David Rosenthal steers VISCHER’s experienced data privacy practice, which is particularly well versed in the movement of sensitive data or applications to the cloud. The team is regarded as being ‘extremely knowledgeable, creative and responsive’ as well as ‘on top of legal developments’. ‘Leading innovator’ Rosenthal leverages his background in software development to advise clients on information technology, data protection and e-discovery. Rolf Auf Der Maur counts digitalisation, online businesses and strong capabilities across data law in his arsenal, while Christian Wyss is notable active in the life sciences sector.
‘The Vischer privacy team around their lead David Rosenthal are among the best in Switzerland. They are extremely knowledgeable, creative and responsive.’
‘David Rosenthal is constantly innovating new tools or ways to assess risks.’
‘I am a HUGE fan of David and his team.’
‘All team members are highly qualified, fast, and helpful.’
‘The data protection team I am working with is extremely professional and knowledgeable. They are true experts in their field. Despite many uncertainties surrounding this complex legal field, they are always on top of legal developments, latest case law in and outside Switzerland, and they provide clear and hands on legal advice that we can really work with.’
‘David Rosenthal is not only a leading lawyer in Switzerland’s world of data protection, he also has expertise as a developer. On top of that, he willingly shares a lot of his know-how freely and makes it available to everybody. I think he is somebody who really tries to make the world a better place when it comes to data protection, and I admire this spirit. ’
‘Very approachable, fast response time, very high quality and excellent knowledge.’
‘David Rosenthal is the number one opinion leader in data protection.’
Key clients
World Economic Forum
Allianz
AXA
Swisscom
Ringier
Additiv AG
CH Media TV AG
UBS
Raiffeisen
Comparis
Open Systems
Lyfegen
Radicant
Bucher Industries
Insel Spital
Implenia
Medbase
Viseca
Twint
Work highlights
Implemented its Intra-Group Data Transfer Agreement in over two dozen international groups of companies, with up to 400 entities.
Advised over two dozen banks (including of the Cantonal Banks of Berne, Lucerne, Argovia, Basel and Zurich), cantonal hospitals (including of Basel and Bern) and public authorities (including Zurich) on how to move to the cloud.
Redesigned the data protection governance framework at several large Swiss groups of companies to protect management and data protection officers from being criminally sanctioned under the revised Swiss Data Protection Act and developed a reporting tool for that purpose.
VISCHER’s employment team supports clients on issues such as work permits, executive compensation, data protection, staffing, social security, and pension. The team also has particular expertise in internal investigations on harassment and discrimination. The team is headed by Marc Ph. Prinz, who has strong expertise in labour and employment law issues in the context of reorganisations, restructurings (mass dismissals), and transactions. Jeannine Dehmelt and Anela Lucic’s practice covers both contentious and non-contentious matters. Florian Schaub supports on lease of staff and recruiting issues, whilst Gian Geel has expertise in employment litigation.
‘Marc Ph. Prinz has always been extremely responsive and very helpful. He takes a very collaborative approach to working with other lawyers.’
‘Marc Ph. Prinz has a very precise sense of the advice required in this field. He is target driven and efficient.’
‘Great expertise in employment law and investigation matters, putting human beings in the heart of their legal expertise, thus making a difference from a legal standpoint and risk management.’
‘Marc Ph. Prinz, Partner at Vischer AG, provided very strong support to our firm; his understanding of issues and situations and fine legal advice and assessment of facts was greatly appreciated.’
‘Marc Ph. Prinz has outstanding knowledge and expertise in his practice and is a leading lawyer in his field in Switzerland, which makes the client feeling at ease at any times in walking together in solving and delivering on any projects.’
‘A highly differentiating factor is the speed of delivery, the quality of the delivery, the commitment to us as a client, regardless of if we are dealing with a small or large project.’
‘Marc Ph. Prinz is very responsive and always suggests workable, outcome orientated solutions.’
Key clients
Amcor
Invacare Corporation
Labcorp (Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings)
Jet Aviation
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Clariant
Nobel Biocare
Hyundai Electric Switzerland Ltd.
Robeco Switzerland Ltd.
Helsinn Ltd.
Hays plc
DWS Switzerland Ltd
Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials Ltd.
Work highlights
Advised Amcor in implementing restrictive covenants for global employment contracts and are advising Amcor in various employment litigation counsel.
Assist Hays (Switzerland) as regards all matters involving the highly regulated staffing business (placement and staff leasing).
Advised Clariant in the overhaul of its short-term incentive structure and drafted the relevant global bonus plans.
The ‘highly skilled‘ team at VISCHER acts for a diverse client base of medtech, digital health, and pharma companies in matters concerning the market launch of products, off-label use, and cross-border IVF related issues. Stefan Kohler and Matthias Staehelin jointly lead the team from Zurich and Basel respectively. Staehelin is an expert in transactional matters within the life sciences sector, frequently advising on seed and series financings, M&A, and royalty purchase agreements. Kohler advises both Swiss and overseas corporates on technology transfers and R&D agreements, all whilst acting as an associate judge in the Swiss Federal Patent Court. Christian Wyss is known for handling a broad range of issues, including partnering deals and fundraisings, regularly assisting investors, start-ups, and license terms.
‘This is one of the best firms I have worked together with. The reason for this is specifically Christian Wyss. Their work is highly diligent and they find innovative but market-proven ways on how to reach a desired outcome.’
‘Highly skilled, fast-to-respond, agile, flexible, great collaboration and communication.’
Key clients
Redbiotec
Mosanna Therapeutics
Forty51 Ventures
Norgine Ventures
Versantis
Oculis
Anokion
Resistell
AMR Action Fund
GlycoEra AG
Medartis
ATANIS Biotech
Sustainable Health AG
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Bausch Health
ten23 Health AG
Bachem Holding AG
CombiGene AB
Anjarium Biosciences AG
Novaremed
Spexis
Combioxin SA
evitria Group
ImmunOs Therapeutics AG
Anaveon AG
Cimeio Therapeutics
MiniNaviDent AG
T3 Pharmaceuticals
ClearView Healthcare Partners
RELIEF THERAPEUTICS HOLDING SA
Work highlights
Advised AMR Action Fund, a public-private partnership investing in new antimicrobial therapeutics, in leading the CHF 32.6m Series C financing of BioVersys AG.
Advised Oculis Holding SA on listing its shares at Nasdaq via a SPAC transaction with European Biotech Acquisition Corp.
Represented ten23 Health against a leading pharmaceutical company before the Swiss Federal Patent Court. ten23 Health’s manufacturing activities for a biosimilar in ophthalmology were challenged.
VISCHER supports companies and public institutions with cloud migration projects, specifically when relating to sensitive data and applications, regulatory solutions for streaming media and entertainment content, and licensing agreements. The team is co-headed by Rolf Auf Der Maur, who advises domestic and international companies on TMT-related matters, especially regarding digitalisation and online businesses, and David Rosenthal, who has broad experience in advising and representing national and multinational clients in the areas of data protection, technology law, eDiscovery, and technology arbitration. Christian Wyss handles collaborations and joint ventures, and has extensive experience with technology transfer and licensing as well as technology-related issues in M&A deals.
‘The firm works in a very straightforward way. They combine expertise and what is relevant to the business well together. I appreciate the cooperation very much.’
‘I have worked closely with David Rosenthal for years and appreciate his pragmatic approach. I know whenever I have a problem in the area of data protection, IT, technology, that I can rely on him there.’
‘Vischer has a team that has a lot of experience in the TMT market, in addition to international know-how also in the local Swiss market. Both are essential for us. What sets Vischer apart is the parallel expertise available in tax issues relating to the TMT market. This reduces the interfaces in a project and helps keep administrative costs low.’
‘Vischer is very professional and still remains agile. Vischer reacts quickly and well in unexpected situations. Vischer, especially Rolf auf der Maur, is a very strong negotiator with a clear view of entrepreneurial interests. Rolf auf der Maur and his team have helped us several times in difficult negotiations to find a solution that took our interests into account and was acceptable to the other party.’
Key clients
Netflix
World Economic Forum
Allianz
AXA
Swisscom
Ringier
Additiv AG
CH Media TV AG
UBS
Raiffeisen
Comparis
Open Systems
Lyfegen
Radicant
Bucher Industries
Insel Spital
Implenia
Twint
Work highlights
Advised Netflix on copyright issues on the Swiss market.
Advised over two dozen banks (including of the Cantonal Banks of Berne, Lucerne, Argovia, Basel and Zurich), cantonal hospitals (including of Basel and Bern) and public authorities (including Zurich) on how to move to the cloud.
Advised two Swiss banks and one health insurance company in implementing generative AI solutions involving sensitive and highly confidential data.
Praised for its ‘responsiveness and in-depth knowledge of the market’, VISCHER’s capabilities include the listing of domestic and international equity, debt and issuance programmes, among others. The team also possesses substantial expertise in managing an extensive variety of bond issues. Leading the practice is Adrian Dörig, who demonstrates strengths in structured finance transactions, alongside various regulatory and contractual issues. Markus Guggenbühl bolsters the practice with his considerable experience advising on debt, equity and hybrid financial instruments. Robert Bernet fields a strong practice in the corporate sphere, and Jana Essebier possesses a wealth of experience in assisting clients with derivatives, structured products and other financial instruments.
Practice head(s):
Adrian Dörig
Other key lawyers:
Markus Guggenbühl; Robert Bernet; Jana Essebier; Matthias Staehelin; Stefan Grieder
Testimonials
‘I love working with the team because of their responsiveness and in-depth knowledge of the market.’
‘Jana Essebier shows a a true interest in their clients and thoroughly know what moves them.’
‘They are very hands on and responsive.’
‘Vischer’s team is pragmatic, intellectually rigorous and strategic. Their no nonsense approach is value added in court proceedings in Switzerland and highly appreciated by clients and courts alike.’
Key clients
Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited
RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding SA
Elementum Metals Securities plc
PricewaterhouseCoopers AG acting as liquidator of Lehman Brothers in Switzerland
Kuros Biosciences AG
Spexis AG (formerly Polyphor AG)
Forty51 Advisors AG
Work highlights
Acting as Swiss legal advisor to legendary hedge fund Elliott in relation to various matters with Swiss ends or involvements.
Advised Relief Therapeutics Holding SA in essentially all its major (capital markets) transactions and on compliance with capital markets and stock exchange rules.
Advising regarding listing at the SIX Swiss Exchange of, and investment in, global depository receipts (GDRs) of Chinese issuers representing their A shares listed at the Shanghai or Shenzhen Stock Exchange.
‘High-quality’VISCHER possesses a wealth of experience in the enforcement of foreign judgments, banking disputes, and insurance litigation. Zurich-based ‘service-oriented’ commercial litigator Daniele Favalli, Basel-based Thomas Weibel and Geneva-based Gerald Virieux steer the practice. Weibel’s arsenal of capabilities includes matters arising from the financial services, defence and aviation sectors, and Virieux’s strengths lie in cross-border disputes, including handling foreign court decisions and enforcing arbitral awards. Karin Graf frequently handles matters pertaining to corporate, commercial trade and banking matters. Managing partner Christian Oetiker is a key name to note, with Felix C Meier-Dieterle enjoying a strong reputation in attachment law. Lorenz Ehrler and Raphael Butz are also recommended.
‘The team’s strength lies in its availability and great understanding of the customer’s needs. Their pragmatism and good knowledge of court proceedings is very much appreciated. ’
‘VISCHER’s litigation team performs high-quality, thorough work with a high success rate. ’
‘Thomas Weibel is very well known in the market. It is great work with him. He is extremely smart and a very good tactician. ’
‘Thomas Weibel is highly competent and professional subject matter expert and lawyer with an ability to inject strategic thinking and business acumen into discussions coupled with a mindset to find practical solutions to challenges. ’
‘The team has highly technical skills, coupled with the ability to communicate effectively and a problem-solving attitude’
‘Thomas Weibel is a highly responsive and dedicated professional. He combines excellent technical skills with the ability to provide sound, practical advice to clients in a clear and effective manner’
‘The team work is exceptional. Only one main contact is appointed for each case. All research, analysis and further work relating to the case is done by cooperation between the in-house experts under the lead of the responsible lawyer. No need for the involvement of the client into the coordination of the process. ’
‘Karin Graf – excellent professional. Exceptional analytical and litigation skills. Very experienced professional with negotiation skills. Highly appreciated knowledge of the legal practice and understanding of the weaknesses/strength of each of the litigation parties. ’
Key clients
MCH Group, Art Basel Hong Kong / Art Basel Miami Beach
AIG
EBT swiss engineering AG
Huntsman
Pirelli
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Sakto Corporation
T-Systems (Deutsche Telekom)
Work highlights
Advising Sakto in defamation litigation against a Swiss NGO concerning allegations of money laundering and corruption.
Advising PricewaterhouseCoopers for many years as liquidator of Lehman Brothers Finance SA, including defending an action from the Italian pension fund Enasarco. The case is currently before the Swiss Federal Supreme Court.
Advising MCH in the enforcement of claims against Lloyds under a cancellation policy. Currently, MCH filed an appeal to the Swiss Federal Court to obtain evidence regarding the members of the syndicates under the policy.
Described as ‘dedicated, responsive and professional’, VISCHER’s fintech practice has recently been engaged in crypto-related and cloud-related matters as well as security token offerings. The practice is led by Jana Essebier, who fields a diverse practice that encompasses blockchain-related advice, mobile payments, crowdfunding and complex financial instruments. Stefan Grieder specialises in the law on collective capital investments, while Christian Wyss’s capabilities range from transfer and licensing agreements to contract manufacturing agreements. Rolf Auf Der Maur has established extensive knowledge in the digitisation and online platforms sphere.
‘The team understands to bring regulatory experts and experts in IT law and data protection to the table, ensuring a holistic and consistent advice, acting as a one stop shop.’
‘A professional and very effective team, they know what they are dealing with and when facing a challenge, they resolve it in the outmost professional manner.’
‘Dedicated, responsive and professional. They do not waste your time and every exchange is effective and straight to the point.’
‘Jana Essebier is very smart and very easy to work with.’
‘The team is notable in being able to provide technical advice on highly complex areas of law while also remaining practical and keeping the client’s interests at heart. ’
‘We have worked with Jana Essebier and found her to be highly experienced and detail oriented, but also able to communicate complex legal issues in a way that can be easily understood.’
With capabilities across regulatory and corporate issues, VISCHER’s insurance practice incorporates a variety of coverage issues, extending from financial line and property policies to D&O and crime policies. Litigation expert Daniele Favalli steers the practice, routinely representing major insurance companies in coverage analysis, claims and litigation as well as expertise in the policy advisory field. Adrian Dörig bolsters the practice with his experience in handling structured finance transactions.
Stefan Kohler and Lorenz Ehrler jointly spearhead VISCHER‘s ‘proactive and client-oriented’ intellectual property practice, which possesses significant experience in undertaking patent and trade mark litigation. Kohler is well-versed in the pharma, biotech and medical tech sectors, handling a diverse range of issues from technology transfer and licensing to R&D co-operations, while Ehrler contributes his expertise in brand protection and trade mark matters to the practice. Rolf Auf Der Maur is particularly prominent in the media sector, being regularly entrusted by clients to assist with copyright and trade mark issues.
Practice head(s):
Stefan Kohler; Lorenz Ehrler
Testimonials
‘The team is very diverse, and the people all complement each other with their different expertise. A seemingly overall low fluctuation of the team members ensures that long-term relationships can be formed and maintained. Every member we have worked with has a “play-to-win”-approach which was very appreciated by the legal team and our management.’
‘We have been working with Stefan Kohler on different projects, some of which have been challenging to deal with besides the day-to-day business. His legal experience, in-depth technical understanding and knowledge as well as a business mindset helped greatly in finding suitable legal solutions. It has always been a pleasure to work with him and his team.’
‘VISCHER demonstrated exceptional qualities in responsiveness, reliability, and flexibility. They consistently exhibited a proactive and client-oriented approach, ensuring that our collaboration progressed smoothly and efficiently.’
‘Excellent team of IP Lawyers.’
‘Stefan Kohler is a highly committed and competent attorney for litigation, but also for contractual issues. Fantastic to work with and they have a good instinct.’
‘I have the privilege of working with this exceptional legal team specialized in IP law. Their expertise and dedication is outstanding. They went above and beyond, providing me with top-notch service. Their skills and commitment to excellence truly set them apart. I highly recommend their services. They really go the extra mile.’
‘It is great working with Stefan Kohler, the exceptional team leader of a highly skilled and motivated lawyer team. Stefan’s leadership is exemplary, driving his team to deliver outstanding results. The team’s expertise and dedication are unmatched. I highly recommend Stefan and his team for their exceptional legal services.’
‘Vischer has a team that has a lot of experience in the IP market – in addition to international know-how also in the local Swiss market. Both are essential for us. What sets Vischer apart is the parallel expertise available in tax issues relating to the IP market. This reduces the interfaces in a project and helps keep administrative costs low.’
Key clients
Netflix
CH Media TV AG
Swisscom
MyTV AG
Ten23 Health
Delica AG
Work highlights
Defended an action (provisional measure) against Ten23 Health at the Federal Patent Court.
Advised Delica on a licensing and development collaboration agreement for Delica’s new technology for an innovative coffee beverage system in which the coffee capsules are fully compostable.
Represents Delica AG in the patent dispute on Nespresso-compatible aluminum coffee capsules before the Federal Patent Court and coordinates the parallel proceedings in Spain and Germany.
VISCHER‘s public sector and regulatory team, which is led by Stefan Rechsteiner, has a particular focus on the energy and healthcare industries. The team provides comprehensive service to clients, including regulatory and strategic advice, as well as support in contentious matters. Rechsteiner is ‘highly skilled’ in advising companies active in regulated markets, and regularly represents clients before administrative courts and regulators. Michael Waldner, who leads the healthcare team, is highly active on behalf of hospitals and other groups active in the healthcare sector. IP expert Stefan Kohler and antitrust specialist Klaus Neff support the team.
Michael Waldner; Stefan Kohler; Klaus Neff; Adrian Gautschi; Joel Drittenbass; Livia Camenisch; Barbara Meier
Testimonials
‘Vischer’s team is pragmatic, intellectually rigorous and strategic. Their no-nonsense approach is value added in court proceedings in Switzerland and highly appreciated by clients and courts alike.’
‘Stefan Rechsteiner is a highly skilled public law litigator and advocate with a great sense for effective tactics.’
‘Adrian Gautschi is very knowledgeable and experienced in public law disputes.’
VISCHER is a full-service law firm that provides advice on all Swiss legal and tax matters in the real estate market. The team has extensive knowledge in handling the development of urban housing projects, including zoning, parceling, land register matters, and notarial matters. Roland M Müller , who focuses on advising complex real estate transactions and investments, co-heads the practice group with Maxime Chollet, who has extensive experience in drafting and negotiating agreements for real estate-related issues. Andreas C Albrecht supports complex real estate projects with special expertise in planning and zoning law. Raphael Butz leads the team in litigating planning and construction disputes, conflicts in connection with real estate transactions as well as landlord-tenant disputes.
‘The team’s strengths are its availability, its competent people and its reliability. ’
Key clients
University Hospital Basel
Procimmo SA, Le-Mont-sur-Lausanne
Meininger Hotels Group
Spiegelfeld Immobilien AG
Fédération des Eaux-Vives
Einwohnergemeinde Reinach
Migros/Sigma, Partner Central Group
Work highlights
Advising University Hospital Basel in a CHF 390 million construction project (new clinic building).
Advising the Fédération des Eaux-Vives in connection with the construction of the Atria, a rent-controlled building (155 apartments, hotel etc.) in the new Geneva disctrict of the Gare des Eaux-Vives.
Advising PROCIMMO SWISS COMMERCIAL FUND II (PSCFII) in the acquisition of the SUN and VSP industry sites from SUN Bürglen AG.
VISCHER provides clients with a full sports law service including broadcasting rights, betting, marketing and merchandising, sponsor agreements, infrastructure, and transfer agreements. Former Switzerland beach soccer international Moritz Jäggy and Robert Bernet. Jaggy has a particular focus on football, investments, sporting venues, sponsoring, and e-sports whilst Bernet has extensive corporate law experience. Rolf Auf Der Maur has particular experience marketing of TV and media rights matters for sporting events.
Rolf Auf de Maur; Christian Oetiker; Nadia Tarolli Schmidt; Pauline Pfirter
Key clients
Decathlon Sports Switzerland SA
Supponor Ltd.
PUMA Retail AG, PUMA SE (Swiss Branch) and Mount PUMA AG
SWISSLOS Interkantonale Landeslotterie
Swiss Football Association
Swiss Beach Soccer GmbH
Football Association of the region Northwestern Switzerland
Athletes Network & Athletes Academy AG
DAZN
Swiss Olympic
Tennis Club Old Boys Basel
Bodyclub24 GmbH
Dosenbach-Ochsner AG Schuhe und Sport
Work highlights
Advised the Athletes Network on all legal aspects of its business. The Athletes Network supports active athletes in the transition from the sporting career to the post-sports career.
Advised Supponor, in the negotiations of agreements for the implementation of virtual advertising with UEFA and Infront.
Advised DAZN on the Swiss legal aspects of its business, including the acquisition of media rights from Swiss based media rights holders.
VISCHER‘s growing team advises banks, insurance companies, corporations, and large pharmaceutical companies on domestic and international tax planning, as well as the tax aspects of mergers and acquisitions, and real estate transactions. The group also handles tax litigation, VAT, and capital markets and corporate finance matters. Basel team head Nadia Tarolli Schmidt handles international employment tax and social security matters. The Zurich team is co-headed by VAT specialist and deputy judge Tobias F. Rohner and Christoph Niederer, who leads on complex international financing and M&A transactions, as well as transfer pricing matters. At the associate level Adrian Briner, Beatrice Leistner, Patrik Fisch, and Nora Heuberger are names to note.
‘The tax practitioners have a huge experience in all tax related aspects, be it company related direct or indirect taxes, or be it any product related taxes. A key strength of the company is their swift reactivity to any inquiry. I especially like their practical experience and their risk / reward approach to taxes.’
‘Christoph Niederer is a very esteemed partner. His immediate responsiveness is absolutely key for us – even during his holidays, his reaction time is same day, which we consider exceptional. The quality of work provided is outstanding.’
‘Excellent specialist knowledge and high service level.’
‘Very competent in tax matters; understanding clients’ needs.’
‘The team’s ethic, pragmatism, and their problem-solving mindset is highly appreciated. The efficiency is great, and we never feel that the clock is running in vain.’
‘Great network in Switzerland and good professional relation with the tax authorities, which facilitates the anticipation of the answers from authorities and the proactive reaction from the client side. ’
VISCHER advises and represents airline companies on the cantonal, federal, European, and international levels in questions regarding damage, insurance, contract negotiations, acquisition of aircraft, and regulatory matters. Practice head Peter Kühn supports major clients with contract, transport and aviation law related issues. Christoph Niederer and Tobias F. Rohner advise companies in the transport industry on tax-related matters whilst Urs Haegi supports on corporate work.
Regularly advising and representing Swiss International Air Lines and various other Lufthansa group companies in relation to certain legal and tax matters in Switzerland.
Advising and representing Jet Aviation Ltd in various litigation matters and transactional work.
Advising and representing Qatar Airways group companies on their cross-border and Switzerland business.
VISCHER‘s ‘pragmatic, intellectually rigorous and strategic’ team advises on a broad range of banking and finance issues including general debt finance, corporate financing transactions, regulatory matters, fintech, and banking litigation. The team is headed by Adrian Dörig who is experienced in advising life sciences enterprises and debt fund lenders on debt financing transactions and other structured finance transactions. Markus Guggenbühl specialises in capital market transactions related to debt, equity, and hybrid financial instruments as well as debt financing and financial services regulations. Jana Essebier has extensive expertise handling derivatives, structured instruments, and other financial instruments. Stefan Grieder advises banks, securities traders, and asset managers on supervisory law matters.
Practice head(s):
Adrian Dörig
Other key lawyers:
Markus Guggenbühl; Jana Essebier; Stefan Grieder; Christian Schneiter; Seraina Jenny-Tsering
Testimonials
‘VISCHER is highly recognized in M&A, Private Equity, Debt Financing, Capital Markets (debt, equity and hybrid, including Tier 1 capital for banks) as well as banking and insurance regulation.’
‘Sharp-minded Markus Guggenbühl and Adrian Dörig are best known in the market – extremely responsive, straightforward and solution driven. Both have vast experience in banking and finance matters and are fully committed to top quality of work.’
‘They are technically excellent and familiar with cross-border financing process. The team is very organised and takes a practical approach to matters.’
‘Christian Schneiter is great to work with and is very diligent. Seems to know Swiss law inside and out and consistently provides well-reasoned solutions.’
‘Christian Schneiter is a very friendly and thorough lawyer. It has been easy and enjoyable to work with him and his team as the local Swiss counsel on our transaction.’
‘Vischer’s team is pragmatic, intellectually rigorous and strategic. Their no nonsense approach is value added in court proceedings in Switzerland and highly appreciated by clients and courts alike.’
‘The team is able to adapt to the situation. They act precisely with a strong commercial approach. In doing so, they think for their client and act in their interests.’
Key clients
E3 Holding AG
Fangda Carbon New Material Co., Ltd.
Oberland Capital Management LLC
QoQa Brew SA
AFINUM Management AG
Bank CIC
Bank J. Safra Sarasin
Battery Ventures
Bregal Unternehmerkapital GmbH
Dermavant Sciences, Inc.
Elementum Metals Securities plc
Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited
Eternyze AG
Forty51 Advisors AG
Hardinge Inc.
IKB Deutsche Industriebank AG
Invision AG
Joh. Berenberg, Gossler & Co. KG (Berenberg Bank)
Loomis
Macquarie Bank
MUFG Bank, Ltd.
Norgine Ventures
Operational Riskdata eXchange Association (ORX) (www.orx.org)
Paprec Holding
PricewaterhouseCoopers AG
Privet Fund Management
RELIEF THERAPEUTICS Holding AG
Rigeto Unternehmerkapital GmbH
UBS
Work highlights
Advised Oberland Capital Management LLC in connection with a significant finance transaction with the Helsinn Group.
Advised Battery Ventures in connection with a complex acquisition financing transaction.
Advising Elementum Metals Securities plc on Swiss law issues pertaining to the issuance of and listing of a number of exchange-traded commodities and the custody of the underlying metal they represent.
Spearheaded by Jürg Luginbühl, Gian-Andrea Caprez and Damien Conus, VISCHER’s ‘pragmatic and very service-oriented’ practice regularly undertakes work in the life sciences, ICT, energy and luxury goods sectors. Luginbühl is particularly proficient in managing M&A and private equity transactions, while Caprez contributes his experience in private M&A, corporate governance and venture capital to the practice. Both are based in the firm’s Zurich office, while Conus, who is based in Geneva, acts for a diverse client base in private equity transactions. Matthias Staehelin is noted for his expertise in the life sciences industry and Robert Bernet is well versed in handling an array of corporate transactions.
‘Great availability, extensive experience in M&A transactions, strong negotiation skills and strong client orientation.’
‘I consider Jürg Luginbühl to be one of the best M&A lawyers in Switzerland. A very strong negotiator and deal enabler.’
‘Easy to work with, pragmatic and very service-oriented dealmakers.’
‘The team has superior knowledge of the M&A field. The team has a good mix of skills, with Jürg Luginbühl being exceptionally good at constructing the contract, reviewing the proposal and negotiating with the other party.’
‘The team is able to adapt to the situation. They act precisely.’
‘They always have a strong commercial approach. In doing so, they think for their client and act in their interests.’
‘As a client you feel well supported and accompanied throughout the process. In addition, working with the team is fun and enjoyable.’
Key clients
Berlinger & Co. AG
Flowable Holding AG
SHS Gesellschaft für Beteiligungsmanagement mbH
Sowind Group SA
Nautilus Inc.
E3 Holding AG
Maxburg Capital Partners GmbH
Borromin Capital Management GmbH
FairCap GmbH
BID Equity GmbH
Groupe Mutuel Holding SA
Wipro Limited
Trustar Capital
Eleven Sports Network Limited
Steele Compliance Solutions
Mainova
e-hoi
Tokai Cobex
Snyk Ltd.
AFINUM
Equistone Partners Europe
PDS Pathology Data Systems AG
Polyphor Ltd.
Bregal Unternehmerkapital GmbH
Migros-Genossenschafts-Bund
Orell Füessli Thalia AG
deepCDR Biologics AG
Clinique Matignon Suisse SA
Advanz Pharma
MCM Fashion Group
Deichmann Shoes
Rigeto Unternehmerkapital GmbH
Invision Private Equity
Helvetica Capital
Joh. Berenberg, Gossler & Co. KG
Medartis Holdings AG
Oculis SA
Swisscom AG
Syngenta
Swisspower Renewables AG
Kuros Biosciences Ltd
Jacobs Holding AG
Sonnet BioTherapeutics, Inc.
Work highlights
Advised AFINUM on all legal aspects of the sale of its stake in Cotta Collection AG Upholstered Furniture-Group to L-GAM and to Gschwend AG.
Advised the sellers and the management on all legal aspects of the sale of and reinvestment in Mimacom Flowable Group.
Advised Oculis Holding AG on the business combination with European Biotech Acquisition Corp. and the subsequent listing of its shares on NASDAQ.
‘Responsive, competent and friendly’,VISCHER operates for clients across an extensive range of mandates, including in connection with cartels, distribution agreements, private enforcement and public procurement. The team holds an established presence in growth industries, such as TMT, data, and banking. Practice head Klaus Neff is noted for his ability in relation to appellate cases.
With teams located in Basel, Geneva, and Zurich, VISCHER is well-equipped to advise both creditors and debtors involved in complex domestic and cross-border insolvency and restructuring mandates. The team is particularly strong in distressed M&A, insolvency related litigation, corporate finance, and voluntary liquidation. Practice head Benedict Christ has extensive expertise in advising national and international clients on the full lifecycle of business activities from entry into the market to implementing and exit or restructuring issues. David Jenny often acts as liquidator and advises governing bodies of corporations and creditors on insolvency matters. Jana Essebier advises clients in pre- and post- insolvency situations, with a special focus on bank bankruptcy proceedings as does banking and finance partner Markus Guggenbühl. Thomas Weibel has vast knowledge of debt collection matters, including attachments and enforcements of freezing orders.
‘VISCHER is highly recognised in banking insolvency matters.’
‘Markus Guggenbühl and Jana Essebier are fabulous.’
Key clients
Various holders of Credit Suisse bail-in debt instruments
Various holders of Credit Suisse AT 1 bonds
Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP which in turn represents a multitude of holders of Credit Suisse AT 1 bonds
PricewaterhouseCoopers AG acting as liquidator of Lehman Brothers in Switzerland
Co-investor in a distressed equipment manufacturer
FINMA
Russian Bank in bankruptcy
Liquidator of German estate
Creditors of Weidenareal Metall AG (formerly Swissmetal Industries AG) in Nachlassliquidation
Investor in a fintec company
Work highlights
Advising holders of Credit Suisse AT 1 bonds in challenging in Federal court FINMA’s (Swiss bank regulator) decision to write down the AT1 bonds with a nominal value of approximately CHF 16 bn.
Advising the Swiss liquidator in the Lehman Brother insolvency on all aspects of the Swiss Lehman entities liquidation.
Advising creditors in the liquidation of Weidenareal Metall AG (formerly named Swissmetal Industries AG)
Consisting of a ‘strong bench of experienced arbitration experts’, VISCHER stands out for its abilities within the fields of construction, aviation, transport and insurance. ‘Conscientious and thoughtful’Daniele Favalli, ‘outstanding’Christian Oetiker and Gerald Virleux jointly helm the department. Karin Graf particularly focuses on corporate disputes, commercial trade and banking matters, among others, while Thomas Weibel possesses a strong grounding in the financial services, defence, and aviation sectors.
Practice head(s):
Daniele Favalli; Christian Oetiker; Gérald Virieux
‘VISCHER have a true international practice, enabling them to work on matters and cases involving multiple jurisdictions.’
‘Christian Oetiker is an outstanding arbitration practitioner – he is very bright and fast, and always produces brilliant quality.’
‘Daniele Favalli is a conscientious and thoughtful arbitrator.’
‘The people are the key. Vischer has a strong bench of experienced arbitration experts. Christian Oetiker chiefly among them. The experience in a wide range of disputes across boarders and involving complex fact patterns and sophisticated parties makes them my go to firm for arbitration matters.’
‘Christian Oetiker has exceptional experience combined with his keen intellect make him a dangerous adversary; he is someone you want fighting for you.’
‘The team has highly technical skills, coupled with the ability to communicate effectively and a problem-solving attitude ’
‘Thomas Weibel is a highly responsive and dedicated professional. He combines excellent technical skills with the ability to provide sound, practical advice to clients in a clear and effective manner ’
‘Karin Graf is a specialist in international arbitration and a highly regarded arbitrator.’
Key clients
MCH Group, Art Basel Hong Kong / Art Basel Miami Beach
AIG
EBT swiss engineering AG
Huntsman
Pirelli
PricewaterhouseCoopers
Sakto Corporation
T-Systems (Deutsche Telekom)
Work highlights
VISCHER >
Firm Profile
Main Contacts
Department
Name
Email
Telephone
Antitrust and Competition / Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
The firm: VISCHER is one of the largest Swiss law firms, with more than 100 fee earners. The firm supports its clients in a solution oriented manner as regards all aspects of commercial, tax and regulatory law. Its professionals are organised into more than 20 practice teams, each of them under the direction of experienced partners. This enables them to effectively handle instructions, always tailored to the requirements of the individual project.
Practice areas:
Antitrust and competition
Aviation
Banking and finance
China desk
Civil law notaries
Corporate and commercial
Data and privacy
Employment
Energy
Environmental, social and governance (ESG)
Health care
Immigration
Information and communication technology
Intellectual property
International judicial assistance
Investigations & eDiscovery
Legal profession law
Life sciences, pharma, biotech
Litigation and arbitration
Media and entertainment
Mergers and acquisitions
Pension funds
Private clients
Private equity & venture capital
Public sector and regulatory
Real estate
Restructuring and insolvency
Sports law
Startup desk
Transport
Tax
White-collar crime
Main areas of practice Corporate and M&A: VISCHER’s corporate and M&A team advises on all legal aspects relating to the listing of securities, mergers, purchase and sale of corporations and participations, spin-offs, management buyouts, execution of shareholder agreements, joint ventures, auction proceedings and related financing.
Litigation and arbitration: VISCHER has a strong and dedicated litigation and arbitration team representing clients before all Swiss Courts, as well as the Swiss Supreme Court in Lausanne and in international and domestic arbitration proceedings. Members of the firm frequently act as arbitrators.
Banking and finance: VISCHER advises banks and other financial institutions in regulatory and supervisory matters. VISCHER’s structured finance team advises Swiss companies and foreign investors with regard to lease and acquisition financing, project financing and securitisation.
Life sciences, pharma, biotech: VISCHER’s life sciences is the leading practice group of its kind in Switzerland. VISCHER represents over 50 private and public companies, from start-ups to listed companies. The firm’s expertise spans the full range of disciplines including transactions and financing; partnering, licensing and commercialisation; know-how and innovation management; and regulatory, administrative procedures and compliance.
Public sector and regulatory: VISCHER has a dedicated and experienced team that advises companies in regulated markets such as energy, telecommunications, electronic media, drugs and health and represents clients before regulatory authorities and in court proceedings.
Tax: VISCHER’s tax team provides advice on all aspects of corporate tax law including value added tax issues. The team also advises high-net-worth individuals in Switzerland and abroad with regard to succession issues and also in obtaining flat rate tax assessments in Switzerland.
Real estate: The VISCHER real estate team advises on all kinds of real estate projects and transactions, including buying or selling real estate property, contractual issues of multiple ownership (joint ventures, community of heirs etc.), land registry issues and issues of zoning.
Antitrust and competition: VISCHER advises domestic and foreign clients on Swiss and EU competition law and represents them before the Swiss Competition Commission and the courts. The team advises on administrative merger control, behavioural, contentious and civil antitrust cases, as well as in compliance matters.
Information technology and intellectual property: The firm’s IP/IT team advises on all areas of intellectual property and IT-related legal issues including telecommunications, outsourcing projects, data protection and regulatory matters. The firm also has a substantial practice in media and entertainment, including production agreements and broadcasting regulatory matters.
Restructuring and insolvency: In financially critical situations, the coordinated collaboration of specialists from a variety of areas of expertise is indispensable: in addition to proficiency in insolvency law itself, expertise in the areas of corporate law, litigation, labour law, IP law and tax law is also essential. The firm has the in-depth knowledge and extensive experience necessary for managing complex mandates, whether from the perspective of a creditor or an affected company.
Aviation: VISCHER advises and represents airline companies in their core business and also in associated fields such as catering. The team’s experience covers litigation and insurance cases of all types, assistance in contract negotiations with travel offices, air-traffic authorities and airport operators as well as advising on the leasing, buying and selling of aircrafts.
Data protection/privacy: VISCHER has one of the largest and most experienced data protection/privacy teams in Switzerland. The team advises national and international clients on all matters regarding data protection and privacy including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and represents clients in litigation and other proceedings in these matters.
Employment and executive compensation: VISCHER’s employment and executive compensation team is led by a partner exclusively dedicated to this field. The team advises on all areas of employment law, including regulatory issues, executive compensation, pensions, as well as taxes and social security and has earned an excellent reputation for representing companies and entrepreneurs in litigation.
White-collar / investigations: VISCHER advises and represents companies in white collar crime matters such as fraud, insider trading, money laundering and corruption. A dedicated team supports clients in conducting internal investigations – be it international or domestic matters – and handling eDiscovery cases.
Number of partners worldwide: 35 Number of other lawyers worldwide: 78 Languages: English, French, German, Italian, Mandarin
VISCHER values and shows consideration for its employees. Every employee, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, race or ethnicity, has the same rights and is treated equally. VISCHER wants all employees to feel valued, appreciated, and free to be who they are. Our experience has taught us that the more diversity we have in our team, the more unique perspectives and bright ideas we share.
For VISCHER, diversity and its inclusion, use and appreciation have strategic importance and are an integral part of our corporate culture. Therefore, we promote diversity and its appreciation among our employees and actively sensitise them to it. We create an environment that enables, values and promotes different perspectives, cultures and ways of thinking. We aim to build a culture of respect and trust which embraces differences and encourages diversity in our firm.
We treat each other with respect, constantly develop our skills and promote diversity in all relevant dimensions. Inclusion allows a diverse mix of people to complement each other to form a high performing team. It is important to remember that inclusion does not just mean treating people equally, but recognising and valuing all visible and invisible differences.
We foster an environment based on trust. This is our way of combining excellent business results and personal flexibility. The flexible working models we offer worldwide include mobile working, part-time and flexible working hours. Our employees remain our most important capital, in which we will continue to invest going forward.
International Capabilities
Clients
VISCHER’s experienced lawyers advise clients and provide international services at the highest standard across the globe. Working from modern offices in Zurich, Basel and Geneva, our attorneys, tax advisers and public notaries are organised under the direction of experienced partners in practice teams, covering all areas of commercial law. VISCHER hasworkedwithvarious international companies, forexample:
ABInbev
AFINUM
AIG
Axpo Services AG
BaloiseHolding
Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited
General Dynamics
Helvetia
Huntsman
IKEA
MCH Group AG (SIX listed)
Swiss International Air Lines
Syngenta
T-Systems
Team
Our principal company languages are German, English, French, Italian and Mandarin, butwe have employees of various nationalities so are able to cover many more languages and provide professional advice to clients from all over the globe.
Highly regarded China Desk
VISCHER has established a China Desk that, over the years, has become widely regarded as the market leader among Swiss law firms for Chinese inbound and outbound transactions. We advise many Swiss companies regarding their China business and support Chinese businesses interested in establishing a presence in Europe.
VISCHER’s network
We have spent decades building networks with attorneys, subject matter experts and firms worldwide that meet our high standards and provide the best possible service to our clients. We can help our clients, directly or in conjunction with foreign law firms, to navigate the requirements of the relevant Swiss legal and regulatory frameworks, and build a team of experts to deal withtheir specific challenges.
