DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH > Vienna, Austria > Firm Profile
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH Offices
UNIVERSITÄTSRING 10
1010 VIENNA
Austria
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DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH > The Legal 500 Rankings
Austria > Banking and finance Tier 1
Leveraging its ‘seamless integration within its global network’ and access to specialists in adjacent areas such as IT and IP, DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH advises funds, banks, financial service providers, financial institutions as well as domestic and international corporate clients on the full range of domestic and cross-border financing transactions and regulatory matters. The team's multi-faceted practice regularly handles project financings, asset finance matters, cross-border leasing, alternative investments, structured financings and bank contract matters. Co-head Tibor Varga is praised by clients for his ‘top-tier professionalism’ and covers the whole spectrum of corporate finance transactions, including syndicated and private lending, while co-head Andreas Zahradnik combines expertise in banking, capital markets, corporate and compliance law. Both are well supported by Safiye Ünüvar.Practice head(s):
Tibor Varga; Andreas Zahradnik
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘One stop-shop, swift coordination of international aspects and seamless integration within its global network.’
‘Tibor Varga personifies a unique combination of top-tier professionalism and expertise with outstanding competence and calm. An efficient listener, he sorts out the legal fundamentals of a client’s situation in no time and provides high-level solutions, yet reminds you of risks and constraints of the chosen approach.’
‘It’s the combination of practical knowledge, responsiveness, involvement and great personalities.’
Key clients
Benteler International AG
Work highlights
- Advised the lenders to Schur Flexibles on a financial restructuring of SchurFlexibles, which involved an initial standstill and a subsequent restructuring.
- Advised on the Benteler group on a refinancing.
Austria > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1
The team at DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH frequently represents clients before the Austrian data protection authority and the Federal Administrative Court in matters of data protection, advising on issues around cookies, data retention and GDPR disputes. Managing partner Axel Anderl jointly heads the team, advising on data aspects of IT and outsourcing projects in addition to GDPR compliance. Alongside him is the ‘very flexible, pragmatic and solution-oriented’ practice co-head Nino Tlapak, who handles IT security matters and assists clients in the event of data breaches, with further expertise in cloud agreements. Alexandra Ciarnau co-heads the firm’s digital industries group, adding experience in the fields of AI and digitalisation in addition to her focus on e-commerce and consumer protection.Practice head(s):
Axel Anderl; Nino Tlapak
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team consists of exceptional individuals with different strengths and specialisations, forming a perfect combination and covering all areas of data privacy and protection topics. They recognize important topics and developments in the field before anyone else.’
‘Nino Tlapak is a top notch lawyer. He has a quick mind and is a real problem solver. He has always the right answer to even the most complicated questions.’
‘Nino Tlapak – very flexible, pragmatic and solution-oriented.’
‘Nino Tlapak has profound knowledge of data protection and is proactive in solving problems and proposing pragmatic solutions.’
‘The team always responds quickly, has a good representation structure and has a collegiate feel.’
‘Our lawyer had a good understanding of the law and the experience in practice to advise us on how to proceed with specific legal issues. He responded quickly, was solution-oriented and tied business matters together with what is possible legally.’
‘The legal information is clearly formulated and to the point. Even ad hoc information over the telephone is precise and reliable. One can always rely on the quality of their advice.’
‘In addition to their excellent legal knowledge, Axel Anderl and Nino Tlapak are characterised by their ability to recognise company-specific problems and quickly find pragmatic solutions. With Axel Anderl and Nino Tlapak, you know you are in good hands.’
Key clients
BNP Paribas
oe24 GmbH
neoom
ÖBB Personenverkehr
One MobilityFederal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation, and Technology
Interactive Paper, Better Life Tech, Carealytix, LTY, MAYD Group GmbH
Erste Digital GmbH
Erste Group
Erste Bank
Atomic Austria
METRO Cash & Carry Österreich
Allianz Elementar Versicherungs-Aktiengesellschaft
Novartis Pharma Austria
bioMérieux Austria
Bayer Austria GmbH
Sandoz
Janssen-Cilag Pharma
UNIQA Group
VIG IT Digital Solutions GmbH
Xund Solutions
L’Oréal Österreich
Trinicum
A. Menarini Pharma
RWA Raiffeisen Ware Austria AG
Forbes (FEB29 Medien und Verlags GmbH)
Work highlights
- Acted for UniCredit Bank Austria before the Austrian Highest Administrative Court as the last instance regarding the admissibility of the banking warning list.
- Engaged by BNP Paribas SA as its new external data protection officer for all of its Austrian companies.
- Assisted the Federal Ministry for Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection of Austria with regard to data protection compliance of a draft law in the health care area.
Austria > Dispute resolution: arbitration and mediation Tier 1
Praised by clients for their ‘efficiency and out-of-box-thinking,’ DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH offers special expertise in construction arbitrations and matters concerning national or international trusts and leverages the expertise of other departments of the firm for a full-service offering. The team is also well versed in handling matters across multiple jurisdictions and is led by the ‘brilliant’ Veit Öhlberger and Florian Kremslehner, who both act as counsel and arbitrators under a range of arbitration rules, including ICC, UNCITRAL, LCIA, VIAC and CAM. Gunnar Pickl‘s broad practice includes construction and infrastructure litigation and arbitration as well as commercial liability insurance cases, with a specialism in matters with complex technical backgrounds.Practice head(s):
Veit Öhlberger; Florian Kremslehner
Other key lawyers:
Christian Dorda; Gunnar Pickl; Philip Exenberger; Alexander Karl
Testimonials
‘In business law and business related legal areas, the firm covers all international and national clients may need. I am regularly impressed by their accuracy, solid skills and excellence in practising law. The brilliant Veit Öhlberger has recently taken the helm and shows significant presence, guiding and supervising other team members. An unreserved recommendation!’
‘Very strong team which is capable to deal both with arbitration and litigation. Court proceedings are always unpleasant, the team, however, supports you in a very good way making things easier. I like their efficiency and out of box thinking.’
‘DORDA has for many years been known as one of the best general service firms in Vienna that also has a strong arbitration practice.’
‘We had a particularly positive experience working with Veit Oehlberger and his colleague Gunnar Pickl.’
‘Dorda has experts for all areas of practice. Whenever you need a specialist, Dorda will have one.’
‘The individuals we work with are well aware of our company and its special needs. They have a very good knowledge of how our company works and what we want from our business partners.’
‘One of the very few excellent arbitration practices in Austria.’
‘Gunnar Pickl is very well versed in construction disputes and much in love with technical details.’
Austria > Dispute resolution: commercial litigation Tier 1
Operating across the full spectrum of commercial and corporate disputes, DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH is noted for its ‘exceptional skill to provide very convincing risk analysis,’ and excels in financial and capital markets litigation, cross-border disputes and construction litigation. Another standout feature of the team is its dedicated insurance defence litigation team, which is led by Felix Hörlsberger. Practice head Florian Kremslehner is highlighted by clients for his ‘fantastic market knowledge,’ while Stephan Steinhofer handles cross-border enforcement proceedings and disputes arising out of technology contracts and public funding issues. Alexander Karl is well versed in mass litigation in the areas of finance, insurance and corporate law, whereas Georg Jünger specialises in product liability matters.Practice head(s):
Florian Kremslehner
Other key lawyers:
Philipp Exenberger; Robert Keimelmayr; Stephan Steinhofer; Georg Jünger; Alexander Karl
Testimonials
‘They have been exceptionally helpful and were very uncomplicated and approachable, even on the partner level. It was always possible to speak to someone with detailed knowledge and experience on short notice and directly on the phone.’
‘I would like to emphasize their exceptional skill to provide very convincing risk analysis and estimates. It’s almost as if they can predict the future.’
‘Stephan Steinhofer is quite young, but already very well connected and experienced. Stephan’s knowledge of procedure and tactics in court proceedings are just exceptional. I would recommend him to anyone who really wants to win a dispute. I would like to also mention Alexander Karl, who also provides great quality advice and prepares good drafts.’
‘Very good knowledge of the local market, know how of commercial and legal aspects, quick in response, competent consulting and quick to respond’
‘Holistic approach, whatever the problem, they have/find a solution, which is a big plus. Knowledge of the topics is very deep, and they go the extra mile in fixing problems.’
‘Thorough, good case managers, attentive. ’
‘Stephan Steinhofer has always delivered concise advice based on a well-founded overall strategy. Stephan has also made sure to keep us in the loop and clearly communicated the status of the case and what to expect going forward. Excellent client service.’
‘Florian Kremslehner is great. Fantastic market knowledge and very committed.’
Work highlights
- Advised Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft on recovering damages incurred to its property, a school in Salzburg, as a result of a fire caused by a construction company.
- Advised Slovenian risk capital fund META Ingenium on a cross-border dispute against an Austrian insolvency administrator.
Austria > Intellectual property Tier 1
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH acts for clients across the full spectrum of industries in precedent-setting matters, including ECJ disputes concerning trade marks, copyrights and licensing rights. The team is well versed in matters at the forefront of technological developments while also handling ongoing portfolio management, including defending clients’ IP rights globally. ‘Quick and strategic thinker’ Axel Anderl leads the team, specialising in copyright and trade mark and outsourcing matters, with a particular focus on software. Andreas Seling‘s practice bridges trade mark law and unfair competition, with Alexandra Ciarnau focusing on IP developments in relation to AI and Blockchain. Ida Woltran is building up the firm’s patent capabilities while also handling copyright matters.Practice head(s):
Axel Anderl
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Andreas Seling: high level of expertise and an exemplary strategist. Axel Anderl: flexibility, professional expertise. Alexandra Ciarnau: high level of comprehension and thinks with the stakeholder in mind. Ida Woltran: very good expertise, fast.’
‘The team is impressive in both size and skill. For every aspect they have a specialist and work together smoothly. They have a very fresh attitude, working in the spirit of a start-up, which matches our philosophy.’
‘Everyone in the team has their niche. It does not matter whom you are interacting with, you always get the same incredible client care. Axel Anderl stands out as he created the team and leads it with passion. Andreas Seling, Ida Woltran and Alexandra Ciarnau also do a fantastic job.’
‘DORDA Rechtsanwälte is impressive in its collaboration with the diverse team that looked after our matters regarding applicable copyright law. Questions that arose during the process were answered spontaneously, which is essential for efficient and solution-oriented collaboration.’
‘Strong team of bright, responsive lawyers who communicate well.’
‘Axel Anderl is highly personable, approachable and capable. Andreas Seling similarly. Strong on soft IP, such as copyright and trade marks.’
‘I am a huge fan of Axel Anderl. He is a quick and strategic thinker. He manages the team well, making sure that he is there when needed. Ida Woltran is my discovery of the last year when I had more patent law issues. She is very calm, efficient and pragmatic. She also has good knowledge of international standards.’
‘Team leader Axel Anderl is THE IP-/IT-lawyer to go to in Austria, the clear number one. He is very smart, charming, has been specialising in this field for ages and has unbeaten client dedication.’
Key clients
Strato
Canal+
T-Mobile Austria (Magenta)
woom
Stadt Wien Marketing
Bundesministerium für Bildung, Wissenschaft und Forschung
Bitpanda
ÖBB Personenverkehr
Airbnb
Wein & Co
Wiener Symphoniker
Better Life Tech
KO-TRAST/Birds of Trust
Taurus App GmbH/ fair by share GmbH
Wenna (Anna Inspiring Jewellery)
Charonium
Albertina
Croma-Pharma
Pluz Care GmbH
Amann Girrbach
Commend International
VIG – Vienna Insurance Group
Forbes
Varroc Lightning Systems
Work highlights
- Represented Strato in a dispute before the ECJ on copyright levies for cloud storage services against collecting society Austro-Mechana.
- Acted for Canal+ in a dispute before the ECJ on the applicability of the uplink state principle for the activities of a satellite bouquet provider against Austrian collecting society AKM.
- Managed woom’s global trade mark portfolio, including representation in various proceedings against copycats.
Austria > Real estate Tier 1
Described by one client as ‘probably the best real estate practice in Austria,’ DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH acts for large real estate investors on acquisitions in Vienna, focusing particularly on the office and logistics markets, but also assisting with transactions in the hospitality and retail arenas. In the latter segment, the team is well versed in advising on lease arrangements, where it acts for several international retailers. The group is led by the ‘dream team’ of Stefan Artner, who advises on real estate-heavy M&A transactions, development projects and tenancy law, and Magdalena Brandstetter, who handles instructions pertaining to forward funding and purchase agreements.Practice head(s):
Stefan Artner; Magdalena Brandstetter
Other key lawyers:
Julia Haumer-Mörzinger
Testimonials
‘Very responsive, deal- and solution-oriented, very experienced and in particular, really well connected in the Austrian real estate market.’
‘Stefan Artner and Magdalena Brandstetter are a dream team.’
‘Very strong, motivated and dedicated team; probably the best real estate practice in Austria; delivers high quality work, reliable and always on time.’
‘Stefan Artner is one of the most reputable and knowledgeable real estate lawyers in Austria. He is solution-oriented and business-minded, with a strong focus on getting deals done. Magdalena Brandstetter is the perfect companion to him: enthusiastic, hard-working and with an eye for detail.’
‘Top know-how, always available, they handle matters and contracts with care and communicate up-to-date info and changes to the law proactively.’
‘Stefan Artner is a top lawyer with a top team around him. Seamless transmission of information within the team, which operates at a high level, both in terms of subject knowledge and on a personal level.’
‘They are quick, responsive and always keen to drive things forward. The constructive approach is an accelerator as regards collaboration and outcome.’
‘Stefan Artner stands out not only at DORDA, but in Austria as a whole when it comes to real estate. He has a brilliant market overview and is the go-to person.’
Key clients
ERSTE Immobilien Kapitalanlagegesellschaft m.b.H
HIH Real Estate
KGAL
Propel Industrial Holding
S IMMO AG
REWE Group
MELA LIEBEN PROJEKTENTWICKLUNGS GmbH
ARE Austrian Real Estate
Merkur Versicherung Aktiengesellschaft
C&P Immobilien
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.
LHI Group
GalCap Europe
Exeter Property Group
IMMOFINANZ
Deutsche Logistik Holding
ARWAG
Frasers Property Investments
Work highlights
- Acted for LHI on the acquisition of the refurbished office building at Lassallestraße 5 in Vienna, structured as a forward purchase share deal.
- Advised ERSTE Immobilien KAG on the purchase of the Silo Plus office complex from STRABAG Real Estate by way of a share deal.
- Assisted REWE Group on the sale of a development property in Vienna-Floridsdorf to a consortium of bidders.
Austria > TMT Tier 1
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH has a team of ‘absolute experts in their respective fields,’ who advise an impressive array of clients in the financial services, telecoms and automotive sectors, among others, on the gamut of TMT-related issues, including IT outsourcing and cloud computing projects. The firm’s Digital Industries group assists clients with developing TMT matters, including AI, Blockchain and cryptocurrency issues. Axel Anderl, whose expertise extends across the areas of IT, cloud computing, data protection and copyright issues, heads the IT/IP & Data Protection practice and co-heads the Digital Industries team alongside the ‘extremely diligent’ Alexandra Ciarnau, who manages the firm’s newly established Metaverse office. Nino Tlapak specialises in data protection and is frequently asked to act as an external data protection officer by clients.Practice head(s):
Axel Anderl
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Axel Anderl is a very pleasant contact who, in addition to his legal knowledge, also keeps an eye on the business challenges of his clients. He is extremely well-connected throughout the region.’
‘Excellent way of understanding our needs immediately and dissecting a – for us – quite complex topic.’
‘Alexandra Ciarnau was extremely diligent, creative and proactive in her advisory with us. She was easy to reach, provided competent input and to us it seemed that the contract we jointly worked on, has been well set up to cover our individual needs.’
‘DORDA stands out for us due to its collaborative partnership that goes beyond the traditional service provider role. Their forward-looking approach empowers us to proactively address future challenges and prepare for upcoming legal developments.’
‘The entire team at DORDA consists of absolute experts in their respective fields. Their legal knowledge and years of experience never cease to impress us. What sets them apart is their incredible dedication to their clients. They approach their work with passion and genuine interest.’
‘Alexandra Ciarnau is outstanding. Easy to work with, great legal expertise, very hands-on!’
‘Exceptional lawyers, adapting to the client’s situation, asking the right questions, very business oriented, deep knowledge of the industry, great availability, extremely fast and flexible for any urgent matters, invoices always correct.’
‘Nino Tlapak is a great contact point, fast, reliable and an excellent lawyer who is business-oriented and always available.’
Key clients
Bitpanda
VIG – Vienna Insurance Group
EU Commission, EU Blockchain Observatory and Forum
Interactive Paper
T-Mobile Austria (Magenta)
UniCredit Bank Austria
Natterbox
GTT Communications
Ooma
NTT Group
AIRCALL
LogMeIn
inContact
Cisco
neoom group gmbh
Erste Bank
Erste Digital
Erste Group
Roche Diagnostics
Forbes (FEB29 GmbH)
Ferrari
Mitsubishi
Suzuki
Volkswagen
Xund
Work highlights
- Advising the European Commission and the European Blockchain Partnership on their initiative for the development of an EU strategy and the establishment of a Blockchain infrastructure.
- Assisted VIG, twinformatics, Hypo Group, Erste Digital and Helvetia with group-wide DORA support on outsourcing, cloud and cybersecurity projects.
- Assisted UNIQA with the design of new AI tools and on the legal framework and possible pitfalls of investing in AI startups.
Austria > Capital markets Tier 2
Described by international clients as ‘go-to firm for capital markets law in Austria’, DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH focuses on equity capital market transactions with notable expertise in acting for issuers in the banking, real estate and automotive industries, and the team is also increasingly instructed by clients to advise on capital markets compliance matters as well as public takeovers. Andreas Mayr is well-versed in both equity and debt capital markets-related matters, while corporate law expert Christoph Brogyányi, Andreas Zahradnik, and Tibor Varga are also important members of the team.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent legal expertise. Leading equity capital market team.’
‘Andreas Mayr is the best equity capital markets lawyer in Austria. Legal expertise on the highest level and pragmatic. ’
‘My go-to firm for capital markets law in Austria. ’
‘Andreas Mayr: Very commercial lawyer with exceptional expertise in capital markets and corporate law. Very experienced partner – my go to person in Austria. ’
Key clients
Croma-Pharma
Petrus Advisers
Morgan Stanley
HSBC
Erste Group
Work highlights
- Advised Croma-Pharma on its IPO on Euronext Amsterdam.
- Advised HSBC, Morgan Stanley and Erste Group as joint bookrunners on the issuance of €350m notes and on a liquidity exercise for outstanding hybrid notes.
- Advised Petrus Advisers on the sale of shares in IMMOFINANZ AG to CPI PropertyGroup.
Austria > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH's client base encompasses national and international companies, investment banks, and private equity firms, and the team particularly excels at handling cross-border M&A. Offering ‘exceptional legal advice’, Martin Brodey leads the private M&A as well as the CEE practice, while Andreas Mayr heads the public M&A practice group and specialises in complex multijurisdictional transactions as well as corporate governance and compliance matters. Christoph Brogyányi co-heads the firm’s corporate practice and is noted for his capabilities in reorganisations, joint ventures, squeeze-outs and corporate litigation. Patricia Backhausen co-heads the firm’s digital industries group and covers tech-related M&A transactions.Practice head(s):
Martin Brodey; Andreas Mayr; Christoph Brogyányi
Other key lawyers:
Jürgen Kittel; Bernhard Rieder; Christian Ritschka; Patricia Backhausen
Testimonials
‘Very professional strong team with fast availability. Always solution-oriented approach. ’
‘Jürgen Kittel is highly responsive and has outstanding professional knowledge.’
‘Responsive and attentive advisors.’
‘This team, comprised of exceptional legal professionals, has consistently demonstrated their dedication, expertise, and commitment to delivering outstanding legal services. They have seamlessly coordinated efforts on numerous complex cases, displaying a remarkable ability to pool their talents and resources to achieve favorable outcomes for our clients.’
‘Martin Brodey has consistently exhibited exceptional legal expertise and a dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients. He has consistently displayed a strong work ethic and dedication to his responsibilities, as well as demonstrated strong leadership within the team. His ability to effectively coordinate efforts and motivate team members has been instrumental in our successful case outcomes’
‘The team is excellent – they are very client oriented, with a clear focus on ensuring they are available throughout the deal, no matter time or day. In difficult transactions, this becomes particularly important.’
‘Martin Brodey – an excellent senior lawyer, managing his team very well. Patricia Backhausen – ambitious, focused and solutions-oriented, you can really count on Patricia getting things done.’
‘I worked with Patricia Backhausen and she showed not only her expertise but also her enthusiasm to help the client solve problems. What’s more, Patricia was very thoughtful about the potential issues the client may encounter and could always attend to the client’s questions timely.’
Key clients
Croma-Pharma
Raiffeisen Beteiligungsholding
DigitalBridge Group, Inc
Brookfield
Sofiproteol
AVRIL Industrie
MELECS EWS
Merkur Versicherung Aktiengesellschaft
BaseTech Ventures AG
Nosto Solutions Oy
ZF Friedrichshafen Group
CANCOM SE
IMMOFINANZ
PDFTron Systems
PDFTron Belgium Acquisition Co NV
Work highlights
- Advised Croma-Pharma on the first De-SPAC transaction in Austria.
- Advised DigitalBridge as Austrian counsel on the acquisition of GD Towers.
- Advised CANCOM SE on the €165m acquisition of K-Businesscom.
Austria > Employment Tier 2
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s team is described by clients as ‘truly exceptional in its field’ and is noted for its capabilities across the full gamut of employment matters. Thomas Angermair leads the group and is particularly experienced in negotiations with works councils and unions as well as in advising on management agreements. Lisa Kulmer is another key contact for works council matters and further specialises in the implementation of whistleblowing systems and non-compete clauses. Manuel Mayr is recommended by clients for his ‘profound understanding of employment law and his remarkable litigation skills’.Practice head(s):
Thomas Angermair
Other key lawyers:
Lisa Kulmer; Florina Thenmayer; Manuel Mayr
Testimonials
‘Fast communication, competent, always on time and offering more than one solution for the issue.’
‘Competent, honest, available. ’
‘The team is truly exceptional in its field, boasting a unique blend of expertise, dedication, and innovative approaches that set it apart from its counterparts. Potential clients seeking unparalleled legal services would benefit greatly from the distinct strengths and key capabilities of this extraordinary team.’
‘What sets the Dorda Employment Law Team apart is its unwavering commitment to excellence and client-centric approach. The team is renowned for its in-depth knowledge of employment law and its ability to tailor solutions to meet the specific needs of each client. Their keen understanding of local and international legal landscapes equips them to navigate complex issues seamlessly.’
‘Manuel Mayr embodies legal excellence through his profound understanding of employment law and his remarkable litigation skills. He exhibits a level of dedication and expertise that is unmatched, consistently delivering top-tier legal solutions. His proficiency in navigating complex litigation cases showcases his astute legal acumen and commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for his clients.’
‘What sets Manuel Mayr apart is not only his legal expertise but also his unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. He goes above and beyond to ensure that his clients are well-informed, comfortable, and have a clear understanding of their legal options. This personalized approach, combined with his exceptional advocacy, fosters a sense of trust and confidence in his clients.’
‘highly capable; great internal collaboration and experts for topics involved as necessary, quick turnaround, flexibility to align to business needs.’
‘Understanding the bigger picture, expert in the field, resilience to stress and tranquility in tense moments (even with difficult stakeholders) whilst always keeping the legal facts in the foreground. Florina Thenmeyer went above and beyond to ensure everyone benefited from the content and understood the complex details.’
Key clients
Salesforce
Austria > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2
Crisis advice and insolvency law are the key strengths of DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s multidisciplinary team, which excels in advising lenders and non-performing borrowers on pre-insolvency restructurings and refinancing, as well as creditors in insolvency proceedings and litigation. Under Felix Hörlsberger‘s leadership, the group also enjoys a reputation in insurance litigation with a basis in insolvency law. Corporate finance experts Tibor Varga and Andreas Zahradnik focus on financial restructurings, while Christian Ritschka assumes responsibility for distressed M&A matters. Magdalena Nitsche supports across the spectrum of the team’s work.Practice head(s):
Felix Hörlsberger
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team provides clear advice on what to expect/how to deal with out-of-court and in-court situations. They diligently prepare for both stages and you feel safely guided by them.’
‘Andreas Zahradnik and – mainly – Magdalena Nitsche were notable individuals.’
‘Magdalena Nitsche and Christian Ritschka are worth highlighting.’
Key clients
Swiss Re
Ad hoc committee of lenders of Schur Flexibles
Allianz Global Corporate & Speciality SE (AGCS)
Sofiproteol
AVRIL Industrie
Renault
Attestor Capital
ZF Friedrichshafen Group
Benteler International AG
Work highlights
- Acted as Austrian counsel to the lenders of Schur Flexibles in a financial restructuring of Schur Flexibles involving an initial standstill and subsequent restructuring with a debt-equity swap and material new financings.
- Advised ZF Friedrichshafen Group on the acquisition of Intellic Germany GmbH, which was in pre-insolvency proceedings, and assets of insolvent Intellic Austria GmbH in a cross-border transaction.
- Advised AGCS as D&O insurer of FCC and its former subsidiary Alpine Holding and Alpine Bau.
Austria > Private client Tier 2
UHNW families and entrepreneurs rely on DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH for comprehensive legal and tax advice on international tax structuring and estate planning, relocation and immigration, as well as contentious family and inheritance disputes. Tax law expert Paul Doralt leads the team and focuses his practice on trust law and structured financing. Katharina Binder advises private trusts, foundations, and international corporations in matters of trust law, succession planning, restructurings, and cross-border tax issues. Stanislav Nekrasov also specialises in tax and fiscal criminal law.Practice head(s):
Paul Doralt
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Extremely experienced and well-connected team with a superb client base. Capable of advising and representing private clients in their most important and complex matters. Clear communication, plain language, ability to describe complex matters in simple terms. Excellent client handling.’
‘Without a doubt, Paul Doralt is one of the best private client specialists in Austria.’
‘DORDA’s private client practice is one of the key advisers of the Austrian establishment, with the breadth of covering all relevant areas (corporate, trust, tax, accounting).’
‘Paul Doralt is one of the most prominent Austrian tax and trust lawyers. He is the head of the board of our family trust and has helped us a lot, also in critical situations.’
‘Katharina Binder is probably one of the best private client lawyers of the younger generation.’
Key clients
Schmidt-Chiari Family
Stephanie Privatstiftung
Croma-Pharma
Work highlights
- Advised the shareholder-family of Croma-Pharma on their personal tax consequences of the first De-SPAC transaction in Austria.
Austria > Projects and energy Tier 2
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s projects team is ‘geared toward delivering value and satisfaction’ to clients from, among others, the gas, renewables and telecoms sectors, whom they support with both the construction of projects, disputes with regulators and contractors, and on transactions for critical infrastructure. The practice’s leadership group includes the competition expertise of Heinrich Kühnert, a telecoms sector specialist, regulatory and public law expert Bernhard Müller and Gunnar Pickl, whose practice marries construction law with dispute resolution. Patricia Backhausen handles M&A deals in the renewables sector and also advises on PPP matters.Practice head(s):
Heinrich Kühnert; Bernhard Müller; Gunnar Pickl
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very hands-on and solution-oriented.’
‘This practice is unique due to its innovative problem-solving approach and its unwavering commitment to tailoring solutions to each client’s needs. This practice stands out with its client-centric approach, making it a preferred choice for clients seeking legal assistance.’
‘They prioritise the needs and goals of our clients above all else. This client-centric approach ensures that every decision and action is geared toward delivering value and satisfaction.’
‘The DORDA team is very good at project management and has a lot of experience and knowledge about the project matters at hand. They are well-organised and coordinated, always trying to satisfy the client’s needs.’
‘Patricia Backhausen is very client-oriented and trustworthy, and has a broad set of skills necessary for the successful completion of projects.’
‘Immediate responses, good understanding of software and very understanding of client needs.’
Key clients
carbonify GmbH
DigitalBridge Group, Inc
Brookfield
TotalEnergies SA
ENGIE SA
Work highlights
- Advised an Austrian financial institution on the roll-out of a major photovoltaic project in Austria.
Austria > Administrative law and public sector Tier 3
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH is instructed by public bodies as well as by private national and international companies from a range of sectors such as construction, commerce and energy to act in proceedings before national and international administrative authorities and courts. The team's broad remit also encompasses regulatory questions related to data privacy, product liability, and planning law, among others. Bernhard Müller heads the practice and ‘unifies academic knowledge with practical considerations’, while Petra Artners is well-versed in competition, foreign trade and telecommunications law.Practice head(s):
Bernhard Müller
Other key lawyers:
Petra Artner
Testimonials
‘Bringing technical, commercial and legal aspects swiftly together and develop a holistic legal strategy according to the clients necessities. ’
‘Bernhard Müller unifies academic knowledge with practical considerations, and develops a goal-oriented strategy.’
‘We chose Bernhard Müller and his team for his expertise in constitutional and administrative law. His advice has been quick and fully on point. ’
‘Bernhard Müller, highly approachable and direct to the issue. His broad knowledge as an academic and his hands on-approach as practitioner makes the cooperation very efficient.’
Key clients
EuroParcs Österreich GmbH
Wirtschaftskammer Österreich
Bayer Austria GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised Bayer on pricing and reimbursement issues.
- Advised EuroParcs on all legal matters regarding entering the Austrian market, including construction, planning and environmental law.
Austria > Construction Tier 3
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s construction team dovetails with the firm’s dispute resolution practice to provide clients ranging from international investors to property developers with advice on a spectrum of issues, including major transactions involving both in-progress and completed construction projects. The team is led by ‘Austrian real estate law expert’ Stefan Artner, who specialises in real estate-focused M&A, construction disputes specialist Gunnar Pickl, and Magdalena Brandstetter, whose practice straddles both construction advice, covering civil engineering and plant construction, and real estate transactions.Practice head(s):
Gunnar Pickl; Stefan Artner; Magdalena Brandstetter
Other key lawyers:
Bernhard Müller; Julia Haumer-Mörzinger
Testimonials
‘Great arbitration team; one of the strongest and largest in Austria. Particular strength in construction, corporate and distribution.’
‘Excellent expertise in real estate law, fast response time and the solution orientation of Stefan Artner and his team are second to none.’
‘Stefan Artner is the Austrian real estate law expert. His excellent expertise, his accessibility, his negotiating skills in difficult situations and his friendly manner are widely known.’
‘Strong team with lots of experience in the industry. Many different characters that form a powerful team.’
‘Stefan Artner: 25 years of experience, good negotiator, very deal-orientated. Magdalena Brandstetter: well connected real estate lawyer.’
‘The firm’s team is very broadly positioned, with a special focus on construction. Short reaction times, advice on point. The firm is specialised in the relevant fields, with many highly-qualified experts in the team.’
‘The team around Stefan Artner and Gunnar Pickl is service-oriented in every respect. The assessments are realistic and recommendations to the point.’
‘What is very useful for me is the fact that this firm has many experts in other areas who can be called upon to deal with special issues in my construction warranty cases.’
Key clients
Kommunalkredit Austria
Brush Holding Ltd
Melrose
ARE Austrian Real Estate
C&P Immobilien
Swietelsky AG
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.
Raiffeisen Beteiligungsholding
LHI Group
GalCap Europe
DLH (Deutsche Logistik Holding)
Itinera
Brookfield
DigitalBridge Group
Universal-Investment Luxembourg
SIGNA Financial Services AG
Ascott International Management, Europe
Magna Group
Work highlights
- Represented Brush Holding in a dispute with two Austrian entities owning several wind parks in Austria.
- Acted for GalCap Europe on the acquisition of two residential projects in Vienna.
- Assisted DigitalBridge with the acquisition of Deutsche Telekom’s telecommunication towers infrastructure in Austria.
Austria > Dispute resolution: white-collar crime (including fraud) Tier 3
A ‘full-service firm with a lot of experience’, Dorda’s white collar crime team is integrated in the firm’s dispute resolution group under the leadership of Florian Kremslehner, and operates across the whole range of business crime. A standout feature of the team is its established experience in representing defrauded clients in both criminal proceedings and civil litigation, which regularly includes enforcing claims for national and international companies from the insurance, banking, technology and financial service sectors. Former co-head Elias Schönborn left the firm in September 2023.Practice head(s):
Florian Kremslehner
Other key lawyers:
Philipp Karl Stadtegger
Key clients
Immofinanz
Work highlights
Austria > EU and competition Tier 3
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s competition team is noted for its work in EU and Austrian antitrust and merger control proceedings, and also acts for both claimants and defendants in private enforcement cases concerning cartels. The ‘always on point’ Heinrich Kühnert has a broad practice, encompassing merger control, abuse of dominance, and state aid matters, and advising a spectrum of clients that range from energy and transport to media and healthcare. Elisabeth König left for an in-house role in January 2023.Practice head(s):
Heinrich Kühnert
Testimonials
‘DORDA has a market-leading competition/FDI practice in Austria. They are familiar with global deals, know exactly what their clients expect and are highly responsive.’
‘Heinrich Kühnert is an outstanding FDI expert, with a very pragmatic and helpful approach. He explains difficult and complex matters in an easily understandable way, and global clients, including large PE funds, like working with him very much.’
‘Heinrich Kühnert ensures that colleagues in this team are introduced to the mandate in time in order for steady assistance to be assured.’
‘Heinrich Kühnert’s in-depth industry and market knowledge make him a great pleasure to work with. Being a keen thinker, Dr. Kühnert is always on point and 100% committed to the tasks entrusted to him.’
Key clients
ÖBB Holding AG
Bayer Austria GmbH
Sandoz GmbH
Novartis Pharma Austria
Novartis Pharma GmbH
SAZKA Group
GlaxoSmithKline
Nichicon Corporation
Rail Cargo Austria AG
Kapsch Group
Berndorf AG
Miba AG
Stellantis
AbbVie GmbH/AbbVie Inc
Cordis
Work highlights
- Representing Nichicon Corporation in appeal proceedings before the European Court of Justice in the capacitors case.
Austria > Tax Tier 3
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH counts among its strengths international tax structuring, transactional tax advice, and tax litigation, advising domestic and international clients on financial products, transfer pricing, VAT and customs duties. Paul Doralt leads the team, with a strong grounding in M&A and corporate tax law, as well as trust law and structured financing. Stanislav Nekrasov is primarily occupied with tax structuring and tax planning, private clients and fiscal criminal tax law, while Katharina Binder is known for working with international corporations on their Austrian presence and cross-border reorganisations.Practice head(s):
Paul Doralt
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Extremely action-oriented.’
‘Paul Doralt and Katharina Binder form the best team for foreign clients establishing in Austria.’
‘Paul Doralt is technically very strong, very smart.’
‘Capable of advising and representing clients in their most important and complex tax matters, excelling in cross-border work.’
Key clients
Intel
Helaba Invest and HI-Management S.à r.l.
Croma-Pharma
DigitalBridge Group, Inc
Brookfield
Ad hoc committee of lenders of Schur Flexibles
Work highlights
- Acted as local Austrian counsel for DigitalBridge in GD Towers acquisition.
- Advised Croma-Pharma on the first De-SPAC transaction in Austria.
- Acted as Austrian counsel to the lenders of Schur Flexibles in a financial restructuring of Schur Flexibles, which involved an initial standstill and a subsequent restructuring involving a debt-equity swap and material new financings.
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH > Firm Profile
Three generations of lawyers who bring an international reputation and a fresh edge to the table with the aim of providing clarity in all areas of business law.
This is DORDA.
Our credo:
- Clear guidance
- Proactive advice
- Short reaction times
We pursue a holistic advisory approach and support Austrian companies, international groups, and start-ups in their entrepreneurial development and in challenging situations. Our award-winning experts provide support in all matters of business law.
Strong companies put their trust in us. For more than 45 years.
Dedicated industry groups: DORDA’s six interdisciplinary industry groups are our answer to increasingly complex markets: concentrated knowledge and strong industry affinity. Interdisciplinary legal advice from a single point of contact.
Practice areas: DORDA’s practice areas give clients access to team specialization in 23 fields of law. A proven track record is the result of decades of work with renowned clients in an international environment.
women@DORDA: Successful pioneering work: mentoring for women in business law.
Equality between women and men has been a stated goal at DORDA for many years. The initiative women@DORDA has won numerous international awards since it was founded in 2016 and promotes women within the firm through targeted mentoring measures.
Management: DORDA’s success story has been led by the partner trio Francine Brogyanyi, Axel Anderl and Martin Brodey for three years now.
DORDA stands for Clarity: Our promise is to provide clarity. By thinking ahead and responsibly examining a wide range of options, we provide clarity in an increasingly complex economic world.
We see ourselves as guides. In good times and difficult times. With an interdisciplinary, proactive approach that enables us to see the big picture our goal is to provide our clients with maximum room to maneuver. By providing strategic advice that goes beyond pure technical expertise, clients receive customized solutions for their business strategy or in crisis situations.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Arbitration | Veit Öhlberger | veit.oehlberger@dorda.at | ++43-1-533 4795-19 |
Banking & Finance, Capital Markets | Tibor Varga | tibor.varga@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-28 |
Banking & Finance, Capital Markets | Andreas Zahradnik | andreas.zahradnik@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-42 |
Capital Markets, Corporate | Christoph Brogyányi | christoph.brogyanyi@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-480 |
Competition & Antitrust | Heinrich Kühnert | heinrich.kuehnert@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-35 |
Construction Law, Dispute Resolution | Gunnar Pickl | gunnar.pickl@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-102 |
Corporate | Bernhard Rieder | bernhard.rieder@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-42 |
Data Protection, IT Law, IP, Media & Social Media | Axel Anderl | axel.anderl@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-23 |
Data Protection | Nino Tlapak | nino.tlapak@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-23 |
Dispute Resolution | Florian Kremslehner | florian.kremslehner@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-18 |
Dispute Resolution, Contract Law | Stephan Steinhofer | stephan.steinhofer@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-18 |
Employment | Thomas Angermair | thomas.angermair@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-24 |
Healthcare & Life Sciences | Francine Brogyányi | francine.brogyanyi@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-480 |
Insurance Law, Restructuring & Insolvency | Felix Hörlsberger | felix.hoerlsberger@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-17 |
Real Estate | Stefan Artner | stefan.artner@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-103 |
Real Estate | Magdalena Brandstetter | magdalena.brandstetter@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-412 |
M&A | Martin Brodey | martin.brodey@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-38 |
M&A | Jürgen Kittel | juergen.kittel@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-3970 |
M&A, Insolvency & Restructuring | Christian Ritschka | christian.ritschka@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-35 |
Public M&A | Andreas W Mayr | andreas.mayr@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-64 |
Public Law | Bernhard Müller | bernhard.mueller@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-57 |
Tax, Private Client | Paul Doralt | paul.doralt@dorda.at | +43-1-533 4795-101 |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 95Languages
Bosnian Croatian English French Finnish German Hindi Hungarian Italian Mandarin Punjabi Polish Romanian Russian Serbian Spanish SlovakianOther
Managing Partner : Axel Anderl Managing Partner : Martin Brodey Managing Partner : Francine BrogyányiDiversity
Pioneering work has an impact because we put our principles into practice. Our success proves us right.
Equality between women and men has been a stated goal at DORDA for many years. We recognized the potential of women’s advancement in the legal industry early on and integrated it into our corporate strategy. We deliberately make our project teams diverse in order to demonstrably achieve better results. Equal opportunities at all levels are part of our corporate culture and are at the heart of the women@DORDA initiative. This support and mentoring program for women is continuously evaluated and expanded.
A separate management agenda keeps the topic of equal opportunities in focus at all career levels. In a 360° review, partners at DORDA are assessed on how successfully they are implementing equality in their teams. Currently around 50% of attorneys and around 55% of associates working at DORDA are female. The principle of equal payment has been implemented completely.
The next step: increase the number of female partners.
Milestones achieved and new goals: equality at all career levels, further expansion and flexibilization of re-entry and part-time models, as well as parental leave solutions for partners, attorneys and associates, further development of mentoring programs, active establishment of networks and making them accessible, initiation of events and successful implementation with cooperation partners.
Our track record: Awarded “Firm of the Year” and “Talent Management Firm of the Year” for Austria at the Women in Business Law Awards 2021.
There is still plenty to do for true equality. We continue to pursue this aim consistently.
Press Releases
New competition law rules for distribution agreements – the new Vertical Block Exemption Regulation
12th June 2023 New competition law rules for distribution agreements - the new Vertical Block Exemption RegulationECJ Judgement of 25.5.2023: Sender-state-principle confirmed for satellite bouquet providers
12th June 2023 In digital television, copyright-protected works are transmitted to the relevant audience in the form of video and audio signals.DORDA together with Heuking advises listed CANCOM SE on acquisition of K-Businesscom Group
12th June 2023 Together with Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek (Munich) as lead counsel, DORDA advised CANCOM SE on the acquisition of K-Businesscom AG and all its subsidiaries.Legal 500 confirms DORDAs upwards trend
12th June 2023 Legal 500 has been evaluating the best law firms in over 150 countries for 33 years, painting the most up-to-date picture of the global legal market each year.DORDA highly awarded by Chambers Europe in 2023
12th June 2023 Outstanding achievements for the internationally active Vienna-based law firm DORDA in the recognised Chambers Europe Ranking this year.DORDA advises Nosto Solutions on the acquisition of findologic
12th June 2023 DORDA supported the Finnish ecommerce company Nosto as local Austrian counsel on the acquisition of findologic Gesellschaft m.b.H., one of the world's leading providers of modern software solutions for online shops.DORDA advises PDFTron on the acquisition of Austrian tech start-up eversign
12th June 2023 Under the lead of Patricia Backhausen and Christoph Brogyányi, DORDA advises global tech-group PDFTron on the acquisition of Austrian tech start-up eversign GmbH, a provider of digital signature solutions.Successful DORDA Engagement as Austrian counsel in GD Towers acquisition for Austrian Market
12th June 2023 Vienna, 14th of July 2022. DORDA has advised – as Austrian counsel – DigitalBridge Group, Inc.DORDA confirmed its top rankings in the recently published Chambers Europe Guide 2022
12th June 2023 In Chambers' new addition to the guide, Healthcare & Life Sciences, as well as Corporate/M&A, Dispute Resolution and TMT: IT DORDA was able to achieve the top ranking of Band 1.With the appointment of two Counsel, DORDA starts the new business year
8th February 2022 Andreas Seling und Philip Exenberger are promoted to Counsel for DORDA.DORDA advised the shareholders of PSPDFKit on EUR 100 million strategic investment from Insight Partners
5th October 2021 DORDA's Digital Industries Group, led by Christian Ritschka (Partner, M&A), advised the Austrian startup on its first strategic growth investment.Two Awards for DORDA at the Women in Business Law Europe Awards
30th June 2021 After last year's great success with three awards, DORDA was able to continue its successful course in 2021 and won in two categories at the Women in Business Law Awards Europe.DORDA advises the shareholders of AGILOX on the successful sale of shares to CARLYLE
24th June 2021 AGILOX, based in Neukirchen bei Lambach (Upper Austria), with its AI-based and self-driving logistics robots, is the subject of an investment by The Carlyle Group, one of the world's largest private equity firms based in Washington, D.C.Axel Anderl is a new Member of the Board of Directors at ITechLaw
24th June 2021 We are pleased to announce that our Managing Partner, Axel Anderl, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the globally active International Technology Law Association (ITechLaw) in June 2021.DIF Capital Partners on the sale of its stake in a PPP-project with two hospitals in Vienna
25th May 2021 The deal involved in total the sale of six European PPP-projects to UK and European infrastructure fund manager Equitix. Tibor Varga, Martin Brodey and Patricia Backhausen advised DIF on the sale of the Austrian PPP-project.DORDA is “Central Europe Life Sciences Firm of the Year”
19th May 2021 At the ninth LMG Life Sciences Awards, DORDA prevailed against very strong international competition and received the award as best Life Sciences Firm in Central Europe.DORDA is “AUSTRIAN LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR”
7th May 2021 At the prestigious Europe Awards of the internationally recognised International Financial Law Review (IFLR), DORDA has received the award "Austrian law firm of the year". This is one of the most important awards for internationally active business law firms.DORDA counts on female power and is pleased to announce two new Attorneys at Law
23rd April 2021With Patricia Backhausen and Julia Haumer-Mörzinger, DORDA is expanding its core competences in the areas of M&A/Digital Industries and Real Estate & Construction.
DORDA supports EXETER Property Group in the sale of a last-mile logistics facility in Vienna
29th March 2021DORDA announces three new partners in growth areas
19th March 2021 DORDA continues to grow and expands its partnership from within its own ranks by announcing Magdalena Brandstetter, Stephan Steinhofer and Nino Tlapak as partners.Booming logistics sector – DORDA supports logistics real estate developer DLH in two major project
7th December 2020 DORDA's real estate team supports DLH Real Estate Austria in two major logistics projects in the Vienna airport region: the sale of a part of the "Industrial Campus Vienna East" to Deka Immobilien and the purchase of 30,000 sqm of space as the starting signal for further logistics development. Both projects are located in proximity to the airport Vienna and demonstrate the expansion of the logistics sector in Austria.DORDA successfully obtains an order for the enforcement of an ICSID award in favour of Italian investors
7th December 2020 This July, DORDA initiated enforcement proceedings against Albanian assets in Austria. This was preceded by an ICSID (International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes) arbitration, which Italian investors commenced against Albania following the expropriation of investments in Albania's hydropower, wind energy and media industries. However, the Albanian government fails to comply with its payment obligations.Booming logistics sector – DORDA supports logistics real estate developer DLH in two major project
7th December 2020 DORDA's real estate team supports DLH Real Estate Austria in two major logistics projects in the Vienna airport region: the sale of a part of the "Industrial Campus Vienna East" to Deka Immobilien and the purchase of 30,000 sqm of space as the starting signal for further logistics development. Both projects are located in proximity to the airport Vienna and demonstrate the expansion of the logistics sector in Austria.Sending optimistic signals for hospitality industry – DORDA supports Ascott in its market entry in
16th November 2020Three awards for DORDA at the Women in Business Law Awards Europe 2020
22nd October 2020 At this year's Women in Business Law Awards Europe, DORDA came out on top in two categories. DORDA won in the category "Best National Law Firm in Europe for Women in Business Law" and was also awarded "Best Law Firm for Women in Austria". In addition, DORDA managing partner and head of the Life Sciences practice group Francine Brogyányi was awarded "Best in Life Sciences".DORDA supports PATRIZIA AG in the purchase of a residential project development in Graz
22nd October 2020 Under the direction of Stefan Artner, DORDA advised the internationally active PATRIZIA AG on the acquisition of a residential project development in the new Reininghaus district of Graz. The seller is the AIRA Development Group, which developed the project and is responsible for construction and leasing.Francine Brogyányi wins Life Sciences Award
19th August 2020 On 10 June LMG announced the winners of the European Life Sciences Awards. The DORDA Life Science Practice Group had previously been nominated by LMG in a total of eleven categories. On the day, DORDA Managing Partner and Head of the Life Science Practice Group Francine Brogyányi emerged as the winner and was named "Litigation & Enforcement Lawyer of the Year". The award, presented for the eighth time, thus honours her outstanding work in the field of unfair competition in the life sciences industry in Europe.DORDA advises Eastern Property Holdings in a further acquisition of a office building in Vienna
19th August 2020 Eastern Property Holdings ("EPH") has successfully signed the acquisition of another prominent and centrally located office building in Vienna. EPH was advised by DORDA led by real estate partner Stefan Artner and by Magdalena Brandstetter (Attorney, Real Estate and Construction Law).UBM and ARE: joint real estate project developments in Vienna and Munich
10th June 2020 UBM Development, a leading European real estate developer, and ARE Austrian Real Estate GmbH, a subsidiary of Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft (BIG) specialising in office and residential properties, are jointly developing part of the Aspanggründe in Vienna's 3rd district and a project area in Munich-Moosach. The cooperation is a joint venture in Austria and in Germany through mutual shareholdings in the property-owning project companies. On almost 14,000 sqm (Vienna) and almost 28,000 sqm (Munich), realisations of mixed-use neighborhoods with primarily apartments, commercially used space and offices are planned.DORDA advises sustainably – Launch of the Sustainability Practice Group
10th June 2020 In keeping with today's World Environment Day, DORDA announces the establishment of the Sustainability Practice Group. The new practice group brings together experts from various legal fields to provide targeted support to companies in their efforts to operate successfully and sustainably at the same time.DORDA advises on the merger of the hosting providers easyname and dogado
10th June 2020 Under the lead of M&A expert Christian Ritschka, DORDA's Digital Industries Group advised Florian Schicker and easyname on the merger with the German dogado group.DORDA advised Lernsieg Mobile Media GmbH on the relaunch of the app “Lernsieg”
29th April 2020 DORDA IP/IT and data protection experts Axel Anderl, Nino Tlapak and Alona Klammer supported Lernsieg Mobile Media GmbH in the relaunch of the mobile app "Lernsieg", which was previously taken offline after a short time following massive counter-campaigns in autumn 2019.DORDA advises underwriting banks on the Euro 1.65 billion capital increase of ams AG
29th April 2020 DORDA's capital market law experts supported the Joint Global Coordinators UBS and HSBC in the Euro 1.65 billion capital increase of Austrian ams AG.Successful representation of willhaben by DORDA in competition law issues
29th April 2020 willhaben succeeds in competition law disputes together with DORDA over the slogan "Austria's largest car exchange" against AutoScout24.DORDA advises Greiner on the takeover of foam specialist Eurofoam
29th April 2020 DORDA's M&A experts support Austrian Greiner AG on the acquisition of all remaining shares in Eurofoam GmbH, making the Upper Austrian-based company the sole shareholder of the foam specialist.DORDA advises sportsWorld on cooperation with F1 and EON
27th March 2020 DORDA IP/IT and data protection experts Axel Anderl and Dominik Schelling support sportsWorld in a cooperation with Formula 1 in connection with the pop-up exhibition "Bond in Motion".Elena Manachimova promoted to Senior Associate at DORDA
27th March 2020 Elena Manachimova (36) joined DORDA in 2011 and has long-standing experience in advising international clients in the fields of immigration and tax law as well as private foundations and cross-border succession planning. Now, Elena Manachimova, who completed full scale legal studies both in Austria and the Russian Federation, has been admitted to the Austrian Bar.Successful advice from the home office: DORDA supported Warburg-HIH Invest in the sale of an office
24th March 2020 DORDA's real estate law experts supported Warburg-HIH Invest Real Estate (Warburg-HIH Invest) in the sale of a multi-storey office building in Vienna-Simmering, with a floor area of around 14,000 square metres, to a Luxembourg real estate fund.DORDA establishes multidisciplinary Digital Industries Group
8th August 2019 DORDA has always had a strong focus on the digital and technology sector. The team of nine leading and award-winning IT/IP professionals led by partner Axel Anderl has been boasting a strong track record of relevant client relationships for more than a decade. In addition, other expert teams of the firm, such as the M&A group, the corporate law, banking and insurance teams or the antitrust team, also work for technology companies on a daily basis. As a consequence, DORDA has now established a new interdisciplinary Digital Industries Group, which institutionalises the cooperation of DORDA's experienced, technology-oriented experts in the digital and technology sector. Constant sharing of know-how will further strengthen the expertise and quality of the Group's services, thus creating further synergy effects for clients.Legal Developments
Opinion of advocate general Hogan on copyright levies for cloud services: National legislator’s Leeway confirmed
28th September 2021In principle, the author of a work protected by copyright has an exclusive right to reproduce or copy it. In Austria, however, anyone has the right to make copies of such works for private use. Originally, the legislator had scenarios in mind where people recorded music from the radio with their stereo system and a blank tape cassette, or recorded films via a video recorder.
The first-ever legal framework on AI: EU Commission proposes a new Regulation
29th April 2021 Artificial intelligence (AI) will shape our digital future. Self-driving cars, smart cities, digital factories and more precise medical diagnoses - the opportunities of AI are endless. However, its use also triggers significant risks. Algorithms or deep learning tools which are not accurate might severely affect people. In specific cases it might even raise complex ethical questions, for example when it comes to decision about life or death. The EU legislator realized the chances, but also the risks of AI at a very early stage. It thus aims to implement a legal framework for trustworthy and safe AI, hile strengthening AI uptakes, investments and innovations across the EU.Commercial contracts in times of corona
23rd March 2020 Are delivery obligations between businesses still to be fulfilled?Austrian short-time working model “Corona Immediate Assistance-Short Time Flex”
23rd March 2020 Short-time work is generally understood to be the temporary, foreseeable reduction in normal working hours (by at least 10% to a maximum of 90%).Public law measures and orders against COVID-19
23rd March 2020 Which laws are applicable and what are the most important regulations?COVID-19 Q&A on real estate and tenancy law
23rd March 2020 In the days between 13 March 2020 and 15 March 2020, the government announced a comprehensive package of measures to combat Covid-19 ("Corona virus"), which is to enter into force on 16 March 2020. This in particular includes the ordered closure of shops and restaurants. The following initial overview addresses a number of key issues that arise for tenants and landlords as a result of the current situation.Corona Virus: Impacts on Taxation, Financial Statements, Ability to distribute dividends
23rd March 2020 Corona Virus: Impacts on Taxation, Financial Statements, Ability to distribute dividends. What you have to watch out for!Civil Litigation
23rd March 2020 What are the effects of COVID-19 and the measures recently taken by the federal government on litigation proceedings?M&A and capital markets law – What needs to be considered?
23rd March 2020 Covid-19 poses major challenges for (cross-border) M&A transactions as well as for capital market deals.Corporate law perspective on corona
23rd March 2020What effects does the current situation have on planned shareholders' meetings? Can shareholders' meetings be held? And are there any delays in registrations with the commercial register?
Which privacy aspects must companies take into account when processing health data?
23rd March 2020 Can a company collect data about a (potential) infection with COVID-19?How can managers avoid personal liability for the financial impact of the Corona crisis on the compa
18th March 2020 How can managers avoid personal liability for the financial impact of the Corona crisis on the compa Limited liability companies and stock companies must file for the opening of insolvency proceedings if they are unable to pay their open debts (illiquidity) or over-indebted without a positive prognosis. If such ground to file for insolvency has occurred, managers are obliged to file for insolvency as soon as possible, but at the latest within 60 days. Otherwise they are personally liable - without limitation - for damages caused by a delayed filing for insolvency (i.e. loss of new creditors and quota damage of old creditors). In Austrian practice, approximately 99% of all insolvency proceedings are opened due to illiquidity, whereby according to established case law illiquidity is presumed if 95% of the due debts cannot be paid when due.Which Insurance covers corona damages? What do you have to do not to lose coverage?
18th March 2020 Insurance companies insure uncertain risks of individuals that may arise in the future and cover such risks with the premiums of the insured community. Once the risk has already occurred or is about to occur immediately and one does not have taken out insurance already, it is not possible to get insurance cover anymore.Covid19: Financing
18th March 2020 The first part of the article deals with various legal issues that may become relevant for financings in connection with measures to limit the spread of Covid 19. The second part sets out links to current public subsidy offers.Covid-19: Supervisory law for banks and other financial service providers
18th March 2020 On 13 March 2020, the Austrian Government announced a comprehensive package of measures to combat Covid19 ("Corona virus"), which is to come into force on 16 March 2020. The following initial overview therefore addresses some of the key issues that this will raise for banks – but also for other financial service providers:The National Regulation On The Security Of “nis” In Austria Should Be Of Interest To You
8th August 2019Good things come to those who wait? Finally, the main implementing regulation for the Austrian Law on Network and Information System Security (Netz- und Informationssystemsicherheitsgesetz, "NISG") was published last week. It serves primarily to define which companies are actually affected by the NISG. Now it is getting serious for the operators of "essential services". What does that mean?
“black Friday” – Now Freely Usable For Promotions In Austria
16th July 2019Black Friday is unquestionable one of the most profitable and busiest days of the year for retail, particularly online. Worldwide almost all online store do offer sales or special promotions on Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Already after this practice has established online, a trademark for "BLACK FRIDAY" was registered in Germany back in 2013. In 2016 a Chinese company acquired the trademark and then filed in 2017 for its extension to Austria. Based on the registered trademark, it granted exclusive rights to an Austrian company, which licensed usage rights to various partner stores against remuneration. Further, an exclusive "Black Friday-Cooperation Program" was established. Non-partners who used the event name or trademark were prosecuted and requested to either pay a license fee or refrain from running Black Friday promotions. Some followed the request and entered into license agreements. Some, however, did challenge the validity of the trademark. Finally, respective proceedings to check the actual protection of the trademark were initiated. Austrian courts now held that the trademark "BLACK FRIDAY" is not protected in Austria.
Consent or pay – a valid scheme under the GDPR?
29th April 2019Media companies throughout Europe struggle with a difficult economic environment: Shrinking sales figures for print products, the digitalisation and consumer demand force publishers to offer their content also on the internet. However, generating money for online publications is not quite easy as – at least in Austria – online subscription against renumeration has not been well accepted by customers. This partially has its root in the lack of suitable micropayment means in the past and users thus getting acquainted to online information being offered for free. Thus, publishers have instead focused on financing their platforms by online marketing activities such as placement of banners. Nowadays such digital advertisement is usually targeted to the specific user. For this purpose, cookies are stored on the user's computer upon his first visit of the website, which then collect data about his location, technical equipment used and online behaviour. This finally allows to display specific, user targeted advertisements. However, such cookies may cause issues with applicable consent requirements under the telecommunication and data protection regulations:
Austria: Anonymisation Accepted As Valid Data Deletion Method
29th April 2019On 5th December 2018, the Austrian data protection authority (Datenschutzbehörde, "DSB") issued a decision (DSB-D123.270/0009-DSB/2018) on data subject's right to data deletion according to Art 17 GDPR. In a nutshell, the DSB accepted consistent anonymisation as a valid alternative to physical and technical deletion. Beside the clear statement that anonymous data is not subject to the GDPR, the DSB provided detailed information on (technical) requirements of anonymisation methods:
Austrian Data Protection Authority Issued The “black List”
5th December 2018Processing operations subject to the requirement of a data protection impact assessment.
Following the "White List", the data protection authority has now also issued the long-awaited "Black List" in form of a binding regulation. This provides greater clarity as to when Data Protection Impact Assessments ("DPIA") are actually to be carried out in practice in Austria. As already in the draft, the regulation does not provide an exhaustive list of processing operations that are subject to the requirement. Rather, the regulation specifies criteria - some of which require further interpretation - which shall make it necessary to carry out a detailed examination.
Rien ne va plus!
22nd August 2018
Austrian Real Estate and Construction Law
On 30 June 2018 an amendment to the Vienna Building Code entered into force rendering it more difficult to demolish historic buildings in the Austrian capital. Is this the beginning of a new and hostile approach to owners of historic buildings? No! The Austrian Constitutional Court had already confirmed in 2017 that the rent based on the reference value (Richtwertmietzins) and the prohibition to request higher rent in certain areas of the city (Lagezuschlag) were in line with the constitution. In addition, the Supreme Court had redefined the rent control system in leading judgments in 2017. Despite massive impacts on owners of historic buildings, the federal legislator has not provided viable solutions.
DORDA advises on the acquisition of Austrian office properties Denk Drei
28th June 2018Stefan Artner, Partner and Head of the Real Estate Practice Group, and real estate attorney Klaus Pfeiffer of DORDA advised Austrian Real Estate Development GmbH (ARE, a subsidiary of Bundesimmobilien-Gesellschaft, the Austrian privatization agency) on the acquisition of the Denk Drei office properties from IC Development. The successful closing of the forward purchase transaction took place on April 30, 2018. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.
Austrian “White List”
22nd June 2018
Exceptions
from the OBLIGATION TO CARRY OUT A data protection impact assessment
Immediately on 25 May, the GDPR-day, the
Austrian Data Protection Authority published its White List brining some clarity
concerning the obligation to carry out a data protection impact assessment. As
expected, especially standardized data processing activities and already
registered processing operations that have to be approved by the authority in
advance do not require an impact assessment.
for Austria and we can only hope that it will be issued soon as well.
Stop! Wait! Move! – No longer Stamp Duty for Residential Homes
19th October 2017On 12 October 2017, right in a last minute attempt to win undecided voters for one of the political parties, the leaving members of parliament enacted a new tax law. While fundamental changes to the Austrian Tenancy Law had been vividly discussed between the socialist and the conservative parties in recent years, the new law on the abolition of stamp duty falls completely short of what could have been achieved.
The role of the supervisory board in investor relations
11th August 20171.Abstract
Contrary to common law jurisdictions such as the US or UK, the laws of civil law jurisdictions Germany and Austria provide for a two-tier structure for stock companies (Aktiengesellschaft), thereby strictly distinguishing the tasks, duties and responsibilities of the Management Board (Vorstand) from those of the Supervisory Board (Aufsichtsrat). Under the Austrian Stock Companies Act (Aktiengesetz), the Management Board has the sole competence to represent the company vis-à-vis third parties. There are only limited exceptions in which the Supervisory Board may act for, in the name of and on behalf of the company.
Constitutional Court’s Recent Judgments on Rent in Austria
11th August 2017The Constitutional Court has recently provided two judgments on 28 June 2017 on the rent control legislation in Austria ruling that the current system for flats complies with Austrian Constitutional Law and the European Convention on Human Rights. The Constitutional Court visibly failed to take the opportunity to initiate a change to the current legislation. Further appeals to the Constitutional Court are likely and worthwhile with the Austrian parties currently involved in their campaigns for the general election in October 2017.
Buy-to-Let Schemes in Austria
27th July 2017Buy-to-let schemes reached the Austrian market several years ago and have gained increased popularity in the scenic alpine regions of Tyrol, Vorarlberg or Salzburg. Investors acquire condominium ownership in newly constructed hotel facilities and rent out the properties to hotel operators at – ideally – attractive rates. While buy-to-let-schemes can be very lucrative investments, they also raise complex legal and tax questions. With the economic and financial crisis falling into oblivion, investors, however, have become more and more willing to sail these waters.
New Austrian Data Protection Act Implementing Gdpr Passed The Austrian Parliament
6th July 2017After some last-minute amendments, the new Austrian Data Protection Act, implementing and supplementing the EU General Data Protection Regulation, was finally adopted by the Austrian Parliament on 30 June 2017. The new provisions provide for some local specialties that must be considered by all companies active in Austria. All changes become applicable from May 2018 but the new obligations require complex internal amendments that should be reflected in the course of the GDRP implementation to avoid the increased penalties. [read more here]
Liability for “LSD”
6th July 2017On 1 January 2017 the Austrian Wage and Social Dumping Prevention Act (Lohn- und Sozialdumping-Bekämpfungsgesetz – abbreviated to "LSD-BG") came into effect. An enhanced liability regime for the principal shall reduce and ultimately eliminate the undercutting of wages, in particular in the construction sector. The last six months have shown increased awareness of potential liabilities by principals and workers.
Significant adjustments to Insolvency Law in Austria
13th June 2017The Insolvency Law Amending Statute of 2017 (Insolvenzrechtsänderungsgesetz 2017, IRÄG 2017) was adopted by the Council of Ministers at the end of March and is currently in the process of being reviewed. The reform is due to enter into force on 1 July 2017 and contains significant innovations. Its primary objective is to facilitate the debt relief of natural persons.
Increased Liability for Real Estate Agents in Austria
13th June 2017Pursuant to the Austrian Broker Act (Maklergesetz), a broker has to fairly and diligently protect their principal's interest. Until a very recent judgment of the Austrian Supreme Court (Oberster Gerichtshof), courts have taken a very lenient stance on the liability of real estate agents. The judgment of the Supreme Court of 24 Jan 2017, however, might permanently divert existing case law.
First Draft for the New Austrian Data Protection Act Published
22nd May 2017The long-awaited first draft for the new Austrian Data Protection Act, implementing and supplementing the EU General Data Protection Regulation, was finally published on 12 May 2017.
Premium Payment Clauses – Surcharges need to be transparent
16th May 2017The implementation of clauses on short-term premium instalments
In its ruling (7 Ob 5/16k) of 17 February 2016, the Austrian Supreme Court determined that a clause on "short-term premium instalments" (Unterjährigkeitsklauseln) contained in the general terms and conditions for life insurance contracts with premium refund was non-transparent. The clause provided that premiums may be paid in semi-annual, quarterly, or monthly instalments.
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