Lenz & Staehelin covers the full gamut of banking and finance matters, including banking consolidation transactions and complex regulatory issues. The team serves a diverse clientele, comprising domestic and international institutions, which rely on them for refinancing and financial restructuring advice. Shelby R. du Pasquier spearheads the department and is distinguished by his expertise in internal investigations and the full spectrum of regulatory mandates. François Rayroux specialises in derivatives, while Olivier Stahler concentrates on the regulatory aspects of obtaining licenses for banks, securities houses and investment managers. Isy Isaac Sakkal is noteworthy for assisting with licensing processes and enforcement proceedings brought by FINMA. Philipp Fischer, who is well-versed in collective investment schemes, joined the team from OBERSON ABELS SA in June 2025. Fedor Poskriakov and Valérie Menoud also come highly recommended.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The regulatory team is quick to engage and consistently provides advice that is measured, pragmatic and focused on market practice and standards. They understand the need to balance compliance with business goals, and their recommendations reflect both depth of expertise and practicality.’
- ‘The team is the Rolls Royce of banking and finance in Switzerland, encompassing the full scope of services from regulatory to private banking, including structured finance, commercial law and derivatives. They are smart, quick and particularly business-focused. These guys really get it: a unique group of passionate experts.’
- ‘Olivier Stahler is outstandingly knowledgeable concerning hedge fund practices in Switzerland. He understands the commercial and regulatory aspects equally and is very attentive to your needs as a client.’
- ‘Olivier Stahler consistently combines extremely high technical knowledge with strong business acumen. He is particularly responsive in the day-to-day, and visionary when dealing with more strategic issues. He also demonstrates a strong capability to assess risks effectively.’
- ‘Lenz & Staehelin’s banking and finance practice is widely and rightfully regarded as the gold standard in Switzerland, with unmatched breadth, depth and consistency across decades. The firm advises on the full spectrum of banking matters and we as client benefit from seamless cross-practice collaboration, deep regulatory insight, and longstanding relationships with authorities.’
- ‘We regularly work with Olivier Stahler, especially on regulatory matters, and his legal mastery, pragmatic approach and in-depth knowledge of regulators' expectations consistently add value, especially in high-stakes or time-sensitive matters. Another key partner for us is Fedor Poskriakov - we appreciate his deep regulatory knowledge and strategic insight.’
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Shelby R. du Pasquier
Other key lawyers
François Rayroux; Fedor Poskriakov; Valérie Menoud; Olivier Stahler; Isy Isaac Sakkal