AKELA is a boutique law firm established in 2022 and its commercial litigation practice acts on real estate, energy and infrastructure disputes, as well as insolvency proceedings. The group has a multidisciplinary background, with practice head Hannes Schlager bringing experience in real estate and project transactions and disputes, while Martin Kollar leads on financial litigation.
Dispute resolution: commercial litigation in Austria
AKELA
Kinstellar
Kinstellar entered the Austrian market in January 2025, and the firm was bolstered by the arrival of Markus Taufner and Harald Strahberger from Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG, who have experience in complex commercial and financial disputes, and the firm also has further capabilities in the real estate and hospitality sectors.
Binder Grösswang
Binder Grösswang is strong on commercial litigation in the automotive, banking and manufacturing sectors, also acting in cartel and class action defence matters, injunction and interim relief proceedings and leading on disputes in the context of restructuring measures and insolvencies. The practice has been praised for ‘depth and flexibility’ on an array of disputes, and is home to a number of specialists: Stefan Albiez stands out in private enforcements and class and mass action defence cases; Christian Klausegger is experienced in industrial and insurance disputes; and Ingeborg Edel has acted in major insolvency proceedings. Other key members of the group include Adrian Zwettler, Kordula Krankl and Dario Schmelz.
Praxisleiter:
Christian Klausegger; Ingeborg Edel; Stefan Albiez
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Adrian Zwettler; Kordula Krankl; Dario Schmelz
Referenzen
‚The team always acts proactively and is very well structured before we go to court. They are also proactive in trying to find settlements out of court.’
‘Kordula Krankl is dealing with all my disputes and she always stays calm and keeps an overview, even if sometimes at court the situation gets a little bit heated. On the other hand she also knows how to „get louder“ where necessary.’
‘For insurance litigation cases, we highly appreciate working with Dario Schmelz. He is a smart negotiator and anticipates critical issues early on. Christian Klausegger is a distinct market leader.’
Kernmandanten
A1 Telekom Austria AG
Netbet Enterprises Ldt.
SCANIA CV AB
Kärtner Beteiligungsverwaltung
Oberalp
Whitebox Advisors LLC
State of Libya
ERSTE BANK Group
Robbins Europe GmbH
UNIQA Österreich Versicherungen AG
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented a telecoms operator in disputes raised by customers and consumer associations, alleging that large telecoms operators in Austria have been charging inadmissible tariff components for many years.
- Defended several banks against claw-back claims raised by the administrators of SIGNA.
Cerha Hempel
Cerha Hempel‘s group of ‘great and approachable lawyers’ acts on construction, insurance and financial disputes at the domestic and cross-border scale. The firm leads on shareholder disputes, high-value foundation and inheritance litigation, enforcement actions and cartel cases. Irene Welser is experienced in acting for major corporate clients in commercial cases and also maintains a private client practice, while Holger Bielesz is notable for his work in the banking and cryptocurrency sectors on litigation and asset tracing matters. Michaela Siegwart and Daniel Dibon are also recommended.
Praxisleiter:
Irene Welser
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Holger Bielesz; Michaela Siegwart; Daniel Dibon
Referenzen
‘This is a top team with top professionals across the entire dispute practice.’
‘Great and approachable lawyers.’
‘Senior team, engaged and reassuring.’
Kernmandanten
SPAR AG
UNIQA Österreich Versicherungen AG
International Ski and Snowboard Federation
Le petit-fils de L.U. Chopard & Cie SA
INTERSPAR Gesellschaft m.b.H.
Aon Austria GmbH
City of Vienna/Wiener Stadtwerke
HERVIS Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.
Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
Vienna Airport
ASFINAG
RCI Insurance Ltd/RCI Life Ltd
ÖBB Infrastruktur AG
Wien Energie GmbH
William Hill
MTK Real Estate Group
walt.id GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented FIS in ongoing cartel proceedings before the Cartel Court in Vienna following the FIS’s efforts to centralise the international marketing rights for skiing competitions.
- Represented SPAR in proceedings against Verein gegen Tierfabriken arising out of VGT’s campaigns against the client which seek to harm its reputation in the market.
- Represented ASFINAG in a dispute arising out of a motorway construction project against a subcontractor.
KNOETZL HAUGENEDER NETAL Rechtsanwaelte GmbH
KNOETZL HAUGENEDER NETAL Rechtsanwaelte GmbH co-ordinates its commercial litigation practice with arbitral and white-collar expertise in order to lead on major multijurisdictional matters including sanctions disputes, insurance and negligence claims, freezing orders and asset recoveries. The firm counts major technology companies, banking groups and HNWIs as clients. Bettina Knoetzl leads the practice and is widely experienced in commercial litigation, particularly in asset tracing matters, while Katrin Hanschitz acts on transactional, shareholder and investment disputes. Kirstin McGoldrick leads on complex construction and engineering disputes.
Praxisleiter:
Bettina Knoetzl
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Katrin Hanschitz; Kirstin McGoldrick
Kernmandanten
Facebook/Meta
Zurich Insurance Group
Highlight-Mandate
- Acted as global lead counsel in a clash between siblings concerning UHNW fortunes, with an amount in dispute of at least €560m across more than 5 jurisdictions, securing two injunctions to date.
- Advised one of SIGNA’s largest creditors on a €300m asset recovery claim.
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)
Schoenherr (Schönherr Rechtsanwälte)'s ‘calm and fact-based’ commercial litigation practice leads in the construction and real estate, banking and consumer goods sectors. The group is active on behalf of major international insurance groups, and data protection lawsuits are another area in which the practice is frequently instructed. The team is helmed by Andreas Natterer, who regularly appears in contractual damages, shareholder and competition disputes, and Christoph Lindinger, who leads on consumer and investment cases. Also in the practice are Manuela Zimmermann, experienced in insurance and financial litigation, and Sara Khalil, who leads on distribution and franchising cases.
Praxisleiter:
Christoph Lindinger; Andreas Natterer
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Manuela Zimmerman; Janos Böszermeny; Sara Khalil; Denise Stahleder
Referenzen
‘The team at Schoenherr excelled with its calm and fact-based approach. It offered exceptional advice during settlement negotiations. Their forecasts proved completely accurate. With their help, we won the case in all three instances.’
‘Andreas Natterer represented us, he carries Schoenherr’s excellence in this field.’
‘The collaboration with our contractual partners works very well. The firm is highly accessible and provides expert advice and representation.’
Kernmandanten
Adler Real Estate
Danone
KONE
Mondelez
Raiffeisen Bank International
UBER BV
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised TRACE Capital on filing a claim against Al Wazzan for a broker commission in the seven-digit range.
- Represented Art-Invest in proceedings regarding additional claims stemming from a purchase and construction contract for a residential building in Vienna.
- Represented a defendant in numerous ongoing civil and administrative proceedings in Austria against several damages claims under GDPR.
Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG
Wolf Theiss Rechtsanwälte GmbH & Co KG has an ‘outstanding litigation team with a particular focus on corporate disputes and insolvency,’ and the group co-operates with white-collar and arbitration specialists on international disputes. The practice’s work covers corporate and M&A disputes, cross-border contractual litigation and post-insolvency proceedings. ‘A no-nonsense partner,’ Eva Spiegel is strong in contentious insolvency and product liability cases, while Valerie Hohenberg leads on insurance litigation, asset recoveries and enforcements. Noted for his ‘strategic, commercially focused advice’ Clemens Trauttenberg integrates experience on criminal cases on commercial matters, Alexander Zollner has a broad commercial and insolvency practice, and Theresia Welser focuses on D&O and auditor's liability and insurance cases.
Praxisleiter:
Clemens Trauttenberg; Eva Spiegel; Valerie Hohenberg
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Alexander Zollner; Theresia Welser
Referenzen
‘The team was highly responsive and proactive in meeting deadlines. It was really nice not to have to stress until the final moment prior to filing. The team was always almost immediately available. It was a true pleasure to work with Wolf Theiss.’
‘Eva Spiegel is a no-nonsense partner. She quickly gets to the point and doesn’t sugar coat her answers. She is also very creative and is a good listener, quickly picking out issues or opportunities. I can highly recommend Eva for managing the most complex litigation matters.’
‘Wolf Theiss stands out in the field of dispute resolution thanks to its in-depth regional expertise and commitment to innovation. The firm offers seamless cross-border services that combine local knowledge with international reach.’
Kernmandanten
FACC
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented a Big Four company in a number of civil proceedings following the insolvency of a major Austrian real estate development group.
- Represented numerous clients in avoidance claims raised and pursued by the insolvency administrators of Signa Prime Selection AG and Signa Development Selection AG.
CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH
CMS Reich-Rohrwig Hainz Rechtsanwälte GmbH is particularly notable for its contentious work in relation to banking and insurance insolvency proceedings, where the firm is instructed by insolvent groups, administrators and creditors in an array of disputes. Elsewhere, the practice is active in the real estate, finance and transportation sectors on competition, shareholder and jurisdictional cases. Daniela Karollus-Bruner helms the practice and has experience in product liability, corporate and competition disputes, and she is joined by name partner Johannes Reich-Rohrwig, insurance specialist Thomas Böhm and Lukas Peissl-Lewisch, who leads on real estate and construction disputes.
Praxisleiter:
Daniela Karollus-Bruner
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Johannes Reich-Rohrwig; Thomas Böhm; Lukas Peissl-Lewisch
Referenzen
‚CMS’s dispute resolution practice is characterised by an outstanding combination of legal precision, strategic understanding and industry knowledge. For us as an energy supplier, it is particularly valuable that the team has a thorough understanding of the regulatory framework and market mechanisms of the energy industry.‘
‘Our collaboration with CMS‘ partners and associates has been excellent throughout. The individuals involved combine legal excellence with a deep understanding of economic relationships in the energy sector.’
Kernmandanten
Austrian Airlines
Donau Busterminal Realisierungs GmbH
Signa Prime Selection AG
Wienwert AG
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s ‘responsive and highly competent’ commercial litigation practice leads on cartel cases and mass claims by consumer protection organisations, D&O cases and cross-border enforcements, as well as on a range of shareholder and liability disputes. The practice ‘s key members include practice heads Florian Kremslehner; Stephan Steinhofer, praised as a ‘witty, clever and excellent lawyer’ by one client; and the ‘super smart and attentive to detail’ Alexander Karl. Philipp Stadtegger and Robert Keimelmayr are also recommended members of the practice.
Praxisleiter:
Florian Kremslehner; Stephan Steinhofer; Alexander Karl
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Philipp Stadtegger; Robert Keimelmayr
Referenzen
‘Stephan Steinhofer stands out as a leading individual.’
‘Our company had a very positive experience working with DORDA. Their team is responsive, highly competent and demonstrates a deep understanding of complex legal issues. All documents were prepared with professionalism and precision.’
‘Philipp Stadtegger stands out for his strategic insight and his ability to navigate complex legal frameworks with clarity. Robert Keimelmayr is remarkably diligent and detail-oriented, with a proactive approach that adds real value to the process.’
Kernmandanten
NJSC Naftogaz of Ukraine
Chubb
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.
Meta Ingenium d.o.o.
T-Mobile Austria
Highlight-Mandate
- Defended T-Mobile Austria in two proceedings concerning alleged claims of several hundred million euros against the Austrian Chamber of Labour.
- Represented the Naftogaz Group in its global efforts to enforce its $5bn Crimea award against the Russian Federation in Austria.
- Provided legal representation to Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H. as it filed litigation proceedings against HSG Schattauer for damages caused after a fire in its school building in Salzburg.
SAXINGER Rechtsanwalts GmbH
SAXINGER Rechtsanwalts GmbH has experience in breach of contract and competition law disputes in the manufacturing and construction industries, litigating them up to the Austrian Supreme Court and the European Court of Justice, and the firm is instructed by international clients in Austrian courts in cross-border disputes. Team lead Markus P. Fellner is particularly notable in acting for Czech clients and on major construction projects, and the ‘pragmatic and solution-oriented’ Lukas Leitner brings expertise in corporate law to a range of major disputes. Ria Kucera handles a variety of commercial disputes.
Praxisleiter:
Markus P. Fellner
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Lukas Leitner; Ria Kucera
Referenzen
‘Our collaboration with Lukas Leitner stood out in a particularly positive way, not only because of the legal clarity and strategic foresight he brought to the table, but also because of the trust and confidence he instilled throughout the process. It was a truly exceptional experience working with him.’
‘Lukas Leitner impressed with his pragmatic, solution-oriented approach, while being unwavering precise and confident in all legal matters. He managed to break down complex legal concepts and explain them in a way that was both clear and actionable. The outcome of the matter was excellent – we couldn’t have asked for better guidance and representation.’
‚Excellent legal expertise in many areas of law. Long-term, consistently excellent support, including a strong network. Great importance is attached to professionalism, integrity and trust.‘
Kernmandanten
LSW GmbH
HLSW GmbH
Bilfinger Bohr- und Rohrtechnik GmbH
HABAU Hoch- und Tiefbaugesellschaft m.b.H.
Klenk & Meder GmbH
Raiffeisen Regionalbank Neusiedl Ost eGen
Two shareholders of ISCO Industrial Sourcing Competence GmbH
HDI Global SE
dm-drogerie markt Verwaltungsgesellschaft m.b.H.
KTM AG
Pierer Mobility AG
Shtang Construction & Engineering Ltd
Highlight-Mandate
- Acted for Bilfinger in claims arising from a major industrial accident.
- Represented Klenk & Meder in litigation following the breakdown of mediation proceedings.
- Acted for a member of the Raiffeisen banking group in a dispute and insolvency proceedings arising from a loan to a Viennese real estate developer.
Aigner Lehner Zuschin Rechtsanwälte
Aigner Lehner Zuschin Rechtsanwälte has been praised for its ‘vast litigating experience’ and represents a diverse client roster spanning real estate funds, collective groups of investors and borrowers and public sector bodies in commercial and banking disputes, as well as on cases relating to bankruptcies and embezzlements. The heads of the practice are the Lukas Aigner, ‘a strategic thinker with a sharp legal mind’ who leads on consumer protection and financial proceedings, and Johannes Lehner, who has experience in sports-related litigation.
Praxisleiter:
Lukas Aigner; Johannes Lehner
Referenzen
‚Aigner Lehner Zuschin has extensive experience in resolving disputes before ordinary courts as well as arbitral tribunals. Due to its vast litigating experience and strong academic background, the firm’s competence in developing efficient strategies to enforce or defend claims is especially noteworthy.’
‚Johannes Lehner is known for a strategic, hands-on approach, early case assessment, clear litigation roadmaps and meticulous execution from pleadings through trial and enforcement. Lukas Aigner has already shown, not only in the recent past, that he was able and willing to successfully take legal action against public and territorial entities such as the Republic of Austria.‘
‘Johannes Lehner and Lukas Aigner are the firm’s key litigation partners and play an active role in the strategic and procedural direction of major cases. Both are known for combining deep legal expertise with a clear-sighted understanding of the commercial realities their clients face.’
Kernmandanten
CA Immobilien Anlagen AG
A group of CPI Immobilien Group investors
VIE Wohnimmobilien Getreidemarkt 16 Entwicklung GmbH
A group of Wienwert investors
Federal State of Upper Austria, Styria and Tyrol
The Financial Directorate of the City of Linz/Light Rail Upper Austria
Linzer Athletik Sport Klub/LASK Arena GmbH & Co KG
Highlight-Mandate
- Asserted civil law claims on behalf of CA Immobilien Anlagen AG in connection with the possible partial influence of the best bidder process concerning the privatisation of BUWOG in 2004.
- Acted for a client seeking interest payments from Kathrien Bank, following a multi-million euro embezzlement by a senior employee.
Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG
Baker McKenzie Rechtsanwälte LLP & Co KG leads in cartel, insolvency, joint venture and franchising disputes, and the firm has represented global technology and banking clients in Austrian courts on a range of cases, often related to major arbitration proceedings. Filip Boras is particularly active on disputes for clients in CEE nations, while Alexander Petsche leads on construction and infrastructure disputes as well as on general compliance matters.
Praxisleiter:
Filip Boras
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Alexander Petsche
Kernmandanten
Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o.
STRABAG SE
MBI & Partners UK Ltd.
FCC Construcción S.A.
Schindler Aufzüge und Fahrtreppen GmbH
Unimarkt Handelsges.m.b.H. & Co KG
bpv Hügel
bpv Hügel acts on shareholder and contractual disputes in the construction, manufacturing and banking sectors. The firm has played a role in long-standing European cartel litigation, and competition disputes are an area of strength for the practice. The practice is headed by Florian Neumayr, praised for his ‘thorough work’, and Markus Schifferl, who both act on contractual, post-transactional and sanctions-related disputes. Florian Plattner is another leading name, and the disputes team works with corporate and capital markets lawyers to provide a full-service offering.
Praxisleiter:
Florian Neumayr; Markus Schifferl
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Florian Plattner
Referenzen
‘Besides expert legal expertise, the team listens to the client, takes the business of its client into consideration and comes with tailored solutions.’
‘Florian Neumayr is highly engaged, avoids „it depends advice“, but comes instead with practicable solutions. Excellent standing in the court room.’
‘Florian Neumayer and Markus Schifferl are strong leaders of a remarkable arbitration practice, also engaging in ADR and national litigation.’
Kernmandanten
TRATON SE
OTIS
STRABAG SE
REWE Group
Stellantis Europe SpA
Fronius
Verbund
Valneva
Kostmann
BRANDL TALOS Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH
Multi-jurisdictional mass litigation and EU law matters are core pillars of BRANDL TALOS Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH's commercial litigation group, and the firm acts for a client roster including major Austrian and European banking, insurance, gambling and technology areas. The practice also works in the construction and engineering sectors and the firm’s lawyers have backgrounds in banking and capital markets law. Patrick Mittlböck and Christian Lenz co-lead the practice group, respectively leading in the entertainment and financial sectors, and Nina Sterzl and Nicholas Aquilina are also recommended.
Praxisleiter:
Patrick Mittlböck; Christian Lenz
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Nina Sterzl; Nicholas Aquilina
Referenzen
‚The best legal firm in Vienna.‘
‘Nina Sterzl is truly the best: she knows what she is doing and she is very empathic.’
‘Brandl Talos stands out for its deep sector expertise, which enables the team to deliver advice that is both legally precise and commercially practical. The team is young, dynamic and highly flexible, known for its pragmatic solutions and out-of-the-box thinking when addressing complex issues.’
DSC Doralt Seist Csoklich Rechtsanwälte GmbH
DSC Doralt Seist Csoklich Rechtsanwälte GmbH has acted on a broad range of cases across a range of courts and jurisdictions. The practice has recently acted in mass claims and liability disputes for service providers, and banking litigation is another core strength of the practice, with the firm leading on cases before the Supreme Court. Peter Csoklich is particularly experienced in foundation and corporate law-related litigation, Markus Kellner and Clemens Klotzinger lead on banking cases and Christoph Leitgeb is active in the gambling sector.
Praxisleiter:
Peter Csoklich; Markus Kellner
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Clemens Klotzinger; Christoph Leitgeb
Referenzen
‚For difficult commercial disputes, above all in banking matters, this practice is the one we trust. They handle complex, high-value cases across different legal areas with strong coordination inside the team. What we like most is the mix of deep legal know-how and clear strategy that always reflects our business goals.‘
‘Markus Kellner leads the team and is a key figure in Austrian banking litigation. He has excellent timing and a very clear view on complex cases, which he always communicates effectively and with exactly the right amount of detail.’
‘What sets this practice apart from its competitors is its ability to manage complex, high-stakes commercial disputes across various legal fields, especially banking law. We highly appreciate their deep legal expertise, strategic insight and seamless collaboration within the team.’
Kernmandanten
Evoke Group
ACCOR Austria Invest GmbH
BAWAG P.S.K. Bank für Arbeit und Wirtschaft und Österreichische Postsparkasse Aktiengesellschaft
CA Immobilien Anlagen AG
DHL
Interwetten Gaming Limited
ERSTE Bank der oesterreichischen Sparkasse AG
Logwin AG
Lutz Assekuranz Versicherungsvermittlung GesmbH
Post + Co (P & I) BV.
UniCredit Bank Austria AG
Zürich Versicherung AG
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented online gambling providers including Mr Green Limited, William Hill Global PLC, 888 Holdings Group and Virtual Digital Services Limited, all subsidiaries of Evoke Group, as well as Interwetten Gaming Limited, in more than 5,000 cases relating to the reimbursement of incurred losses.
- Represented numerous Austrian banks in litigation over credit and loan processing fees and other surcharges.
- Represented UniCredit Bank Austria AG in disputes with bondholders of the Alpine Group.
E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH
E+H Rechtsanwälte GmbH has a ‘very hard-working and experienced’ commercial dispute resolution practice and works within the firm’s other practices to provide a full-service offering. Real estate and construction are the industry sectors in which the firm is busiest, and intellectual property and employment cases also feature in the practice’s workload. The group has also played a role in pan-European competition and cartel cases in the automotive sector. Jana Eichmeyer heads the firm’s contentious offering, and other key contacts for commercial litigation include Mario Spányi and Irina Gfoellner.
Praxisleiter:
Jana Eichmeyer
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Spányi; Irina Gfoellner; Karolin Hoffmann; Peter Winkler
Referenzen
‘The team is able to explain even complex Austrian law considerations to UK clients.’
‘Karolin Hoffmann has a great attitude and inspires client confidence.’
‘Very thorough work, very responsive, well connected to the legal community in Vienna.’
Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners
Fellner Wratzfeld & Partners is noted for acting in commercial disputes for clients in the public transportation, insurance, retail and public sectors on domestic and cross-border litigation proceedings. The practice has led on matters before the Austrian Supreme Court and the ECJ, and areas of expertise include employment, insolvency and competition law. The group fields a team praised for its ‘genuine depth’, led by founding partner Markus Fellner, who focuses on corporate and banking disputes, while Markus Kajaba leads on retail, real estate and construction cases. Thomas Baumgartner, formerly of Haslinger / Nagele Rechtsanwälte GmbH, and Stefan Sallat joined the firm in May and June 2025 respectively.
Praxisleiter:
Markus Fellner
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Markus Kajaba; Thomas Baumgartner; Stefan Sallat
Referenzen
‘Markus Kajaba can be seen as the best civil law lawyer within the public law lawyers and the best public law lawyer within the civil law lawyers. So he is one of the very few lawyers who is a real expert within civil law as well as within public law, a real unique mixture!’
‘fwp fields a team with genuine depth. There is always a senior figure involved when needed, and their associates are highly capable and well-briefed. Their cross-functional collaboration enhances their ability to handle issues with regulatory, corporate, or public law elements.’
‘Their client service is top-tier. We never feel like we are waiting for a response, queries are handled quickly and documents and drafts are delivered promptly. They are thorough yet efficient in their communications.’
Vavrovsky Heine Marth Rechtsanwälte
Vavrovsky Heine Marth Rechtsanwälte‘s team acts on commercial disputes, damages claims, and construction litigation in the infrastructure and transportation sectors and is further instructed by private clients, CEOs, foundations and litigation funders on a range of contentious matters. With ‘excellent specialist knowledge and international experience’, founding partner Nikolaus Vavrovsky represents corporate clients and directors in litigation, and Dieter Heine leads on banking, commercial and estate disputes.
Praxisleiter:
Nikolaus Vavrovsky; Dieter Heine
Referenzen
‘I’ve worked closely with this firm for years and what makes them unique is their combination of deep corporate and dispute resolution expertise, with a truly client-first approach. Partners are hands-on at every stage, delivering clear, practical advice. Unlike larger firms bogged down by bureaucracy, they maintain a flat structure that encourages fast and highly efficient collaboration.’
‘Nikolaus Vavrovsky attracts interesting mandates and seems to be very active in the field of dispute resolution.’
‘The team is very young and dynamic. Dieter Heine is a very well-known and versed litigator and his work with the attorneys and associates is very efficient. As clients we always feel high availability and we can see solution-oriented procedures. Not only that, the team at VHM is great at dispute resolution, but also in conflict-preventing measures.’
Kernmandanten
WH Fernbus-Terminal Projektentwicklung GmbH
Siemens AG Österreich
Taxi 40100 Taxifunkzentrale GmbH
Dr. Marcus Mühlberger, CEO of SIGNA Holding GmbH
Toto Wolff
TKB Privatstiftung
Lit.fin
Bodner Group
Gebrüder Krings Bergbahnen GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented Toto Wolff in handling a case of threats and blackmail.
- Acted for WH Fernbus-Terminal Projektentwicklung GmbH in a dispute between DBR and the City of Vienna before the commercial court in Vienna, which settled via mediation.
Brauneis Rechtsanwälte
Brauneis Rechtsanwälte has been called ‘not only legally astute but also deeply engaged and solution-oriented’ for commercial litigation capabilities. The firm is retained to defend claims and act in insurance litigation, and recent instructions have also concerned collective actions, trade mark disputes; the practice also places a focus on tax litigation. With 'exceptional dedication, availability, and insight', Gerald Otto leads the group’s efforts.
Praxisleiter:
Gerald Otto
Referenzen
‘What makes this team unique is their ability to combine profound expertise in commercial disputes with a clear focus on pragmatic, solution-oriented advice. They do not just provide legal analysis, they anticipate the commercial implications and guide us toward practical outcomes that work in real life.’
‘We would like to particularly highlight Gerald Otto. What makes him truly exceptional is his instinct in negotiations, knowing exactly when to press firmly and when to adopt a more flexible approach. This balance has proven invaluable in achieving results that protect our interests while still keeping the door open for constructive solutions.’
‚Clients can expect a team that is not only legally astute but also deeply engaged and solution-oriented. Their strengths lie in their ability to provide practical, business-minded advice.‘
Kernmandanten
Wiener Linien
SPI Group
Canal+
Frankstahl
Union Investment
Vienna Economic Chamber
Lohmann & Rauscher
Bühler Group
Deloitte
TGI AG
DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH
DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s Austrian commercial litigation group co-operates with the firm’s global capabilities to advise on cross-jurisdictional mandates, and the practice is notably strong in the betting, gambling, and gaming sectors on both licensing disputes and mass claims. The team also leads on financial, insurance, and real estate litigation. Claudine Vartian has experience in group litigation and competition law, while Andreas Daxberger leads on insurance, commercial and construction disputes.
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Claudine Vartian; Andreas Daxberger; Nicole Daniel; Veronika Appl
Referenzen
‘The team has a broad range of expertise and seems to be internally aligned, allowing for a smooth process on a wide range of issues. Offices across other countries and a collaborative spirit within the firm facilitate support in multiple jurisdictions, as well as on international matters.’
‘Andreas Daxberger is a thoughtful, responsive and very competent attorney who undertakes to thoroughly understand the client’s overall needs and objectives and to provide constructive and balanced advice. He exemplifies great professional and personal character.’
‘The individuals I have worked with stand out for their accessibility, strategic thinking, and client care. Unlike some competitors who can appear distant or overly academic, the lawyers at DLA balance intellectual rigor with practical guidance.’
Kernmandanten
UniCredit Bank Austria AG
JBS S.A.
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented an Austrian foundation in several litigation and arbitration proceedings, with accumulated amount in dispute of close to €1bn.
- Represented a telecoms company in proceedings against a national organisation, as well as in a mass litigation comprising thousands of claims.
- Advised an international entertainment, betting and gaming company on breaches of licensing requirements and resulting legal issues brought to court by consumers and litigation funders.
Frotz Riedl Rechtsanwälte
Frotz Riedl Rechtsanwälte acts in shareholder disputes and compensation litigation, and is retained by boards of directors and private foundations on an array of cases. Post-transactional and estate disputes are other key areas of focus. Practice head Clemens Spitznagel specialises in disputes in the context of insolvencies and liquidations, and Stephan Frotz maintains a general commercial litigation practice.
Praxisleiter:
Clemens Spitznagel
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Stephan Frotz; Paul Schörghofer; Florian Wünscher
Referenzen
‘Boutique law firm, combining both local and international expertise. Ideal combination of expertise in dispute resolution and corporate law.’
‘Stephan Frotz, Clemens Spitznagel and Florian Wünscher formed a very proficient, efficient and solution-focused team. It was a pleasure working with them.’
‘The team provides exceptional advice and has outstanding knowledge in corporate law. The team is always available and helps with business-oriented solutions in an efficient manner.’
Kernmandanten
KRONE Verlag GmbH & Co KG
Klagenfurt Airport
Former managing director of ALPINE Bau GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented KRONE Verlag in numerous matters, including cross-border shareholder litigation.
- Represented Kärntner Flughafen Betriebsgesellschaft in multiple parallel proceedings as part of a dispute with former shareholders regarding the ownership structure of Klagenfurt Airport.
- Represented the former managing director of ALPINE Bau in a €72m cross-border compensation claim initiated by the liquidator of ALPINE Bau.
GRAF ISOLA
GRAF ISOLA is noted for its ‘pragmatic advice and tenacity in litigation’ and acts in professional liability and insolvency cases, as well as in joint venture and shareholder disputes. The firm has appeared before the Austrian Supreme Court, and is also able to act for public sector clients in complex disputes. ‘An outstanding litigator’, Sebastian Mahr has a wide practice and specialises in insurance and liability disputes, while Ferdinand Graf brings experience in commercial law. David Seidl and Claudia Csáky are also recommended.
Praxisleiter:
Sebastian Mahr
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Ferdinand Graf; David Seidl; Claudia Csáky
Referenzen
‘What distinguishes them most is their capacity to deliver more than just legal counsel, taking into account the wider economic landscape. For commercial litigation in Austria, the firm unquestionably ranks among the top choices.’
‘Sebastian Mahr and his team are committed to excellent client service and are highly responsive, especially in time-critical matters. We value Sebastian and his team as reliable partners for our cases in Austria, whom we are happy to recommend to our clients or involve in our cross-border projects.’
‘Sebastian Mahr is exceptional. He is responsive and provides very clear and effective strategic advice. One of the leading practitioners in Vienna.’
Kernmandanten
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.
KTM Fahrrad GmbH
R+V Versicherung AG
Sozialbau Gemeinnützige Wohnungsaktiengesellschaft
IVECO Österreich GmbH
Töpfl Privatstiftung
Star Agro
Jewish Community of Vienna
Christof Industries Austria
Borckenstein
Highlight-Mandate
- Appeared for KTM Fahrrad GmbH in a multi-million euro IP and corporate dispute.
- Represented Austrian Erdöl-Lagergesellschaft mbH in a case against the Republic of Austria before the Austrian Constitutional Court.
- Handled dissolution claims stemming from a joint venture for the construction of a shopping centre, representing a private foundation invested in the venture.
Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH
Herbst Kinsky Rechtsanwalte GmbH‘s commercial litigation practice has acted for prominent clients in the public, financial and retail sectors on damages, trade mark and competition disputes, and the firm also acts for clients in the process of insolvency and restructuring measures. The group is helmed by the 'prompt and professional' Stephan Lenzhofer, who has experience in class action and insurance disputes, while Christoph Herbst defends corporations and directors in civil proceedings.
Praxisleiter:
Stephan Lenzhofer
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Christoph Herbst
Referenzen
‘I keep collaborating with colleagues at Herbst Kinsky on a regular basis in matters concerning international dispute resolution. One of the few practices in Austria that act as advisors in alternative dispute resolution in the narrow sense and with success!’
‘Stephan Lenzhofer has proven his legal skills many times over. He is focused, determined and legally on spot. He has a background in public law from which he benefits greatly. Definitely one to watch in the Austrian legal landscape!’
They manage to dive into the case strongly and develop a good understanding of the case and its non-legal background.’
Kernmandanten
ORF-Beitrags Service GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented ORF-Beitrags Service GmbH in numerous court proceedings, including eighteen pending complaints before the Constitutional Court, in connection with the transition of Austria’s public broadcasting financing system from a device-based to a household-based levy.
- Represented an online retailer in two legal proceedings brought by an Austrian consumer protection organisation alleging non-compliance with the Digital Services Act.
- Represented three former members of the supervisory board of a nationalised bank in proceedings regarding an alleged breach of the duty of care.
JWO | Deloitte Legal
JWO | Deloitte Legal‘s dispute resolution team is praised for ‘exceptional commitment and high level of expertise’. Capable of leading on highly technical and multi-jurisdictional disputes in energy and infrastructure, Bojana Vareskic heads the practice group. Joining Vareskic in May 2025, the practice gained the talents of the ‘extremely reliable’ Julia Schuster, formerly of Minihold Rechtsanwälte GmbH, who has dual US and Austrian qualifications and has advised on financial and insolvency-related disputes.
Praxisleiter:
Bojana Vareskic
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Julia Schuster
Referenzen
‘Deloitte Legal is a very approachable law firm, with a team that works in a cohesive and coordinated way. They are highly responsive, always ready to provide timely guidance and support.’
‘I would especially like to highlight Julia Schuster. Her expertise in domestic litigation is truly unparalleled, and she consistently demonstrates discipline and proactivity in her advice. Working with her is a guarantee of receiving insightful and practical guidance throughout complex cases.’
‘Bojana Vareskic is the most impressive litigator I have worked with in Austria. Bojana is exceptional: proactive, precise and always fully committed. She combines sharp legal skills with excellent strategic judgment and she is always one step ahead of the opposition. What I value most is her ability to translate complex disputes into clear, actionable strategies. She delivers absolute excellence in every case.’
Kernmandanten
SIGNA Holding GmbH
LDB Lienzer Dolomiten Beteiligungsgesellschaft
Kronos Liegenschaftsverwaltungs- und Beteiligungs GmbH
SPIEGEL-Verlag Rudolf Augstein GmbH & Co. KG & Süddeutsche Zeitung GmbH
Austrian Anadi Bank AG
Scharpenack GmbH
Liechtensteinische Landesbank (Österreich) AG
Innsbrucker Kommunalbetriebe Aktiengesellschaft
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented Kronos Liegenschaftsverwaltungs- und Beteiligungs GmbH in proceedings against its former shareholders.
- Acted for shareholders of LDB Lienzer Dolomiten Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH in a dispute against its co-shareholder.
KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH
Noted for for its ‘top-level expertise’ in construction and real estate disputes, KWR Karasek Wietrzyk Rechtsanwälte GmbH integrates focus in competition law and commercial disputes for multinational construction corporations and real estate developers. Practice head Thomas Frad leads on insurance and liability cases across a range of sectors, while Clemens Berlakovits focuses his practice on construction cases.
Praxisleiter:
Thomas Frad
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Clemens Berlakovits
Referenzen
‘We love the brilliant combination of top-level expertise and a collaborative, solution-oriented and pragmatic approach.’
‘They immediately grasp the issue and understand what we as clients require.’
‘KWR are a hands-on, top-qualified law firm for construction and real estate. They have quick response times, are highly reliable and deliver results!’
Kernmandanten
Land Niederösterreich
Chamber of Notaries
ARGE GP Parlament
Heidenbauer
Implenia AG/Implenia Bau GmbH
ATP Innsbruck GmbH
PSC Errichtungsgesellschaft m.b.H.
AY-KA Bau
Schrack Technik GmbH
Handler
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented one of the main victims of the largest cartel ever uncovered in Austria in the assertion of claims for damages against the cartel participants.
- Represented the Chamber of Notaries in unfair competition proceedings against a brokerage platform for notaries.
- Asserted claims against the construction company in the Parkring 14-16 project before the Commercial Court.
petsche pollak attorneys at law
Boutique dispute resolution firm petsche pollak attorneys at law is praised as ‘highly experienced’ and represents both private foundations and corporate clients on disputes stemming from general business activity, as well as those following transactions and insolvencies. The firm also integrates experience in white-collar crime when necessary. Simone Petsche-Demmel and Andreas Pollak co-lead the practice and have a broad base of experience in construction and damages claims, and white-collar matters, respectively.
Praxisleiter:
Simone Petsche-Demmel; Andreas Pollak
Referenzen
‘The team is exceptionally competent and highly experienced. They will navigate you through every courtroom. With this team by your side, you will not experience any unpleasant surprises and will have every situation firmly under control.’
‘Simone Petsche-Demmel is very sharp-minded. She knows how to quickly analyse highly complex issues and develop a strategy that fits your needs and can be implemented with simple steps. As a client, you feel safe with her and well-supported through whatever crisis. I simply do rely on her advice.’
‘One of the greatest dispute boutiques in Austria. Great knowledge, super smart and outstanding in their case handling.’
Kernmandanten
OCTAPHARMA Group
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented the founder and chairman of an international hotel group in an investment dispute.
- Representied a Liechtestein private trust in a lawsuit stemming from the cancellation of investment agreements against the insolvency administrator following the collapse of the SIGNA Group.
- Represented an international medical devices manufacturer in product liability cases.
PHH Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH
PHH Rechtsanwält:innen GmbH is notably active in copyright infringement and other intellectual property disputes, post-insolvency cases, compensation and repayment claims as well as asset recoveries, and the practice has also led for international corporations on employment cases. Martina Stranzinger-Maier focuses on both litigation and ADR mechanisms in a wide array of complex commercial and jurisdictional proceedings, and Alexandra Tassul assists on both international and domestic cases.
Praxisleiter:
Martina Stranzinger-Maier
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Alexandra Tassul
Referenzen
‘The civil law and dispute resolution team at PHH stands out for their ability to combine deep legal expertise with a strong understanding of practical business needs. They excel in navigating complex, cross-border issues, aligning with multiple jurisdictions and managing intricate regulatory frameworks.’
‘Martina Stranzinger-Maier is a stand-out for her client-focused approach. She invests time to understand our specific business challenges, not just the legal context. This makes her advice highly relevant, practical and strategically aligned with our objectives.’
‘Alexandra Tassul impresses with her ability to think across multiple areas of law and connect the dots between different legal disciplines. Her work reflects the qualities of an exceptional next generation of lawyers – diligent, insightful and committed to delivering excellence.’
Kernmandanten
Blachere Illumination
EURAM Bank Creditors
SIBUR International GmbH
Wohnungseigentumsgemeinschaft Gallitzinstraße
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented Blachere Illumination in a dispute arising from the almost identical copying of its chandelier‑style Christmas lighting installation on Vienna’s Graben.
- Appeared for an Austrian ice cream producer in a €1.6m compensation claim for pandemic-related losses, challenging the denial of state aid on the grounds that the revenue drop was weather-related rather than caused by COVID-19.
- Acted for a precious metals trading house and producer in a cross-border gold trading dispute involving approximately 13 kilograms of gold, with proceedings initially dismissed in Austria due to a contested jurisdiction clause and now being refiled in Germany under Austrian substantive law.
Pitkowitz & Partners
Pitkowitz & Partners‘ ‘highly competent and very responsive’ commercial litigation team represents a client base spanning HNWIs and private foundations, international manufacturers and investment groups on purchase and contractual disputes, as well as cross-border judgement and award enforcements. Nikolaus Pitkowitz has a broad dispute resolution practice and heads up the group alongside Peter Machherndl, who leads on investment and corporate disputes. Maximilian Albert Müller assists on a range of cases.
Praxisleiter:
Nikolaus Pitkowitz; Peter Machherndl
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Maximilian Albert Müller
Referenzen
‘The team does a great job. All the preparation is extremely professional, detailed and accurate. That gives confidence for all the upcoming steps. All the processes were very transparent and easy to understand.’
‘The detailed preparation and common discussion on all possible aspects gives a lot of confidence and makes you feel more comfortable about further processes.’
‘Highly competent and very responsive legal advisory with clear statements. Proactive and creative approach to managing and solving legal issues. Responsiveness and availability, also at partner level.’
Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH
Synthesizing experience in related practice areas spanning banking and finance, compliance and investigations, and insurance, Taylor Wessing enwc Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s commercial litigation practice acts for clients including retail groups, investment funds and financial services institutions. The firm's workload spans contractual disputes, bankruptcy cases and litigation management. Philipp Zumbo is experienced across a range of practice areas and has experience in handling pan-CEE proceedings, and Ivo Deskovic has acted in prominent financial disputes.
Praxisleiter:
Philipp Zumbo
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Ivo Deskovic
Referenzen
‘TW’s team we work with provides a very high quality of legal advice and representation. We benefit from rapid response times and a high level of expertise in solving even short-term problems.’
‘We work with Philipp Zumbo, who is a great corporate lawyer and a valuable litigator.’
‘Ivo Deskovic stays calm and determined even in the most hectic situations.’
Kernmandanten
Nationale Anti-Doping Agentur Austria GmbH
Former members of the supervisory board of Kommunalkredit Bank AG
TER Chemicals Distribution Group
Tekpoint GmbH
Highlight-Mandate
- Represented former supervisory board members of Kommunalkredit Bank in a liability case linked to the 2008 financial crisis.
- Represented TER Chemicals Distribution Group in a series of legal disputes against the minority shareholder of its Austrian subsidiary, involving five separate court proceedings.
- Represented Tekpoint GmbH in court proceedings against Austro Mechana concerning seven-figure copyright levy refund claims.
VÖLKL Rechtsanwälte GmbH
VÖLKL Rechtsanwälte GmbH‘s commercial litigation practice focuses on insurance, negligence, liability and coverage disputes, acting for insurers, directors and officers and shareholders in disputes and insolvency-linked proceedings. Banking and finance litigation is another area of focus for the firm. Clemens Völkl and Philipp Frenzl lead the group and bring strengths in insolvency and construction disputes respectively.
Praxisleiter:
Clemens Völkl; Philipp Frenzl
Referenzen
‘Excellent client relationship management, responsiveness and accessibility. Excellent value for money.’
‘Excellent understanding of our business and commercial awareness. Excellent legal knowledge and ability in combination with innovative solutions.’
‚Strategic thinking, highly responsive and excellent knowledge.‘
Kernmandanten
Oberbank AG
SIGNA Development Selection AG
WSK Bank AG
Dornbirner Sparkasse Bank AG
Marchfelder Bank eG
Dolomitenbank Osttirol-Westkärnten eG
Kommunalkredit Austria AG
Republic of Austria
Austrian Chamber of Auditors and Tax Consultants
kyddo GmbH
Schiebel Antriebstechnik GmbH/Schiebel Actuators Inc.
Bank Winter AG
Huber Holding AG
Austrian National Soccer League
Neue Heimat Gemeinnützige Wohnungs- und SiedlungsgesmbH
GEWOG Gemeinnützige Wohnungs- und Siedlungs gesmbH
K&N Value Invest Corp
Prosoba GmbH
Limi Management GmbH
RSI Immobilien-Invest GmbH
11 Entertainment Holding a.s.
SV Gartensiedlung Badeteich Bisamberg
ATG Feuchtigkeits-Abdichtung GmbH
ATG Altbau-Trockenlegung GmbH
Kommunalkredit Public Consulting GmbH
Delfort Group AG
Generali Versicherung AG
Novomatic AG
Volksbank Vorarlberg
SIGNA Development Selection AG
Latham Watkins
Generali Versicherung AG