Baker McKenzie Austria combines its long established reputation in Vienna with global legal resources part of its international network.

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm serves clients across multiple sectors, from banking and finance, employment law, IP, capital markets, M&A and real estate. The firm is well recognised for handling complex domestic and cross border legal matters. 

Barnert Egermann Illigasch is a full service Austrian law firm headquartered in Vienna. The firm employs 20 professionals and 7 partners. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm focuses on practice areas including M&A, banking & finance. 

 

Binder Grösswang is a leading commercial firm, with lawyers working across its Vienna and Innsbruck offices. Although the firm is exclusively based in Austria, it often leads on cross-border deals. The firm has a strong focus and reputation in banking, capital markets, M&A and restructuring.

 

Highlights


In banking and finance, Binder Grösswang advised Lenzing AG on a EUR 545 million syndicated financing comprising a EUR 355 million term loan and a EUR 190 million revolving credit facility. The team supported the structuring and implementation of the transaction and negotiated the full suite of financing documentation, enabling Lenzing to secure substantial funding through a syndicate of lenders.


Binder Grösswang advised VERBUND AG on its EUR 5 billion EMTN Programme, including the issuance of EU Green Bonds. The mandate supports VERBUND’s long term financing strategy by providing scalable, sustainability linked funding for renewable energy expansion, grid infrastructure and decarbonisation projects. The team advised on the establishment and ongoing operation of the programme, helping Austria’s leading electricity company access capital markets to fund its 2030 growth strategy and energy transition objectives.

Key clients


European Investment Bank, Erste Bank der österreichischen Sparkassen, VERBUND, Austrian Anadi Bank, Zürcher Kantonalbank, Rosenbauer, Lenzing, Steyr Motors, Mayr Melnhof,  Pritzker Private Capital, Steyr Motors AG, Mutares SE & Co. KGaA, Lenzing AG, ÖBB Infrastruktur AG, Zürcher Kantonalbank

Testimonials


"They combine expertise and pragmatic, actionable solutions." - M&A


"The corporate team at Binder, led by Dr. Andreas Hable, is outstanding in terms of client service, expertise and collegiality, always meeting tight timelines and going beyond to meet client expectations. The same applies to their restructuring practice, notably to Georg Wabl, whose deep knowledge and expertise as well as practical approach to matters are impressive." - M&A

"Availability and quick understanding of the matter at stake, well connected and capable of quickly obtain relevant information of the context." - Insolvency

"Very prompt handling of enquiries and issues." - Banking and finance

"We were very satisfied with the quality of their work. The team demonstrated strong expertise in Austrian project finance and renewables, combined with a pragmatic and solutions-oriented approach. Stefan Tiefenthaler, in particular, was outstanding—highly responsive, commercially aware, and able to navigate complex issues efficiently. Their ability to balance legal rigor with deal execution and timelines made them stand out." - Project finance

"Stephan combines outstanding banking regulatory expertise with pragmatic, actionable solutions. He is responsive, forward looking, and understands our commercial realities as well as the expectations of regulators. A reliable sparring partner on complex regulatory projects." - Stephan Heckenthaler

"He is an impressive team leader and very knowledgeable; also his collegiality needs to be emphasized. Andreas always sticks to timelines and provides a very high quality of work to clients." - Andreas Hable

"Experienced lawyer capable of providing practical advice in urgent situation." - Gottfried Gassner

"Extensive knowledge and professional experience in bank financing." - Stefan Tiefenthaler

"He is very accessible and provides clear, timely feedback, particularly critical during intensive phases of the deal." - Stefan Tiefenthaler

"Dealing with critical situations in the process and comprehensive handling." - Mona Graf

Part of a cooperation between four independent law firms in Central and Eastern Europe, bpv Hügel is an Austrian firm based in Vienna. The firm was established in 1979 and currently employs more than 100 staff and around 50 lawyers.

 

Focusses / specialisms

The firm has a presence in capital markets, especially equity, where it routinely advises on both equity and equity-linked products, as well as innovative finance and acquisition structures with shares.

The firm often works on transactions with multi-jurisdictional elements and acts on capital markets compliance matters for issuers and investors alike.

M&A has also traditionally been a source of strength for the firm.

 

 

Founded in 2000, Brandl Talos is headquartered in Vienna. The firm has 74 lawyers and professionals advising both domestic and international clients. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm has deep expertise across areas including banking & finance, corporate and M&A, and capital markets. 

Founded in 1921, CERHA HEMPEL is among Austria’s largest and leading firms. Since the late twentieth century, the firm has been growing a network of offices in Eastern Europe that now encompasses branches in Belarus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania and the Slovak Republic.

The firm has a strong focus on all corporate and commercial matters with especial strength in capital markets regularly representing leading listed Austrian companies and issuers. 

 

Highlights 

Advised AT&S on a USD250 million sustainability linked loan from the International Finance Corporation, alongside a USD150 million facility from Maybank, to support the development of its semiconductor manufacturing facility in Malaysia. The financing is notable for its sustainability-linked structure and its role in supporting advanced semiconductor production for high-performance computing and AI applications.

Advised OMV on the establishment of Borouge Group International, a new global polyolefins group formed through the combination of Borealis and Borouge and the acquisition of NOVA Chemicals. Valued at over USD60 billion, the transaction is notable for creating one of the world’s largest polyolefins producers and involved complex cross-border structuring, corporate and regulatory considerations across multiple jurisdictions.


Key clients 

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, ERSTE Group Bank CYRRUS, RHI Magnesita, UniCredit Bank Austria AG, J.P. Morgan SE, voestalpine AG, VIG Vienna Insurance Group, MFS Investment Management FCP, Raiffeisenlandesbank Niederösterreich-Wien AG, Vienna Stock Exchange, OMV, ASFINAG, Vienna International Airport, SES Spar, Republic of Austria


Testimonials 


"The CERHA HEMPEL team is very competent, solution-oriented, quick to respond, and genuinely pleasant to work with." - Capital Markets: Debt

"CERHA HEMPEL stands out in particular due to its profound expertise across various subfields of finance and capital markets law, as well as its extensive practical experience. In addition, the legal support is highly diligent, delivered on time, and characterized by a very positive interpersonal atmosphere." - Capital Markets: Debt

"CERHA HEMPEL has a highly experienced and capable team of crypto lawyers, led by Dr. Oliver Völkel. CERHA HEMPEL provides business-oriented, pragmatic and legally sound solutions. Dr Völkel is Austria’s leading crypto lawyer; he has an excellent network within the industry and is highly experienced in dealing with the regulator." - Financial Service Regulatory

"Very accurate and quick advice, outstanding knowledge regarding case law, excellent drafting of pleadings and claims." - Insolvency

"Very knowledgeable in insolvency law and highly skilled litigators." - Insolvency

"They have a hands-on mentality and find practical solutions." - Insolvency

"CERHA HEMPEL provided outstanding legal advice and managed the whole arbitration process with a clear strategy, attention to detail and a very strond capacity to translate business reality into legal concepts and arguments." - M&A

"I was very pleased with CERHA HEMPEL’s support on a recent M&A project. The team combines strong transactional expertise with a highly pragmatic, solution‑oriented approach, providing clear, reliable advice throughout a complex cross‑border process. Their responsiveness, commercial mindset and ability to manage the details of the transaction while keeping the overall strategy in focus made them a trusted and effective partner." - M&A

"Highest competence and utmost responsiveness. The whole package stands out. We and CERHA formed a truly effective team." - M&A

"Thomas plays a central role in our client relationship with CERHA HEMPEL. I highly appreciate that he is almost always accessible. He always strives to find a practical yet minimally invasive solution to our legal questions. Thomas is one of the most profound and knowledgeable capital-markets lawyers I have ever worked with." - Thomas Zivny

"Volker has exceptionally broad experience in capital markets law. He always provides highly practical guidance and is usually able to persuade counterparties with his arguments. Moreover, he focuses on the essentials and avoids engaging in unnecessary disputes over minor issues." - Volker Glas

"Dr. Völkel delivers business-oriented, pragmatic and legally sound solutions. He is Austria’s leading crypto lawyer; he has an excellent network within the industry and is highly experienced in dealing with the regulator." - Oliver Völkel

"He is the true star at CERHA. He has more than 30 years experience in Corporate M&A, has worked more than 15 years for red-stars. Always on top of things, totally solution driven and business minded. He is my legal counterpart." - Albert Birkner

"Extremely qualified lawyer, always maintains both the legal and business perspectice, outstanding negotiator, has developed a great team working with and for him, very responsive, proactive and forward looking." - Celmens Hasenauer

"Thomas Trettnak brought a strong mix of transactional expertise and practical judgment, offering clear and dependable guidance throughout a complex cross‑border transaction. His responsiveness and commercial awareness, combined with his ability to keep both the details and the broader strategic picture in view, made him a highly trusted counterpart." - Thomas Trettnak

"One of the best lawyer in Austria in particular on corporate and transactional work; stands out among its peers; the lawyer to go to on complex matters." - Clemens Hasenauer

"Marcus Lusar delivered reliable and pragmatic support throughout the transaction. He was responsive, detail‑oriented, and maintained a good understanding of the underlying business considerations." - Marcus Lusar

CMS Austria is based in Vienna and was founded in 1970.The firm has over 75 lawyers.

CMS is an international full-service law firm with more than 5,000 lawyers and over 8,000 staff globally, working from 80 offices in 75 cities across 45 countries.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its work in banking and finance, debt and equity capital markets, M&A, project development, and restructuring and insolvency practices.

 

Established in 2003, DLA Piper Weiss-Tessbach, based in Vienna, is part of DLA Piper's international network with offices in over 40 countries. The firm has more than 60 lawyers with cross border legal expertise. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

As a full service law firm, the firm offers comprehensive legal expertise in practice areas including banking & finance, capital markets, and M&A. 

Doralt Seist & Csoklich is headquartered in Vienna and has established itself as a full service law firm for domestic and international clients. The firm compromises of 14 attorneys. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its focus in banking & finance, corporate/M&A, real estate and public procurement law. 

Founded in 1976, DORDA is a leading Austrian firm based in Vienna that is strong in financial and corporate transactional work. 


The firm is active and strong in all areas of work covered by Austria’s ranking categories and is among the leading advisers in the country for public M&A and equity capital markets work. It is also active in banking and finance, debt capital markets, structure finance and securitisation, project development, and restructuring and insolvency. 

 

Highlights  

In M&A, the firm advised Sprints on its partnership with Styria Media Group and the acquisition of Adevinta’s stake in willhaben, Austria’s leading online marketplace. The transaction is notable for involving one of Austria’s most prominent digital platforms and combines Sprints’ marketplace investment expertise with Styria’s strong position in the Austrian media and digital sector to support willhaben’s continued growth and development.


The firm also advised FRANKSTAHL Rohr- und Stahlhandelsgesellschaft and SC STEELCOIN on the EEA-wide offering and Stuttgart Stock Exchange listing of STEELCOIN ETP, an innovative steel-linked exchange traded product. The mandate involved the structuring and regulatory approval of a novel investment instrument, bringing a new commodity linked product to European capital markets.
 

Key clients  



Enery Power SLAVIC Portfolio, Netrisk Group, Strabag, Raiffeisen, Wienerberger


Testimonials 2025



“Professionalism, speed, know how, outside the box thinking.” – Private Equity  



“The teamwork and spirit, the availability for the long hours, willingness to deep dive into complicated matters.” – M&A 



“Very clear, very responsive and very pragmatic.” – M&A 



“The output comes across as very legal and not necessarily client adapted.” 



“Client Management, great know how, budgeting on point, outside the box thinking.”  -

Andreas Mayer 


“Patricia is very direct and clear in her communication. She has a deep understanding of the financial drivers and includes this in the drafting. She is great at project management and meeting deadlines and great fun to work with.”  -

Patricia Backhauser  

“Very clear, very responsive and very pragmatic. Great and very knowledgeable. Impressive attention to detail. A formidable negotiator.”  -

ChristianRitscka  

2024

“Professional attitude, clear statements, understandable recommendations. Think outside the box when analyzing problems; adherence to deadlines; Compliance with financial requirements.” – Professional service regulatory  


“We are extremely satisfied with the work of DORDA. They are exceptionally quick and supportive, consistently demonstrating a capacity to think on their feet and, when necessary, approach challenges with creativity and innovation. Their deep knowledge of the market and the life sciences industry is particularly impressive. Moreover, their ability to function as a one-stop-shop firm is a tremendous asset, as it ensures comprehensive coverage of various legal aspects of the transaction, including competition law, intellectual property, and life sciences law. This holistic approach has significantly streamlined our legal processes.” – M&A 


“Extensive expertise, working on both high / strategic level and also executional details.” – M&A  

 

Christian Richter-Schöller 

“Professional attitude, clear statements, understandable recommendations. Think outside the box when analysing problems; adherence to deadlines; Compliance with financial requirements.” – Financial service regulatory  

 

Martin Brodey  

“Excellent understanding of business needs. Outstanding accessibility and follow-up.” 

“Extremely solution oriented and at the same time focused on details” – M&A 

 

Ulrich Weinstech  

“Ulrich has been exceptional in every aspect. He is very quick in his responses and actions, which has been crucial in keeping the transaction on track. He takes the time to listen and truly understand our needs and concerns, which has made us feel very supported throughout the process. Additionally, his communication skills are outstanding, always clear, professional, and pleasant. His ability to effectively communicate complex legal concepts in an understandable manner has greatly facilitated our decision-making. Overall, we are extremely pleased with his performance and would highly recommend him.” – M&A  

E+H Rechtsanwälte is one of Austria's largest law firms with offices in Vienna, Graz, and Brussels. The firm has 26 partnbers and 70 lawyers. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm has extensive experitise across multiple legal sectors including banking & finance, capital markets, M&A, project development and restructuring. 

Pelzmann Gall Größ (EY Law Austria) is an independent law firm and part of the global EY Law network which has over 3,000 lawyers in over 80 countries. The firm has four offices in Austria. 

 

Highlights  


In M&A, the firm advised Flex Capital and OMS Group on the acquisition of DocuMatrix, an Austrian provider of customer communication management solutions with operations across Austria, Germany and Switzerland. The transaction supported OMS Group’s expansion strategy in the DACH region and involved coordinating cross-border legal work across multiple jurisdictions, including legal due diligence, transaction negotiations and regulatory considerations.


 The firm has strong financial service regulatory expertise handling a range of comprehensive licensing strategy, regulatory structuring and regulatory compliance for a range of clients in the payment services, crypto providers and bitcoin providers. For example, the firm advised Bybit EU group on a multi-licence regulatory project encompassing MiCAR, MiFID II and e-money authorisation processes in Austria.


Key clients  


Bybit Global Group, Bitpanda Group, Raiffeisen Bank International, KSB Company

 

Testimonials 2026


"The team of Katrin Speigner and Teresa Bell and their associates was a delight to work with: they were fast, competent, reliable, available (also on weekends when it got hectic), totally fluent in legal English." - M&A


"Excellent competence, extremely high responsiveness, great team with outstanding knowledge, fast and extremely solution-oriented." - Capital markets: Equity

"Very professional and helpful, pointed at blind dots and important details we missed." - Project finance

"Extremely competent, solution-oriented, 24/7 availability and high responsiveness, not only himself, but ensures also within his team." - Mario Gal

"Very professional and helpful." - Niklas Nigl

"Very competent, highly responsive, high knowledge, solution-oriented, great availability." - Isabella Ladstätter

Established in 1999, Fellner Wratzfeld & Partner is full-service Austrian law firm based in Vienna. The firm has an estimated 130 employees and 70 lawyers. The firm has a strong focus on a range of sectors in banking and finance, restructuring, M&A and projects.

 

Highlights


Fellner Wratzfeld & Partner advised MTIB on a major international financial restructuring, including the landmark StaRUG restructuring of listed German battery manufacturer VARTA AG. The mandate involved restructuring complex group financing arrangements, coordinating multi-jurisdictional security packages and supporting Porsche AG’s strategic investment, through which Porsche acquired a 70% stake in V4Drive. The transaction required the alignment of multiple creditor groups, cross-border restructuring measures and significant financing workstreams, making it one of the most notable restructuring mandates in the region.


During the research cycle, the firm also advised MT InvestCo, the investment vehicle of Dr. Michael Tojner, on its strategic investment in VARTA AG as part of a complex cross-border restructuring and refinancing. The mandate involved the restructuring of multiple financing facilities across Austria, Germany and Switzerland, alongside collateral and insolvency related considerations at group level. The transaction is notable for its implementation of a shareholder-led restructuring solution and its role in supporting the financial reorganisation of a leading European battery manufacturer.



Key clients

 

UniCredit Bank Austria AG, Numerous banks of the Raiffeisenbank sector, BAWAG P.S.K. Bank für Arbeit und, Wirtschaft und Österreichische Postsparkasse AG, Erste Bank der oesterreichischen Sparkassen, (City of Vienna), Land Niederösterreich (Province of Lower Austria), Oekostrom, ÖBB Infrastruktur

 

Testimonials



"Their expertise in all aspects of banking and finance, their responsiveness and ability to deliver clear, actionable advice under pressure and tailor-made solutions." - Banking and finance

"We have found that the consulting lawyers at this firm thoroughly familiarize themselves with the respective matters, have comprehensive knowledge of the subjects they advise on, and furthermore recognize and take into account other questions and issues related to the matter in their assessment." - Banking and finance

"They have exceptional service. They confirm immediately receipt of the question and they can get the work done even on very short notice whilst keeping up the quality standard." - Banking and finance

"High expertise and timely execution." - Financial restructuring

"Dr. Fellner always thinks out-of-the-box and often comes up with very quick and unconventional solutions thanks to his experience." - Insolvency

"Management skills and understanding of jurisdictional specifics in leading a cross-border M&A transaction." - M&A

"They provide us with a one stop shop advise." - M&A

"Assisting FWP in the acquisition by an Austrian company of an Italian company (M&A, corporate and labour matters)." - M&A

"Short term availability, well informed and very clear statements." - Project development

"Highly professional, tightly focused and very cognisant of the relevant people and discussions in the field. Also the main contacts stay in close communication and are readily available to assist in fluid situations." - Project development

"Precision, reliability, craftsmanship." - Project development

"He combines strong legal expertise with a practical, business-focused approach. He has experience also in cross-border matters and is able to manage complex transactions where legal, financial and commercial issues need to be reflected." - Florian Kranebitter

"He combines strong legal expertise with a practical, business-focused approach. He has experience also in cross-border matters and is able to manage complex transactions where legal, financial and commercial issues need to be reflected." - Florian Kranebitter

"Exceptionally talented and intelligent; he quickly grasps complex issues and can provide a reliable initial response almost immediately. Turnaround time is never an issue—even outside of regular business hours." - Florian Kranebitter

"Florian Kranebitter is a strong leader in complex cross-border M&A transactions. He combines in-depth legal expertise with a comprehensive understanding of the client’s business objectives and commercial priorities. His strategic thinking, responsiveness, and ability to manage multi-jurisdictional matters make him a highly trusted adviser." -
Florian Kranebitter

"Markus Fellner is the best bank restructuring lawyer in Vienna, very well connected and focused on what really matters." - Markus Fellner

"Michael Hecht is among the very small number of top-tier environmental and infrastructure specialists in the legislation. His legal knowledge, experience in the field and his professional instincts in highly complex procedures are second to none." - Michael Hecht

"He works for us as since 20+ years as our lead counsel and has advised in all our core assets and projects with an approach to get the job done swiftly, while achieving our goals." - Paul Luiki

"His assistance is always very careful and reactive." - Peter Blascke

Freshfields operates as a limited liability partnership and is headquartered in London. Its Austria based office, situated in Vienna, leverages the firm's global presence across 28 offices in 17 jurisidictions offering leading corporate law advice. The Vienna office is led by Farid Sigari - Majd as Office Managing Partner. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm's office specializes in M&A, banking and finance and corporate restructuring. 

Founded in 1994, Graf Isola is an Austrian law firm with offices in Vienna and Graz. The firm has 25 layers and six partners. It has a focus on restructuring and insolvency work and various matters in refinancing, restructuring and debt financing transactions.

 

Highlights

In restructuring and insolvency, the firm advises on leading insolvency cases in the region and is regulary appointed in out of court and in court restructurings for investors, debtors and creditors. 


The firm is continuing to advise SIGNA Prime and SIGNA Development, the central real estate companies of the SIGNA Group, regarding the liquidation of the group. SIGNA Prime is one of the largest insolvencies in Austrian history.
 

Key clients

LUKOIL International, Erdöl-Lagergesellschaft, Logwin Solutions Austria, Busch Austria Gesellschaf, SIGNA Prime Selection and SIGNA Development Selection


 

Testimonials


"Broad spectrum, straight forward, solution oriented." - Insolvency

"Great experience, expertise, always on point, even senior partners always available and involved." - M&A

"Broad expertise, precision, and a strong economic understanding of complex issues." - Restructuring

"Enormous flexibility, I could reach the responsible colleagues at every time, high professional service, very good and understandable explained." - Restructuring

"In-depth expertise and experience, always available, always friendly and helpful." - Ferdinand Graf

"I work closely with Stefan Weileder who is exceptionally precise and highly experienced. He quickly gained a thorough understanding of our complex corporate structure within a very short time. He is extremely intelligent, persistent, and consistently goes beyond the obvious—thinking outside the box and proactively offering well-considered, solution-oriented suggestions." - Stefan Weileder

Greenlake Legal is an independent law firm based in Vienna, Austria. The firm was founded in 2018 by partner Michael Raninger.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm focuses on finance transactions including financial restructurings. The firm is also active in banking and finance cross-border transactions. It regularly advises corporate and commercial banks and advises on debt funds and private equity funds.

 

Founded in Austria, Haslinger / Nagele focuses on business and corporate law. The firm maintains offices in Linz and Vienna, Austria. 

The firm is recognised for its legal advice across multiple practice areas including banking and finance, M&A and project development. 

Hauser Partners is an independent business firm established in 1987 and based in Vienna.

 

Focusses / specialisms

The firm is a corporate boutique experienced in joint-ventures and M&A. The firm is also active in M&A, capital markets and banking & finance. 

 

 

 

Held Berdnik Astner & Partner is a full-service law firm with offices in Graz, Vienna, Klagenfurt and Zurich.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm has a focus on M&A.

Founded in 2005, Herbst Kinsky is headquartered in Vienna. The firm has more than 30 lawyers with comprehsnive expertise in corporate law. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm expertise is in matters including Banking, capital markets, M&A and private equity. 

KPMG Austria is part of the global network of independent KPMG member firms affiliated with KPMG. KPMG Austria employs 2,050 staff members and with its headquarters located in Vienna and its seven other offices located in Linz, Graz, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt, Mödling, Salzburg and Bregenz. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its M&A practice area. The firm provides legal services for corporate law, compliance, data protection, and intellectural property law. 

LeitnerLaw Rechtsanwälte | Edthaler Leitner-Bommer Schmieder & Partner Rechtsanwälteis a dynamic law firm in Austria that specializes in business law, with locations in Linz, Vienna, Graz, Prague and an office in Ried. 

 

Focusses / specialisms     

The firm is strongest in the corporate space. The team is experienced in all types of M&A transactions, including acquisitions of private and public companies, domestic and cross-border mergers, demergers, conversions, contributions, accruals, minority investments as well as joint ventures and private equity transactions. 

 

 

Niederhuber & Partner was founded in 2006 in Vienna. The firm employs more than 60 professionals including five partners and operates offices in Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its project development work and specialises in environmental law, energy law, public commercial law and planning and infrastructure. 

 

PHH Rechtsanwälte is a commercial boutique firm based in Austria.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its work in the banking and finance practice. It is also active in project management, refinancing, restructuring and financing-related regulatory matters. Active sectors include aviation, fintech, healthcare, TMT, energy and infrastructure. 

Launched in 2016, Oehner & Partner is the Austrian arm of PwC’s legal network. PwC Legal is one of the largest legal networks, with more than 3,500 lawyers in 100 countries.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm has a strong M&A team and focuses on M&A and corporate matters. The firm is also active in banking and finance and debt capital markets.

 

Key clients 

Key clients of the firm include Seedblink Crowd, Institutional Investment Partners, Catella Residential Investment Management, LGIM Managers, Firstbird, Sennheiser Electronic, and Schachinger Logistik Holding.

Rautner is an independent commercial law-focused boutique based in Vienna.


Focuses / Specialisms

The firm focuses on banking and finance work. 


The firm provides advice across the full spectrum of financial services including syndicated lending, project/ real estate finance, restructuring, insolvency, financial services regulatory work.


Key clients

Key recent clients include Banco Santander, UniCredit, Erste Bank, WEB Windenergie and BNP Paribas


Testimonials


"What stands out about Rautner is their ability to combine very strong technical legal expertise with genuinely commercial and pragmatic advice. In complex cross-border financing and restructuring situations, the team consistently demonstrated a strong understanding not only of the legal issues, but also of the broader transactional, regulatory, and relationship dynamics involved.

The team was highly responsive, solution-oriented, and able to operate effectively under significant time pressure, which is critical in sophisticated banking and finance transactions. I particularly appreciated their ability to navigate complicated multi-stakeholder environments while remaining practical, business-focused, and constructive throughout negotiations.


In addition, Rautner distinguished itself through the quality and consistency of its team. The lawyers were exceptionally well prepared, detail-oriented, and commercially aware, while also being approachable and easy to work with. Their cross-border capabilities, strategic judgment, and ability to translate highly technical issues into clear and actionable advice made them a particularly valuable external counsel for demanding international matters."

"Uwe Rautner stands out particularly for his combination of strong technical expertise, commercial judgment, and highly pragmatic problem-solving skills. He has an excellent ability to navigate complex financing and restructuring situations while remaining focused on practical and workable transaction outcomes rather than purely theoretical legal positions." - Uwe Rautner

Schiefer Rechtsanwälte is headquartered in Vienna with additional offices in Salzbirg, Graz, Klagenfurt, St. Polten and Linz. The firm has a team of 50 legal experts with wide ranging expertise across multiple sectors. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its strong expertise in Austrian public procurement law offering guidance on compliance, public tender and procurement advice and contract management. 

Schindler Attorneys is an Austrian firm based in Vienna.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm has a focus on banking and finance, debt capital markets, private equity and M&A. It is also active in the real estate and corporate space and has experience advising on distressed M&A projects and on shareholder syndicates and joint ventures.

 

Schneeweiss Weixelbaum Rechtsanwälte is a full service law firm headquartered in Vienna. The firm focuses on advising both domestic and international clients on transactional and dispute resolution matters. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm's main areas of expertise include project development and is also active in M&A, banking & finance, restructuring and insolvency and employment law. 

Established in 1950, Schoenherr is a leading Austrian firm with a European network that includes offices in 15 jurisdictions. In Austria the firm is based in Vienna and has a smaller branch in Linz. The firm has a strong overall presence in all areas of corporate and commercial practices. The firm has a ranged focus across the board in banking and finance, capital markets, M&A, projects development and restructuring and insolvency.

 

Highlights


The firm is well regarded in the market as a tier 1 firm across all practice areas from Banking and finance, capital markets, M&A, Project Development and Restructuring. 

 

Founded in 1996, Schramm Öhler compromises of four partners and over 40 colleagues. 

Focuses / Specialism 

The firm specialises in public procurement law which focuses on assisting on contract management, compliance with legilsation and procurement litigation. 

Founded in 2004, Schwartz Huber-Medek & Partner operates as a boutique law firm with a strong focus on public commercial law. The firm employs 24 people including partners, associates and paralegals. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its project development practice area and it has a focus in enviornmental law, PPP, construction, and public procurement. 

Founded in 2015, Starlinger Mayer operates in Vienna. There are a total of 16 lawyers and 7 partners at the firm. The firm recently rebranded from Schima Mayer Starlinger to Starlinger Mayer in July 2025. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm is well known for project development. The firm is also focuses on corporate and M&A, banking & finance, employment law and competition law. 

TAIYO Legal is a boutique law firm with a unique focus on CEE and East Asia. The firm’s offices are located in Vienna and Tokyo.

 

Focusses / specialisms

The firm primary focus is on banking and finance work, most often with cross-border dimensions. The firm is often seen advising various domestic and foreign clients on regulatory issues in Austria.

 

Key clients

Recent key clients include Anglo Austrian AAB, Bank Gutmann Aktiengesellschaft, fair-finance Vorsorgekasse and Corum Asset Management.

 

Research period review: 33rd edition (2023/2024)

During the research period, the firm was active in restructuring.

In restructuring the firm worked on deals for shareholders and arrangers linked with the technology & telecommunications and financial services sectors.

 

Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2023/2024)

Anritsu restructuring

 

Client Feedback: 33rd edition (2023/2024)

Banking         

"They are knowledgeable, consistent and flexible in their approaches. We owe them much for their clarity and guidance during difficult times."

 

Restructuring

"They provided us with rich legal expertise for the achievement of our goal, understanding the Japanese employment culture and the way Japanese companies proceed in this type of mission."

 

Alexander Taiyo Scheuwimmer

"Dr Scheuwimmer's commitment to the cause is impeccable, and so is his competence."

"Significantly good understanding and knowledge of the Japanese company culture, and the efficiency in combining it with the Austrian legal environment."

Torggler is an Austrian firm based in Vienna. The firm offers legal advice for entrepreneurs and private clients.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm is active in the corporate M&A practice area including structuring of joint ventures, management buy-outs, and the acquisition of companies involved in insolvency proceedings. Covered sectors include healthcare, real estate, manufacturing and food & beverages.

 

Völkl is a boutique based in Vienna, with a focus on banking sector work. It is a member of IR Global, a UK based network that provides legal and financial advice.

 

Highlights

During the research cycle period, the firm advised on a number of matters ranging from project and real estate financing, to loans for both lenders and borrowers. The firm was also active in banking disputes in the financial services, public transport and real estate space.

 

 

The firm was established in 1979 and maintains its headquarters in Vienna. 

Focuses / Specialisms 

The firm is recognised in project development and specialises in aviation, transort railway infrastructure and various regulatory matters. 

Established and based in Vienna, Weber & Co is a local law capital markets specialist that frequently secures roles on prominent Austrian transactions of this type.

 

Focusses / specialisms

The firm is an outlier among those based in Vienna that advise on big ticket capital markets deals. In an area largely dominated by larger domestic and international full-service firms, the majority of which have regional networks, the firm has a small team with a narrow focus. 

The firm also advises on public M&A.

 

 

 

Wiedenbauer Mutz Winkler & Partner (WMWP) is a law firm specialising in business law. The firm is based in Vienna and has offices across Europe.

 

Focusses / specialisms 

The firm is recognised for its work in banking and finance practice. It also focuses on corporate and restructuring work and is active advising clients on transactions in Austria. The team advises investors and sellers.

 

Key clients 

Key clients of the firm include Volksbank Wien, MED-23, WIG Group, and Anadi Bank.

Established in 1957 in Vienna, Wolf Theiss is now one of Austria’s largest and leading firms with a network of offices across Central and Eastern Europe spanning 13 countries.

 

Highlights


In Banking and Finance, Wolf Theiss advised on the Austrian law aspects of GD Towers’ €7.7 billion refinancing, including the establishment of a new common terms financing platform and a €2.5 billion private placement. The mandate involved coordinating Austrian financing and security arrangements with a broader cross-border debt platform designed to support the group’s long-term growth and investment strategy.


The firm advised Bain Capital on its acquisition of Apleona Group from PAI Partners in a transaction valued at approximately EUR4 billion. The deal is notable for involving one of Europe’s leading real estate and facility management services providers, with operations across more than 30 countries, and represents a significant private equity transaction in the European services sector.


Key clients


UniCredit Bank Austria, Erste Group Bank,Raiffeisen Bank International, ams OSRAM, Borealis Raiffeisen Bank International, Deutsche Telekom; Magenta, Altor Equity Partners, Bain Capital , Österreichische Beteiligungs (ÖBAG), One Rock, Capital Partners, AustralianSuper, Vienna Insurance Group (VIG), City of Vienna – Vienna Hospital Association (Wiener Gesundheitsverbund), Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), The Government of Lower Austria, Vienna International Airport

 

Testimonials

2025


Capital Markets Debt 

“Responsiveness, price and knowledge.”  

“Very responsive and good advice, tight deadlines will be met.”  

Banking 



“Andreas Schmid is the preeminent project finance lawyer in Austria.  Very experienced, very solution-oriented. a pleasure to work with!”  

Insolvency 



“Prompt response, skills and effectiveness.” 



Andreas Schmind  

“He is very experienced and a very good lawyer.” 



Claudia Chiper  



“She is responsive, knows well both IFC and business. She is very dedicated lawyer and to the point.”  



Sebastian Prakljacic  


“Ability to work under high pressure, meets deadlines and manages also big transactions (good project management).”  


2024

Capital markets debt


“Very pragmatic, hands-on advice, great know-how" 

“Hands on, pragmatic, expertise of regulatory debt products structuring” 

"In relation to the latest capital markets work Austrian law was required. Wolf Theiss team consisted of both Romanian and Austrian lawyers. They worked seamlessly together and acted as a one stop shop which is exactly what we needed. The work delivered was excellent, on the point and on time. A great cocktail of qualities when running a bond issuance program." 


Project finance

“Close support throughout the entire process prior to closing and in all matters during the term of the financing. A central contact person is available to clarify all questions internally if necessary. Good accessibility.” 


M&A

"I like their expertise, professionality, good time management, reliability and commitment."

"Outstanding support cross diverse fields of law, excellent knowledge of the local legal environment (including key people), offering of tailor-made solutions and readiness to support within a restricted time-frame" 

 

Markus Aigner

“Very pleasant communication, good accessibility, feedback and consultation with his team and colleagues. We feel well advised professionally.” 

 

Claudia Chiper

"High level of responsiveness, innovative spirit and practical approach"

 

Zeno Grabmayr

"Well rounded lawyer, always available, deep M&A experience"
 

Christian Mikosch

"Without his personal involvement (team coordination, exact knowledge what to do in legal and practical terms) the deal would not be successfully concluded."
 

Ralf Peschek

"Pragmatic, solving-oriented advice, to the point"
 

Christine Siegl

"High level of experience and legal/industry expertise."

 

Valentina Wong

"Valentina is an experienced member of the litigation team of Wolf Theiss. We appreciate her professional expertise and experience, deep knowledge of the discussed topics, diligence and hands-on approach."

 

Robert David 

“Professionalism; competence; tries to accommodate.”

“Long-time career, good experience.”

 

Horst Ebhardt

“I have worked with Horst for many years in various contexts. He is unfailingly gracious and humble, but truly pre-eminent in the market.”           

“Our main contact person is Horst Ebhardt. Horst is an exceptional person with the highest level of professional expertise. Throughout the entire period of our cooperation (lasting more than 12 months), he was fully committed to the transaction. He always manages and supervises his team in an efficient manner so that all the different work streams are well coordinated. In addition, Horst always follows the transaction very closely and himself contributes with detailed legal work, which is not usual for professionals of his seniority. Horst has a great feel for the commercial aspects of the transaction and brings a great value to our M&A team with his ability to find solutions and move the project forward. He also makes a significant contribution to the deal even in areas that go beyond legal services. In summary, Horst represents a combination of professional legal expertise, top managerial skills and a great sense for finding pro-business solutions. His work reflects years of legal practice. It is an honour to be represented by such a professional.”

 

Clara Gordon

“Same as the firm overall – very responsive, knowledgeable of legal issues, good at proposing and implementing solutions.”

 

Andrea Gritsch                      

"Very strong-  we would highly recommend her."

“High level of expertise, hands-on, fully committed, good communicator.”

“I am delighted to give feedback on the exceptional services provided by Andrea Gritsch, a skilled and knowledgeable banking transactional lawyer whom I have had the pleasure of working with on multiple projects. Throughout our engagements, Andrea demonstrated an impressive depth of legal expertise and a keen understanding of our business needs. She consistently provided practical and tailored advice that was both actionable and effective. Moreover, I was consistently impressed by Andrea's responsiveness and proactive approach to communication. She was always available to discuss matters and provided clear and concise updates, ensuring that we were fully informed and able to make informed decisions. Overall, I have nothing but the highest praise for Andrea and I would not hesitate to recommend her to anyone seeking a top-tier banking and regulatory lawyer. She is a true asset to her firm and the legal profession as a whole.”

 

Leopold Höher          

“Client acquisition and relationship management, involvement and hands-on approach.”

 

Katerina Kraeva        

“Competence, experience, impeccable client relationship.”

 

Katerina Mikulova

“She organised the process well and was a single point of contact for us.”

 

Hartwig Kienast

“Responsiveness and accountability for the project and his outstanding legal knowledge compared with extraordinary commercial and financial know-how.”

 

Florian Kusznier       

“Florian knows what he is doing and what is needed to bring a deal over the finish line.”

 

Tjaša Lahovnik       

“She is full of knowledge, solution-orientated, responsive, resourceful. Sharp enough when necessary, but otherwise fair and calm.”

 

Jitka Logesova      

“Very responsive and service-orientated; pragmatic work attitude, we work together very well.”

 

Marika Lomashvili    

“Very responsive, looks for solutions, easy to contact by phone and in person.”

 

Filip Michalec

“Clear and swift advice.”

 

Christian Mikosch    

“Strong communicator, trustful relationship, flexible and fast responding.”

 

Tereza Naucova        

“Tereza is a very experienced lawyer who always puts client needs first – very responsive and detail-orientated, but pragmatic and focused on the relevant issues.”

 

Maciej Olszewski      

“Friendliness, legal knowledge, availability, reliability.”

 

Rudolf Pfeffer

“Communication with all parties - result driven, responsive”

 

Aleksandar Ristic     

“Quick response, informative reactions.”

 

Eva Spiegel

“Very nice to work with; very knowledgeable; solution-orientated.”

 

Luka Tadic-Colic      

"Team was led by Lukas Tadic-Colic: excellent M&A corporate lawyer, highly reliable, business-orientated and pragmatic.”

 

Andjelka Todorovic  

“Professional, diligent, fast, agile, responsive.”

 

Sarah Wared

“Highly responsive, very pleasant to work with, solution-orientated, excellent at explaining complex legal assessments.”

“Very responsive and committed to delivering a very high standard of service. Great knowledge and drive in problem-solving.”

“Her knowledge is absolutely on point and her communication is outstanding."