Maintaining a strong trade mark portfolio management practice, Cerha Hempel has developed a profile in IP-related M&A transactions, carrying out due diligence on complex IP portfolios prior to transactions occurring. The firm regularly handles contentious issues, including copyright and market abuse disputes, often working at the intersection of IP and competition law. Mark Krenn leads the team, focusing on transactional IP, licensing, and strategic brand management. Key figures include Alina Alavi Kia, who is noted for her ‘sharp legal expertise’ in trade mark, copyright, and unfair competition-related food law matters; and Roman Heidinger, who advises on patents, software licensing, and IP protection for IT companies.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team demonstrates an exceptional depth of knowledge and a seamless collaborative approach. Swift in responding to our needs. This refers in particular to Alina Alavi Kia.’
- ‘Alina Alavi Kia combines sharp legal expertise with an exceptionally practical mindset. Always approachable and solution-oriented, she provides timely, precise guidance that inspires great confidence in high-stakes IP matters.’
- ‘Cerha Hempel’s IP team combines strong expertise in intellectual property protection with excellent drafting skills, including contracts for foundations and other specialised entities. They stand out for their ability to deliver precise, practical solutions and to anticipate risks with forward-looking strategies.’
- ‘The team we worked with at Cerha Hempel consistently demonstrated exceptional legal expertise, strategic thinking, and a remarkable ability to simplify complex issues. What truly made them stand out was their creativity - they didn’t just apply the law, they helped us shape our business model with it.’
- ‘Their availability, reliability, and personal engagement were invaluable, especially during critical negotiation phases. We felt supported at every step, and their calm, confident demeanour helped us navigate even the most challenging discussions with clarity and assurance.’
- 'I can attest to the outstanding professional abilities and personal integrity of Alina Alavi Kia. She combines deep legal expertise with a highly strategic mindset, which makes her an invaluable advisor in complex matters. Her ability to analyse intricate issues with precision, while also communicating them in a clear and practical way, sets her apart from many of her peers.'
Key clients
- McDonald's Corporation
- LEAD Horizon GmbH
- SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG
- Wiener Netze GmbH
- Michael Pachleitner Group
- Trenkwalder Group AG
- walt.id GmbH
- RWTÜV Group
- We Prevent GmbH
- GATX Rail Austria GmbH
- Bothand Studio
- Erste Bank AG;FLiP GmbH – gemeinnützige Gesellschaft zur Förderung finanzieller Bildung
Work highlights
Handled the trade mark administration of McDonald’s' Austrian trade mark portfolio.
Advised SPAR Österreichische Warenhandels-AG, in relation to food law, copyright, IT agreements/licensing, consumer protection, media law and unfair competition.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Mark Krenn
Other key lawyers
Alina Alavi Kia; Roman Heidinger