Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) > Linz, Austria > Firm Profile
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte) Offices
Herrenstraße 6
A-4020 Linz
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.’
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Dr iur Michael Magerl | Office managing partner (Linz) | View Profile | |
Mag iur Victoria Zeppitz | Attorney at law | View Profile |
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