Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) > Vienna, Austria > Firm Profile
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) Offices
SCHOTTENRING 19
1010 VIENNA
Austria
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Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) > The Legal 500 Rankings
Austria > Administrative law and public sector Tier 1
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) fields a team of environmental experts and also exhibits proficiency across product compliance, gaming, pharma and public transport-related mandates. Noted by clients for offering a ‘full service on all aspects of public law’, the firm is especially recommended for its experience with environmental impact assessments, permission procedures, public procurement, and regulatory issues in the tech sector. Christian Schmelz
heads the planning & environment team and is described as ‘the leading expert in his field’, while Bernd Rajal leads the firm's public law group and Günther Leissler heads up the data protection & privacy group. Johannes Stalzer leads on public procurement matters, while Benjamin Schlatter‘s focus areas are environment, energy and tech. Practice head(s):
Bernd Rajal; Christian Schmelz; Günther Leissler; Johannes Stalzer
Other key lawyers:
Benjamin Schlatter; Chrisoph Cudlik
Testimonials
‘Christian Schmelz, Christoph Cudlik and the team are skillful. Good cooperation with the authorities has contributed to accelerating the proceedings. The quick and reliable work, as well as the excellent legal and strategic knowledge, is priceless. Clients receive advice that is easy to understand and sophisticated down to the last detail.’
‘Christoph Cudlik has become an excellent attorney under the leadership of Christian Schmelz. We can recommend him for delivery of winning strategies and their relentless execution. Christoph delivers concise and easy to read, but very precise verbal and written pleading that is backed with deep expertise. We treasure him as a very seasoned and thoughtful counsel who has flawlessly accompanied us.’
‘Schoenherr has an impressive public law practice group, which is well known as market leader. They attract the most prominent clients and the most complex mandates. The excellent team is especially well known for their unparalleled expertise in environmental and climate change law with focus on all kinds of infrastructure, renewable energy and industry projects. They offer full service on all aspects of public law.
‘Christian Schmelz, who is known as setting the standards of high quality in regulatory work in Austria, has formed an extraordinary strong team of leading lawyers in the various sub-fields of public law.’
‘Christian Schmelz is the leading expert in his field. He is setting the standards of high quality in regulatory work in Austria and he is the one you rely on when it comes to highly complex matters. His expertise is not restricted to legal questions, but extends also to procedural, tactical, technical and ecological aspects. It is great fun and always a pleasure to work with him.’
Key clients
Abbott Medical Group
Allianz Capital Partners
Alpiq
Austrian Chamber of Commerce
Austrian Association of Pharmacists
Austrian Medical Association
Autobahnen- u Schnellstraßen-Finanzierungs-AG
BASF SE
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.
Contour Global
EBG MedAustron
Ecoplus Alpin
Energie Steiermark
Energiepark Bruck/Leitha
Energiewerkstatt
ENWA
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
European Comission
Essity Austria
EVN AG
EXAA Energy Exchange
Flixbus
Gas Connect
Gewista
Grand Hotel Semmering
ImWind
Innsbrucker Kommunalbetriebe
Internationale Rheinregulierung
JCDecaux
Klinik Ottakring
Klinik Wiener Neustadt
Laakirchen Papier AG
Lime
Monier Group
Netz Niederösterreich
Neue Heimat Tirol
Ökoenergie
OMV AG
Österreichische Bundesbahn
Österreichische Bundesforste
Österreichische Post AG
Püspök
Prezero
Red Bull
Serbian Ministry of Mining and Energy
Sony
SpaceX / Starlink
Stadt Wien
Thales Austria GmbH
TINETZ Tiroler Netze GmbH
TIWAG Tiroler Wasserkraft
Trans Austria
UBER
UniCredit
Ventureral
VERBUND
Vienna International Airport
Vienna Technical Museum
WEB Windenergie AG
Wien Energie
Wien IT GmbH
Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
Wiener Lokalbahnen
Wiener Netze
Wiener Stadtwerke Holding
Windkraft Simonsfeld
Windlandkraft
WIPARK
Zellstoff Pöls AG
Work highlights
- Advised the European Commission on the legislative process for the Gas Directive Recast by identifying legal and regulatory barriers to the timely development of cross-border hydrogen infrastructure in Europe.
- Advised UBER on various public law disputes with the local regulatory authorities and on defending its transport business models against competitors in administrative proceedings.
- Advised the Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft, ÖBB, ASFINAG, and Wiener Linien on the roll-out of the 5G network in Austria.
Austria > Banking and finance Tier 1
Led from Bucharest by Matei Florea, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s ‘highly experienced’ integrated team operates across all of the firm’s offices in the CEE region, allowing it to handle a high volume of multi-jurisdictional matters that span from complexly structured finance transactions to financial services litigation. The group is instructed by fintech clients, financial institutions, and insurance companies and shows proficiency in ESG-related topics such as green financings. Key contacts in Austria are the ‘go-to lawyer for strategically important financing transactions’ Martin Ebner, as well as Peter Feyl, who combines regulatory expertise with knowledge of debt finance and M&A, and Laurenz Schwitzer, who focuses on real estate and asset finance. Practice head(s):
Matei Florea
Other key lawyers:
Martin Ebner; Peter Feyl; Laurenz Schwitzer; Ursula Rath; Michael Magerl; Christoph Moser
Testimonials
‘Martin Ebner is our go-to lawyer for strategically important financing transactions and other special situations. He is a brilliant advisor, a strong negotiator and adds value to every transaction.’
‘Highly experienced team, with closely aligned communication/collaboration between individual team members.’
‘Very personable, highly responsive to client needs, anticipate issues in advance, highly qualified, earn trust very quickly with expertise and character.’
Key clients
Agrana Beteiligung-AG
Allianz
American Express
Bitpanda
Booking.com
Calm Storm Management
Deutsche Bank AG
Deutsche Lufthansa AG
Erste Group Bank AG
European Federation of Energy Traders
Goldman Sachs
immigon Portfolioabbau AG i.A.
J. P. Morgan
Mayr-Melnhof Holz Holding AG
OMV AG
Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien AG
Raiffeisen Bank International AG
Red Bull
Schoellerbank AG
UniCredit Bank Austria AG
UNIQA
Volksbank Wien AG
Volkskreditbank AG
Wienerberger AG
Work highlights
- Advised UniCredit Bank Austria, ING Bank NV, Erste Group Bank AG, Raiffeisenbank International AG and Commerzbank AG as sole coordinator, documentation agent, bookrunner and mandated lead arranger on the revolving syndicated facility for Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH.
- Advised Bitpanda in connection with a corporate restructuring.
- Advised Wienerberger AG on a €700m bridge term loan facility agreement arranged by Erste Group Bank AG, Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft, Danske Bank A/S and UniCredit Bank Austria AG.
Austria > Capital markets Tier 1
Providing ‘extraordinary support with a deep knowledge of markets and clients’ needs’, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) demonstrates strength in debt and equity-linked transactions, regulatory capital-related matters, and issuances of covered bonds, green bonds and sovereign debt. Handling domestic as well as cross-border transactions, offerings, stock exchange listings, and bond issuances, Ursula Rath maintains close relationships with a roster of clients encompassing issuers, selling shareholders, financial institutions, and investors. Rath leads the department alongside the ‘highly experienced’ Christoph Moser, who specialises in debt and equity capital market transactions, corporate finance and securities law. Contributing to most of the team’s transactions, Angelika Fischer is another key name in the team.Practice head(s):
Ursula Rath; Christoph Moser
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Impressive track record, hands-on lawyers, open minded and economically thinking. Good reputation ’
‘Christoph Moser combines know-how and accessibility, and is very approachable. His exceptional qualities, such as adaptability, creativity, and a strong work ethic, are invaluable for us.’
‘Very experienced team, great expertise, very pleasant to work with.’
‘Christoph Moser – great lawyer – highly experienced, great teamworker.’
‘Pragmatic, fast and reliable advice. Particular expertise in Austrian capital markets law.’
‘Christoph Moser stands out. Always available, always solid advice.’
‘Schoenherr’s capital market practice stands for extraordinary support with a deep knowledge of markets and clients’ needs. ’
‘The lawyers are always highly committed and support with the best knowledge of the markets, and provide best services and solutions for all challenges. ’
Key clients
ASFINAG AG
Barclays Bank Ireland
BAWAG Group
BAWAG P.S.K.
Bayerische Landesbank
BNY Mellon
BofA Securities Europe
Commerzbank
Crédit Agricole
DekaBank
Deutsche Bank
DZ BANK
Erste Group Bank
Goldman Sachs Bank Europe
ING Bank
J.P. Morgan
Kontron AG
Marinomed AG
NOVOMATIC
OMV
Raiffeisen Bank International
Scotiabank
UNIQA Insurance Group AG
UniCredit Bank
Wienerberger
Work highlights
- Advised Porsche AG as sole Austrian counsel in connection with a major, high-value IPO.
- Advised the joint lead managers Barclays Bank Ireland PLC, BofA Securities Europe SA, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft, Goldman Sachs Bank Europe SE, J.P. Morgan SE and UniCredit Bank AG on the Republic of Austria’s first 1.85% €4bn green bond with an approximately 27-year tenor.
- Advised Autobahnen- und Schnellstraßen-Finanzierungs-Aktiengesellschaft as issuer’s counsel on its annual update of its guaranteed €12bn EMTN programme as well as on the issuance of its 2.125 % €600m senior notes due 2028.
Austria > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Embedded in the firm’s international network, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s multidisciplinary team delivers first-rate expertise on M&A transactions across the whole CEE region and is also recommended for corporate reorganisations, in particular in the banking and insurance sector. Another standout feature is the wide range of sector knowledge the group provides, covering industries such as energy, financial institutions, telecoms, technology and healthcare. Practice head Roman Perner has a track record of cross-border restructurings and mergers, while Sascha Hödl is described by clients as ‘very knowledgable in all corporate and commercial matters’. Christian Herbst‘s practice encompasses venture capital, public takeover, and corporate finance transactions, whereas Sascha Schulz is regularly instructed by clients from the construction, real estate, financial and telecom sectors. M&A expert Maximilian Lang is another key contact. Practice head(s):
Roman Perner
Other key lawyers:
Alexander Popp; Sascha Hödl; Christian Herbst; Maximilian Lang; Markus Piuk; Sascha Schulz
Testimonials
‘I appreciate their footprint in CEE and their ability to deliver first-tier advice in the markets they operate in. I do not only appreciate their pragmatic approach, but also their in-depth understanding of commercial topics and how they interplay with the legal side.’
‘My contact person in M&A is Markus Piuk. He is calm and deliberate and at the same time has reached a level of seniority which allows him to accept all challenges of international M&A. ’
‘What truly sets Thomas Kulnigg’s team apart, especially in the realms of startups, venture capital and technology, is their unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding services. They exhibit a remarkable ability to stay at the forefront of the industry, ensuring that clients benefit from the latest developments and trends. Their pragmatic approach to problem-solving is refreshing, always presenting practical solutions to complex challenges.’
‘The team we have been working with can deal with all our complex questions as they have the large Schoenherr lawyer team (both domestic and abroad) to turn to. Our contacts are easy to talk to and can grasp the submitted problems quickly, their answers are complete, accurate and arrive within given deadlines.’
‘Roman Perner has in-depth experience within his field. He enjoys what he is doing, and his team works very well together. The bundled expertise of the team is very valuable to us and supports our strategic decisions.’
‘Broad team, strong expertise and network.’
‘Sascha Hödl: Vvery knowledgable in all corporate and commercial matters.’
‘Maximilian Lang has been providing strategic and pragmatic advice. He is competent, responsive and fully dedicated.’
Key clients
360kompany
América Móvil
Andritz AG
AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals
ARZ Allgemeines Rechenzentrum GmbH
Benteler International AG
Bilfinger Industrial Services Österreich GmbH
Blue Minds Group
BPE 4
Brau Union Oesterreich AG
Cargo-Partner Group Holding AG
Carrier Global Corporation
Caverion
Cerba HealthCare
coeo Inkasso GmbH
Credendo
Deutsche Post AG
Deutsche Telekom
ECOwind Handels- & Wartungs GmbH
Enery Development GmbH
Erste Group
Eucodis Bioscience
Findologic
FirmenABC
Fressnapf SE
Funke Mediengruppe
Gropyus AG
HAR GmbH
HARPS Global
Herba Chemosan
HS Timber Group
Immigon Portfolioabbau
IMMOFINANZ
Interglobe Enterprises Limited
Kellogg’s
Kontron
Liechtenstein Group
OBAG
OMV AG
OMV Petrom
P&I Personal und Informatik
Palfinger
Playbrush GmbH
Red Bull GmbH
REWE
RFR
Rhone Capital
Sanofi-Aventis GmbH
SanusX
SGL Carbon GmbH
Starwood Capital Group
Storyblok
Techbold
Thales Group
UBS Europe SE
UNICORN-Biotech Holding GmbH
UniCredit Bank Austria AG
UNIQA Group
Verbund AG
voestalpine Stahl GmbH
Voith GmbH & Co. KGaA
Wiesenthal Autohandels AG
x+bricks
Zech Bau
Work highlights
- Advised Carrier Global Corporation alongside Linklaters on its acquisition of Viessmann Climate Solutions in a cash and stock transaction is valued at €12bn.
- Advised Cargo-Partner as global lead counsel on the sale of the entire Cargo-Partner Group to Nippon Express Holdings Inc. for €1.4bn.
- Advised Deutsche Telekom AG alongside Gleiss Lutz on the sale of a majority stake in its towers business to a bidding consortium for €17bn.
Austria > Dispute resolution: commercial litigation Tier 1
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s team, under the joint leadership of arbitration expert Christoph Lindinger and Andreas Natterer, is reputed for the depth of its expertise in cross-border litigation, and offers particular strength in defending national and international clients against injunctive claims from consumer protection associations. Natterer’s multi-facetted practice includes contractual, product liability, and unfair competition claims, while Sara Khalil is recommended for her capabilities in data protection disputes and distribution law, with the latter encompassing compensation claims arising from termination of distribution and franchising agreements. Dual-qualified (Austria and Croatia) Bojana Vareskic is noted for experience in the energy and financial services segments, while Klara Kiehl departed the team to join fokus Rechtsanwälte GmbH in January 2024.Practice head(s):
Christoph Lindinger; Andreas Natterer
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Lawyers such as Sara Khalil put a lot of effort into achieving the client’s goals and achieving satisfying results in the courtroom.’
‘Sara Khalil cares about details, but at the same time has a great overview.’
Key clients
Raiffeisen Bank International
Funke Medien Group
UBER BV
Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd
KONE
Mondelez
Danone
Verband der Versicherungsunternehmen Österreichs (VVO)
HETA Asset Resolutioin AG iA
Adler Real Estate
Work highlights
- Represented Meta in data protection proceedings against claims filed by data protection activist Maximilian Schrems in 2014.
- Represented HETA Asset Resultion AG iA in civil proceedings before Vienna’s civil court against Land Burgenland.
- Represented Adler Real Estate and its subsidiaries in nine disputes against different investment companies and investors based in Liechtenstein, Austria, and Germany.
Austria > EU and competition Tier 1
Described as a ‘top team for all competition law matters,’ Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) assists clients with filing merger control applications and clearing Phase I and II merger control proceedings, and is well versed in defending private cartel damages claims. The ‘very hands-on’ Christoph Haid leads the team, advising on cross-border merger filings and leniency applications, while Hanno Wollmann represents an extensive range of clients in public and private competition litigation, including cartel damages claims. Franz Urlesberger supports clients seeking to implement antitrust compliance measures, as does primarily Brussels-based Volker Weiss, who also advises on FDI regulations. Stefanie Stegbauer adds expertise in internal audits and e-discovery. Practice head(s):
Christoph Haid
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is extremely well positioned for merger filings in Austria. No other firm knows the BWB (Austrian Competition Authority) as well and can offer as efficient and successful filings and proceedings.’
‘Volker Weiss has probably done most merger filings in Austria in the past decade or so. Franz Urlesberger is also extremely experienced and an asset to the market.’
‘Top team for all competition law matters.’
‘Franz Urlesberger: leading competition lawyer. Christoph Haid: very hands-on and pragmatic, good knowledge of eastern European jurisdictions. Stefanie Stegbauer: very responsive and excellent to work with.’
‘Schoenherr is the top team in Austria for EU and Austrian competition law, as well as central/eastern Europe.’
‘It is always a pleasure working with Volker Weiss, one of the most dedicated competition lawyers I know.’
‘The Schoenherr competition law practice is extremely broad because it covers all of eastern and south-eastern Europe. It is an excellent one-stop-shop for this region.’
‘Christoph Haid is one of the most responsive lawyers around. He gives quick and commercially sound advice.’
Key clients
Red Bull
Österreichische Beteiligungs AG
FUJIFILM Corporation
OMV
voestalpine Railway Systems
Google LLC
KONE
AGRANA
UNIQA
Silgan Holding
ORF
Herba Chemosan
Heineken Group/Brau Union Österreich
UBER
EXAA
Erste Group
UniCredit Bank Austria
Raiffeisen Bank International
REWE International AG
Oberbank
Nexi
Mediaset
ProPellets
Work highlights
- Advised OMV on its divestment of their Slovenian wholesale and retail business.
- Represented Daimler AG against damage claims following the EU Commission’s trucks case.
- Advised Red Bull in the European Commission’s investigation into alleged infringements of antitrust rules.
Austria > Intellectual property Tier 1
The ‘very rigorous’ Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) team is known for handling the full range of IP mandates, regularly appearing before Austria’s Supreme Court and the ECJ in patent and trade mark infringement disputes, and cases of unfair competition. The practice also provides international IP rights enforcement support, assisting clients with the ongoing management of their IP portfolios. Leading the practice is a three-person team consisting of Michael Woller, whose focus is on patent and trade mark litigation, copyright and unfair competition specialist Christian Schumacher, and Dominik Hofmarcher, whose practice spans non-traditional trade marks within the media, sports and entertainment sectors.Practice head(s):
Michael Woller; Christian Schumacher; Dominik Hofmarcher
Other key lawyers:
Alexander Pabst
Testimonials
‘Very rigorous, with strong legal skills and deep knowledge of relevant case law. At the same time, pragmatic and business-oriented, with clear recommendations for complex situations.’
‘I warmly recommend Michael Woller and Alexander Pabst. Both have excellent listening skills, are very much involved and very agreeable to work with. Alexander provides added value by digging into details. Michael provides very clear recommendations.’
‘Schoenherr’s IP practice is unparalleled in its service. We, as clients, feel that we receive top professional service, and the team demonstrates excellent competence. We have numerous trademark applications all over the world, which are handled by Schoenherr.’
‘Dominik Hofmarcher and Michael Woller always act in a friendly and competent manner. They take time to deal with our concerns in a focused manner. We are shown all possible courses of action and are always given a recommendation for action, accelerating our decision-making process.’
‘Great team and very helpful.’
‘Global know-how in trade mark compliance.’
‘Dominik Hofmarcher has an outstanding know-how in trade mark consulting with a global perspective. He has particular experience in multinational production enterprises.’
Key clients
A-Nobis Sektkellerei
Albertina
Angst + Pfister
Arineo
Auer-Blaschke
Authentic Brands Group
BKS Bank
Brau Union Österreich AG
Burberry
Chanel
Danone
Deutsche Telekom
derStandard
Dominic Thiem
EGLO Leuchten GmbH
Erste Bank
EUIPO
Fassbinderei Klaus Pauscha
Gallup International Association
Grand Production
Institute of Science and Technology
Lallemand
Louis Vuitton Malletier
Microsoft
Octapharma
OMV AG
Power Horse Energy Drinks
Samsung Group
Schlumberger
S.Spitz
STAMAG Stadlauer Malzfabrik
Uber
UNIQA Insurance Group AG
voestalpine Böhler Welding Group
Work highlights
- Represented Serbian TV production company Grand Production in copyright infringement proceedings before the ECJ, brought against a Serbian IPTV/streaming service provider and its Austrian subsidiary.
- Acted for Uber B.V. and Uber Austria GmbH in a series of conflicts against Taxi 40100, a Viennese taxi operator, litigated under the unfair competition regime.
- Secured an EU-wide preliminary injunction against imitations produced by a discount private label product on behalf of the manufacturer of Jägermeister.
Austria > Projects and energy Tier 1
With ‘huge experience’ in handling complex projects, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) is frequently instructed on energy generation projects requiring special permits and environmental impact assessments, having assisted with such matters in connection with several major renewable energy projects. The team also advises clients on applying for project tenders and represents clients in appeals following unsuccessful bids, while acting for successful bidders in procurement matters. Leading the team is the trio of Bernd Rajal, who assists with administrative, energy and environmental law issues, planning and environmental specialist Christian Schmelz, and Johannes Stalzer, who focuses on public procurement matters. Christoph Cudlik is noted for his administrative and constitutional law work, with a particular niche in climate change and planning law. Practice head(s):
Bernd Rajal; Christian Schmelz; Johannes Stalzer
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Highly specialised people, best performers in all areas.’
‘Huge experience, well-connected with decision makers, strong reputation as authors.’
‘Excellent know-how and engagement.’
‘Bernd Rajal is exceptionally smart & great to work with.’
‘Christian Schmelz is for sure the leading expert in his field. He is setting the standards of high quality in regulatory work in Austria and he is the no. 1 you rely on when it comes to highly complex matters.’
‘Benjamin Schlatter and Christoph Cudlik are among the strongest lawyers in environmental law in Austria.’
‘Christian Schmelz is always very accessible and extremely reliable for us. Topics are dealt with in a factually sound manner and briefly summarized in memos.’
‘The team is very committed and has a very high level of knowledge in the field we need. We can expect a satisfactory response to our inquiries at any time and are very well and professionally supported in the relevant areas of law.’
Key clients
Abbott Medical Group
Allianz Capital Partners
Alpiq
Austrian Chamber of Commerce
Austrian Association of Pharmacists
Austrian Medical Association
ASFINAG
BASF SE
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.
Contour Global
EBG MedAustron
Ecoplus Alpin
Energie Steiermark
Energiepark Bruck/Leitha
Energiewerkstatt
ENWA
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
European Commission
Essity Austria
EVN AG
EXAA Energy Exchange
Federal Minister of Energy of Austria
Flixbus
Gas Connect
Gewista
Grand Hotel Semmering
ImWind
Infoscreen (GEWISTA)
Innsbrucker Kommunalbetriebe
Internationale Rheinregulierung
JCDecaux
Kals municipality
Klinik Ottakring
Klinik Wiener Neustadt
Laakirchen Papier AG
Lime
Monier Group
Netz Niederösterreich
Neue Heimat Tirol
Ökoenergie
OMV AG (E&P)
Österreichische Bundesbahn (ÖBB)
Österreichische Bundesforste (ÖBF)
Österreichische Post AG
Püspök
Prezero
Red Bull
Serbian Ministry of Mining and Energy
Sony
SpaceX/Starlink
Stadt Wien
Thales Austria GmbH
TINETZ-Tiroler Netze GmbH
TIWAG Tiroler Wasserkraft
Trans Austria
UBER
UniCredit
Ventureal
VERBUND
Vienna International Airport
Vienna Technical Museum
WEB Windenegie AG
Wien Energie
Wien IT GmbH
Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
Wiener Lokalbahnen
Wiener Netze
Wiener Stadtwerke Holding
Windkraft Simonsfeld
Windlandkraft
WIPARK
Zellstoff Pöls AG
Work highlights
- Advised the City of Vienna and Wien Energie on all legal and regulatory aspects concerning the decarbonisation of the entire city.
- Assisted TIWAG with several Tyrolean hydropower plant including the Kaunertal Expansion Project.
- Acted for the International Organisation for the flood regulation the river Rhine in relation to project “Rhesi,” one of the largest flood protection and EIA projects in Austria and Switzerland.
Austria > Real estate Tier 1
Bringing together ‘outstanding expertise and experience,’ Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) offers real estate funds and asset managers a strong transactional practice, and is able to provide ancillary services, including construction and M&A assistance. ‘Top-notch real estate lawyer’ Michael Lagler, who handles large scale portfolio transactions and the real estate aspects of M&A deals, now leads the team by himself, following Peter Madl‘s departure from the partnership, although the latter continues to assist on real estate development matters in a counsel role. Clemens Rainer was made partner in February 2023, with a practice focused on in- and outbound property investments across the CEE region. Practice head(s):
Michael Lagler
Other key lawyers:
Peter Madl; Clemens Rainer; Ayla Ilicali; Markus Buchleitner
Testimonials
‘The law firm has excellent specialists who complement each other and therefore perfectly cover the spectrum of construction law. Complex topics are prepared and implemented understandable.’
‘Clemens Rainer is very knowledgable and solution-oriented. A very useful resource on your team of advisors.’
‘Outstanding expertise and experience – probably the best real estate team in Austria.’
‘Clemens Rainer and Markus Buchleitner worked as an extremely efficient team. Always very responsive. They provided pragmatic solutions and didn’t overengineer the process.’
‘Well staffed, experienced and dedicated legal team, which works in a target and solution-orientated manner.’
‘Michael Lagler is a top-notch real estate lawyer. Clemens Rainer is a rising star and recommended real estate lawyer.’
‘Always available and a perfect mix of experienced and dynamic lawyers.’
‘Clemens Rainer has a hands-on mentality. Michael Lagler is experienced and a strategic decision-maker. Markus Buchleitner is a hard worker.’
Work highlights
Austria > Data privacy and data protection Tier 2
At Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte), the data protection practice straddles both Austrian and EU data protection law, with extensive experience assisting clients on GDPR compliance and data security issues tied to international transactions. Under the leadership of the ‘fantastic’ Günther Leissler, the practice group has achieved notable successes before Austria’s data protection authority and the courts in matters concerning the processing of user data, cookies and data analysis, among other issues. Veronika Wolfbauer left the firm in February 2024.Practice head(s):
Günther Leissler
Testimonials
‘Big team, you find experts for everything.’
‘Günther Leissler is a very kind, competent, diligent, fast-responding expert for data privacy and data mining.’
‘In my experience working with Schoenherr on data privacy regulatory and litigation matters, the team is second to none for this work in Austria.’
‘Gunther Leissler is fantastic – he knows everything there is to know about data protection law in Austria, and always provides sound strategic advice. He is ably supported by an excellent team.’
‘Schoenherr simply offers an ambience in which you feel comfortable as a client from the very beginning.’
‘The Schoenherr team is a team of lateral thinkers and thus comes up with very good solutions and approaches. Schoenherr also has a very good international network.’
Key clients
Österreichische Post AG
Vienna Insurance Group
Advent International Corporation
Deutsche Telekom
Work highlights
- Represented Meta, Inc. in defending claims filed by data protection activist Maximilian Schrems in 2014.
- Acted for Österreichische Post AG in GDPR-related proceedings.
Austria > Dispute resolution: arbitration and mediation Tier 2
Investor-state disputes under ICSID, UNCITRAL and other rules, as well as commercial disputes and ad hoc proceedings are at the heart of Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s practice, which clients describe as ‘determined, creative and result oriented.’ Led by Christoph Lindinger, the team’s areas of expertise include national and cross-border pharma, finance and data protection disputes as well as construction matters. ‘Outstanding advocate’ Leon Kopecký offers a specialism in investment-related matters, while dual-qualified (Austria and New York) Victoria Pernt covers the full gamut of international arbitration.Practice head(s):
Christoph Lindinger
Other key lawyers:
Victoria Pernt; Leon Kopecký; Marina Stanisavljevic; Sebastian Lukic
Testimonials
‘The team is extremely dedicated, focussed, and highly professional with a lot of experience.’
‘They have longstanding experience and a great track record of arbitrations.’
‘We have received full support from the very beginning. We have also been advised in our language, which was highly appreciated. We have been advised in a very professional manner, anticipating potential risks. We had the impression that our advisors have wide knowledge of legal and arbitration matters. The availability of the team has also been very appreciated.’
‘Sebastian Lukic is a great professional who has all the skills expected for legal advice in mediation and arbitration.’
‘Determined, creative and result oriented.’
‘Leon Kopecký – outstanding advocate and quick to pick up the mood of the room.’
‘It’s a professional, highly specialized and dedicated law firm with individuals who can cover the most challenging international legal disputes.’
‘Individuals are friendly and available for any type of question – very professional and fast.’
Key clients
JCDecaux SA
KELAG-Kärntner Elektrizitäts-Aktiengesellschaft
DARDAFON
APG/SGA, Société Générale d’Affichage, ALMA QUATTRO DOO BEOGRAD
Work highlights
- Represented APG and its Serbian subsidiary, Alma Quattro, in a multimillion euro ICSID arbitration against the Republic of Serbia under the Switzerland-Serbia BIT.
- Advised KELAG Austria and KELAG International in an investment dispute with Romania.
- Represented Dardafon in its second ICC arbitration against the state-owned mobile network operator Kosovo Telecom.
Austria > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2
A major player in the restructuring and insolvency market, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) is regularly retained by lenders, management and investors for assistance with out-of-court restructurings, critical situations, distressed acquisitions and NPL transactions. Following the departure of former practice head Wolfgang Höller in January 2023, Miriam Simsa continues to fly the ship solo, utilising specialised expertise in advising domestic and foreign lenders and companies on Austrian restructurings and in distress situations. M&A expert Michael Magerl supports from Linz with a focus on restructuring and insolvency law in relation to baking, finance and capital markets.Practice head(s):
Miriam Simsa
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very efficient, good economical knowledge, outside-the-box thinking, excellent availability.’
‘Committed employees, smart, excellent availability, fast moving.’
‘Miriam Simsa is a very smart, intelligent and polite person. Very good in negotiations; excellent know-how.’
Key clients
Raiffeisenlandesbank Oberösterreich AG
Austrian Anadi Bank AG
Erste Bank
B & C Holding Österreich GmbH
ara AG
Work highlights
- Advised „Small“ Wärme- Klima- und Sanitäranlagen GmbH on the initiation of reorganisation proceedings, as well as on the sale of 100% of its shares.
- Advised Raiffeisenlandesbank Oberösterreich AG and Raiffeisen-IMPULS Kfz und Mobilien GmbH on the restructuring and insolvency of NBG Fiber GmbH.
- Advised PONA sonst nix GmbH with respect to reorganisation proceedings.
Austria > TMT Tier 2
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) acts for both established players and startups in the TMT space, whom it assists on matters tied to data protection, domain disputes and the protection of trade secrets, among other things. The practice is also present at the cutting edge of technological developments, providing services in regard to blockchain and digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and NFTs. Practice head Thomas Kulnigg is noted for his expertise in technology transactions, and also handles venture capital investments into tech start-ups. Günther Leissler heads the firm’s data protection team, advising on GDPR compliance in addition to multi-jurisdictional database projects. Veronika Wolfbauer is also well versed in these areas, and is the team member to note for matters concerning AI.Practice head(s):
Thomas Kulnigg
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is very experienced in all areas of IT, technology law and data protection law. They are able to quickly familiarise themselves also in the most complicated technical processes.’
‘Veronika Wolfbauer is highly experienced in all TMT matters. Complex structures are solved in an excellent and practice-oriented manner.’
Key clients
Österreichische Post AG
Vienna Insurance Group
Pon Bicycle Holding B.V.
Work highlights
- Represented Österreichische Post in GDPR-related proceedings.
- Advised Pon Bicycle Holding B.V. on the entry of their digital bicycle leasing platform “lease a bike” to the Austrian market.
- Acting for Vienna Insurance Group in a dispute with the Austrian Consumer Association.
Austria > Construction Tier 3
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) is noted for its work in the energy and infrastructure sector, where it supports developers on planning and construction issues, while also advising on the forward sale of residential and office developments. Leading the team is the ‘standout’ Constantin Benes, focusing on industrial construction projects and disputes. Assisting him in steering the team are managing partner and real estate specialist Michael Lagler and Christian Schmelz, who advises on planning and environmental matters. Former co-head Peter Madl left the partnership in 2023, but continues to advise investors on real estate investments as a counsel. Practice head(s):
Constantin Benes; Michael Lagler; Christian Schmelz
Other key lawyers:
Peter Madl; Franziska Oczlon
Testimonials
‘The Schönherr real estate practice is composed of a very competent team of experienced lawyers with a broad knowledge base in several areas of real estate law. They have strong service levels, high reliability and great availability.’
‘Essentially, what makes the team unique is that I can turn to the team for almost any question or problem and receive goal-oriented, timely and competent feedback.’
‘Constantin Benes is very service-oriented, knowledgeable and has demonstrated valuable negotiations skills.’
‘Very flexible and knowledgeable, good always good advice, quick response.’
‘High availability when feedback is required, both in writing and over the phone/Teams. Good ability to put things into broader perspective.’
‘Very competent team of lawyers which always respond very promptly to requests. The lawyers are very solution-oriented. Feedback on enquiries always includes not only answers to questions asked, but also always recommendations on how to proceed with the matter.’
‘I’ve had the pleasure of working with several members of team Schoenherr. Helping each other as a goal to help me the most as a client is definitely a big factor in calling them for any kind of situation I find myself in with my company.’
‘Constantin Benes is a standout by himself. My respect for the knowledge this man has and uses to win cases is beyond what I imagined and could have asked for. Always available for unexpected phone calls and mail. Always has a well-thought-out answer in his pocket.’
Key clients
Autobahnen- u Schnellstraßen-Finanzierungs-AG (ASFINAG)
ARE Austrian Real Estate GmbH
Bank Austria Real Invest Immobilien-Kapitalanlage GmbH
Bauconsult Group
BIG Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft mbH
Brau Union
CC Wien Invest GmbH
Deutsche Vermögensberatung Aktiengesellschaft DVAG/Pannonia Grundstücksverwaltungsgesellschaft mbH
DWS Grundbesitz GmbH
GBI AG
Hallmann Group
IMMOVATE Realita GmbH
Invester United Benefits
Laakirchen Papier
Marubeni Corp.
OFID (OPEC Fund for International Development)
Radkersburger Hof GmbH & Co KG
Raiffeisen Lagerhaus
Raiffeisen Ware Austria
RIGI REAL ESTATE
Scherübel’s Söhne GmbH
Schreiner Trockenbau GmbH
Soini Asset Immobilien
TIWAG Tiroler Wasserkraft AG
Unger Unternehmensgruppe
VIG Vienna Insurance Group
Wiener Linien
WINEGG Group
ZECH Bau
Work highlights
- Advised Bank Austria Real Invest Immobilien-Kapitalanlage GmbH on the construction of a development containing 300 apartments, a nursery school as well as 310 parking spaces.
- Acted for Raiffeisen Lagerhaus on the sale, rezoning and redevelopment of multiple warehouse and silo facilities in Korneuburg, Wiener Neustadt and Gänserndorf.
- Assisted BTS Primus Immobilienbesitz GmbH/Al-Wazzan Group with the construction and implementation and leasing out of a PV plant on the client’s premises in Vienna’s 10th district.
Austria > Dispute resolution: white-collar crime (including fraud) Tier 3
Led by Christoph Haid, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s practice advises on all aspects of white collar crime and related compliance matters. Recommended for offering ‘in-depth knowledge of white collar crime’, the team is regularly sought out by clients from industries such as automotive, insurance, as well as oil and gas. Klara Kiehl departed the team to join fokus Rechtsanwälte GmbH in January 2024, while Oliver Michael Loksa joined in January 2024, bringing expertise in the representation of suspects or parties who have suffered financial damage in complex white collar crime proceedings.Practice head(s):
Christoph Haid
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Offering in-depth knowledge of white collar crime.’
‘It is their experience, their knowledge of local authorities and how they tick.’
Austria > Employment Tier 3
With connections to the firm’s large network in the CEE region, Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s labour and employment team under the leadership of Stefan Kühteubl covers the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment law, with focus areas such as collective agreements, cross-border posting of employees, and advice on the Whistleblower Protection Act. Teresa Waidmann is highlighted by clients for ‘combining great analytical skills with a high level of expertise’ and is particularly well-versed in separation negotiations with senior employees.Practice head(s):
Stefan Kühteubl
Other key lawyers:
Karin Pusch; Teresa Waidmann
Testimonials
‘Close contact with the partner, high expertise, very practical approach.’
‘Teresa Waidmann is combining great analytical skills with a high level of expertise and exceptional work ethic – she gives you the feeling of having an understanding sparring partner by your side who is not counting every minute. ’
‘I was impressed by how well the interaction with the various employment law teams across CEE worked.’
‘I really appreciate Theresa Waidmann’s solution-orientated approach. Not hiding behind paragraphs but providing solutions. ’
‘What I appreciate about working with Stefan Kühteubl and his team is their commitment, their concrete and pragmatic suggestions, and their professional competence.’
‘Karin Pusch is a great professional who provided high-quality guidance in such a complex field as labour law. Karin always thinks and finds the best solutions for various matters.’
‘Stefan Kühteubl is really excellent. He has the right balance between knowledge and pragmatism.’
‘Stefan Kühteubl in Austria is particularly impressive. He has a wide breadth of knowledge, is responsive, and has a very pragmatic and commercial approach. Also a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
AUDI
Allgemeines Krankenhaus Wien
Allianz Elementar Versicherung AG
Bilfinger Maschinenbau GmbH & Co KG
BUWOG AG
Trodat Group
Greiner
Wiener Stadtwerke GmbH
Leoni AG
JTI
ManpowerGroup
OMV AG
Sanus X GmbH
Thales Group
TU Wien
UniCredit Bank Austria AG
Waterdrop Microdrink GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised OMV on the establishment of a geothermal energy joint venture with Wien Energie, the largest regional energy provider in Austria, including employment law aspects.
- Advised AUDI AG on the cross-border activities of AUDI employees in the context of a major press event.
- Advised INNIO comprehensively on the successful establishment of a European Works Council.
Austria > Public procurement Tier 3
Nestled within Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)‘s wider regulatory team, the public procurement group focuses on assisting contracting authorities with the structuring of tenders on the one hand and supports bidders with their applications for public contracts on the other, with additional expertise in acting for clients before award reviews and appeals. ‘Reliable and competent partner’ Johannes Stalzer leads the procurement practice group, handling tendering procedures in the fields of renewable energy, marketing and IT.Practice head(s):
Johannes Stalzer
Testimonials
‘Schönherr has a large range of legal experts. The team is very experienced and always finds a way forward.’
‘I work mainly with Johannes Stalzer in the context of public tendering in Austria. I value Johannes as a reliable and competent partner.’
Key clients
Abbott Medical Group
Austrian Chamber of Commerce
Austrian Association of Pharmacists
Austrian Medical Association
ASFINAG
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.
Ecoplus Alpin
Energie Steiermark
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
European Commission
Neue Heimat Tirol
OMV AG (E&P)
Österreichische Bundesbahn
Red Bull
Stadt Wien
Thales Austria GmbH
TINETZ-Tiroler Netze GmbH
TIWAG Tiroler Wasserkraft
UBER
Vienna International Airport
Vienna Technical Museum
Wien Energie
Wien IT GmbH
Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
Wiener Lokalbahnen
Wiener Netze
Wiener Stadtwerke Holding
Work highlights
- Advised the Vienna Technical Museum on designing, structuring, drafting, and conducting an EU-wide tender for the re-design and construction of new exhibition areas.
- Assisted ecoplus Alpin on the tendering of a framework agreement for the provision of an online sales and marketing platform for up to 12 mountain railways.
- Acted for OMV AG and Wien Energie GmbH in setting up a joint venture for the phased exploration, development, and utilisation of hydrothermal and geothermal energy in the Vienna Basin.
Austria > Tax Tier 3
A growing impetus in voluntary self-disclosures and tax proceedings occupies the team at Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte), as well as a steady stream of tax structuring, transactions, and criminal tax matters. The driving force is transactional tax expert Marco Thorbauer, who was promoted to partner in February 2023, and leads the practice with the support of corporate lawyer Roman Perner. The remaining core team is made up of tax planning-focused Tobias Hayden, tax structuring and private clients authority Benedikt Schachner-Gröhs, and finance transactions and VAT specialist Clemens Grassinger.Practice head(s):
Marco Thorbauer; Roman Perner
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very active in the market. Clear and straight advice from all the team members.’
‘Marco Thorbauer and Clemens Grassinger represent the new generation of leading tax lawyers.’
‘The whole team under the lead of Marco Thorbauer delivers very clear advice which is always on point. They present clear structuring advice which can be followed even if you are not a tax or law expert.’
‘Marco Thorbauer is very efficient and provides clear advice.’
‘Clemens Grassinger is very precise and accurate and understands the clients’ needs.’
‘The tax and private clients practice at Schönherr has a deep understanding of complex taxation laws and regulations. Benedikt Schachner-Gröhs, Marco Thorbauer and Tobias Hayden are not only knowledgeable about current tax codes but also stay updated on any changes or amendments.’
‘I would like to mention Benedikt Schachner-Gröhs as an upcoming leading professional in his field of tax law and private clients. He has a strong foundation in legal expertise and a deep understanding of the underlying economic matter, seeking for solutions.’
‘Marco Thorbauer is Head of Tax at Schönherr. He is always in control of the situation and keeps a calm head. Marco Thorbauer is a leading tax law practitioner in Austria.’
Croatia > EU and competition
Noted for its strong merger control fillings offering, Schoenherr in cooperation with Croatian lawyers regularly represents domestic and international clients before the Croatian Competition Authority. With a strong track record in M&A, Ana Mihaljević (Marjančić) leads the team, handling cross-border competition and antitrust matters. Christoph Haid assists on distribution policy changes related to EU law, while Zoran Soljaga advises on a range of contentious antitrust issues.Practice head(s):
Ana Mihaljević (Marjančić)
Other key lawyers:
Christoph Haid; Zoran Šoljaga
Testimonials
‘Schoenherr in cooperation with Croatian lawyers for the EU and the competition team stands out due to their expertise and experience: the team comprises highly skilled lawyers with extensive experience in competition law, both in Croatia and within the broader European context. They also have a client-centric approach, since the the team prioritizes the needs and objectives of its clients.’
‘Ana Mihaljević (Marjančić) is excellent; down to earth and pleasant to work with. And most importantly, she really does know how to get things done fast and efficiently without over complicating.’
‘The team is co-ordinated, experienced and very reliable.’
‘Ana Mihaljević (Marjančić)’s powerful and effective written and verbal communication is crucial. The ability to convey complex ideas clearly and persuasively is a key asset. Also, she is very adaptable and her adaptability and willingness to learn and grow are much appreciated.’
Key clients
GTC Group
Kraft Heinz Company
Philip Morris Zagreb d.o.o.
HRANA-TEC d.o.o.
TUI AG
Intersnack
SIMMO AG
Polleo Adria d.o.o.
Work highlights
- Aadvised Nexi/ISP on long-form merger control filing before the Croatian Competition Authority related to the acquisition of ISP’s EUR 180 million worth of merchant acquiring business.
- Advised Wienerberger Vargon on long-form merger control filing before the Croatian Competition Authority.
- Advised GTC on implementation of a set of group compliance policies and procedures.
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) > Firm Profile
The firm: Schoenherr is a leading full-service law firm in Central Europe. Operating in a rapidly evolving environment, we are a dynamic and innovative firm with an effective blend of experienced lawyers and young talent. As one of the first international law firms to move into CEE/SEE, we have grown to be one of the largest firms in the region. With 15 offices and several country desks, our comprehensive coverage of the region means we can offer solutions that perfectly fit the given industry, jurisdiction and company.
Schoenherr has offices, country desks and permanent cooperation partner, and is in compliance with the respective local legal standards and conduct rules in all countries where it is active; therefore, the local firm name may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Areas of practice
Banking and finance: The firm advises on general banking, including investment fund matters, and project, asset and structured finance including cross-border (equipment and facility) leases.
Capital markets: The firm has an IPO Practice and advises on crossborder equity and debt offerings, advising issuers, underwriters and transaction counsel.
Business to consumer protection: Schoenherr’s business to consumer protection group helps clients to ensure compliance with applicable consumer protection laws and regulations, litigates on their behalf, and provides instant assistance in urgent situations.
Compliance and criminal defence: Criminal compliance risks are present in all areas of business. In response to this, Schoenherr has established a dedicated compliance and criminal defence team. The team has substantive legal and practical expertise in this area and is well equipped to handle all aspects of criminal compliance and criminal defence matters.
Corporate investigations and crisis management: As response times to emergency situations rapidly shorten in a connected world, Schoenherr has established a dedicated multi-faceted team of legal experts. It investigates the facts, advises on immediate next steps and assists with their implementation.
Corporate/M&A:The core practice of the corporate/M&A team is advising and representing clients on transactions and complex corporate and commercial matters. The team has an outstanding track record on key transactions in Austria and throughout CEE/SEE.
Dispute resolution: Schoenherr stands for excellence in litigation, arbitration,
and investorstate disputes. The team has scored some of the most publicised wins at ICSID and in the national courts. Clients value the first-rate legal skills and hands-on approach.
EU and competition: The EU and competition practice group advises clients
in merger control, anti-trust and state aid matters at European and national levels throughout the firm’s comprehensive network in the CEE region, and its office in Brussels.
Healthcare and life sciences: Schoenherr’s healthcare and life sciences group combines lawyers with particular industry expertise with specialists from various teams across the firm’s practice groups and offices. The group advises all stakeholders active in this industry.
Insolvency and restructuring: Schoenherr’s insolvency and restructuring team handles complex, multi-creditor financial restructurings and distressed refinancings of corporates and financial institutions. Further the team advises in insolvency proceedings and insolvency related litigation.
Insurance: Schoenherr’s insurance practice group advises many of Austria’s and Europe’s leading insurers on transactions in the insurance sector, as well as on distribution structures, product design, and all related regulatory and tax matters for life, non-life, and reinsurance business.
IP and unfair commercial practices: The Schoenherr IP practice group has long-standing experience in inter alia trademark, design, patent, copyright and unfair competition matters. Its members frequently represent parties in groundbreaking court cases in national and European courts.
Labour and employment: The labour and employment team advises on all
aspects of employment law, for both contentious and non-contentious matters. It focuses on inter alia issues arising from mergers and acquisitions, workforce restructuring and cross border transfer of employees.
Real estate and construction: The real estate and construction practice group enjoys high visibility in the region’s largest and most important transactions and development projects. The team advises on all aspects of acquisition of real estate, development/construction, restructurings, and real estate and construction- related litigation and arbitration.
Regulatory: By providing a wide-ranging and consistently reliable service, the regulatory practice group has successfully advised leading players across a wide spectrum of sectors, and in all matters of constitutional and administrative law.
Start-up and venture capital services: The Schoenherr team covers the full range of commercial legal services, and is well equipped to handle all aspects that become relevant during the life cycle of a start-up. We advise investors and founders in Austria and CEE.
Tax: Schoenherr’s tax practice advises domestic and international clients on their most sophisticated and challenging tax matters. It supports clients not only in detecting tax risks but in providing simple, clear and practical tax solutions.
Technology and digitalisation: The technology and digitalisation team provides 360° legal advice in the ever evolving world of new technology and digitalisation. Our experts from across our legal sectors ensure a comprehensive understanding of our clients’ needs.
Main Contacts
| Department | Name | Telephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banking and finance | |||
| Capital markets | |||
| Business to consumer protection | |||
| Compliance and criminal defence | |||
| Corporate investigations and crisis management | |||
| Corporate/M&A | |||
| Dispute resolution | |||
| EU and competition | |||
| Healthcare and life sciences | |||
| Insolvency and restructuring | |||
| Insurance | |||
| IP and unfair commercial practices | |||
| Labour and employment | |||
| Real estate and construction | |||
| Regulatory | |||
| Start-up and venture capital services | |||
| Tax | |||
| Technology and digitalisation |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 300+Languages
Arabic Bulgarian Croatian Czech English French German Hungarian Italian Macedonian Norwegian Polish Portuguese Romanian Russian Serbian Slovakian Slovenian Spanish Turkish Ukrainian Afrikaans BosnianOther
Other offices : Belgrade Other offices : Bratislava Other offices : Brussels Other offices : Bucharest Other offices : Budapest Other offices : Chisinau Other offices : Istanbul Other offices : Linz Other offices : Ljubljana Other offices : Podgorica Other offices : Prague Other offices : Sofia Other offices : Warsaw Other offices : Zagreb Other offices : desks in Albania Other offices : Bosnia-Herzegovina Other offices : North Macedonia Other offices : UkrainePress Releases
Romania: Schoenherr advises Mitiska REIM’s Romanian partner in the sale of 25 retail parks to M Core
20th December 2023 Schoenherr advised Soundbox Investment SRL and its shareholder Clemens Petschnikar in a transaction in which Soundbox Investment and Mitiska REIM sold 25 retail parks to LCP Group, part of M Core. With a value of EUR 219m, this is one of the largest retail real estate transactions in Romania.Bulgaria: Schoenherr advises Borealis AG on contemplated acquisition of Integra Plastics
1st December 2023 Schoenherr advises Borealis AG, a leader in advanced and circular polyolefin solutions, on the contemplated acquisition of Integra Plastics, a Bulgarian polyethylene and polypropylene recycler.CEE: Schoenherr named CEE M&A Legal Adviser of the Year by Mergermarket
29th November 2023 Schoenherr won the CEE M&A Legal Adviser of the Year award presented by Mergermarket at the European M&A Awards Gala on 28 November 2023.Austria: Schoenherr advises EHL on sale of EHL Immobilien Management GmbH to IMV
27th November 2023 Schoenherr advised EHL Immobilien GmbH on the sale of the entire share in EHL Immobilien Management GmbH to PMV Holding GmbH, a member of the IMV Immobilien Management Group.Poland: Schoenherr advises Joachim Exner, insolvency administrator of Dr. Schneider’s Group, on EUR 118.3m sale of its business to Samvardhana Motherson Group
24th November 2023 Schoenherr advised Joachim Exner, the insolvency administrator of Dr. Schneider's Group, a German key supplier for electronic components and polymer systems,Poland: Schoenherr advises ABC Automotive Poland on sale to ETM Group
23rd November 2023 Schoenherr advised ABC Automotive Poland, a Polish subsidiary of ABC Technologies Holdings, Inc., a global automotive equipment supplier, on the sale of its business to a subsidiary of ETM International GmbH, a group providing designing and manufacturing services to OEMs in the automotive industry.Austria: Schoenherr advises proPellets Austria in connection with antitrust investigation
16th November 2023 Schoenherr advised proPellets Austria, an association of the Austrian wood pellet industry, in connection with a dawn raid by the Austrian Federal Competition Authority (FCA) and its subsequent investigation into the Austrian pellets market.Austria/CEE: Schoenherr further broadens footprint with partner and counsel promotions
13th November 2023 Schoenherr has named four new partners and one new counsel effective February 2024. Specialising in various practice areas and coming from different markets, the new partners and counsel reflect Schoenherr's commitment to being the natural firm of choice for Central Eastern Europe.Bulgaria: Schoenherr advises Lufthansa on sale of its stake in Silver Wings Bulgaria
13th November 2023 Schoenherr has advised Lufthansa on the sale of its stake in Silver Wings Bulgaria OOD, a joint venture catering business in Bulgaria, to Truffle UK Bidco Three Limited, an active private limited company in the UK.Austria: Schoenherr advises Davis-Standard on acquisition of Extrusion Technology Group
7th November 2023 Schoenherr advised Davis-Standard, LLC ("Davis-Standard"), a global leader in the extrusion equipment and services sector, alongside Kirkland & Ellis, on the acquisition of Extrusion Technology Group ("ETG") from Dutch investor Nimbus. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions.Serbia: Schoenherr advises CWP Europe on partnership with PowerChina Resources for 300 MW Vetrozelena wind farm
7th November 2023 Moravčević Vojnović and partners in cooperation with Schoenherr advised CWP Europe, a leading renewable energy project developer in Southeast Europe,Romania/Hungary: Schoenherr advises Agrofert on acquisition of East Grain
6th November 2023 Schoenherr advised Czech agri-food group Agrofert on the acquisition of a majority stake in East Grain, a Romanian trader of cereals and oilseeds, and its Hungarian subsidiary.Czech Republic/Slovakia: Schoenherr advises BHM Group on acquisition of major production and logistics centre in Slovakia
23rd October 2023 Schoenherr advised BHM Group, an important investment group on the Czech market, in connection with the acquisition of one of the largest production and logistics centres in Slovakia, Trenčín Industrial Park, by the acquisition of a 100 % share in ZNO Slovakia s.r.o. (now BHM Trenčín s.r.o.).Austria: Schoenherr advises Erste Bank on implementation of first AI based financial tool in Austria
11th October 2023 Schoenherr advised Erste Bank der oesterreichischen Sparkassen AG on the legal implementation of the 'Financial Health Prototype'.Austria: Schoenherr advises Wienerberger on the successful issue of EUR 350m Sustainability-Linked Bonds
6th October 2023 Schoenherr advised Wienerberger AG as issuer's counsel in connection with the successful, oversubscribed issue of EUR 350,000,000 4.875 % Sustainability-Linked Bonds 2023-2028.Czech Republic: Schoenherr advises BHS Private Equity Fund on acquisition of Altran CZ a.s.
6th October 2023 Schoenherr advised BHS Private Equity Fund ("BHS PE Fund"), whose general partner is Versute Investments a.s., on the acquisition of Altran CZ a.s., renamed Tiyo a.s. ("Tiyo"), a leading provider of research, development and testing services, from Capgemini group.Austria: Schoenherr advises EIC Fund on investment in Kern Tec’s EUR 12m Series A financing round
5th October 2023 Schoenherr advised the EIC Fund, the venture investment arm of the European Innovation Council (EIC), on its investment in the EUR 12m Series A financing round of Kern Tec, an Austrian food tech company, led by Belgian firm Telos Impact.Serbia: Schoenherr advises shareholders of Maxbet on 51 % stake sale to Flutter for EUR 141m
3rd October 2023 Moravčević Vojnović and partners in cooperation with Schoenherr advised shareholders of Maxbet, Serbia’s #2 omni-channel sports betting and gaming operator,Austria: Schoenherr advises Peakmedia digital signage GmbH on exit to ZetaDisplay AB Group
25th September 2023 Schoenherr advised the sellers of Austrian digital signage integrator Peakmedia on Peakmedia's acquisition by ZetaDisplay AB, a Swedish service and software company.Schoenherr advises founders of Novelic on sale of 54 % stake to Sona Comstar
18th September 2023 Moravčević Vojnović and partners in cooperation with Schoenherr advised the founders of the Serbia-based company Novelic – Messrs.Schoenherr advises Thoma Bravo portfolio company J.D. Power on acquisition of Autovista Group
18th September 2023 Schoenherr advised, alongside lead counsel Kirkland & Ellis, London, Thoma Bravo's portfolio company J.D. Power, a global leader in data analytics, on the acquisition of the leading pan-European and Australian automotive data, analytics and industry insights provider Autovista Group.Austria: Schoenherr advises Process Sensing Technologies on acquisition of Sensore Electronic GmbH
13th September 2023 Schoenherr advised Process Sensing Technologies ("PST") (UK), a leading provider of measurement and monitoring solutions for process-critical applications, on the acquisition of Sensore Electronic GmbH ("Sensore").Austria: Schoenherr advises Usersnap on exit to saas.group
11th September 2023 Schoenherr advised the shareholders of Austrian software company Usersnap on their acquisition by saas.group, a company active in the business of acquiring promising software as a service (SaaS) companies.Schoenherr advises NEVEON on sale of Greiner Perfoam to Trèves
10th August 2023 Schoenherr advised NEVEON Holding GmbH ("NEVEON"), a member of the Greiner Group, on the sale of the automotive division, consisting of Greiner Perfoam GmbH and its subsidiaries ("Perfoam Group"), to Trèves S.A.S. ("Trèves").Schoenherr advises Enery on signing long-term virtual power purchase agreement for renewable energy with Ursus Breweries
9th August 2023 Schoenherr advised Enery on signing a multi-year virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with Ursus Breweries, part of Asahi Europe & International, to provide green energy and guarantees of origin for the production at their brewing facilities in Romania.Schoenherr advises ROMCIM on merger clearance and FDI regarding its acquisition of Bauelemente
8th August 2023 Schoenherr Romania advised ROMCIM, a CRH Company ("ROMCIM") on merger clearance and FDI filing regarding its acquisition of Bauelemente Reinvest and its branch, Bauelemente.Schoenherr advises Emirates Telecommunications Group Company on acquisition of a controlling stake in PPF Telecom Group’s assets in Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia and Slovakia
3rd August 2023 Schoenherr advised Emirates Telecommunications Group Company ("e&") alongside Sullivan & Cromwell London on the acquisition of a controlling stake in PPF Telecom Group's assets in Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia and Slovakia.Serbia: Schoenherr advises OTP Group on project finance facilities for development of six biogas power plants in Serbia
20th July 2023 Moravčević Vojnović and partners in cooperation with Schoenherr advised OTP Group members, OTP Bank Plc Hungary and OTP Bank Serbia, in a biogas project finance transaction.Romania: Schoenherr advises AkzoNobel on sale of its insulation materials production to HIRSCH Porozell
12th July 2023 Schoenherr Romania advised AkzoNobel on the sale of its extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation material production activities in Romania to HIRSCH Porozell.Austria: Schoenherr advises VERBUND AG on acquisition of Solarpower Holding GmbH and its subsidiaries
10th July 2023 Schoenherr advised VERBUND AG, via its subsidiaries VERBUND Energy4Business GmbH and VERBUND Thermal Power GmbH,Austria: Schoenherr advises SanusX GmbH on acquisition of participation in Biome Diagnostics GmbH
6th July 2023 Schoenherr advised SanusX GmbH, a UNIQA Group company, on the acquisition of a participation in Biome Diagnostics GmbH in a capital increase transaction.Austria: Schoenherr advises Joint Lead Managers on issuance of a EUR 500m mortgage covered bond by Raiffeisen-Landesbank Steiermark
28th June 2023 Schoenherr advised the Joint Lead Managers Erste Group Bank AG, Landesbank Baden-Württemberg,Austria: Schoenherr advises Audiotonix Group on acquisition of sonible GmbH
26th June 2023 Schoenherr advised the Audiotonix Group, a global market leader in the design, engineering and manufacture of professional audio mixing consoles, on the acquisition of sonible GmbH,Romania: Schoenherr advises Catalyst on major investment in ESX
22nd June 2023 Schoenherr Romania advised Catalyst Romania Fund II, a key venture capital fund in Southeast Europe, on a EUR 2m transaction involving a sports subscription start-up by ESX,Austria: Schoenherr advises Rhône Capital on public cash offer in RHI Magnesita N.V.
20th June 2023 Schoenherr advised Rhône Capital ("Rhône") on a public cash offer for up to 29.9 % of the share capital in RHI Magnesita N.V. ("RHI Magnesita").Romania: Schoenherr advises euShipments.com on acquisition of Helpship
14th June 2023 Schoenherr Romania advised BlackPeak-backed euShipments.com, one of the fastest-growing ecommerce logistics platforms in the region, on the acquisition of a majority stake in Romanian e-fulfilment provider Helpship.Schoenherr advises cargo-partner on sale of shares in multiple subsidiaries to Nippon Express Holdings
25th May 2023 Schoenherr advised Cargo-Partner Group Holding AG and its subsidiaries Multi Transport und Logistik Holding AG, Safer Overseas Transport Holding GmbH, Cargo-Partner GND GmbH, and CARGO-PARTNER US HOLDINGS INC. ("cargo-partner") on the sale of substantially the entire cargo-partner Group to Nippon Express Holdings Inc., a global logistics company based in Japan.Schoenherr advises Joint Bookrunners on the successful issue of EUR 250m convertible bonds by voestalpine AG
9th May 2023 Schoenherr advised BNP PARIBAS and Citigroup Global Markets Europe AG (Joint Global Coordinators and Joint Bookrunners) as well as UniCredit Bank AG (Joint Bookrunner) as to Austrian law in connection with the successful, oversubscribed issue of convertible bonds by voestalpine AG.Austria: Schoenherr advises sell-side in RHI Magnesita’s acquisition of Seven refractories
5th May 2023Schoenherr advised Seven Refractories GmbH on the sale of its European, Indian and US operations to RHI Magnesita for a cash consideration of approximately EUR 93m. Closing is expected in the second half of 2023 and is subject to the fulfilment of customary regulatory approvals.
Schoenherr advises Carrier on EUR 12bln acquisition of Viessmann Climate Solutions
4th May 2023 Schoenherr advised the Carrier Global Corporation (Carrier), a provider of intelligent climate and energy solutions, on its acquisition of Viessmann Climate Solutions, alongside Linklaters. The cash and stock transaction is valued at EUR 12bln and is the largest transaction in the German M&A market to date this year.Austria/Romania: Schoenherr advises HS Timber Group on sale of HS Timber Productions Sebeș SRL to Ziegler Group
28th April 2023 Schoenherr advised HS Timber Group on its sale of HS Timber Productions Sebeș SRL as part of a share sale. With more than 600 employees HS Timber Productions Sebeș SRL operates a sawmill and other industrial wood processing activities at the Sebeș site.Schoenherr advises Joint Lead Managers on issuance of EUR 1bln Hypothekenpfandbriefe (Mortgage Pfandbriefe)
27th April 2023 Schoenherr advised Joint Lead Managers Erste Group Bank AG, Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., Landesbank Baden-Württemberg, Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen Girozentrale, NATIXIS and TD Global Finance unlimited company on the successful issuance of EUR 1bln 3.125 % Hypothekenpfandbriefe (Mortgage Pfandbriefe) – due 14 October 2027 – by Erste Group Bank AG.Schoenherr advises OMV on establishment of a geothermal energy joint venture with Wien Energie
20th March 2023 Schoenherr advised OMV on the establishment of a geothermal energy joint venture with Wien Energie, the largest regional energy provider in Austria.Romania: Schoenherr advises Eurobank on sale of Brico Depot Iasi to Radacini Group
16th February 2023 Schoenherr Romania advised Eurobank S.A. Greece ("Eurobank") on the sale of a real estate asset in Iasi, Romania. The commercial space, which has a sales area of approx. 8,000 m2 and houses a Brico Depot do-it-yourself ("DIY") store, was sold to the real estate division of Radacini Group.Austria: Schoenherr advises allmyhomes GmbH on joint venture to enter Austrian market
16th February 2023 Schoenherr advised allmyhomes on the establishment of a joint venture with allmyhomes Venture Partner AT GmbH, a consortium of Austrian real estate experts. The newly founded AMH AT GmbH marks allmyhome's entry to the Austrian market, where it has already secured projects with a total volume of EUR 161m.Schoenherr with strong promotion round across offices and practice areas
7th February 2023 Schoenherr is further strengthening its leadership ranks by appointing new partners and counsels across CEE, effective 1 February 2023. The promotion round builds up the partner ranks (four new partners, five new local partners) and strengthens the counsel level with two promotions. The new partners and counsels are experienced experts from various practice areas and Schoenherr offices.Schoenherr advises proptech scale-up GROPYUS on major Austrian scale-up financing round
7th February 2023 Schoenherr advised the Vienna-headquartered property technology scale-up GROPYUS on its ongoing Series B financing round led by Vonovia, Europe's largest residential real estate company. The volume of this financing round is at around EUR 100m, bringing GROPYUS' total funding to date to more than EUR 200m.Schoenherr advises CA Immo on sale of Romanian platform
25th November 2022 Schoenherr advised Vienna-based property company CA Immobilien Anlagen Aktiengesellschaft ("CA Immo") on the sale of its Romanian portfolio to Romanian investment entity Paval Holding.Schoenherr advises Greiner Packaging on acquisition of ALWAG
14th September 2022 Schoenherr in cooperation with Moravčević Vojnović and partners advised Greiner Packaging International GmbH (Greiner) on all legal aspects of its 100 % acquisition of Serbian PET flake producer ALWAG DOO NOVA GAJDOBRA from ALING-CONEL d.o.o. Gajdobra (Serbia) and REIWAG Facility Services GmbH (Austria).Austria/CEE: Schoenherr advises on the sale of significant parts of Kontron Group’s IT services business in eleven countries for EUR 400m
15th August 2022 Schoenherr advised stock exchange listed technology group Kontron AG (formerly S&T AG) on the sale of significant parts of Kontron Group’s IT services business to VINCI Energies S.A. in the course of a competitive auction process for a purchase price of approx. EUR 400m.Schoenherr advises NEXI on signing agreement with Intesa Sanpaolo regarding merchant acquiring business in Croatia
6th July 2022 Schoenherr advised NEXI S.p.A. ("NEXI") on reaching an agreement with Privredna banka Zagreb d.d. ("PBZ Bank") and PBZ Card d.o.o. ("PBZ Card"), a Croatian company indirectly controlled by Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A., to purchase PBZ Card’s merchant acquiring business in the Croatian market, for consideration of EUR 180m.Austria: Schoenherr advises Caverion on acquisition of PORREAL Group
4th July 2022 Schoenherr advised Caverion Österreich GmbH on acquiring all shares in PORREAL GmbH in Austria, also including its subsidiary ALEA GmbH (together "PORREAL Group").Schoenherr advises technology service provider ARZ in Austria on acquisition by Accenture
9th June 2022 Schoenherr advised ARZ Allgemeines Rechenzentrum GmbH (ARZ), a technology service provider focused on the banking sector in Austria, on its acquisition by Accenture.Austria: Schoenherr advises MedAustron in EIA milestone of fourth treatment room at centre for ion therapy and research and receiving operating permit
24th May 2022 Schoenherr advised the Austrian cancer treatment and research centre MedAustron in the environmental impact assessment for the commissioning of a fourth treatment room.Austria: Schoenherr advises Storyblok on USD 47m Series B financing
20th May 2022 Schoenherr advised the Austrian scale-up Storyblok on its Series B financing worth USD 47m, one of several major transactions in the Austrian start-up scene on which Schoenherr has advised in the recent past.Schoenherr advises HS Timber on the acquisition of Luvian Saha (Finland)
9th May 2022Schoenherr advised Austrian HS Timber Group on the acquisition of Luvian Saha Oy, one of the largest private sawmills in Finland, from private owners. The transaction closed on 29 April 2022.
Schoenherr named “CEE Wide Law Firm of the Year” by Chambers and Partners
4th May 2022 Schoenherr won the "CEE Wide Law Firm of the Year" award at this year's Chambers Europe Awards Gala hosted by the renowned legal publisher Chambers and Partners.Schoenherr advises HS Timber Group and Blue Minds on the sale of Interfloat to Borosil Renewables, Limited, India
4th May 2022 Schoenherr advised Austrian HS Timber Group and Blue Minds on the sale of Interfloat Corporation and GMB Glasmanufaktur Brandenburg GmbH to Borosil Renewables Ltd, listed on the Indian Stock Exchange. The transaction agreement was executed on 25 April 2022. Closing is expected in the first half of 2022 and is still subject to the fulfilment of customary regulatory approvals.Schoenherr advises S&T AG on voluntary partial public takeover offer
29th April 2022 Schoenherr advised S&T AG, an Austrian company listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, in connection with the voluntary partial public takeover offer by grosso tec AG (Germany) on issues of Austrian law. Hogan Lovells advised S&T AG on German law issues.Schoenherr named Austria M&A Legal Adviser of the Year by Mergermarket
5th April 2022 Schoenherr was awarded the "Austria M&A Legal Adviser of the Year" by Mergermarket at the European M&A Awards Gala on 31 March 2022.Schoenherr advises IMMOFINANZ supervisory board in bidding contest between CPI Property Group and S IMMO
9th March 2022 Schoenherr advised the supervisory board of Austrian IMMOFINANZ AG in connection with the two competing takeover bids by CPI Property Group SA and S IMMO AG.Schoenherr advises Herba Chemosan board on management buy-out
8th February 2022 Schoenherr has advised the board of the Austrian pharmaceutical wholesaler Herba Chemosan Apotheker-AG (Herba Chemosan) on the recent management buy-out (MBO).Schoenherr advises RGREEN INVEST on unique EUR 15m green bond to finance photovoltaic plant in Bulgaria
7th February 2022 Schoenherr advised RGreen Invest, a French management company representing a fund for green energy projects, on a EUR 15m bond to finance the construction of a photovoltaic plant near the town of Razlog in southwestern Bulgaria, as well as on a standard security package for it. The bond's issuer is a member of the Renalfa group, a leading Bulgarian clean energy and e-mobility provider with a focus on renewable energy generation assets.Schoenherr advises Chaos on Bulgarian law aspects in merger with Enscape
3rd February 2022 Schoenherr advised Chaos, a global leader in photorealistic rendering technology, on the Bulgarian law aspects of its merger with Enscape, a leading developer of real-time rendering and design workflow technology for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industries.Schoenherr advises Mayr-Melnhof Holz on acquisition financing for Bergkvist Siljan
2nd February 2022 Schoenherr supported the Austrian Mayr-Melnhof Holz group in the financing of its acquisition of Swedish sawmill group Bergkvist Siljan.Schoenherr strengthens Austrian team with four additional counsel promotions
2nd February 2022 Schoenherr recently announced the promotion of three equity partners and two contract partners effective 1 February 2022. This round of promotions has now been extended to include four new counsels: Sara Khalil, Iliyana Sirakova, Marco Thorbauer and Bojana Vareskic.Schoenherr recognised as leading Austrian M&A Legal Advisor for 2021 by Mergermarket
24th January 2022 Schoenherr has, yet again, been named top M&A legal advisor in the Austrian market by Mergermarket. For over a decade, Schoenherr has been leading the Austrian Mergermarket M&A league tables.Schoenherr advises e-mobility start-up Easelink on EUR 8.3m financing round (Series A)
20th January 2022 Schoenherr advised the Austrian high-tech company Easelink, a provider of automated electric vehicle charging solutions, on its EUR 8.3m Series A financing round.Schoenherr advises Austrian unicorn Bitpanda on expansion of its product portfolio to include exchange traded cryptocurrencies
20th January 2022 Schoenherr advised the Austrian fintech Bitpanda on the expansion of its product portfolio to include exchange traded cryptocurrencies. This product provides investors with easy access to crypto assets via a liquid financial instrument traded on a regulated exchange.Schoenherr advises Mirova and RP Global on sale and refinancing of onshore wind farms in Croatia
17th January 2022 Schoenherr advised Mirova and RP Global on the sale of two onshore wind farms in Dalmatia, Danilo (44MW) and Rudine (34MW), to Professio Energia d.d. (DLPR, Zagreb Stock Exchange). Before the closing of this transaction, Privredna Banka Zagreb d.d., a member of Intesa Sanpaolo Group, refinanced loans provided by the IFC and UniCredit. Schoenherr acted as lead counsel to Mirova and RP Global on both the sale and refinancing transactions.Schoenherr advises Managers on issue of EUR 1.5bln Mortgage Pfandbriefe by Erste Group
13th January 2022 Schoenherr advised the Managers on the successful issue of EUR 750m 0.01 %. Mortgage Pfandbriefe due 2028 (AT0000A2UXM1) and EUR 750m 0.50 %. Mortgage Pfandbriefe due 2037 (AT0000A2UXN9) by Erste Group Bank AG.Schoenherr advises PALFINGER AG on reversal of cross-shareholding with Sany
4th January 2022 Schoenherr advised Palfinger AG, a leading provider of innovative crane and lifting solutions, on the reversal of the cross-shareholding with the SANY Group, a Chinese equipment manufacturing group.Schoenherr advises UNIQA on successful issue of new EUR 375m green tier 2 notes and notes repurchase
16th December 2021 Schoenherr advised UNIQA Insurance Group AG, one of the leading insurance groups in Austria and CEE, on its successful issue of new EUR 375m green tier 2 notes and concurrent repurchase of existing subordinated notes in the same principal amount.Schoenherr advises on 360kompany AG’s sale, one of Austria’s biggest start-up exits
14th December 2021 Schoenherr advised the RegTech start-up 360kompany AG and its shareholders on the sale to Moody’s Corporation, on what is purported to be one of the biggest exits in Austria's start-up scene to date.Schoenherr advises Sanofi on acquisition of Origimm Biotechnology GmbH
3rd December 2021 Schoenherr advised Sanofi, a global leader in healthcare, on the acquisition of 100 % of the shares in Origimm Biotechnology GmbH, a private Austrian biotechnology company.Schoenherr advises Slate Asset Management on acquisition of EUR 90m real estate portfolio
26th November 2021 Schoenherr advised Slate Asset Management, a global alternative investment platform focused on real estate, on the acquisition of a portfolio of essential real estate assets in Austria and Slovakia for approximately EUR 90m.Schoenherr advises Liechtenstein Group on EUR 40m investment in Tesvolt
24th November 2021 Schoenherr advised the Liechtenstein Group on its investment in Tesvolt GmbH, a technology leader for energy storage in the commercial and industrial sector.Schoenherr advises Aquila Part Prod Com on successful IPO worth EUR 74m
19th November 2021 Schoenherr Romania advised Aquila Part Prod Com on the successful completion of an initial public offering ("IPO") for the sale of some 66.6m new shares, for a total price of approx. EUR 74m.Schoenherr to strengthen leadership across Austria and CEE by appointing new equity and contract partners
5th November 2021 Schoenherr will substantially strengthen its leadership by appointing new equity and contract partners across Austria and CEE effective 1 February 2022.Schoenherr advises Sendinblue on acquisition of Metrilo
22nd October 2021 Schoenherr advised the leading French-based all-in-one digital marketing platform Sendinblue SAS on the acquisition of Metrilo OOD ("Metrilo"), a Bulgarian e-commerce metrics company, from its founders and several investors such as Speedinvest II International GmbH, LAUNCHub Fund Coöperatief U.A. and Eleven Capital AD. The advising team in Schoenherr's Bulgarian office advised on all major legal aspects of the transaction, including due diligence and negotiation of transaction documents.Schoenherr advises Nice & Green S.A. on innovative convertible notes funding programme with Marinomed Biotech AG
18th October 2021 Schoenherr advised Swiss investment firm Nice & Green S.A. on an innovative convertible notes funding programme (CNFP) with Vienna Stock Exchange listed Marinomed Biotech AG.Schoenherr advises Joint Lead Managers on issue of EUR 250m covered bank bonds by Kommunalkredit Austria AG
6th October 2021 Schoenherr advised the Joint Lead Managers on the successful issue of EUR 250m 0.01 % covered bank bonds due 2028 by Kommunalkredit Austria AG.Schoenherr advises ZECH Bau Austria on acquisition of Implenia’s building construction business
28th September 2021 Schoenherr advised ZECH Bau Austria GmbH, a German owner-managed construction company, on the acquisition of Implenia Baugesellschaft mbH's building construction business in Austria by virtue of an asset deal. The closing of the transaction is currently subject to merger control clearance.Schoenherr advises P&I on the acquisition of 100 % of shares in VRZ
22nd September 2021 Schoenherr advised P&I Personal & Informatik GmbH on the acquisition of 100 % of the shares in VRZ Informatik Gesellschaft mbH (Dornbirn) and its sister company ThinkCreateAct AG (Switzerland). The transaction is currently subject to the condition precedent of regulatory clearance. With the acquisition of the VRZ Group, P&I AG is expanding its presence in Austria and Switzerland.Schoenherr advises on top Bulgarian dental distributor transaction involving Abris Capital Partners
17th September 2021 Schoenherr advised the owner and CEO of Dentatechnica EOOD, the largest distributor of dental equipment and consumables in Bulgaria, on a transaction with Dentotal (Romania), a subsidiary of Abris Capital Partners. Subject to competition authorities' approval, Dentatechnica will become part of Dentotal Group with the aim of creating a regional leader through organic growth and further consolidation of local markets in Romania and Bulgaria.Schoenherr advises Wienerberger AG on the successful placement of 2.5 million treasury shares through accelerated bookbuilding
8th September 2021 Schoenherr advised Vienna Stock Exchange listed Wienerberger AG, a leading international supplier of building materials and infrastructure solutions, on the EUR 81.25m placement of treasury shares with institutional investors.Austria/CEE: Schoenherr advises UNIQA on the acquisition of AXA subsidiaries in CEE for EUR 1bln
31st March 2020 Once again, Schoenherr has advised on a billion-euro transaction in the CEE region: An international Schoenherr team assisted UNIQA on the acquisition of AXA subsidiaries in the Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia for a purchase price of around EUR 1bln.Austria/CEE: Schoenherr further strengthens leadership with promotions
31st March 2020 Schoenherr is strengthening the ranks of equity partner, contract partner and counsel with new promotions effective as of 1 February 2020. With Pawel Halwa and Thomas Kulnigg, Schoenherr promotes two longstanding Schoenherr experts to equity partners. Constantin Benes, Leon Kopecký, Günther Leissler, Laurenz Schwitzer, Manuela Zimmermann, Georgiana Bădescu, Mădălina Neagu and Miloš Laković are promoted to contract partners, and at counsel level, Dominik Hofmarcher and Clemens Rainer have moved up in the ranks.Legal Developments
European Court of Human Rights: Employers have limited rights to monitor employee communications at
26th September 2017A landmark decision was issued yesterday (Judgement Bărbulescu v. Romania), a source of debate in the media, in which the European Court of Human Rights clarified the restrictions on monitoring employees in the workplace.
Potential Hurdle for Acquisitions in Hungary by Non-EU and Non-EEA Investors
22nd September 2017The Hungarian Ministry of the Interior recently submitted a legislative proposal to the Hungarian Government to amend the Act on Hungarian National Security Services (the "Proposal"). The Proposal suggests an amendment pursuant to which investors from non-EU and non-EEA countries who wish to invest in Hungary would have to obtain prior permission from the minister responsible for national security (the " Minister.
If adopted, investors from outside the EU and EEA would need to apply and obtain such permission if they intend to acquire more than a 25 % interest in an existing or yet to be established company with its registered seat in Hungary, provided that this company pursues activities that are deemed sensitive for national security.
EU: High-Level Expert Group on Sustainable Finance delivers early recommendations
11th August 2017
On 13 July 2017, the High-Level Expert Group ("HLEG") on Sustainable Finance published its interim report ("Interim Report") setting out concrete steps to create a financial system that supports sustainable investments.
This Legal Insight is part of our dedicated newsletter series on the European Capital Markets Union ("CMU").
Background
The growing awareness of environmental challenges and sustainability risks as well as the adoption of the UN 2030 Agenda and the conclusion of the Paris Climate Agreement by the EU in 2015 call for an EU strategy on sustainable finance.
Establishing an EU strategy on sustainable finance is a priority action of the CMU. In December 2016, the HLEG was established to advise on the development of such an EU strategy. The recently published HLEG Interim Report was recently presented in a public hearing on sustainable finance on 18 July 2017. At the same time, the HLEG presented an online questionnaire on the Interim Report aimed at obtaining targeted feedback until 20 September 2017, which would be reflected in the final report of the HLEG scheduled for publication by the end of 2017.
Serbian Competition Authority Steps Up Antritrust Enforcement
11th August 2017
The Serbian Commission for Protection of Competition (the "Commission") recently intensified its antitrust activities before the new Administrative Act came into effect. In one week alone the Commission initiated four antitrust cases and conducted two dawn raids.
1. What/who will be on the Commission's radar?
First Annual Privacy Shield Review to take place in September 2017
11th August 2017One of the core principles of the EU-US Privacy Shield ("Privacy Shield") is its Joint Review mechanism, which obliges the European Commission, the US Department of Commerce and the Federal Trade Commission to jointly review the functioning of the Privacy Shield on an annual basis, together with its national security and law enforcement aspects. The very first Joint Review is scheduled for September 2017. This first review is considered especially important, as it will be the first opportunity for US and EU regulators to closely analyse the operation of the Privacy Shield, address possible concerns about its functioning, and seek to ensure that the Privacy Shield continues to be a valid legal basis for transfers of personal data from the EU to the US.
Hungary: Are Interim Measures Hard to Enforce?
21st July 2017The Hungarian Parliament recently passed new legislation on arbitration (Act LX of 2017 on Arbitration, the “2017 Act”) that will reform Hungarian arbitration law as of 1 January 2018.
The 2017 Act, considering both the shortcomings of the current Hungarian legislation (Act LXXI of 1994 on Arbitration, the “1994 Act”) and the amendment of the UNCITRAL Model Law on International Commercial Arbitration adopted in 2006 (the “Model Law”), repositions arbitration by reforming the choice of arbitrators, the institutional system of Hungarian arbitration panels, and the power of the panels ordering interim measures and preliminary orders. read more...
EU: Council Introduces Action Plan for NPLs
21st July 2017On 10 July 2017, the Commission announced the public consultation on the development of secondary markets for non-performing loans (NPLs) and distressed assets. Following the commencement of this public consultation, the Council introduced its Action Plan for NPLs.
Bulgaria: Remedies imposed on fuel companies following cartel investigations
21st July 2017For the second time in less than five years, the Bulgarian Commission for the Protection of Competition ("Commission") has opened investigation proceedings regarding prohibited agreements and concerted practices against the major fuel companies in Bulgaria and closed them without issuing penalties.
Recast of the EU Regulation on Insolvency Law Applicable as of Today
14th July 2017The EU Regulation on Insolvency Law 1346/2000 (EIR) was considered a milestone in the cross-border coordination of national insolvency proceedings. The recast of the EU Regulation on Insolvency Law 2015/848, applicable to insolvency proceedings opened after 26 June 2017, considers substantial developments in national insolvency laws. read more...
Lessons Learned over Three Years: Amendment of the Hungarian Trust Regulation
14th July 2017The Hungarian Parliament passed an act in June 2017 with the aim of improving Hungary's business competitiveness. Among other things, the amendment has changed the regulation of trusts and their management, hopefully for the better, since the past three years have shown that a lack of such experience still exists. The legal concept of trust was introduced into Hungarian law in 2014, when the new Civil Code entered into force. Contrary to expectations, however, potential market players were hesitant to launch their businesses, mainly due to crippling bureaucracy and the vague regulation of trusts. read more...
Austria: Avoid Expensive Mistakes As Startup Employer
14th July 2017As violations may lead to enormous liabilities, start-up employers are advised from the outset to comply with the applicable laws pertaining to their personnel. In addition to being an underestimated factor when it comes to financial liabilities, employment-law-related mistakes may also result in difficulties in the course of a company's sales process. For a better understanding of what can go wrong in employment relationships, three of the most common mistakes that employers make are listed below. read more...
Renewable Energy: Amendment of the Austrian Green Electricity Act Doubles Funding
14th July 2017After four months of negotiations, the Austrian National Council has finally reached an agreement on the amendment of the Green Electricity Act ("Ökostromnovelle"). The required two-thirds majority was reached by a last minute agreement between the coalition parties and the Green Party. The aim of the new legislation is to increase the percentage of green electricity and to achieve an expansion of renewable energy in Austria. read more...
Austria: Slightly Lower Fees, a Little More Liberalisation – The 2017 Amendments to the Austrian Tra
14th July 2017Following a year of intense political discussion, the Austrian Parliament adopted numerous amendments to the Austrian Trade Act 1994 (Gewerbeordnung 1994, "GewO") at the end of June. While the reform falls significantly short of the outgoing government's original announcements last July with the aim to liberalise market access and to cut red tape for businesses, it nevertheless introduces several material changes to business activity in Austria. read more...
Austria: Major Changes in Personal Bankruptcy Law
11th July 2017On 28 June 2017 the Austrian Parliament passed the government's legislative proposal on insolvency law (Insolvenzrechtsänderungsesetz 2017). After lengthy negotiations, the government finally agreed to shorten personal insolvency proceedings to a maximum five years and to abolish the minimum insolvency quota of 10 % under certain conditions. The amendments will be applicable as of 1 November 2017. read more...
Significant Amendments to the Romanian Competition Rules – What’s New?
5th July 2017The newly adopted Government Emergency Ordinance No. 39/2017 (the "Ordinance") introduces significant changes to Romanian competition rules. For example, it implements the provisions on actions for damages resulting from competition law infringements, as regulated under Directive 2014/104/EU (the "Damages Directive") and sets out new provisions impacting the food/non-food retail sector, as well as the dawn-raid procedure and fines applicable by the Romanian Competition Council (the "RCC") to non-resident undertakings. read more...
The Austrian Law on the Responsibility of Associations: New tendency to prosecution authorities to t
21st June 2017The Austrian Law on the Responsibility of Associations (Verbandsverantwortlichkeitsgesetz, "VbVG") came into effect in 2006, stipulating that a company can be held criminally liable for certain criminal acts committed by its employees and decision-makers. According to new tendencies of prosecution authorities, the practical scope of the VbVG could expand in the future. read more...
Croatia: Lex Agrokor – Government Intervention at the Eleventh Hour
31st May 2017Lex Agrokor – behind the scenes
The hottest topic in Croatia right now is the Agrokor situation and the newly enacted Act on Compulsory Administration Procedure in Companies of Systemic Importance for the Republic of Croatia (Zakon o postupku izvanredne uprave u trgovačkim društvima od sistemskog značaja za Republiku Hrvatsku; the "Act"). The Act was immediately nicknamed "Lex Agrokor" because of what appears to be its main purpose.
Austria: Draft Data Protection Amendment Act 2018 in Appraisal
22nd May 2017National Room for Manoeuvre Despite the GDPR
About a year before the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into full effect, the Austrian legislator officially started a six-week consultation process for the national Data Protection Amendment Act 2018 (Datenschutz-Anpassungsgesetz 2018). The GDPR will harmonise the EU's data protection laws, but numerous so-called "opening clauses" allow national leeway. Besides, EU Directive 2016/680 requires implementation into national law and provides specific regulations on data processing by security authorities for the purpose of law enforcement. The published draft implements the Directive's provisions in a separate chapter (Hauptstück). read more...
ECB Publishes Practical Fit and Proper Assessments Guide for Board Members of Credit Institutions
22nd May 2017On 15 May 2017, the European Central Bank ("ECB") published a guide on fit and proper assessments (the "Fit and Proper Guide"), which reflects the result of a public consolidation launched by the ECB on 16 November 2016.
European Commission Proposes EMIR Reform that will Minimise the Clearing Obligation for NFC and Cert
16th May 2017On 4 May 2017, the European Commission published its proposal for an amendment of the European Market Infrastructure Regulation (EMIR). The Commission calls the proposed amendment a good example of "better regulation in practice" which is "essential to the creation of the Capital Markets Union (CMU)".
Hungary: New Arbitration Legislation?
2nd May 2017The Ministry of Justice has circulated its initiative for improving the legal environment with the aim of increasing Hungary's competitiveness by amending certain regulations and institutions. Among other things, the initiative concerns cross-border mergers and operation of trustees, and generally aims to lighten administrative burdens. Most notably, if adopted in its current form, it will reform the Hungarian arbitration regulation. read more...
Significant amendments to Austrian Competition Law – Part I (Overview)
7th April 2017On 6 April 2017, the Austrian Parliament adopted significant amendments to Austrian competition law, as set forth in the Austrian Cartel Act ("KartG") and the Act on the Austrian Federal Competition Authority ("WettbG"). The amendments concern three main areas: (i) implementation of the EU Damages Directive; (ii) introduction of an additional transaction value test in merger control; and (iii) certain adjustments to strengthen public enforcement of antitrust infringements. read more...
ECJ Allows Prohibition of Headscarves at Workplace
7th April 2017Employers may prohibit their employees from wearing Islamic headscarves and other religious or political symbols, subject to certain conditions. On 14 March 2017, the European Court of Justice (the "ECJ") adopted a corresponding ruling in Luxembourg and decided on two cases in this respect, one dealing with a receptionist from Belgium and the other with a software designer from France. read more...
Slovenia Adopts New State Aid Legislation
7th April 2017Slovenia adopted a new law regulating rescue and restructuring state aid, which entered into force in mid-February. When notified to the European Commission as a state aid scheme, it will allow the Republic of Slovenia to support companies and cooperatives in difficulty without having to notify support mechanisms in accordance with the provisions of the law as an individual aid measure to the European Commission. read more...
Individual Tax Rulings Now Possible in Moldova – And They’re Binding!
30th March 2017What previously was impossible and not foreseen by local legislation is now possible. Starting 1 January 2017, the Tax Code of Moldova (the "Tax Code") was amended by Law 281/2016 to include a separate norm (Art. 136¹) on individual tax rulings ("ITR") for the benefit of entrepreneurs. Within the limits of its scope and in respect of a concrete beneficiary, an issued ITR is binding on the State Tax Service (the "STS"). The Government and the Ministry of Finance are expected to approve the secondary legislation to regulate the details of the procedure. read more...
Bulgaria: Opening the gas market for foreign traders!
20th March 2017Most recently, the Bulgarian Energy Regulator has taken significant steps towards the full liberalisation of the natural gas market: In December 2016, the Bulgarian Energy Regulator adopted legislative amendments to the Rules for Trading of Natural Gas (Правила за търговия с природен газ, "Trading Rules") and the Rules for Access to the Gas Transmission and/or Gas Distribution Networks and the Natural Gas Storage Facilities (Правила за предоставяне на достъп до газопреносните и/или газоразпределителните мрежи и за достъп до съоръженията за съхранение на природен газ, "Access Rules"). Moreover, it adopted new Rules for Balancing of the Natural Gas Market (Правила за балансиране на пазара за природен газ, "Balancing Rules"). read more...
New regulation on unit-linked life insurance in Hungary
20th March 2017Policyholders of unit-linked life insurance products pay an agreed sum for the unit-linked insurance to the insurance company, as a regular premium, or in one lump sum. These payments cover the life insurance component as well as the investment, administrative costs, contracting fee and the commissions. The "total cost charged" ("TCC") is an indicator – calculated in line with the rules of Hungarian insurance regulations – showing all costs charged on life insurance policies having a savings element, reflected as a percentage value. The regulation of the TCC in Hungary has been amended effective 1 January 2017.
When Arbitration Meets Insolvency in Montenegro – Can They Coexist?
20th March 2017Even at first blush, it is apparent that arbitration and insolvency make strange bedfellows.
The reason they make such an odd couple is the different underlying policies, objectives, and purposes they stand for. The heart of arbitration lies at the privity of contract and the existence of party autonomy independent from the state. In contrast, insolvency reflects a centralized and to a certain extent state-managed procedure that holds all creditors equal, within a set system of ranking – a transparent and accountable process governed by mandatory substantive and procedural law provisions. read more...
Hungary: Increase of Minimum Sale Price May Affect Retail NPL Transactions?
20th March 2017On 7 March 2017, the Hungarian parliament adopted a law that increases the minimum sale price of a residential property in the enforcement procedure from the current 70% of its market value to 100% (market value to be understood as the price set by the appraisal of the bailiff), provided that (i) the claim to be enforced stems from a consumer contract; (ii) the real property is the debtor's only real property; and (iii) the debtor resided in that real property for at least six months prior to the initiation of the enforcement procedure. read more...
Hungary: Registration Fees for Company Establishment Abolished
20th March 2017In an aim to simplify state administration and support economic growth, the Hungarian Parliament adopted a new law abolishing the registration fee and the publication cost for incorporating limited liability companies ("LLC") (korlátolt felelősségű társaság), limited partnerships (betéti társaság), general partnerships (közkereseti társaság), and sole entrepreneurships (egyéni cég). The new law becomes effective on 16 March 2017. read more...
Legislative vacuum filled: Czech Republic introduces comprehensive new national legislation on e-cig
9th March 2017New legislation regulating e-cigarettes in the Czech Republic entered into force on 1 March 2017, introducing specific safety and quality requirements on e-cigarettes in the country for the first time. read more...
Bulgaria: Amendment to the pricing and reimbursements process for pharmaceuticals
6th March 2017The amendment aims at alleviating the existing regime for pricing of pharmaceuticals for home treatment of chronic, genetic and/or rare diseases and paid by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). It affects the interests of individuals with health insurance and the activities of more than 290 authorisation holders, of the wholesalers of pharmaceuticals, and of pharmacies (as retailers). read more...
Austria: Hospital Consolidation – a Driver of M&A Activity
27th February 20172016 has seen a surprising level of deal activity in the (private) Austrian hospital sector: in Vienna, PremiQaMed, a 100 % subsidiary of UNIQA insurance group, acquired a 75 % stake in the renowned private hospital "Goldenes Kreuz", and the hospitals Hartmannspital and St. Elisabeth announced a merger to form the new "Franziskus" hospital. In Linz (Upper Austria), the "Elisabethinen" and the hospital operated by the Sisters of Charity agreed to combine to form a regional player with approx. 1,200 beds. read more...
Boost your Start-Up with an Advisory Board – Points to consider
27th February 2017Most start-ups are founded by first-time founders directly after graduation, with the founding team consisting, also in most cases, of not more than two members. Such founders are naturally not equipped for all of their business challenges. Founders thus often make mistakes, especially at the very beginning of their activities, e.g. in relation to developing and distributing their products, when and how to raise capital and developing or moving into new markets. read more...
The EU Capital Markets Union – Recent developments on Venture Capital
27th February 2017On 16 December 2016, the Council of the European Union announced agreement on its negotiating stance in relation to the proposed regulation amending the European Venture Capital Funds ("EuVECA") Regulation (Regulation (EU) No 345/2013) and the European Social Entrepreneurship Funds ("EuSEF") Regulation (Regulation (EU) No 346/2013), which is now at the European Parliament's ECON committee, scheduled to be voted on, on 22 March 2017. On 31 January 2017 the call for expression of interest for selecting a fund manager of the Pan-European Venture Capital Fund-of Funds closed; and tax incentives for venture capital and business angels are expected to be proposed in the course of 2017 to foster investment in SMEs and start-ups, close the funding gap and thereby remove obstacles to economic growth in Europe. read more...
Albania: Finally on track for a comprehensive support scheme for renewable energy?
22nd February 2017Current status
Albania has one of the highest percentages of electricity produced from renewable energy sources (RES) in its electricity mix – more than 95 % of electricity generated in Albania comes from hydropower generation. In spite of that (or maybe because of that), Albania has not had a comprehensive policy on the support of RES in place to date. read more...
No Smoking: After a long battle in Parliament, the Czech Republic finally adopts smoking ban
17th February 2017One last hurdle – the signature of Czech President Miloš Zeman –before the so called Anti-Smoking Bill enters into force on 31 May 2017.
On 19 January 2017, the Senate of the Parliament of the Czech Republic approved the government bill of the Act on Protection from the Harmful Effects of Addictive Substances (the "Bill"), which is due to enter into force on 31 May 2017, subject to signature by the President. read more...
Facilitation or Liability Trap for Foreign Employers? – The Revised Austrian Law against Wage and So
3rd February 2017On 1 January 2017, the revised Austrian Law against Wage and Social Dumping ("Lohn- und Sozialdumping Bekämpfungsgesetz" or "Revised LSD-BG") came into force. The Revised LSD-BG applies to matters arising after 31 December 2016.
Austria: Court rules on rights in environmental impact assessment
23rd January 2017If there are two or more conflicting water use projects (eg, hydroelectric power stations), the Water Act provides for a special conflict procedure. A pending conflict procedure suspends decisions in all underlying approval procedures. As a result of the conflict procedure, the project which serves public interests best will take priority over the inferior project. read more...
2016 brought some substantial changes in Austria’s Criminal Law provisions – A Review
17th January 2017In 2016, Austrian Criminal Law experienced some substantive legal developments in both, procedural and material aspects. The following overview reflects the most relevant developments in Austrian Criminal Law in 2016.
1. Material changes
1.1. Breach of trust
With effect from 1 January 2016, the offence "breach of trust" in sec 153 of the Austrian Criminal Code ("ACC") has been fundamentally revised. At first glance, sec 153 of the ACC is not a very complex provision. It states, quite simply, that whoever knowingly abuses the authority conferred to him or her shall be liable, if he or she intends to cause and eventually causes financial harm to his or her principal (eg the company). Thus, sec 153 ACC has three prerequisites: (i) an abuse of authority, (ii) financial harm and (iii) criminal intent. With the reform of sec 153 ACC the Austrian legislator finally addressed the concern that the scope of what constitutes an "abuse of authority" is not always easy to assess: read more
Austrian Supreme Court Establishes New Standards as Regards the Decisive Underlying Reasoning of Arb
3rd January 2017The decisive underlying reasoning ( motifs, Begründung) is, without doubt, an essential part of any arbitral award and as such bears the potential of frustrating parties and arbitrators alike. On the one hand, elaborate reasoning in arbitral awards more often than not comes at the price of long waiting periods for the issuance of the awards, and periods of meticulous drafting on the part of the arbitrator(s). On the other hand, a lack of elaborate reasoning may likewise be a headache, since it exposes the arbitral award to setting aside. read more...
The Czech Republic joins other European countries in regulating the sale and advertising of unhealth
19th December 2016From January 2017, selling and/or advertising chips, soft drinks or mayonnaise-filled sandwiches to children in schools will be illegal.
European Commission releases “Clean Energy Package”
6th December 2016On 30 November 2016 the European Commission published its "Winter Package" containing proposals for new rules for a consumer-centered clean energy transition. The 500 page Winter Package had been eagerly awaited by the energy industry since it was to contain the major energy regulations for 2020 onwards. As expected, the most substantial measures and amendments proposed concern renewables and energy efficiency in the European Union. In addition, the electricity market design is proposed to be amended. read more...
The Constitutional Court of Moldova has spoken: No Need for Acquirer of a Share Stake to Obtain Shar
6th December 2016Through its 27 September 2016 decision ("Decision 27/2016"), the Constitutional Court of Moldova ("Constitutional Court") has declared certain provisions of the local Law on Limited-Liability Companies ("Law 135/2007") unconstitutional. In particular, it ruled that the operation of amendments to constitutive acts cannot constitute a condition and impediment to an acquirer registering its property right over a share stake in the State Register of Companies. read more...
Protection of new and interim financings in restructuring? – The European Commission’s proposal on e
2nd December 2016Since the European Commission adopted the recommendation on restructuring and second chance in 2014, it has been working on the evaluation of its initiative and the introduction of a European legal framework. In 2015 the Capital Markets Union Action Plan included the announcement of a legislative initiative on early restructuring and second chance. Finally, on 22 November 2016, the European Commission published its proposal for a European Directive on preventive restructuring frameworks and a second chance for entrepreneurs. The proposal includes, inter alia, provisions protecting new and interim financing in restructurings. read more...
Austria: Upcoming ban on speculative financial transactions for public bodies
22nd November 2016 The Austrian Federal Government agreed in its 2013-2018 work programme, on the implementation of a nationwide ban on speculative financial transactions for the Federation, the Austrian Federal States, Austrian Municipalities, and other public bodies. read more...Slovenia: Do companies have the right to be heard during a dawn raid?
16th November 2016The Slovenian courts were recently asked to rule on companies' right to be heard during unannounced investigations (so-called 'dawn raids') by the Competition Protection Agency. read more...
The EU Capital Market Union – European Commission establishes expert group to develop strategy on su
16th November 2016On 28 October 2016, the European Commission decided to establish a High Level Expert Group on sustainable finance, one of the European Commission's primary objectives within the EU Capital Markets Union ("CMU").
This Legal Insight is the first part of our dedicated newsletter series on the CMU. We will provide regular updates on CMU-related topics.
Romania: New rules on labelling products that use frozen food in the preparation process
11th November 2016As of 20 October 2016, new legal provisions are in place in Romania setting out how consumers should be informed of products that use frozen foods in their preparation. In this respect, the consumer protection authority enacted Order 183/2016 ("Order 183") published in the Official Gazette on 20 September 2016. read more...
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Hungary – discouraging litigation?
Since 2018, Hungary has a new act on civil court procedures (Act CXXX of 2017 – the Act) which has brought about significant reforms after 50 years. The reforms were aimed at healing previous shortcomings, such as lengthy and tedious procedures, and making court cases concise, yet professional in quite a tight structure. As almost …
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