magnesita
Universität für Bodenkultur Wien
Stadler Rail AG
ASFINAG
Republic of Austria
Austrian Power Grid AG
Vienna International Airport
SPAR
Via donau
Philip Morris Austria GmbH
ISTA (Institute of Science and Technology Austria)
(Österreichische) Hochschüler_innenschaft
Wien Holding
Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH
WIEN ENERGIE
Work highlights
- Acted for European shopping centre giant SES in various administrative and court proceedings on the enlargement of one of Austria’s largest shopping malls.
- Represented Austrian University Boku in the first Austrian proctoring supreme court case.
- Advised RHI Magnesita on the legal aspects of introducing circular economy aspects into the Austria wide waste management.
Austria > Banking and finance Tier 2
Work at the forefront of Cerha Hempel's broad practice spans financing transactions, bank regulatory work, and bank contract matters. The multidisciplinary group, which regularly works on real estate and project finance transactions, is headed up by Peter Knobl, Volker Glas and Thomas Zivny; Knobl is described as a ‘profound expert in Austrian and international banking regulation law’. Another key team member is Christian Aichinger, who clients value for his ‘overall expertise of the legal side of financings services’.Practice head(s):
Peter Knobl; Volker Glas; Thomas Zivny
Other key lawyers:
Christian Aichinger; Clemens Hasenauer
Testimonials
‘They have vast experience and deep knowledge in handling administrative law cases in areas relevant for a bank, therefore very useful guidance is offered in these proceedings. Any drafts are always delivered on time.’
‘Very broad knowledge of banking supervision law.’
‘Sophisticated and broad knowledge in banking and finance regulatory work. Excellent solutions for complex topics and excellent network within Cerha Hempel, high commitment and availability to our firm (especially by ad hoc topics).’
‘We have worked with Cerha Hempel for more than 10 years. Their pragmatic, solution-oriented approach is outstanding. They have learned how we think and that makes the difference.’
‘Thomas Zivny as partner has huge capabilities in the field of banking and finance. As a long-term business partner, he truly understands our needs. Based on his huge knowledge, his solution oriented pragmatic approach is refreshing when it comes to tougher negotiations. He is quick in his response and is able to focus on key issues without being over-complicated.’
‘Christian Aichinger has overall expertise of the legal side of financings services. A really supportive. outstanding cooperation.’
‘We experienced Cerha’s banking and finance team as a very reliable partner, even in the wake of a developing crisis.’
‘We got to know Peter Knobl as a profound expert in Austrian and international banking regulation law.’
Key clients
AIK Banka a.d., Gorenjska Banka d.d. and Agri Europe Cyprus Limited
Commerzbank AG, Austrian branch
Commerzbank AG, Frankfurt head office
Deutsche Vermögensberatung Bank AG
ekspert SA
Energy Exchange Austria (Austrian Electric Power Spot Exchange, EXAA)
Erste Group Bank AG (EGB)
RHI Magnesita
RiverRock European Capital Partners LLP
Verbund Energy4Business GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised EXAA (Energy Exchange Austria (Austrian Electric Power Spot Exchange)) on its cooperation with CCP.
- Advised RiverRock on five securitisation transactions with an aggregate value of €195m with a true sale legal opinion on underlying receivables governed by Austrian law and the corresponding security documents.
- Advised AIK Banka a.d., Gorenjska Banka d.d. and Agri Europe Cyprus Limited on the purchase of Sberbank Europe AG’s CEE/SEE subsidiary banks in five jurisdictions on a set of guarantees to ensure the full collectability of the active loan portfolio.
Austria > Dispute resolution: arbitration and mediation Tier 2
The substantial team at Cerha Hempel, headed by 'expert arbitrator' Irene WelserPractice head(s):
Irene Welser
Other key lawyers:
Holger Bielesz; Samuel Mimnagh; Alexandra Stoffl; Paul Krepil
Testimonials
‘The team has a very qualified and consolidated knowledge of the international litigation sector and local law. In addition to experience, the team responds incisively, comprehensively and promptly to customer requests.’
‘Holger Bielesz and Samuel Mimnagh have both been extremely attentive, punctual, and professional, with an excellent technical preparation and meticulous attention to details. They have also great human and empathic skills.’
‘Highly collaborative and cross-functional team with strong legal and commercial knowledge.’
‘Highly collaborative and integrative.’
‘Irene Welser: expert arbitrator, excellent and very experienced lawyer, great strategic mind.’
‘Alexandra Stoffl: excellent lawyer with vast knowledge concerning arbitration.’
‘Samuel Mimnagh’s abilities and knowledge have topped the opponent’s team, they were not hardly close to him.’
‘Irene Welser was very professional, calm and led her team with strict logic to eliminate the opponent.’
Key clients
MACON A.B.
Work highlights
- Representing MACON, a Swedish manufacturer of refractory materials, in a VIAC proceeding against the owner of a steel mill.
Austria > Dispute resolution: commercial litigation Tier 2
Cerha Hempel‘s dispute resolution team is ‘a highly solution-oriented and excellently skilled group of lawyers, who work together in a seamless manner'. Helmed by Irene WelserPractice head(s):
Irene Welser
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I know them as a highly solution-oriented and excellently skilled group of lawyers, who work together in a seamless manner. I have been working with them repeatedly and what impresses me most is their ability to put together the right type and number of people for the task at stake. They are my go-to group.’
‘Very focused, intelligent, holistic understanding of commercial implications, extremely thorough, precise elaboration of issues – and still unpretentious people.’
‘The cooperation with the lawyers is excellent, uncomplicated and very professional.’
‘Holger Bielesz: innovative, thinking out of the box, very experienced.’
‘Paul Krepil knows the case in depth, quick and useful responses. He typically knows even minor details by heart.’
‘Irene Welser is extremely experienced with an outstanding performance in court as a litigator; always friendly and open to discussing different aspects of cases.’
‘The team works very professionally and purposefully. There are corresponding experts for every possible question. The systematic approach with the involvement of the client should also be emphasised.’
‘The law firm works very precisely and always takes all eventualities into account during the case. The assignments are completed quickly. They are always ready to answer queries, which are also dealt with quickly. The procedural tactics are very clear.’
Key clients
SPAR AG/ASPIAG Management AG
NOVOREAL Immobilieninvest AG
City of Vienna / WIENER STADTWERKE SES
Spar European Shopping Centers GmbH
UNIQA Versicherungen
DUNAKESZI JÁRMŰJAVÍTÓ KORLÁTOLT FELELŐSSÉGŰ TÁRSASÁG
HERVIS Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.
Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
SmartStream Technologies Limited
ASFINAG
ÖBB Infrastruktur AG
McDonald’s GmbH
Apleona HSG GmbH
Hey Communications & Production GmbH
INTERSPAR Gesellschaft m.b.H.
Mona Naturprodukte GmbH
MACON A.B.
Work highlights
- Represented SPAR, as a minority shareholder of dm drogeriemarkt, in a number of corporate disputes.
- Representing NOVOREAL in proceedings against a coffeehouse operator in Vienna pertaining to unpaid rent due to lockdown measures during the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Advising Stadt Wien and WIENER STADTWERKE on their antitrust damage claims against five truck manufacturers involved in the truck cartel.
Austria > Private client Tier 2
Cerha Hempel is active at the crossroads between private client and corporate law, supporting individuals, foundations and trusts across a range of matters. The team is sought after for advice regarding the structuring of foundations and businesses, and is active on generational succession, wealth management and real estate issues. One half of the leadership duo, Albert BirknerPractice head(s):
Albert Birkner; Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein
Testimonials
‘CERHA HEMPEL has a strong full service team in all areas of business law. In my view, they can handle numerous transactions at the same time perfectly. Accessibility and meeting timelines is never an issue. The team composition makes them a reliable partner. This is what I expect, timely and high quality service, and I have not been disappointed.’
‘I mainly work with Albert Birkner. I appreciate his pragmatic and solution-oriented approach and I really like the way he makes complicated things easy. When it comes to M&A and private clients, Albert really is my go-to lawyer in Austria. He is down to earth, does not complicate things and provides value for money.’
‘CERHA HEMPEL is a strong business law firm. Over the years, Albert has built up a strong team, and I see particular strength in the team’s unity in handling numerous transactions. I like the team’s seamless advice.’
‘My main point of contact is Albert Birkner. He is a strong negotiator. Albert compromises, but never when he feels it is unfair or against our explicit interest. He is pragmatic and solution-oriented, but never to our detriment.’
‘Outstanding team, work great together and when necessary delegate work internally. Someone is always there for our requests.’
‘The individuals are responsive, determined and know exactly how to play on our side as clients.’
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
Alex Schütz Familienstiftung (C-Quadrat)
Work highlights
- Advising the Karl Wlaschek Privatstiftung on all corporate, M&A and real estate issues, and represented the client in proceedings against a well-known coffee house operator in Vienna regarding unpaid rent due to the Covid-19 lockdown.
- Advised Welser Profile on various structuring and corporate-related issues, in particular a comprehensive review and revision of the current shareholders and intra-group agreements and various joint ventures in Austria and China.
- Advised Ronald McDonald Kinderhilfe on the legal aspects of a housing facility, as well as new housing facility developments.
Austria > Projects and energy Tier 2
The cross-practice group at Cerha Hempel is a strong player in the Austrian market, with a client base is formed of both public and private entities; the group advises the Austrian state as well as Wiener Stadtwerke and all of its subsidiaries. In terms of sector specialisms, the group is active in energy, infrastructure, electronic tolling, oil and gas, and real estate. Hans Kristoferitsch, Clemens Hasenauer, Johannes Aehrenthal, and Peter Vcelouch are the key names at leadership level.Practice head(s):
Clemens Hasenauer; Johannes Aehrenthal; Hans Kristoferitsch; Peter Vcelouch
Other key lawyers:
Claudia Hanslik-Schneider
Testimonials
‘I am particularly impressed by the quality of the whole team. If one lawyer is not available, I can call any of their colleagues who is not only fully briefed but also gives the same top level advice. Their legal knowledge is as fantastic as is their strategic thinking.’
‘Hans Kristoferitsch is very diligent and has broad knowledge. Moreover, he knows the whole Austrian legal community which is a real asset.’
‘Claudia Hanslik-Schneider gives top quality advice.’
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)
RHIM
Stadler Rheinthal AG
Work highlights
- Advised OMV on the sale of its filling station business in Germany.
- Advising Austrian Power Grid on the conclusion of contracts to cover peaks in energy demand with energy producers.
- Advising the Austrian operator of all waterways on the implementation of a pan-European communication and logistics system which is to be used for all vessels in the EU.
Austria > Public procurement Tier 2
Cerha Hempel has a strong relationship with public bodies, and is regularly instructed to assist with the reorganisation of public holdings. The group has latterly seen an uptick in work on the bidder side, although the team retains its stellar track record advising on the contracting authority side. Michaela Siegwart has experience in both areas, and leads the group alongside Georg Konrad and Stefan Huber. In terms of sector specialisms, the group has seen an increase in activity in the IT and media fields.Practice head(s):
Georg Konrad; Stefan Huber; Michaela Siegwart
Key clients
Consortium D-TOLL (Atlantia S.p.A., Kapsch TrafficCom AG, Autostrade Tech S.p.A.)
Stadler Rail Management AG
Wien Energie
Republic of Austria
GATX Rail Austria GmbH
Work highlights
- Assisted Stadler Rheintal with securing a tender for rail wagons from ÖBB.
- Advised GATX on the introduction of measures all over Europe to qualify for public tenders after convictions in Italy.
Austria > Construction Tier 3
Cerha Hempel advises clients at each stage of the construction life cycle, ranging from the acquisition of land, right through to the sale of the projects. The workload includes regulatory law advice and public procurement matters, as well on advising on disputes. Practice head Peter Vcelouch handles construction-related litigation and arbitration proceedings as well as general dispute resolution matters. Manfred Ton is a go-to lawyer in the team when it comes to transactional work, and recently advised a large German asset and investment management company on the acquisition of retail parks within its portfolio.Practice head(s):
Peter Vcelouch
Other key lawyers:
Manfred Ton
Key clients
LIDL Österreich
Flughafen Wien AG
SES Spar European Shopping Centers
thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions AG
Value One
numa group
Aberdeen Standard Investments
Work highlights
- Advising thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions AG on a large-scale industrial construction project in the south of Austria.
- Advised numa group GmbH on its expansion in the Austrian hospitality market.
- Advising Lidl Österreich on several real estate development projects, real estate acquisitions concerning new shop locations (“Lidl” markets) in Austria and on several construction law issues.
Austria > Data privacy and data protection Tier 3
Referred to as a ‘dynamic team', Cerha Hempel works with a varied client base on IT and telecommunication mandates. Such cases include technical data privacy and data security, as well as complex IT outsourcing projects and international data transfers. Group practice head Hans Kristoferitsch and technical data protection expert Boris Treml have ‘comprehensive and practical knowledge‘ in data protection and at associate level Stephanie Maier-Herbeck’s forte lies in representing clients in proceeding before the Austrian Data Protection Authority.Practice head(s):
Hans Kristoferitsch
Other key lawyers:
Boris Treml; Armin Schwabl; Stephanie Maier-Herbeck
Testimonials
‘Dynamic team with modern advice. The team works together as a practice and is solution-oriented.’
‘Hans Kristoferitsch and Boris Treml have comprehensive knowledge and practical knowledge. They offer quick client-oriented solutions that are formulated precisely and understandably, and a good understanding of the needs of our company.’
‘Responsive, open minded and creative.’
‘Great knowledge and unique empathy.’
‘Service level is very high. The response times are short and agreed response dates are kept reliably. Highly committed and professional team that is coordinated, works quickly and works efficiently.’
‘Hans Kristoferitsch is an expert and advises using his experience. His advice is always legally sound.’
Key clients
SPAR
Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH including its subsidiaries
Wien ENERGIE GmbH
Wiener Netze GmbH
Wiener Linien GmbH
ASFINAG Autobahnen- und Schnellstraßen-Finanzierungs-Aktiengesellschaft
NTS Netzwerk Telekom Service AG
CA Immobilien Anlagen AG
Hervis
Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria)
Via donau – Österreichische Wasserstraßen GmbH
Land Vorarlberg
Österreichischen Fonds zur Dokumentation von religiös motiviertem politischen Extremismus (Dokumentationsstelle Politischer Islam)
OMV AG
Coloplast
ÖRAG Immobilien Vermittlung GmbH
Hervis Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.
Austrian Power Grid AG
COVID-19 Finanzierungsagentur des Bundes GmbH
HeldYn Care GmbH
Fundermax GmbH
Isovolta AG
Work highlights
- Advised Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH and all of its subsidiaries on a group-wide project introducing a Single-Sign-On mechanism and a centralized user account for customers of all group entities.
- Advised Hervis on the introduction of an app-based members club, which is targeting customers in seven countries.
- Advised via donau on the successful implementation on an EU-wide data hub for waterway RIS-data.
Austria > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 3
Cerha Hempel‘s restructuring and insolvency team is lauded as being extremely ‘capable of managing and solving complex problems in this field‘. The group has a strong focus on creditor protection and insolvency defense. Another key element of the practice is its cross-border work, and the firm’s international network means that the group is able to seamlessly work with international clients on multi-jurisdictional issues. Thomas Trettnak is at the helm.Practice head(s):
Thomas Trettnak
Other key lawyers:
Wolfgang Sindelar; Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein; Holger Bielesz
Testimonials
‘They are always so willing to help, they inform us immediately if there is some legislation/practice change that affects our company. They have a high rate of immediate responses to our questions.’
‘Thomas Trettnak is responsive and gives us immediate, well-thought-out legal responses.’
‘We believe that each member of their team is really capable of managing and solving complex problems in this field. Their communication skills are also appreciated and they are always very professional.’
‘Thomas Trettnak has very strong knowledge of corporate and insolvency law and makes his client feel safe when it comes to corporate decisions. He has always strong capacity to understand the client’s market dynamics and is ready to involve and guide his clients when needed. He is always very responsive, even under very limited time pressure.’
‘The team provides high-quality and accurate advice even in tight timeframes. The team internally distributes work efficiently to the necessary level.’
‘The law firm offers exceptionally complete, concise and quick answers while maintaining a business attitude towards the problem being solved.’
Key clients
CELEBI Aviation Group
EMIRATES Airlines Group
NORTHWOOD International Acquisitions Ltd.
Johnson Controls Austria GmbH & Co OG
FIAT/CNH Group
SB Slipform Limited
PharOS Group
Polymed Medizin Technik Group
Shipyard de Hoop Group
Landesbank Baden Württemberg
SMS group GmbH
TechnipFMC plc
Οlympic Holidays SA-NEPTUNE HOTELS and MEDITOURS SA-Hotel Caravia Beach
RAFAKO S.A. w restrukturyzacji
Crown Worldwide GmbH
Outokumpu Ges.m.b.H.
Work highlights
- Advising Loesche Group on a complex trusteeship model regarding their contractual trust agreement with a German association that holds a large deposit in an Austrian bank.
- Advising Outokumpu group on the voluntary liquidation of its Austrian operations.
Austria > Real estate Tier 3
The deal-oriented team at Cerha Hempel is spearheaded by Peter Knobl, Manfred Ton and Mark Krenn, the last of whom ‘combines the highest levels of legal and industry knowledge with impressive negotiation and project management skills'. The offering is particularly focused on real estate funds, and practitioners represent every open real estate fund domestically. Generally, the group operates as a one-stop-stop, and regularly works on complex multi-jurisdictional real estate projects.Practice head(s):
Peter Vcelouch; Manfred Ton; Mark Krenn
Testimonials
‘In addition to providing excellent legal advice, the team is exceptionally deal-oriented.’
‘Due to the empathetic approach in difficult negotiations and the highest professional competence, the success rate for a deal is certainly high.’
‘Excellent lawyers who have high quality. They deliver comprehensible advice instead of complicated statements. Very well organised, good team spirit.’
‘Our key contact is Mark Krenn. He is very fast and reliable, always taking into account the commercial aspects of a matter. He heads a team of high quality lawyers.’
‘The real estate team of Cerha Hempel is a very well established practice that covers all legal aspects of real estate at the highest level, from transactions to solving complex legal issues. They are virtually always available and you can count on them.’
‘I would like to single out Mark Krenn, who is a very versatile lawyer. He combines the highest levels of legal and industry knowledge with impressive negotiation and project management skills, making him a real asset in particular in transactions.’
‘High quality every time. Huge network within the firm, so that the firm can cover nearly every subject.’
Key clients
ARE Austrian Real Estate
Raiffeisen Immobilien Kapitalanlage GmbH
United Benefits Holding GmbH
SPAR Austria Group
Hervis Sports Group
Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA)
Quantum AG
You Will Like it Group
Value One
SES Spar European Shopping Centers
numa group
AVEST Immobilien
LifeNet Health
areos development
Aberdeen Standard Investments
CA Immo
BUWOG
ÖRAG
Lidl Österreich
KWPS / AMISOLA Immobilien AG / NOVOREAL Immobilieninvest AG / ESTRELLA Immobilieninvest AG
ACRON
Raiffeisen Property International
VGP European Logistics
Flughafen Wien AG
Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions AG
Work highlights
- Acting as trustee for a project developed by United Benefits Holding in Vienna, encompassing more than 40 apartments.
- Advising SES Spar European Shopping Centers on joint ventures, lease agreements, transactions and construction matters.
- Advising Lidl Österreich on several real estate development projects and real estate acquisitions concerning new shop locations.
Austria > TMT Tier 3
With strong ties to the firm’s corporate and M&A, IP and regulatory teams, Cerha Hempel‘s TMT practice is active in assisting telecoms and technology companies with matters ranging from IT and software projects to data protection and cybersecurity. Telecoms regulation and questions of state aid are further areas of strength, as is advising on M&A transactions. The team is led by Hans Kristoferitsch, who advises clients on outsourcing projects, cloud computing, behavioural advertising and e-commerce matters.Practice head(s):
Hans Kristoferitsch
Other key lawyers:
Georg Konrad; Armin Schwabl
Testimonials
‘State-of-the-art legal knowledge, empathic team members.’
‘In TMT we work with Hans Kristoferitsch who in our view perfectly combines technical understanding with legal expertise. We were impressed with his business-oriented and holistic approach and will definitely involve Hans again in our next IT projects!’
‘The firm is characterised by outstanding professional competence as well as comprehensive practical expertise.’
‘It is particularly noteworthy that the practitioners of the firm are always easy to reach, almost at any time.’
‘Hans Kristoferitsch is an outstanding partner.’
Key clients
SPAR
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
web eXXpress Medien Holding GmbH
via donau – Österreichische Wasserstraßen-Gesellschaft mbH
NTT
Walt.id
VERO
HeldYn Care GmbH
JIPP.IT
Leadbacker IT
XUND
Solifi
Scout24 Group
MPG Group
IntegrySign
Stadler Rail AG
AT & T
NTS Netzwerk Telekom Service AG
Hervis Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.
ÖRAG Immobilien Vermittlung GmbH
Wirtschaftskammer Österreich
Work highlights
- Advising SPAR on all matters of IT and technology law, including assisting with the implementation of logistics solutions, consolidation of customer data and implementation of a new app-based members club.
- Assisted Walt.id with its set-up and financing.
- Advised Wirtschaftskammer Österreich and RTR on EU state aid law and Austrian subsidy law in connection with funding of films and media and a digitalisation subsidy for media companies.
Austria > Intellectual property Tier 4
Cerha Hempel provides support on a range of IP matters, having strengthened its patents capacity in the past year through the acquisition of new clients in the life sciences sector, while continuing to stand out for its knowledge of food-related IP issues. The firm is active in administering trade mark portfolios and advises on IP licensing, the protection of trade secrets and the handling of employee inventions. Mark Krenn, who specialises in distribution and licensing agreements, heads the team.Practice head(s):
Mark Krenn
Other key lawyers:
Alina Alavi Kia
Testimonials
‘Deep understanding of the company’s IP issues.’
‘Good understanding of the subject matter, fast responses to our requests.’
‘Alina Alavi Kia is immensely convincing with her expertise in trademark law. Practice-oriented solutions and legally sound advice, quick availability and uncomplicated communication are among her strengths.’
Key clients
McDonald’s Corporation
SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG
LEAD Horizon GmbH
Michael Pachleitner Group
Polimaster Holding GmbH
Meero SAS
Work highlights
- Administering McDonald’s Austrian trade mark portfolio, including conducting trade mark clearance searches for McDonald’s in relation to the Austrian market and new product launches.
- Advising LEAD Horizon on multiple unfair competition and IP issues in relation to product marketing and advertising due to certain restriction of such measures within the healthcare sector.
- Advising SPAR Austria in relation to food law, copyright, IT agreements and licensing, consumer protection, media law and unfair competition.
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 |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Dr Johannes Aehrenthal | PartnerHead of Department Corporate & CommercialAreas of practice: Mergers & Acquisitions Corporate… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Holger Bielesz | Partner Areas of practice: Litigation & Arbitration White Collar Crime Compliance &… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Albert Birkner | Managing Partner Head of Department of Takeovers & Antitrust Areas of practice:… | View Profile |
![]() | Mag Julian Feichtinger | PartnerHead of the Employment Law teamAreas of practice: Employment Law | View Profile |
![]() | Mag Heinrich Foglar-Deinhardstein | PartnerAreas of practice: Corporate Insolvency & Restructuring Mergers & Acquistions Private Clients… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Volker Glas | Partner Areas of practice: Capital Markets Banking & Finance Corporate Private Equity… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Clemens Hasenauer | Managing Partner Head of Department Corporate Transactions Areas of practice: Mergers &… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Stefan Huber | PartnerAreas of practice: Public Law & European Law Compliance & Investigations White… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Peter Knobl | Partner Areas of practice: Banking & Finance Capital Markets Tax Law Compliance… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Bernhard Kofler-Senoner | Partner Head of Competition Practice GroupAreas of practice: Antitrust & Competition Compliance… | View Profile |
![]() | Mag Georg Konrad | PartnerAreas of practice: Corporate Insolvency & Restructuring Mergers & Acquistions Compliance &… | View Profile |
![]() | Mag Mark Krenn | Partner Areas of practice: Real Estate Mergers & Acquisitions Corporate CEE IP… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Hans Kristoferitsch | PartnerHead of Department Regulatory and White CollarAreas of practice: Public Law &… | View Profile |
![]() | Univ Prof Dr Peter Lewisch | Senior CounselAreas of practice: White Collar Crime Public Law & European Law… | View Profile |
![]() | MMag Dr Michael Mayer | CounselAreas of practice: Antitrust & Competition Distribution Law Compliance & Investigations | View Profile |
![]() | Mag Lorenz Pracht | PartnerAreas of practice: Mergers & Acquisitions Capital Markets Compliance & Investigations Corporate… | View Profile |
![]() | MMag Johannes Prinz | PartnerAreas of practice: Tax Law Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Michaela Siegwart | PartnerAreas of practice: Public Procurement Litigation & Arbitration IP & Unfair Competition | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Benedikt Spiegelfeld em. | Of CounselAreas of practice: Litigation & Arbitration Distribution Law | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Harald Stingl | PartnerAreas of practice: Mergers & Acquisitions Corporate Banking & Finance Insolvency &… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Thomas Trettnak | PartnerAreas of practice: Corporate Mergers & Acquistions Insolvency & Restructuring Private Equity… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Benjamin Twardosz | PartnerAreas of practice: Tax Law White Collar Crime Corporate Public Law &… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Peter Vcelouch | PartnerHead of Department Real Estate and ConstructionAreas of practice: Real Estate &… | View Profile |
![]() | Hon-ProfDr Irene Welser | Senior Partner Head of Department Contentious Business Areas of practice: Litigation &… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr Anna Wolf-Posch, LL.M. | Partner Areas of practice: Antitrust & Competition Compliance & Investigations Mergers &… | View Profile |
![]() | Dr 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