Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd > Zurich, Switzerland > Firm Profile
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd Offices
Löwenstrasse 19
P.O. Box 2201
8021 Zurich
Switzerland
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd > The Legal 500 Rankings
Switzerland > Banking and finance: Geneva Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s ‘complementary, responsive and solution-oriented team‘ has strength across both transactional and regulatory matters, and acts for a range of domestic and foreign banks and financial institutions. The department advises on new and pressing issues within the market, including the LIBOR transition, and fintech matters. Grégoire Wuest, who has particular expertise in the field of multi-jurisdictional transactions involving non-standard assets, co-leads alongside Tarek Houdrouge, whose practice includes financings, contractual issues, and regulatory matters. Caroline Clemetson handles investments, financial regulations, and insurance matters, while Grégoire Tribolet has experience in finance transactions. Counsel Joane Etienne is also key.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great team. Knowledge in all law matters and good collaboration between the different departments. Strong client commitment.’
‘Joane Etienne is always available and very helpful on finding solutions on how we can best achieve our objectives. She has a strong ability to listen to clients’ needs and has an in-depth knowledge of her field.’
‘The Banking & Finance Team in Geneva are efficient and know the financial sector industry very well. The team is very client and solution oriented. Working with the SW team is always a pleasure.’
‘Tarek Houdrouge has deep knowledge of the banking/financial industry. Tarek Houdrouge is extremely efficient, has excellent legal skills and provides client oriented solutions.’
‘What makes the team at Schellenberg Wittmer unique is the straightforward way that the team there deals with clients, and the level of competence and expertise in the area that they offer services.’
‘We are very happy with the collaboration, which has been professional/personal and always a good understanding in the communication. We have our contact with Joane Etienne first hand, and with Caroline Clemetson, they have both been reachable at all times, and always delivered professional feedback.’
‘Complementary, responsive and solution-oriented team.’
‘Dedicated team with centres of expertise that communicate well together. Cooperation is strong between practices. Quality and availability.’
Key clients
Banco Santander
Bank Itau (Suisse) SA
Bank Julius Baer
Bank Vontobel
BNP Paribas
CACEIS
Credit Suisse
Computershare/ Equatex
Deutsche Bank SA
Diamond Capital Management (Switzerland) Ltd
e-GTSA S. A
EFG Bank
Emeram
Eny Finance AG
HSBC Private Bank
Landolt Investment SICAV
Mirabaud & Cie SA
Procimmo SA
UBP
UBS
Reuss Private Group AG
Standard Chartered
Swiss Bankers Association
Work highlights
- Acted as lead counsel to a major international banking group with a strong presence in Switzerland in connection with the financing of the acquisition of several high-value real estate properties in London.
- Advising several trust companies, which are now regulated by FINMA, pursuant to the newly enacted Financial Institutions Act in securing their regulatory authorisation.
Switzerland > Competition Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd is highly regarded for its work across several industry including pharmaceuticals, energy, and finance. Often referred by top international firms, the practice regularly handles international merger control procedures and internal investigations. Practice head David Mamane has an impressive track record in managing public procurement and distribution agreements. He is supported by Senior associate Amalie Wijesundera who works regularly with abuse of dominance investigations, compliance, and dawn raids.Practice head(s):
David Mamane
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The competition team of Schellenberg Wittmer is without a doubt the best in Switzerland. The experience and delivery of excellent results is unparalleled. Most brilliant team for clients’ needs in the insurance business.’
‘David Mamane is without a doubt the best competition lawyer in Switzerland. His extensive experience and excellent advice are unparalleled for clients in the highly regulated insurance business. We only go to David Mamane for any competition law related matters.’
‘I worked with the team in an antitrust audit matter and regularly consult with them on antitrust counselling and merger control matters. They are my go-to firm for antitrust advice in Switzerland.’
‘David Mamane is great. Calm, knowledgeable, to the point.’
‘Good knowledge of Swiss and EU antitrust framework; perfect for multinational matters.’
‘Practical advice. Transparent billing. Good client engagement.’
‘David Mamane – takes the time to understand the business requirements and advises accordingly.’
‘Great know-how, practical approach, cost sensitive.’
Key clients
Philip Morris International (Tobacco)
Aldo (Fashion/shoes)
Mammut (Swiss mountain sports goods/retail)
Adobe (Computer software)
SIX Interbank Clearing (Financial industry)
Husqvarna (Outdoor power products)
Samsung Electronics (Electronics)
Uber (Transport services)
Olympus (Image technology)
Bouygues Construction (Construction and engineering)
CSL Behring AG (Biotherapies)
Apax (Private Equity)
Industrielle Werke Basel (IWB) (Utilities and energy)
Energie Wasser Luzern (Utilities and energy)
Erdgas Zentralschweiz (Utilities and energy)
Lonza Ltd (Chemicals and biotechnology)
Rheinmetal Air Defence (Aviation)
Lafarge Holcim (Building Materials)
Procter & Gamble (FMCG)
Barry Callebaut (Confectionary)
Novartis (Pharmaceuticals)
Dacoso (Networks and security)
dormakaba (Keys and locking systems)
Skoda (Automotive)
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (Automotive)
Michelin (tire manufacturer)
Bucher Landtechnik
AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals AG
Ringier (Media and online platforms)
LaLiga (Spanish national football association)
Vifor (pharmaceutical)
Pistor (food wholesale)
Swiss Marketplace Group (online media and advertisement)
Volkswagen Financial Services (financial industry)
Orpha Swiss (Life Sciences Company)
Conforama Switzerland (Furniture and electronics retailer)
Work highlights
- Advised and represented CSS in the creation and setting-up of the innovative online health platform WELL.
- Advising one of the leading Swiss Banks – Credit Suisse – in competition law investigations by the Swiss Competition Commission. The team is handling all aspects from dawn raids and information requests to appeals.
- Advised and represented Energie Wasser Luzern and Erdgas Zentralschweiz in a ground-breaking procedure by the Swiss ComCo regarding whether their gas network infrastructure must be opened up to competitors solely based on competition law
Switzerland > Dispute resolution: arbitration Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s ‘knowledgeable and responsive‘ team has experience in commercial arbitration, investment arbitration, sports arbitration, and setting aside proceedings before the Swiss Supreme Court. The department has diverse sector expertise, with notable experience in disputes relating to the construction, life sciences, and energy sectors. Elliott Geisinger is global chair of the team, while Philippe Bärtsch and Christopher Boog provide support as vice-chairs of the group. Stefan Leimgruber covers commercial disputes and sports law matters, while Anya George and Anna Kozmenko focus on complex commercial and investment arbitrations. Counsel Anne-Carole Cremades acts in a broad range of disputes involving oil and gas contracts. Benjamin Gottlieb made partner in January 2023.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team was very professional. They always presented a few options and anticipated how the other party may react to each. The team was able to analyse the strengths/weaknesses of the case. The entire process was made clear to me.’
‘Christopher Boog is an excellent arbitrator.’
‘Excellent international arbitration team. Highly knowledgeable and responsive.’
‘Philippe Bärtsch (Partner), is very knowledgeable, and Anne-Carole Cremades (Counsel) impressed.’
‘Excellent arbitration team – easily among the best in Switzerland.’
‘Katherine Bell is a very capable young partner. Benjamin Gottlieb is a future partner of the firm and probably one of the best legal minds in our generation.’
‘Philippe Bärtsch – excellent in all accounts. Excellent written submissions, excellent oral pleadings, excellent way to address the arbitral tribunal. Knows his file perfectly.’
‘Christopher Boog: excellent cross examination and oral pleadings. Knows how to bring his point in a gentle and efficient manner.’
Key clients
Alpiq
BASF
Catalent Pharma Solutions
Celgene Corporation
Chubb
GUPC SA
Ingersoll Rand Group
Johnson & Johnson
MOL Hungarian Oil and Gas Plc.
39 Olympic Athletes
PEB Steel Asia
Procter & Gamble
PV Investors
Republic of Hungary
Samsung
SMS Group
TAKRAF GmbH
Tetra Pak
Work highlights
- Representing a German client active in the metals industry in an arbitration under the ICC Rules seated in Paris over the engineering and construction of a metal processing plant.
- Represented investors in the Spanish renewable energy sector before the Swiss Supreme Court.
- Representing a German company in ICC arbitration against a Kazakh company in a dispute under a series of supply and engineering contracts related to a large-scale ferroalloy processing plant.
Switzerland > Dispute resolution: litigation Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s ‘professional, efficient and informative’ team covers a broad range of disputes, with significant expertise across both commercial litigation and white-collar crime issues. The department is particularly strong in cases with cross-border elements, and acts for a diverse set of multinational clients. Peter Burckhardt, who is based in Zurich, co-leads the department alongside the Geneva-based Louis Burrus and Clara Poglia. Also key are Urs Hoffmann-Nowotny and Stefan Leimgruber, who handle a broad range of commercial litigation, including banking, post-M&A and corporate disputes. Katherine Bell made partner in January 2022 and leads the Zurich construction disputes practice.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The size of their dispute resolution department allows them to work on extensive internal investigations on the one side while their know-how is also deeply rooted in criminal defence and as such their lawyers understand the needs and worries of individuals who become suspects in an investigation.’
‘Peter Burckhardt is all that you would search for in a white-collar criminal lawyer. He is calm even when times get rough, he is focused and to the point, and he is a strong fighter for the rights of his clients. Also, his ability to distinguish between important and irrelevant is unparalleled. If my company needed support in Switzerland, he would be my go-to lawyer.’
‘Really sharp legal analysis coupled with great client service. They are very easy to work with even in high-stress situations.’
‘The litigation practice at Schellenberg Wittmer is very professional, efficient and informative, with a complete grasp of the client and its needs. The team is always available, attentive, and exact in their legal advice, proactive in their proposed solutions and next steps, and always strives to deliver optimal results.’
‘Louis Burrus is highly experienced, service-minded, and dedicated, and it is always a pleasure to work with him, both professionally and personally. He stands out with his tailor-fit advice and his ability to convert complex legal matters into pragmatic advice.’
‘The dispute resolution team of Schellenberg Wittmer is extremely efficient, accurately foresees problems, thereby limiting a client’s exposure.’
‘Schellenberg Wittmer most certainly ranks among the finest and best reputed firms in Switzerland. This holds especially true for its Dispute resolution/Litigation/White-Collar practice. All of its lawyers are experts in their fields, be it the representation of companies or the defence of individuals.’
‘Extremely responsive, friendly, outstanding, substantive knowledge. Peter Burckhardt is outstanding!’
Key clients
Sunrise Communications AG
Volkswagen
Credit Suisse AG
EFG International AG / EFG Bank AG
UBS AG/UBS Switzerland AG
Gunvor
Doosan Heavy Industries
Fondazione Enasarco
Gazprom Neft PJSC, Russia
Hetronic International Inc.
Quark Pharmaceuticals
Odebrecht & Braskem
Work highlights
- Defending Volkswagen in the first-class action litigation tried in Swiss courts, and the largest mass litigation claim in Switzerland.
- Acting as lead counsel to Sunrise Communications AG in the first large civil cartel damages case in Switzerland which arises from an abuse of a dominant market position by former monopolist Swisscom in the ADSL broadband internet market between 2002 and 2007.
- Acted as Swiss counsel in relation to a shareholder class action filed in New York, successfully raising a forum non-convenience defense in the second half of 2020.
Switzerland > Employment Tier 1
The employment practice at Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd is headed by Vincent Carron in Geneva, who clients describe as a ‘leading employment lawyer‘ and commend him for his ‘technical mastery‘. The team handles both contentious and non-contentious matters, including the employment aspects of M&A transactions; the representation of clients in labour courts, restructurings, pension scheme issues, bonus scheme matters, collective dismissals and litigation. Swiss Bar Association-certified employment law specialist Michael Hess is the key contact for Zurich; he handles a broad range of labour matters -including employment agreements and handbooks, termination agreements, individual and collective dismissals, business and international employee transfers, among other matters- along with representing clients in contentious cases.Practice head(s):
Vincent Carron; Michael Hess
Testimonials
‘Meticulous attention to detail. Good local connections.’
‘Fast, detailed and friendly.’
‘I have been working with Schellenberg’s Employment practice for 10 years. The team is reactive, always available with a deep technical knowledge. I can rely on them in all circumstances. Their legal guidance is business oriented as they have quickly grown a deep understanding of our operations, businesses and internal processes and structures.’
‘I have been working with Vincent Caron for over 10 years. He is one of the leading employment lawyers in Switzerland which I believe comes from the fact that has an impressive knowledge not only of Swiss employment law but also social security law, especially in the area of pensions. His technical mastery, his ability to quickly understand and grasp the issue and his understanding of our operations/structure makes him a trusted partner we can rely on in any situation. He is always available and not only provides clear legal guidance but also provides back-up solutions were needed.’
‘S&W employs only lawyers that are experts in their (limited) domains of activities. Due to the large number of lawyers and the collaboration between them within S&W, customers are confident that their legal issues are always managed state of the art.’
‘Strong expertise, pragmatic proposals, and pleasant collaboration.’
Key clients
Cardinal Health
Bouygues Construction
Procter & Gamble
Schroder Bank
Panalpina Welttransport (Holding)
SIX Group
ams
Axpo Holding
Work highlights
- Advised a non-Swiss international airline company with a considerable workforce in Switzerland that has been heavily affected by the Covid-19 pandemic in connection with the application procedure for short-term work compensation in Switzerland (and extending the applicable regime), and consultation with and informing of affected employees in this connection as well as realted employee queries.
- Advised a toy manufacturer on its intention to open retail stores in Switzerland and hire staff through its Swiss entity, preparing employment contracts, personnel regulations and other employment document templates; as well as advising the non-Swiss HR business partner in charge of Swiss retail operations on the main features of Swiss employment law, including with respect to job registration requirements, social security, fixed-term contracts and protection from dismissal.
- Advised an international discount retail chain -from a Swiss employment law and social security perspective- on how to structure the international assignment of employees of the Swiss group company to European group companies and vice versa.
Switzerland > Fintech Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s multidisciplinary fintech team combines experts from across the firm, including corporate commercial, banking and finance, capital markets, and dispute resolution. The department also has key strength in connection with the issuance and trading of digital assets. Olivier Favre and Tarek Houdrouge co-head the team. Favre, who is based in Zurich, has expertise in derivatives, structured finance and financial regulatory matters, while the Geneva-based Houdrouge has broad corporate and M&A experience, and works on a range of crypto-asset related matters. Caroline Clemetson is another key name, as is Grégoire Wuest, whose specialisms include the digitalisation of financial services.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Always up-to-date and very experienced.’
‘Olivier Favre is my contact for all matters (finance & regulation) in Switzerland.‘
Key clients
Crypto Fund AG
Crypto Finance AG
Decentralised Autonomous Vehicles (DAV)
E-GTSA Limited
Alpian SA
SEBA Bank AG
iintega
ITOCHU Corporation
Work highlights
- Acted as Swiss Counsel to various European and international investors led by ITOCHU Corporation, a major Japanese general trading company supplying raw materials to global manufacturers and retailers.
- Acted as legal counsel to Brera Partners on the management buy-out of Credaris AG from the Comparis Group.
- Advised SIX Paynet AG, the main industry player in the Swiss e-invoicing market, on the sale of its B2B and B2C E-Invoicing Business to PostFinance AG.
Switzerland > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd has a strong reputation for its participation in large-scale, high level restructurings and insolvencies. The department handle the full range of matters, including distressed M&A, distressed refinancing, enforcement of pledges, and advising distressed businesses and their creditors. Counsel Vincent Jeanneret, who has more than thirty years’ experience in the practice area, has expertise in major insolvency cases, as well as criminal law and contentious banking matters. Jeanneret co-leads the group with distressed refinancing expert, Olivier Hari, and commercial disputes specialist, Urs Hoffmann-Nowotny. Louis Burrus, who is dual-qualified in Switzerland and England and Wales, is also a key name.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Good law firm, wide offering, quality of team with high variability.’
‘Very specific knowledge.’
Key clients
A Creditor of Privatair
Alevo Group SA and Alevo International, in liquidation, creditors’ committee appointment
Three foundations in Assura group of companies – Federal Department of Home Affairs – The Federal Supervisory Board for Foundations
EP Electricité
Fondation Hypotheka
G. Holtz (trustee of Geertsema bankruptcy)
Gilbert Albert employees’ pension plan – Cantonal Department of Finance – The Cantonal Supervisory Board for Foundations
Liquidators of Joannou & Paraskevaides (Overseas) Limited
Petroplus – Neuchâtel Court of First Instance
Mr. Reto Stöcklin (bankruptcy)
Several creditors of Ethical Coffee Company Ltd and Ethical Coffee Company (Switzerland)
Supra Assurances SA – Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA
Stigma Partners SA
Zenith Vie, Life insurance
Work highlights
- Appointed by the Tribunal du Littoral et du Val-de-Travers (Neuchatel) as an official administrator of Petroplus Refining Cressier SA, following the global collapse of the group.
- Representing joint administrators of a Bahamas company in an application for recognition of the foreign insolvency decree to recover assets located in Switzerland.
- Advised the client on two Swiss distressed businesses, Alevo Group and Alevo International. This case involved a forced fire sale of two distressed businesses and negotiation with the Court, the official administrator in charge of the sale, and foreign administrators as well (Germany, USA).
Switzerland > Insurance Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd’s insurance team has expertise in coordinating and monitoring complex litigation in multiple jurisdictions, particularly disputes arising from the introduction of new product lines. Alexander von Ziegler specialises in insurance and reinsurance, while also handling regulatory issues. Olivier Favre has previous experience advising international insurance companies on licensing matters. Another key contact is Tarek Houdrouge, whose insurance work dovetails with his banking and finance practice.Practice head(s):
Alexander von Ziegler; Olivier Favre; Tarek Houdrouge
Key clients
Uber
Baloise
Work highlights
- Advising a major insurance company on regulatory aspects of cross-border insurance products.
Switzerland > Intellectual property Tier 1
Led by dispute resolution partner Philipp Groz, Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd’s intellectual property practice is lauded by clients for its ‘deep knowledge’, ‘collaboration and proactivity’. The department is especially active in litigation, international arbitration, and major transactional work, with the team covering both Swiss and cross-border matters. Attrracting clients from a diverse range of industries, but the practice has specific industry knowledge in areas including luxury goods, media, leisure, the automotive sector, banking and finance, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
Practice head(s):
Philipp Groz
Other key lawyers:
Lorenza Ferrari Hoffer
Testimonials
‘They are the best Swiss IP firm. I interviewed all of the major firms. Their technical knowledge, legal acumen and responsiveness puts them far ahead of the others.’
‘Philipp Groz is very skilled and technical. He provides solid and practical legal advice. He is very responsive and wonderful to work with.’
‘Collaboration and proactivity are key for us and the studio in this is a top player.’
‘The friendly and professional relationship especially. It is always nice to have competent professionals at your side and feel that at the same time a more friendly approach is being used. It makes working and collaborating together more enjoyable and personalized.’
‘Deep knowledge of the IP sector.’
‘Lorenza Ferrari Hoffer is great. I have instructed her for many years. She is quick, knowledgeable. Clients love her.’
Key clients
Addlife
BASF
Bayer
cm.shoes
Cristanini
Hetronic International
Holcim
Infijov
Itochu Corporation
Iveric Bio
Johnson & Johnson group of companies (incl. Janssen)
Locarno Film Festival
Philip Morris International
Porsche
Samsung
Santhera Pharmaceuticals
Six Group
Standard Chartered
Tetra Pack
UBS
Volkswagen
The Walt Disney Company
Zimmer Biomet
Work highlights
- Advised Santhera Pharmaceuticals regarding an exclusive license agreement for the Greater China Region with Sperogenix Therapeutics, a China-based company specialising in orphan diseases; value: up to $124m.
- Advised clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company Kinarus on all legal aspects of a reverse takeover transaction completed by Perfect Holding, including in relation to the technology transfer (patents, clinical trial data, regulatory aspects).
- Represented Cristanini,in proceedings for the alleged misappropriation of trade secrets by a a leader in the field of fire and disaster prevention, with regard to water-jet devices used in the defence and civil protection, successfully obtaining injunctions from Zurich’s tribunal of commerce and so provisionally stopped the promotion and sales of competing products.
Switzerland > Leading firms: French-speaking Switzerland Tier 1
The team at Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd covers all aspects of business law, with particular expertise in dispute resolution, banking and finance, capital markets, and corporate M&A matters.Other key lawyers:
Philippe Bärtsch; Louis Burrus; Paul Gully-Hart; Benjamin Borsodi; Caroline Clemetson; Tarek Houdrouge; Grégoire Wuest; Yves Jeanrenaud; Christoph Vonlanthen
Work highlights
Switzerland > Private client Tier 1
The private client department of Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd is jointly led by Andrea Dorjee-Good in Zurich and David Wallace Wilson in Geneva. The team has ‘broad experience‘ and advises clients on mandates encompassing contentious and non-contentious matters for individuals and their families including inheritance, estate planning and art-related advice and residency planning issues. Other members of the team including Bernard Vischer and counsel Caroline Lopez Nagai, who are described by clients as ‘committed, knowledgeable and efficient‘.Practice head(s):
Andrea Dorjee-Good; David Wallace Wilson
Other key lawyers:
Bernard Visher; Caroline Lopez-Nagai
Testimonials
‘David Wilson, a figurehead of the Swiss Private Client practice and top specialist in trusts. David is going above and beyond his day-to-day work as a lawyer by being involved in or taking part in all sorts of submissions to represent the trust industry towards the Swiss government and international bodies. Bernard Visher has vast experience and is an all-rounder, with some interesting areas of specialisation like Middle East wealth structuring and philanthropy advice.’
‘Partners have a long-standing good reputation in the field and are supported by a team of committed, knowledgeable and efficient counsels and associates.’
‘Caroline Lopez-Nagai is a key member of the team. She has extensive legal knowledge of Swiss law (tax, contractual, immigration aspects) and other jurisdictions her clients reside in. She is efficient and pragmatic and very available to assist clients.’
‘Andrea Dorjee-Good is one of the best inheritance lawyers in Switzerland.’
‘David Wallace Wilson is a stand out lawyer, both technically in the areas of trust, but also in leadership. He has built an excellent team around him. David’s technical experience is one of the best, and he promotes knowledge sharing through many channels. Any legal advice received from him and his team have been succinctly and clearly documented.’
‘The team has broad experience in Swiss and cross-border estate and wealth planning matters, including the capacity to handle administrative matters and litigation on an international level. It works with many professionals across the world to handle, for example, litigation in foreign jurisdictions.’
‘I work with Partner David Wallace Wilson and Counsel Caroline Lopez-Nagai. Both are extremely competent and responsive, providing honest advice on the different issues and the possible outcome of legal matters submitted to them. They also are able to handle and coordinate every step, also involving foreign lawyers, to manage international litigation in the best way possible.’
Key clients
Rhone Trust
NBK Banque Privée (Suisse) SA
Work highlights
- Represented one of several heirs in a very complex cross-border trust and estate dispute regarding the estate of a Swiss national, involving complex trust structures in various jurisdictions holding a major family owned business.
- Representing a client in a complex Swiss estate litigation, involving claims against the executors and challenges of substantial lifetime gifts, including the transfer of a major family business to the descendants.
- Advising one of the largest providers of fiduciary services in securing its authorisation to operate as trustee in Switzerland.
Switzerland > Real estate and construction Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd advises clients in contentious matters such as construction disputes, and non-contentious matters including due diligence reviews and contractual negotiation, implementation, and enforcement. The team has particular expertise with complex cross-border sale and purchases and is very active in the hotel and retail industry. The practice is highly integrated and regularly draws on support from related groups such as tax, employment, and M&A. Yves Jeanrenaud heads the Geneva team with extensive experience in contractual real estate matters, while Josef Caleff leads the Zurich team, leveraging a track record in complex real estate transactions.Practice head(s):
Yves Jeanrenaud; Josef Caleff
Other key lawyers:
Amanda Burnand
Testimonials
‘We have worked with this practice since 2005. They have a deep knowledge of our business and provide exceptional advice in construction and real estate matters, as well as financial and taxation advice and litigation.’
‘We work mainly with Yves Jeanrenaud and Amanda Burnand. They respond immediately to any requests for advice or necessary action in connections with new tenancies, landlord and tenant disputes and problems with construction companies.’
‘Josef Caleff is a very reliable partner with excellent expertise in his field.’
‘The team is seasoned, articulate and client oriented. It is multidisciplinary and able to steer transactions confidently and earn the respect of their counterparts when running transactions.’
Key clients
International Labour Organization
Bouygues Construction
BMS – Bristol Myers Squibb
Credit Suisse AG
Digital Realty
Procimmo AG
Christie’s
Hotel Beaulac, Neuchatel
Implenia (Suisse) SA
Société Privée de Gérance
Patrizia AG
SV Group AG
SPGI
Vantage Data Center
Barry Callebaut AG
Celgene International II Sarl
DuPont de Nemours
Goldman Sachs
CBRE
HIG Capital
IDUN Industries
Bank Julius Bär
IFF
Colt Data Center Cervices
Work highlights
- Assisted the client for the sale of a data-center in Switzerland in the course of a portfolio sale of 11 data-centers in Europe to Ascendas Reit, a Capitaland sponsored REIT.
- Advised IFF, a leading manufacturer of flavours, extracts and fragrances for consumer products based in New York, USA, in the sale of the food preparation business, in particular the production site in Reinach.
- Assisted Celgene for the negotiation, the drafting, and the signing of a business transfer agreement related to the operation of a pharmaceutical production site located in Couvet, Neuchâtel by way of a bulk asset transfer pursuant to the Merger Act (including plots land, buildings, contracts and employment agreements).
Switzerland > Regulatory, compliance and investigations Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd represents financial institutions and executives in government investigations, enforcement actions and white-collar criminal prosecutions by both local and international authorities. The team often collaborates with other departments such as tax and antitrust to handle high-profile international cases. Benjamin Borsodi regularly represents individual and institutional clients in proceedings related to fraud, business crime and asset recovery, while Peter Burckhardt is renowned for his expertise in conducting internal investigations and handling cross-border white-collar crime matters.Practice head(s):
Benjamin Borsodi; Peter Burckardt
Other key lawyers:
Clara Poglia; Giulia Marchettini; Charles Goumaz; Paul Gully-Hart
Testimonials
‘The team consists of bright young lawyers who have been practicing white-collar and compliance since much before the current frenzy. Their experience is unmatchable in Switzerland to handle complex matters, especially related to AML matters.’
‘Benjamin Borsodi leads his team with an enthusiasm which makes me want to work in his team. His deep knowledge of other jurisdictions facilitates the comprehension of what can be done in Switzerland without adversely impacting elsewhere.’
‘I suspect SW’s Regulatory and Investigations Practice is the best in Switzerland. They have outstanding knowledge and experience of all parts of this practice area. They are also experts at explaining the Swiss criminal system to non-Swiss.’
‘While Benjamin Borsodi is one of the best-known lawyers in this area, he is always available and very easy to deal with. Giulia Marchettini is sharp, omni-competent, and lovely to have on the file.’
‘The litigation practice at Schellenberg Wittmer is very professional, efficient and informative, with a complete grasp of the client and its needs. The team is always available, attentive and exact in their legal advice, proactive in their proposed solutions and next steps, and always strives to deliver optimal results. Schellenberg’s vast legal knowledge, expertise and dedication make them an excellent partner to a client in need.
‘Schellenberg Wittmer’s team is among the best in the country for white-collar defense work. They are also outstanding in the area of internal investigations. The team also has exceptional forensic resources.’
‘Charles Goumaz is a thoughtful white-collar attorney who is extremely effective in complex and multijurisdictional matters. He is a remarkable lawyer with an incredible work ethic and strong judgement.’
‘Paul Gully-Hart is a leading practioner in the white-collar arena for corporations and individuals, an excellent designer of the strategy of defense for complex white-collar crime with transnational elements. Charles Goumaz as well is an excellent practitioner in the white-collar area, with extensive experience in internal investigations.’
Key clients
Credit Suisse
Gunvor
Stephan Schmidheiny
Czech Republic
UBS
Odebrecht and Braskem
EFG Bank AG
Volkswagen
Work highlights
- Assisted the client in a major investigation involving allegations of corruption in Ecuador. The case is active in the USA and substantial documentation review takes place in Switzerland. This case as particularly challenging as it habitually requires consolidating a massive team for documentation review in a very tight timeframe.
- Representated a foreign State who had fallen victim to major fraud in the context of the privatization of a State-owned company at the end of the 90s. Our intervention led to the positive result that the State was allowed to participate in the proceedings and to make good its claim for restitution.
- Advised and provided assistance to a large international commodity trading group in the context of several foreign requests for mutual legal assistance in criminal matters.
Switzerland > TMT Tier 1
The TMT practice at Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd handles a broad array of matters on both the contentious and non-contentious side. Particular strengths exist in the areas of IT, IP, telecoms and competition law, where the firm regularly acts for clients in sectors such as media, pharma and banking in addition to a number of telecoms service providers. Roland Mathys, who is well versed in outsourcing transactions and major technology projects, leads the practice. Samuel Klaus is recommended for his experience in matters pertaining to ICT, data, cybercrime and IT security, while David Mamane focuses on competition and antitrust law.Practice head(s):
Roland Mathys
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The service provided is highly qualified. Uncomplicated and more goal-oriented work than others.’
‘Lorenza Ferrari Hofer has great experience in TMT, data privacy and data protection, but also on general commercial matters. She is highly professional, pragmatic, trustworthy and also just a great person.’
‘Roland Mathys is extremely smart, and his expertise in IT law and contract law is exceptional in the Swiss market.’
‘The TMT team of Schellenberg Wittmer excels in IT-related matters and has an exceptional understanding of clients’ needs.’
‘Roland Mathys always delivers excellent results and has a deep understanding of clients’ needs and the newest technology developments. Brilliant.’
Key clients
ABB
AddLife AB
Aity AG
Amazon
Aon
Axpo
BEKB / Berner Kantonalbank
CommVault
CSS Insurance
DHL
DocuSign
Fairtiq
Husqvarna / Gardena
Intertrust
INLEAD
Kardex
Lindt & Sprüngli
Manor
Mettler Toledo
Novartis
Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI)
Oryx Gaming
Ringier
Salesforce
Swiss Digital Initative (SDI)
SIX Paynet
Sonova
Standard Chartered
Swizzonic
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
Tesla
Vifor
Voi
Youplus Assurance SCHWEIZ
Work highlights
- Advising BEKB on its earlier outsourcing of its banking platform and IT infrastructure to Hewlett Packard (now DXC) as well as its decision to back source the banking platform and IT infrastructure and move to a hybrid service model.
- Advising CSS on its project to set up a digital health platform for patients and health service providers in a joint venture (WELL Gesundheit AG).
- Advised SIX Paynet AG on the sale of its B2B and B2C E-Invoicing Business to PostFinance AG including advising on all transitional services aspects related to the IT infrastructure, software landscape and related licences following the carve out of the target business from the Paynet AG.
Switzerland > Transport Tier 1
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd's trade and transportation team advises its clients on all aspects of trade and transport law, including litigation, arbitration, trading, financing and insurance. Alexander von Ziegler, who advises national and international insurers on regulatory issues and covers disputes with a particular focus on maritime and aviation law, co-heads the firm’s trade and transport group with Bernard Vischer, head of the firm’s private wealth group with a focus on shipping and aviation.Practice head(s):
Alexander von Ziegler; Bernard Vischer
Key clients
EasyJet
Work highlights
- Advising a major airline in connection with its sustainability questions.
Switzerland > Banking and finance: Zurich Tier 2
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd fields a strong regulatory team, with experience advising domestic and international banks, investment businesses, insurance companies, and other financial institutions, across a broad range of matters. The department also handles a diverse set of transactions, including syndicated loan facilities and structured finance transactions. Philippe Borens, who has expertise in regulatory issues, leads the team, which includes ‘elite lawyer’ Anita Schläpfer, and Martin Lanz, whose practice spans syndicated loans, bond issuances, and the establishment of financial intermediaries. Also key are Olivier Favre, who specialises in financing and capital markets transactions, and Caroline Clemetson, who covers investment products and financial regulations.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very organised, client focused teams.’
‘Business oriented approach, focused on outcomes and on understanding client’s specific needs and goals.’
‘SW is an elite Swiss firm that needs no introduction.’
‘Anita Schläpfer is an elite lawyer with a very approachable attitude, this is a nice combination that is quite rare.’
Key clients
Alpian SA
Arsenal Capital Partners
Bank Itau (Suisse) SA
Bank Julius Baer
Banque Thaler
Bank Vontobel
Barclays Bank PLC
BNP Paribas
Bonhôte Immobilier
China Construction Bank
Computershare / Equatex
Credit Suisse
Crypto Fund AG
Deutsche Bank SA
Diamond Capital Management (Switzerland) Ltd
EFG Bank
Emeram
e-GTSA S. A
Futures Industry Association (FIA)
Global Funds SA
Helvetische Bank AG
HSBC Private Bank (Suisse)
International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA)
Leonteq
Landolt Investment SICAV
Lennox International
Mirabaud & Cie SA
Nord Anglia Education
Oxford Finance LLC
Pierer Mobility AG
Primeo Holding
Procimmo SA
Raiffeisen Switzerland
Reichmuth Investment Management AG
Reuss Private Group AG
Schroder & Co Bank
Standard Chartered
Swiss Bankers Association (SBA)
UBP
UBS
Work highlights
- Acted as co-lead counsel to Arsenal Capital and ATP Group on negotiating and implementing substantial secured syndicated credit facilities with UBS Switzerland as arranger, agent and security agent.
- Advised Aldo Group International AG on the successful completion of its Swiss composition proceedings and the exit financing.
- Acted as counsel to the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA) for the preparation of its documentation in view of the transition from LIBOR rates to alternative risk-free rates.
Switzerland > Capital markets Tier 2
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd acts for clients across a broad range of sectors, including the financial services, industrial, engineering, energy, life sciences and real estate industries, on the full range of capital markets matters. The department has strength across derivatives, structured products, and regulatory issues. Philippe Borens co-leads alongside Tarek Houdrouge; Borens has expertise in equity and debt capital markets work, while Houdrouge handles regulatory matters. Martin Lanz covers stock exchange law, and Olivier Favre covers derivatives and structured finance mandates. Senior associate Fabio Elsener is also noted.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team, headed by Olivier Favre, is very flexible and is able to satisfy client needs very quickly.’
‘Fabio Elsener does high quality work. Has not only a legal background but also covers finance topics.’
Key clients
BNP Paribas (various entities in UK, Ireland, France, Germany and Switzerland)
Bank Reichmuth
AXA Life Ltd
Barclays Bank PLC
Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (formerly Calyon)
First Quantum Minerals
Schroder & Co Bank
ams AG
Bank Vontobel
Raiffeisen Switzerland
Spice Private Equity Ltd (formerly APEN / AIG Private Equity Ltd)
Deutsche Bank
Zurich Kantonalbank, Zurich
Credit Suisse AG
UBS AG
Rapid Nutrition PLC
InRoll AG
International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA)
Futures Industry Association (FIA)
Swiss Bankers Association (SBA)
China Construction Bank
Leonteq Securities AG
Standard Chartered
Helvetische Bank AG
Bauwerk Boen AG
Reuss Private Group AG
Alpiq AG
Banque Cramer & Cie SA
Mirabaud Asset Management
REYL & Cie SA
PIERER Mobility AG
Technogroup IT Services AG
Binance
SIX SIS
OC Oerlikon Corporation Pfäffikon
Conforama Suisse SA
Brera Partners Switzerland AG
Work highlights
- Represented PIERER Mobility AG as Swiss counsel before the Swiss Takeover Board.
- Acted as counsel to Leonteq Securities AG (Leonteq) for the annual renewal and update of its new FinSA compliant programme for the issuance of structured products, warrants and other debt instruments.
- Acted as counsel to the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA) for the preparation of its documentation incorporating fallbacks for LIBOR rates into derivatives transactions documented under Swiss Master Agreements for OTC Derivatives Transactions in view of the transition from LIBOR rates to alternative risk-free rates.
Switzerland > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd provides ‘superlative and seamless support’ across a broad range of sectors, including financial services, construction, logistics, and pharmaceuticals. The department has expertise advising both new and developing clients on venture capital related matters, and providing guidance for major multinationals such as Bouygues Construction and KPS Capital. The highly experienced Lorenzo Olgiati co-leads alongside Jean Jacques Ah Choon, with the former heading the team in Zurich, and the latter based in Geneva. Senior partners Martin Weber, who handles a broad range of corporate transactions, and Oliver Triebold are also key. Marcel Jakob, who made partner in January 2022, is also noted.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent law firm who provide superlative and seamless support, dovetailing with advice from other firms on multi-jurisdictional transactions.’
‘User friendliness, ease of use and immediately grasping the context of what is required and in what form. They are not lawyers who obstruct or over-lawyer: they integrate and are team players.’
‘Top notch legal firm with hands-on approach and great business acumen.’
‘They understand and embrace our approach, our business as well as what we need. On top of that, they are extremely solution focused and hands-on.’
‘I appreciate their high level of technical mastery, competence, understanding of our businesses, organization and corporate structure as well as their availability.’
‘Marcel Jakob – knowledgeable and approachable, available at all times and extremely supportive throughout the whole transaction.’
Key clients
AddLife
Alpian SA
ams AG
Axpo
BASF Schweiz AG
BNP Paribas (Paris, France)
Bouygues Construction
Brera Partners Switzerland AG
Cardinal Health
Carify
Caynova
Cigna/Ascent Health
Conforama Suisse SA
CSS Health Insurance
EFG International
GCA Corporation
Helvetia Schweizerische Versicherungsgesellschaft
HighSage Ventures
Hugo Fund Services
Implenia
Julius Bär
Lennox International
Leonardo S.p. A
Lufthansa Group
Lantal Textiles AG
MoneyPark AG
OC Oerlikon Corporation Pfäffikon
Open Mineral
Oxford Finance
Panalpina Welttransport Holding AG
Philip Morris International / Philip Morris Equity Partners
RAM Active Investments
Rothschild & Co Bank AG
Santhera Pharmaceuticals
Schroder & Co Bank
SET Ventures (Amsterdam, the Netherlands)
Shire International GmbH
SIX Group
TE Connectivity
Standard Chartered Bank / Standard Chartered Ventures (Singapore)
ZKB Zürcher Kantonalbank / Swisscanto Holding
Work highlights
- Advised TE Connectivity (NYSE: TEL), a world leader in connectivity and sensors, on the acquisition of family-owned ERNI Group AG, a leading firm in electronic connectivity for factory automation and automotive.
- Advised Julius Baer Group Ltd, a top-tier Swiss private banking group, on the acquisition of an 83% stake in Kuoni Mueller und Partner Holding AG, a leading integrated real estate service provider based in Zurich.
- Advised KPS Capital Partners, with respect to all Swiss law aspects of its acquisition from Crown Holding Inc. of the food, aerosol and promotional packaging business in EMEA, an enterprise valued at approx. $2.7 billion, whereby Crown will be retaining a 20% ownership stake in the business.
Switzerland > Data privacy and data protection Tier 2
The ‘exceptional‘ Roland Mathys heads Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s information technology, data, and cyber law practice. The group advises domestic and multinational clients active in a broad range of industries, including household names in retail, life sciences, and banking, on outsourcing, data protection, and data transfers. Lorenza Ferrari Hofer regularly represents clients in front of Swiss courts and administrative authorities and Samuel Klaus advises clients on outsourcing, data security and cybercrime.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is excellent. The service provided delivers very satisfactory work results even in the case of low budget constraints. Uncomplicated and more goal-oriented work than others. The billing team is very organised.’
‘Lorenza Ferrari Hofer – She has great experience in TMT and data privacy and data protection but also in general commercial matters. She is highly professional, pragmatic, trustworthy, and also just a great person.’
‘The data privacy and data protection team of Schellenberg Wittmer is without a doubt the best in Switzerland. The customer- and solution-based approach provided to unknown and unexpected challenges creating a unique eHealth platform was excellent, efficient, and always on top of things.’
‘Roland Mathys is without a doubt the best data privacy and data protection lawyer in Switzerland. His seniority and customer- and solution-based approach to providing the most excellent advice for data protection/privacy challenges is unparalleled in the eHealth area. He is the smartest and most efficient lawyer we have come across so far. Just exceptional.’
Key clients
ABB
AddLife AB
Aity AG
Amazon
Aon
Axpo
BEKB / Berner Kantonalbank
CommVault
CSS Insurance
DHL
DocuSign
Fairtiq
Husqvarna / Gardena
Intertrust
INLEAD
Kardex
Lindt & Sprüngli
Manor
Mettler Toledo
Novartis
Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI)
Oryx Gaming
Ringier
Salesforce
Swiss Digital Initative (SDI)
SIX Paynet
Sonova
Standard Chartered
Swizzonic
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
Tesla
Vifor
Voi
Youplus Assurance SCHWEIZ
Work highlights
- Advising Pax on all its outsourcing, data protection, and regulatory matters, particularly on Pax’s current outsourcing of its SAP and non-SAP systems and environment to Avectris, a major Swiss-based tech provider.
- Advising BEKB on backsourcing a banking platform, IT infrastructure and a move to a hybrid service model.
- Advising CSS has on a project to set up a digital health platform for patients and health service providers (“digital patient journey”), from AI-based self-diagnosis to telemedicine services, e-prescriptions, etc. in a joint venture with different other players (online pharmacy, telemedicine provider, etc.).
Switzerland > Healthcare and life sciences Tier 2
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd advises clients on a broad array of contentious and non-contentious matters, and is particularly strong in issues related to IP. Team lead Philipp Groz, who also heads the firm’s IP team, is praised by clients for his ‘wealth of experience’. Lorenza Ferrari Hofer likewise boasts IP expertise, and has significant experience negotiating related agreements, including R&D, transfer and licensing, and distribution agreements. Of counsel, Peter Georg Picht, whose focus is competition and IP law, is also noted.Practice head(s):
Philipp Groz
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm is distinguished by its empathetic approach to clients and its calmness and composure and listening to the needs of the client. Philipp Groz is an extremely talented lawyer with a wealth of experience who has repeatedly demonstrated his craft and found solutions that no one else would have noticed.’
‘Very good, specialized lawyers, the team collaborates efficiently together to meet with their clients’ needs in a timely manner; Projects are well managed and prioritized.’
‘The company is outstanding at analysing contracts and identifying risks and best solutions for the counterparty. It is committed to finding the best solutions tailored to the client’s needs.’
‘Philipp Groz has deep know how on the healthcare sector, he is protective of his clients’ interest, he advises in a pragmatic manner and is fully “hands on” for the management of projects; always reachable and available’.
Key clients
Addlife AB
Bayer AG
Zimmer Biomet
AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals AG
Ascensia Diabetes Care
Cardinal Health
Celgene
CSL Behring AG
HeiQ Materials AG
Johnson & Johnson
Kinarus
LivaNova
Nutra Essential OTC, S.L.
Procter & Gamble
Shire International GmbH
Sonova
Iveric Bio
Santhera Pharmaceuticals
Work highlights
- Advised Kinarus in all legal aspects of its reverse takeover transaction by Perfect Holding, including in relation to the technology transfer (patents, clinical trial data, regulatory aspects).
- Representing a medical device company in the Swiss part of global product liability litigation relating to the client’s product that is used in the context of heart surgery and is allegedly responsible for personal injury and death in a number of patients worldwide.
- Advised Santhera Pharmaceuticals regarding an exclusive license agreement for the Greater China Region with Sperogenix Therapeutics, a China-based company specializing in orphan diseases.
Switzerland > Leading firms: German-speaking Switzerland Tier 2
The team at Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd covers all aspects of business law, with particular expertise in dispute resolution, banking and finance, capital markets, and corporate M&A matters.Other key lawyers:
Christopher Boog; Peter Burckhardt; Lorenza Ferrari Hofer; Urs Hoffmann-Nowotny; Philippe Borens; Lorenzo Olgiati; Peter Burckhardt; Oliver Triebold; Lorenza Ferrari Hofer; David Mamane; Anna Kozmenko; Pascal Hubli; Olivier Favre; Andrea Dorjee-Good; Josef Caleff; Anya George
Switzerland > Tax Tier 2
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s tax group collaborates closely with the firm’s other practices to support clients on tax matters relating to corporate and M&A, banking and finance, real estate, and employment issues, in addition to acting in tax litigation and handling private client matters. Michael Nordin has experience in M&A, reorganisations, and restructurings, and co-leads the team alongside Jean-Frédéric Maraia, whose areas of expertise include tax litigation and taxation for art-related matters. Former co-lead Pietro Sansonetti covers auditing, litigation, and enforcement work. Senior associate Roland Wild is noted.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Fantastic understanding of Swiss law and practice, coupled with a pragmatic approach.’
‘Michael Nordin – very experienced and knowledgeable. Roland Wild – very strong technically.’
‘The team is highly-skilled, responsive and carefully listening to the client.’
‘Highly-skilled individuals, very well-connected.’
‘Hands on, extremely committed to protect their client’s interests.’
‘When dealing with Schellenberg, you feel that there is a team behind. When requesting advice, the individual thinks whether other areas could be impacted as well, and input from other consultants is sought and provided to the client. This is an added value.’
‘Roland Wild provides high-quality tax advice coupled with years of hands-on experience in the corporate tax area.’
Key clients
Barana Group
CIR – Compagnie Industriali Riunite S.p.A.
Credit Suisse
European Broadcasting Union
HSBC
International Committee of the Red Cross
Julius Bär
Swiss Re Group
Vontobel
Scor
AXA
Schroder Bank
Banco Santander
Wyatt Estates II Limited
Swiss Life
Sowind Group
Reyl & Cie
Work highlights
- Advised the management of Swiss watch manufacturers Girard-Perregaux and Ulysse Nardin on the acquisition of Sowind Group SA – which owns the two brands – from Kering Group.
- Representing a foreign multinational manufacturing group in tax proceedings regarding reorganisations claimed to trigger Swiss taxes in the amount of more than $100m.
- Advising a Swiss Canton on the re-drafting of the legislation for the taxation at source meaning drafting a new law, and implementing regulations including the explanations for the parliament.
Switzerland > Public law Tier 3
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s public law practice is headed up by David Mamane in Zurich and Yves Jeanrenaud in Geneva, and has particular expertise in public procurement processes and administrative law. The team is experienced in representing clients before both cantonal and federal courts, and has extensive experience in the transport, telecoms, energy, life sciences, media, healthcare, and food sectors.Practice head(s):
David Mamane; Yves Jeanrenaud
Key clients
Axpo Energy Utility
BKW
Uber
Varo Energy
Sopra Steria
ELCA Informatique
CSC Computer Science Corporation
Fairtiq
Bouygues Construction
Husqvarna
Orphanhealthcare
Gasverbund MIttelland (GVM)
Industrielle Werke Basel (IWB)
Energie Wasser Luzern
Erdgas Zentralschweiz
SWITCH
Paul Scherrer Institute
Pandemic Taskforce of the Information Security Society Switzerland (ISSS)
Ringier AG
Work highlights
- Provided regulatory and corporate advice to Uber, in particular in the context of the implementation of new regulations in various cantons and regulatory procedures with supervising authorities.
Switzerland > Sports law Tier 3
Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd‘s ‘powerhouse’ team is experienced in a wide range of areas, including doping matters, unfair competition, transfer rights and corruption. It also provides advice for clients on the planning and hosting of major sports events and assists in disputes and obtaining urgent interim relief. Philippe Bärtsch has considerable experience of complex international commercial and sports arbitrations, with Christopher Boog providing expertise in international arbitration.Practice head(s):
Philippe Bärtsch; Christopher Boog
Other key lawyers:
Anna Kozmenko; Louis Burrus
Testimonials
‘The firm is a powerhouse and does not leave a stone unturned. It encompasses all practices and offers 360 services. Extremely high level, sophisticated and precise.’
‘Outstanding counsel and arbitrators. Legally very strong. Outstanding advocacy skills and extremely calm in high-demanding situations.’
‘An in-depth understanding of all aspects pertaining to Swiss law.’
‘The team is very knowledgeable when it comes to sports regulations, experienced in arbitration proceedings and always goes the extra mile for the client’s comfort.’
‘Their style of leading their teams is state of the art. Both are present and available for their clients and deal exceptionally in complex leading matters.’
‘Excellent client service, flexibility in accommodating client’s requests, in-depth knowledge of arbitration procedures and Swiss law, excellent communication with Partners as well as counsels of the law firm, thorough and detailed briefs, clear and transparent billing methods.’
‘We had very close communication with the Partners and other associates handling our case, which provided us with adequate comfort that we were in safe hands.’
Key clients
Saoud Al-Mohannadi, Vice-President of the Qatar Football Association
Mr. Sun Yang, a Chinese Olympic and world-record-holding competitive swimmer
39 Olympic Athletes
4 Prominent Members of the Russian Olympic Ski Team (individual cases)
Paralympic Athlete: Mikhalina Lysova
International Boxing Federation (AIBA)
6 Olympic Track and Field Athletes (individual cases)
RUSADA (Russian Anti-Doping Agency)
Kujtesa Net
Work highlights
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Ms Katherine Bell | Katherine Bell is a Counsel in our Dispute Resolution Group in Zurich.… | View Profile | |
Dr Christine Beusch-Liggenstorfer | Christine Beusch-Liggenstorfer is Of Counsel in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Corporate and Commercial Group,… | View Profile | |
Dr Christopher Boog, FCIArb, FSIArb | Christopher Boog is a Vice-Chair of the International Arbitration Practice Group and… | View Profile | |
Dr Philippe Borens, LL.M. | Philippe Borens is a Partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Zurich office where he… | View Profile | |
Dr Frank Bremer, LL.M. | Frank Bremer is a Counsel in our Competition and Antitrust Group and… | View Profile | |
Mr Peter Burckhardt | Peter Burckhardt leads Schellenberg Wittmer’s Dispute Resolution Group in Zurich, as well… | View Profile | |
Mr Josef Caleff, LL.M., MRICS | Josef Caleff heads Schellenberg Wittmer’s Real Estate Group in Zurich and is… | View Profile | |
Mrs Caroline Clemetson, LL.M. | Caroline Clemetson is a partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Banking and Finance Group… | View Profile | |
Ms Anne-Carole Cremades | Anne-Carole Cremades is Counsel in Schellenberg Wittmer’s International Arbitration Group in Geneva. She specializes… | View Profile | |
Ms Andrea Dorjee-Good | Andrea Dorjee-Good is a Partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Private Clients and Estates… | View Profile | |
Mr Fabio Elsener | Fabio Elsener is a Senior Associate in our Banking and Finance Group… | View Profile | |
Dr Olivier Favre, LL.M. | Olivier Favre is a partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Banking and Finance Group… | View Profile | |
Lorenza Ferrari Hofer | Partner Lorenza Ferrari Hofer is a Partner in our Intellectual Property and… | View Profile | |
Mrs Lorenza Ferrari Hofer | Lorenza Ferrari Hofer is a Partner in our Intellectual Property and Life… | View Profile | |
Prof Dr Peter Georg Picht, LL.M. | Peter Georg Picht is a professor of law and holds the Chair… | View Profile | |
Ms Anya George, ACIArb | Anya George is a Partner in our Dispute Resolution Group in Zurich.… | View Profile | |
Mr Benjamin Gottlieb | Benjamin Gottlieb is a Partner in our Dispute Resolution Group in Zurich. His… | View Profile | |
Mr Philipp Groz, LL.M. | Philipp Groz is a Partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Intellectual Property and Dispute… | View Profile | |
Mr Michael Hess, LL.M. | Michael Hess is a Counsel in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Corporate and Commercial Group… | View Profile | |
Dr Urs Hoffmann-Nowotny | Urs Hoffmann-Nowotny is a partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Dispute Resolution Group in… | View Profile | |
Mr Pascal Hubli | Pascal Hubli is a partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Mergers & Acquisitions Group… | View Profile | |
Mr Marcel Jakob | Marcel Jakob is a Partner in our Mergers & Acquisitions Group in… | View Profile | |
Mr Yves Jeanrenaud, LL.M., MRICS | Yves Jeanrenaud is a partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Geneva office where he… | View Profile | |
Mr Alexander Jolles | Alexander Jolles is a Partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Dispute Resolution and Private… | View Profile | |
Dr Stefan Leimgruber | Stefan Leimgruber is a partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Dispute Resolution Group in Zurich. His… | View Profile | |
Mr David Mamane, LL.M. | David Mamane is a partner and head of Schellenberg Wittmer’s Competition Group… | View Profile | |
Mr Roland Mathys | Roland Mathys is a Partner and head of Schellenberg Wittmer’s Information and… | View Profile | |
Dr Michael Nordin | Michael Nordin is a Partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Zurich office, where he… | View Profile | |
Dr Lorenzo Olgiati, LL.M. | Lorenzo Olgiati heads Schellenberg Wittmer’s Mergers & Acquisitions Group in Zurich. His… | View Profile | |
Dr Roland M. Ryser | Roland Ryser is a Counsel in our Dispute Resolution Group in Zurich… | View Profile | |
Ms Anita Schläpfer, LL.M. | Anita Schläpfer is a partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Banking and Finance Group… | View Profile | |
Prof Dr Madeleine Simonek | Madeleine Simonek is a professor of law and holds the Chair for… | View Profile | |
Mr Benno Strub, LL.M. | Benno Strub is a counsel in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Restructuring and Insolvency Group… | View Profile | |
Dr Oliver Triebold | Oliver Triebold is a Partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Mergers & Acquisitions Group… | View Profile | |
Mr Roland Wild | Roland Wild is a Senior Associate in our Taxation Group in Zurich.… | View Profile | |
Prof Dr Alexander von Ziegler, LL.M., Mediator SKWM, SAV, CEDR | Alexander von Ziegler is a Partner in Schellenberg Wittmer’s Dispute Resolution Group… | View Profile |
International Capabilities
International reach
We have amassed extensive cross-border experience, regularly piloting and participating in major international projects. We are able to set up and coordinate international teams of legal advisors to handle complex matters with a minimum of delay.
While remaining independent, we build on our long-term experience and relationships with leading law firms around the globe, cooperating with over 300 foreign law firms from more than 50 jurisdictions to forge solid international relationships.
Our offices in Zurich and Geneva cover the whole of Switzerland, while our office in Singapore is a gateway to and from the Asia-Pacific region. We provide a comprehensive range of legal services to a worldwide client base of domestic and international companies and entrepreneurs.
Cross-border capabilities
Schellenberg Wittmer has extensive cross-border experience on transactional and contentious matters – both inbound and outbound. We represent an array of international clients for matters that span Europe and further afield. Some of the practice areas such as M&A, Sports Law and White-Collar Crime do not handle a single case without a cross border element.
International Arbitration:
Schellenberg Wittmer has one of the world’s leading international arbitration practices, ranked first-tier in Chambers, Legal 500 and Who’s Who Legal, and has been featured regularly in GAR30 as one of the 30 leading arbitration practices worldwide. Many of its international team members are recognised in these same publications.
With an outstanding combination of skills and resources, we are committed to providing our clients with creative and result-oriented advocacy in international arbitration, from critical pre-arbitration injunctions to effective enforcement strategies.
The team:
Schellenberg Wittmer actively recruits candidates with a wide range of backgrounds. Practitioners within our ranks have very diverse professional or academic experiences and an in-depth knowledge of foreign legal environments. Overall the team speaks a total of 15 languages represent over 30 nationalities.
Your leading Swiss business law firm in Singapore: Our Singapore office provides us with a gateway to key jurisdictions and markets in the Asia-Pacific region, enabling us to assist clients with their inbound and outbound investments in Asia. We also represent clients in connection with international arbitration matters in all major Asian cities. Furthermore, we offer top-tier representation to corporations, states and individuals in international commercial, investment and sport arbitration.
Regional desks:
Our Regional Desks were set up to develop our existing cross-border business initiatives, centralise case-work across these regions, and underpin Schellenberg Wittmer’s commitment to the provision of top-tier, full business law services to clients on a global level. This structure ensures we have the best in-depth knowledge of the regional specificities (legal and cultural) and a strong qualified network:
- Africa – contact: Tarek Houdrouge (tarek.houdrouge@swlegal.ch)
- Brazil – contact: Grégoire Wuest (gregoire.wuest@swlegal.ch)
- China – contact: Dr Christopher Boog (christopher.boog@swlegal.ch)
- Italy and Italian speaking Switzerland – contacts: Pietro Sansonetti (pietro.sansonetti@swlegal.ch) and Clara Poglia (clara.poglia@swlegal.ch)
- Midle East and Turkey – contact: Bernard Vischer (bernard.vischer@swlegal.ch)
- Russia & Eurasia – contacts: Philippe Bärtsch (philippe.baertsch@swlegal.ch) and Dr Manuel Liatowitsch (manuel.liatowitsch@swlegal.ch)
- South East Asia– contacts: Dr Christopher Boog (christopher.boog@swlegal.ch), Dr Philippe Borens (philippe.borens@swlegal.ch) and Julie Raneda (julie.raneda@swlegal.ch)
Publications and articles:
Our practitioners regularly publish on issues relating to cross-border and international work:
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- Dr Christopher Boog and Dr Anna Kozmenko: The Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards in the Russian Federation, CIETAC Newsletter 7/2015
- Dr Christopher Boog: Arbitrating in Singapore — The 2016 SIAC Rules, IPBA Legal Update December 2016
- Tarek Houdrouge: Acquisitions of companies abroad by Swiss businesses should remain attractive, Leaders League, November 2017
Diversity
Schellenberg Wittmer is strongly committed to furthering diversity and inclusion with a focus on gender diversity. There has been a consensus within the partnership to reduce the gender gap which has been reinforced and formalized in 2016 in the Schellenberg Wittmer Gender initiative. The firm has been extremely active in introducing multiple diversity initiatives and measured targets that strongly commit to a more gender diverse workforce especially in the promotion of higher numbers of female representation within leadership and strategic positions.
We are committed to breaking away from past realities and the current cultural norm and to promote equal gender as crucial to the firm’s on-going success, strategy, growth and vision. We wish to positively influence the trend upwards and hope the market will follow suite as a result of the positive pressure our firm is applying on the market.
Today the firm has over 25 % women in leadership positions (lawyers and operations), which is higher than the 13-15 % market average.
A dedicated task force led by Partners Caroline Clemetson (Member of the Management Committee) and Stefan Leimgruber put into place a measured plan to translate the firm’s vision into a clear business strategy and has set targets in direct connection with succession planning. Below are examples of some of the major projects of the task force substantive program:
- Key Talent Program for Women: with the aim to identify and support talented women at an earlier stage, providing them with coaching and enabling them to be on track to becoming successful partners.
- “Stopping the Clock” in the Partner Track Timeline, including no interruption of progress on partner track during maternity leave.
- Education and Mentoring: training on Diversity & Inclusion; mentoring & information exchange.
- Networking: Launch of the Women in White Collar Crime Defense Association; “Ladies only” dinners; Corporate Membership of Women in Business Society.
- Work-life balance: maternity leave transition policies, remote working, enhanced maternity facilities and policies for new fathers
Tangible results have already occurred in 2019 and 2020, including:
- Schellenberg Wittmer promoted 7 new partners between 2019-2020, 5 of which are women. This sets a remarkable precedent for women in business law in Switzerland as no Swiss firm in history has promoted this many female partners in any given year.
- A further 2 women were promoted at a counsel level (in Switzerland this is one level of seniority below a partner), representing a ratio of over 50 % for total promotions announced as women between 2019 and 2020.
- In May 2019, Caroline Clemetson was elected to the Management Committee by unanimous vote. Schellenberg Wittmer is the first firm in Switzerland to have a women on the management board.
- In 2019, the partnership set a priority to review the firm’s compliance framework and standardize all existing policies and a new Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Harassment Policy has been implemented. This policy reaffirms the firm’s commitment towards diversity and inclusion and provides an update on an existing policy on anti-harassment (especially towards women).
- Banking and finance: Geneva
- Competition
- Dispute resolution: arbitration
- Dispute resolution: litigation
- Employment
- Fintech
- Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Insurance
- Intellectual property
- Leading firms: French-speaking Switzerland
- Private client
- Real estate and construction
- Regulatory, compliance and investigations
- TMT
- Transport