Andrea Christen's practice focuses on notarial services, commercial and corporate law, and estate planning. “What fascinates me about my profession is the varied and multifaceted nature of my work. It gives me great pleasure to work with clients to define and legally implement their ideas and goals."
Already as a junior lawyer at Wenger Vieli, Andrea Frey gained practical experience. Since his admission to the bar in 2022, he has been mainly practicing in the areas of M&A, venture capital, private equity as well as labor and employment law. In his capacity as a civil law notary of the Canton of Zug, he also provides notarial services. “Contrary to a widespread perception, working as a lawyer is definitely very creative. I therefore appreciate the challenge of finding the best possible solution for each individual case in close cooperation with clients.”
Andreas Hünerwadel works in contract and banking law, as well as in corporate and foundation law. He advises legal entities and natural persons, in the latter case with a special focus on structuring their financial situation and estate planning. Andreas Hünerwadel is a member of the executive committee of a global industrial group. He is also involved in various roles in start-up companies and as a board member for charitable foundations. “What I find particularly fascinating about the legal profession is that I have contact with interesting people from all over the world on a daily basis and am involved in very different domains of business, life, and culture. I have a long history of collaborative partnerships with many of my clients, and often of friendship as well. The personal relationship of trust with my clients is the icing on the cake for me.”
Beat Speck works mainly in the M&A, venture capital, private equity und blockchain/ICO fields. He heads the Transactions practice group. In particular, Beat Speck deals with the entire life cycle of venture capital and private equity financing. He advises national and international investors on the structuring of funds, consults on the investment process in holding companies, is available to them during the holding period and helps all parties involved to a successful exit (IPO, trade sale, dual track). In his capacity as a lawyer, civil law notary of the Canton of Zug and recognized representative at the SIX Swiss Exchange, he is in a position to offer the individual processes efficiently from a single source. Beat Speck publishes regularly in his fields of expertise. He is a board member of SECA (Swiss Private Equity and Corporate Finance Association) as well as of the Private Equity Chapter of Meritas.
Beat Walti advises primarily in the areas of corporate takeovers, acquisitions and sales of shareholdings as well as the related corporate and contractual issues. He also deals with corporate, commercial and contractual law issues as well as corporate governance in companies and foundations. Beat Walti serves on several boards of directors and boards of foundations. Since 2014, he is also a member of the National Council (member of the Commission for Economic Affairs and Taxes, WAK; President of the parliamentary FDP group). Prior to joining Wenger & Vieli Ltd. in 2002, he was part of the team and project manager at McKinsey & Co. Inc., Zurich, for three years. Prior to that, he completed a stagiaire program at the European Commission in Brussels (Merger Task Force, merger control authority). He studied at the Universities of Zurich and Neuchâtel.
Bignia Vieli works mainly in banking and stock exchange law as well as commercial and corporate law. She is co-head of the Financial Services practice group at Wenger & Vieli Ltd. Her area of expertise includes establishing and obtaining regulatory approvals for Swiss financial institutions and providing them with comprehensive advice in regulatory matters, including compliance. She advises Swiss and international clients in the financial services sector with regard to banking contracts, asset management and investment advisory contracts as well as transaction issues. She represents financial institutions and clients of financial institutions in regulatory and civil proceedings before authorities and courts. Bignia Vieli also practices commercial and corporate law, including litigation in this area, and advises private clients on all aspects of estate planning and inheritance law. Prior to joining Wenger & Vieli Ltd., Bignia Vieli worked as an associate for international business law firms in New York und Zurich. She was admitted to the bar in the Canton of Zurich in 1988. In 1990 she earned an LL.M. from the New York University School of Law.
Blerina Ahmeti works as a lawyer in the private clients and estate planning team. She advises and represents clients in matters of inheritance law, matrimonial property law, and estate planning. “As a diver, I place great value on good preparation, controlled implementation, and clear visibility - I apply the same principles to my professional life in order to develop effective solutions.“
Bruno Bächli mainly advises individuals on tax issues. In addition to the usual income and wealth tax matters, this also includes profit and capital tax for family-run companies. In addition, he regularly advises on gift and inheritance tax in an international context. In the field of artworks, Bruno Bächli advises clients on income and wealth tax issues. Due to his previous work for a Big Four company in the US tax team, he has a broad understanding of US tax law, which is helpful when advising on investments or temporary activities in the United States. “I enjoy working in interdisciplinary teams where specialists can profitably contribute their knowledge and thus contribute to a comprehensive value-added result. In my work, I enjoy interacting with people on a personal level. Especially in today’s – increasingly digital – world, this is an enormously important asset for building trust. Our world is complicated, and our clients need professionals who can successfully guide them through this maze. I enjoy playing sports. They help me clear my head and recharge my mental batteries. Many idea come into my head while working out.”
Bruno Mahler is primarily active in contract, corporate, and commercial law. He assists clients with transactions in the areas of M&A, Private Equity, and Venture Capital. As a civil law notary of the Canton of Zug, he also provides notarial services. “Getting to the bottom of things, separating the essential from the non-essential, and thus working out the optimal solution for each client continually fascinates me anew.“
Cedric Fischer's practice focuses on M&A, private equity, start-ups/venture capital, crypto/blockchain, and general contract and corporate law.“To be successful in my profession, I rely on the same qualities that are crucial to my passion for diving: Careful preparation, clear and unambiguous communication, efficient time management, and the prucence of always being prepared to meet all eventualities.“
Christian Wenger specializes in commercial and business law with focus on private equity, venture capital and mergers & acquisitions. He primarily represents institutional investors, corporates and entrepreneurs in the context of financing rounds and acquisitions. He serves as chairman and member of various boards of directors of Swiss as well as international companies. Christian Wenger was a member of the Executive Committee of SECA (Swiss Private Equity & Corporate Finance Association) for a number of years and headed the “Venture Capital and Seed” chapter. In this capacity, he has been involved on a pro bono basis in various federal and cantonal projects to promote young entrepreneurship and Switzerland as a technology location. In 2003, he founded Swiss Startup Invest (formerly CTI Invest), the largest investor platform for growth companies in Switzerland. Christian Wenger initiated the Startup Days, an annual event for over 400 startups. He has been the president of this association since its inception. In 2011, he launched the Blue Lion incubator for start-ups in the ICT and cleantech sector together with the City of Zurich, Zürcher Kantonalbank, Swisscom AG, the University of Zurich and ETH. In 2015, Christian Wenger founded the digitalswitzerland movement with further 17 companies, universities and corporations with the aim of positioning Switzerland as a leading technology nation across Europe. He leads and presides over the Executive Committee of this Association. In spring of 2017, Christian Wenger was elected to the Board of Trustees of the UZH Foundation of the University of Zurich. Christian Wenger graduated from the University of Zurich and gained his doctorate on the subject “Das bedingte Kapital” [Contingent Capital]. He completed his academic career with a postgraduate degree from Duke University Law School, North Carolina (LL.M.).
Christoph Schmid specializes in corporate and contract law as well as inheritance law. His main focus is on M&A (acquisitions and joint venture transactions), corporate governance including responsibilities under stock corporation law, as well as corporate succession and the execution of wills. Christoph Schmid is a member of the Board of Directors of various Swiss companies.
Cindy Schnider works in the field of VAT (Value Added Tax) consulting and compliance. Before her role at Wenger Vieli, she worked in the VAT department at Deloitte AG, gaining relevant professional experience in the field of VAT. “What I particularly like about my job is the complexity of VAT-related issues and the combination of economics and law. To balance out my exciting yet demanding work routine, I find relaxation on the tennis court or while hiking in the mountains. Additionally, I enjoy reading books, whether they are novels, psychological thrillers, or biographies.“
Clara Bodemann practices in the areas of national and international tax law with a focus on VAT law. She advises clients on VAT issues, in particular in connection with tax planning, restructurings, corporate acquisitions and divestitures, real estate transactions, and VAT-related matters in the financial sector. “When I am off work, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing sports, or on the golf course. These activities provide me with lots of energy and a clear head allowing me to understand my clients and their backgrounds, and to find the best possible solutions for often complex issues surrounding VAT law at the interface between law and business.“
Claudia Keller has many years of experience in her areas of expertise, with a particular focus on technology and data law. Here, she can draw on her interdisciplinary training in information privacy management and brand management. Claudia Keller heads the ICT/IP/Competition Law Team together with Dr. Michael Tschudin. “Even outside of my work, I am fascinated by new technologies and means of communication. Much to the delight of my sons, this is particularly true of gaming and entertainment. Enjoying my work is important to me, as is finding a balance between work and family life.”
Daniel P. Oehri practices in the areas of private equity, M&A, insolvency law as well as corporate and commercial law. Prior to working as a lawyer at Wenger & Vieli Ltd., Daniel P. Oehri gained practical experience in a major business law firm in Zurich and as a court clerk and trainee at the District Court of Meilen. Daniel P. Oehri graduated in law from the University of Fribourg (MLaw 2009; Dr. iur. 2018). At the Université Montesquieu - Bordeaux IV he earned the "Diplôme d'études supérieures en droit" in 2007. And then in 2015 he earned his Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree from Columbia University School of Law.
Dario Picecchi's main areas of practice are constitutional and administrative law. He primarily advises and represents clients in matters of health law. In particular, he deals with marketing authorizations, reimbursement of medical treatments and hospital lists. In addition to his work as an attorney, he is a lecturer and regularly publishes in legal journals. “As a health law attorney, I work at an interdisciplinary crossroad where the law meets medicine, business, and ethics. In my practice, I work to ensure that the principles of the rule of law are upheld in healthcare.“
Désirée Egli was able to apply and continually expand her theoretical knowledge in practice after successfully passing the bar examination. Her expertise is in advising natural and legal persons on national and international tax matters. “I am fascinated by the complex issues in tax law and the interplay between law and economics. I find joy in working in interdisciplinary teams and collaboratively finding the best possible solutions for our clients. I balance my exciting work life with nature, whether it be on a racing bike, taking strokes in the lake, or on a lunch run.”
Dominik Bürgy specializes in national and international tax law. His focus is on cross-border structural advice, succession planning and structuring in medium-sized companies, corporate mergers (including participation programs and their corporate tax aspects), and the establishment of companies and wealthy individuals, as well as advising companies, wealthy individuals, and family offices. His clients include listed and privately held companies, high net worth individuals, entrepreneurs, senior executives of global and national companies, and family offices. Dominik Bürgy is also a member of various boards of directors of listed and private companies. “What fascinates me about tax law is the multidimensional nature of the issues it involves – law, business administration, and negotiating and communication skills are all equally important. As a counterbalance to this rather abstract work, I like to stimulate all of my other senses through cooking, photography, sports in the great outdoors, and cultural activities.”
As a member of the Transactions practice group, Dominik Rietiker is primarily active in the areas of national and international M&A transactions, corporate succession arrangements and general corporate and commercial law. His main focus lies on private equity and venture capital financing. He also provides notarial services. Dominik Rietiker completed his law studies at the University of Zurich in 2016. He then worked as a trainee in a large business law firm in Zurich and subsequently as a law clerk at the Cantonal Court of Zug. Since 2019 he is admitted to practice as an attorney at law and notary public. Before joining Wenger & Vieli Ltd., Dominik Rietiker worked as an attorney at law for a Big Four (audit firm) in Zurich in the areas of financial market and supervisory law.
Dominique Roos mainly practices in the areas of pharmaceutical and health law, data law, technology law (IT), competition law and intellectual property law.
Dominique Mattmann works mainly in the areas of corporate and commercial law, M&A as well as labor and employment law. Dominique Mattmann graduated in law from the University of Lucerne in 2018. She then gained practical experience as a junior lawyer at Wenger & Vieli Ltd. Dominique Mattmann has been admitted to practice as a lawyer since 2020.
Elisha Odenheimer primarily operates in the areas of Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), Private Equity, Start-ups/Venture Capital, as well as in general commercial, corporate, and economic law. “As an enthusiastic football and tennis fan, I have learned that success is born out of teamwork and personal commitment. These values of collaboration and dedication are reflected in my work as a lawyer, where I passionately strive to find the best solutions for our clients.“
Fabienne Nufer, in her capacity as an attorney at law and a member of the Transactions practice group, focuses on national and international M&A transactions, venture capital, private equity as well as corporate and commercial law. In addition she provides notarial services in her capacity as a licensed civil law notary of the Canton of Zug. “In addition to the daily challenges, which are indeed varied, I specifically appreciate the exchange with the most diverse personalities that I get to meet in my profession. I truly enjoy learning more about their plans and supporting them by providing our services.“
Frank Scherrer practices mainly in the pharmaceutical and health law fields. Further areas of expertise are antitrust and competition law as well as labor and employment law. He heads the Life Sciences practice group at Wenger & Vieli Ltd. Frank Scherrer mainly advises and represents pharmaceutical companies with regard to the authorization of medicinal products, licenses, reimbursements by health insurance funds, advertising and distribution, drafting of all types of contracts, data protection and product liability. He represents his clients in contract negotiations, as well as in administrative and judicial proceedings. He also assists clients in matters relating to medical devices and human research.
Frank Schmid is an associate at Wenger Vieli and specializes in national and international litigation before state courts and arbitration tribunals. Frank Schmid had already been a junior lawyer at Wenger Vieli and was later able to sharpen and develop his litigation skills during three years working as a court clerk at the Meilen District Court. “Combining competence and professionalism and paying attention to the human element in the entire picture, I strive to achieve the best possible result for our clients.“
Georg Zondler is regularly entrusted with litigation before state courts and arbitration tribunals for domestic and foreign clients. In this capacity, he deals in particular with matters involving insolvency and debt collection law as well as commercial and banking law. Georg Zondler is co-head of the Restructuring & Insolvency practice group at Wenger & Vieli Ltd. In addition, Georg Zondler also deals with cases in all stages of enforcement and insolvency proceedings or acts as a member of creditors' committees and as administrator/liquidator for insolvent companies. Georg Zondler also has broad experience in the field of corporate law, in particular in handling complex cases of liability actions and contract law issues.
Ines Holderegger works primarily in the areas of pharmaceutical and health law, as well as intellectual property and data law. In her areas of expertise, she mainly advises and represents pharmaceutical and medical device companies, as well as hospitals and doctors.“My balanced and harmonious nature helps me in my job, since it is often a matter of finding a consensus or the optimal solution, without conflicts arising in the first place.”
Janica Wyss' practice focuses on corporate and commercial law, contract law, and M&A.
Jill Blattmann practices in the areas of national and international tax law for legal entities. She mainly advises on company acquisitions and mergers, reorganization, and restructuring. Her expertise also lies in providing ongoing tax advice to legal entities. “What I find appealing about my job is the challenge of optimally aligning tax regulations with individual circumstances in the best possible way, along with recognizing issues early and solving them with the necessary persistence, my drive, and empathy. Moreover, Swiss tax law is constantly changing. I find balance to my professional life in sport. Swimming, hiking, or snowboarding are the best ways for me to clear my head and recharge my batteries. Additionally, I enjoy traveling to foreign countries.“
Joel Schmidt is primarily active in the areas of M&A, Venture Capital, and Private Equity, as well as general corporate, commercial, and contract law. “I particularly value the interaction with fascinating personalities, innovative companies, new ideas, and technologies in the legal profession. After work, I clear my mind on the tennis court or train for the next marathon.“
Joël Doswald counsels family-owned businesses along with the individuals involved in national as well as international tax issues. Thanks to his previous work in international tax law with a focus on US companies with a presence in Switzerland, he has a thorough understanding of cross-border issues and restructuring, both of which are essential when advising private individuals and family businesses. “In addition to the legal and business issues inherent in tax law, what fascinates me most about tax consulting is the close cooperation with people in order to move forward together."
Jonas Bühlmann specializes in national and international tax law. He advises in particular on company acquisitions and mergers, reorganizations, restructuring, and real estate matters. He is also a co-author of “iusNet Steuerrecht”, which provides monthly updates on developments in jurisprudence and legislation. “After days filled to the brim with taxes, I enjoy being out in nature, whether on a racing bike, on a mountain bike or in hiking boots. It gives me new strength to find the best-possible pragmatic solutions for you. I’m satisfied, as long as you are too!”
Kevin Vangehr practices in the areas of M&A, venture capital and private equity as well as general corporate and commercial law. Kevin Vangehr graduated in law from the University of Zurich in 2018. During his studies and for a short time thereafter, he worked part-time as a legal assistant at a small law firm in Zurich. Following this, Kevin Vangehr was able to gain further valuable practical experience as a junior lawyer at our law firm in Zurich. Kevin Vangehr has been admitted to the Bar since 2021.
Kianoush Sadeghi has already gained practical experience when working at Wenger Vieli as a junior lawyer. Since his admission to the Bar in 2022, he has been particularly focused on the areas of venture capital, private equity and M&A, and he also provides notarial services in his capacity as a civil law notary of the Canton of Zug. “I already realized at an early stage my affinity for economic and legal issues. It is then only logical, putting my strengths and interests to work, that I became a lawyer in a business law firm. In the spirit of “mens sana in corpore sano“ I maintain a healthy balance between body and mind with regular exercise and spending time with family and friends.“
Lorenz Droese is a professor of civil proceedings and the Swiss Code of Obligations. He works with Wenger Vieli as a consult-ant. Before entering academia, he worked as a lawyer at our Zurich firm.“Most things have more than one side – that's what makes them interesting. This is particularly evident in cases of conflict – it is important to include all sides in the deliberations: party and counterparty, what is said and what is not said. My job gives me the opportunity to do that.”
Loris Baumgartner initially gained valuable practical experience as a trainee lawyer at Wenger Vieli. He was admitted to the bar in 2021 and, in this capacity, mainly works in the areas of criminal law, litigation, compliance, and internal and regulatory investigations. “I became a lawyer out of pure idealism, with the fervent hope of being able to do my part to create a better and fairer world. In the end, I became a criminal defense lawyer – and could not have realized my dream in a better way.”
Lukas Groth has been admitted to the bar since 2022 and practices primarily in the area of litigation before the state courts and arbitral tribunals. Prior to his admission to the bar, he completed internships at Wenger Vieli and at a trial court. “To me, being able of practicing such a varied profession is a privilege. What also drives me in my day-to-day work is the joy of analytic thinking and precise use of language. In my leisure time, I love to play sports or find time to play the guitar and jazz piano.“
Manuela Staudenmann primarily works in the field of litigation, dealing with complex national and international disputes. Before her role at Wenger Vieli, she worked at a court of first instance and in a large Zurich-based commercial law firm. “What excites me about my work as a litigation attorney is the focus on strategy and problem-solving. I love recognizing the nuances of each individual case, identifying the key arguments and counterarguments, and thereby developing the best approach to dispute resolution.”
Marc Walter practices in the areas of M&A, venture capital and private equity as well as general corporate and commercial law. Marc Walter graduated in law from the University of St. Gallen in 2007. He was admitted to the bar in 2011. Before working as a lawyer with Wenger & Vieli Ltd., he was already serving as an intern in our firm. In 2014, Marc Walter earned a Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree in Corporation Law from the New York University School of Law.
Position: Counsel; Marcel Boller mainly advises on pharmaceutical and health issues, data protection law, compliance issues, and public procurement law. “I can relax completely on a mountain bike. First, there’s the ascent up the mountain, which I use to challenge myself physically. Then there’s the descent down the trail, which is fun and gets the adrenaline going. Taken together, these two experiences balance me out perfectly.”
Marco Cereghetti is an experienced litigator who is active before state courts, as well as arbitration tribunals. Furthermore, he advises private individuals and entrepreneurs on commercial and private legal matters, for example in relation to drafting contracts or estate planning. “The legal profession is a very demanding one, so you should be happy if – like me – you are able to recharge your batteries with the help of family and friends.”
Mark P. Stocker's practice focuses on labor and employment law, immigration law as well as general corporate and commercial law. In addition, he provides notarial services. Mark P. Stocker graduated in law from the University of Lucerne in 2018. As part of his studies at the University of Lucerne, Mark P. Stocker completed an exchange semester at the University of Texas at Austin. During his studies, he worked part-time at a major bank in Zurich before gaining practical experience in various areas of law as an intern at a Zug law firm and as a law clerk at the Zug Cantonal Court following his studies. He was admitted to the Bar and as Civil Law Notary of the Canton of Zug in 2021.
Position: Partner; As a lawyer, notary, and economist, Martin Berweger has extensive expertise in the field of business law. He supports start-ups, SMEs, investors, and entrepreneurs with incorporations, financing rounds, company acquisitions (M&A), restructuring, and joint ventures. His particular areas of expertise include blockchain projects, drafting and enforcement of contracts, and the liability of board members and managing directors. Martin Berweger serves on several boards of directors, foundation councils and as administrator for companies in need of restructuring, in addition to working as a lecturer at various universities. “Working with entrepreneurs inspires me day after day.”
Martin Peyer's practice focuses on banking, insurance, financial markets and general corporate and commercial matters. He routinely advises banks, insurance companies, asset managers and other financial institutions on the requirements, impact and implementation of financial market regulations and represents clients in licensing and enforcement proceedings. His expertise includes advice as to a wide variety of complex regulatory and compliance matters, regulatory license procedures, capital market transactions, capital and liquidity requirements, recovery and resolution planning, and stablecoins, cryptocurrency and other digital assets. Martin Peyer is also experienced in M&A transactions and independent internal investigations in the financial sector and represents clients in enforcement proceedings before the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA and other authorities. Martin Peyer has further broad experience regarding the development of products and services in the FinTech space and the regulation of financial services. In addition, he advises on domestic and foreign fund and asset management structures and assists asset managers of Swiss pension funds from a regulatory and contractual perspective. Clients endorse him for his "deep knowledge of the Swiss financial regulatory landscape particularly in connection with the rapidly evolving world of blockchain, distributed ledger technologies and cryptocurrencies" (source in Legal 500 2020). Martin Peyer regularly publishes articles and gives presentations in his area of expertise.
Matthias Langenegger primarily works in the field of technology, media, and data law. Thanks to his extensive experience in international internet regulation, he possesses a versatile and practically-oriented expertise in the tech policy area. “I have always been fascinated by how technology shapes society. As a technology lawyer, you experience this evolution up close, which makes the job incredibly appealing. Privately, I also live in a dynamic environment: together with my partner, I take care of three wonderfully lively children.“
Melanie Fischer advises and litigates primarily in the areas of labor and employment law, migration law, as well as general corporate and commercial law. “I truly enjoy working with a wide variety of people, the personal contact with clients, as well as working out customized and practicable solutions. I value the versatility of the legal profession every day all over again.“
Meltem Steudler practices mainly in the fields of financial services and litigation, advising both individuals and legal entities. Before joining Wenger Vieli Ltd., she was a research assistant and doctoral candidate at the University of Zurich and an intern in a leading business law firm in Zurich. She completed her law studies at the University of Zurich in 2013. She was admitted to practice law in 2016. Meltem Steudler is currently preparing a doctoral thesis in the field of private banking law.
Michael Huber advises as a certified specialist of the Swiss Bar Association in inheritance law for many years private clients on estate planning (wills, inheritance contracts) and corporate succession planning. He acts as an executor, administrator, and trustee. Michael Huber also sits on the board of directors of various companies of the financial industry.He also regularly litigates in (inheritance law) proceedings.“As a hunter, I know that the first shot is of critical importance - a rapid analysis of the situation and decisive action are characteristic of my professional work too.”
Michael Baier is Partner and a passionate venture capital and start-up lawyer. He leads the Start-up Desk and supports tech-based start-ups through all of their growth stages, in particular in relation to spin-offs, financing rounds, exit transactions, and the structuring of employee incentive programs. Michael Baier also advises investors on equity investments in Swiss start-ups and has extensive experience with M&A transactions. “With our Start-up Desk, I strive not only to provide legal counsel, but to contribute to the positive and sustainable development of the Swiss start-up ecosystem.”
Michael Tschudin primarily works in the areas of Swiss and European competition law as well as public business law and M&A. He heads the ICT/IP/Competition Law practice group at Wenger & Vieli Ltd. Michael Tschudin assists Swiss and international companies in all questions of competition law. He represents sanctioned companies in various industries before authorities and courts and advises clients on distribution systems, licenses, joint ventures and other forms of cooperation as well as merger control. He regularly publishes articles in his areas of expertise in scientific journals. Since 2015, he has been a lecturer on competition law and intellectual property law at the University of St. Gallen (HSG). Chambers and Partners describes his practice in competition law as "excellent".
Michael Mráz deals with white-collar crime, international judicial and mutual administrative assistance as well as matters relating to the Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA). He specializes in advising and representing clients in criminal and regulatory proceedings. Michael Mráz represents individuals and companies who are themselves involved in criminal proceedings, as well as those who have been harmed by a criminal offense. As part of judicial and mutual administrative assistance, he assists persons in matters of extradition and the transmission of information to foreign authorities. Another focus of his work is providing advice and support to clients in their compliance and prevention efforts as well as internal investigations. Michael Mráz also represents parties as their lawyer in commercial matters before Swiss courts and national and international arbitral tribunals. In addition, he advises Swiss clients with business activities in Eastern Europe as well as foreign clients, specifically from the Czech Republic, Russia and Ukraine. Michael Mráz is also a lecturer and author in his fields of expertise.
As a lawyer and notary, Michèle Joho-Menotti has extensive expertise in the field of trade and business law. Her clients include mainly start-ups, SMEs, listed companies, investors, and entrepreneurs. She supports them with foundings, financing, company acquisitions, IPOs, joint ventures, and restructuring.“Even as a teenager, I knew that I wanted to become a lawyer one day. This passion has remained with me ever since. In order to find a balance, I like exploring the Swiss mountains in the sun and snow in my free time.” .
Michelle Wiki is primarily active in the areas of private equity, M&A, corporate and commercial law as well as contract law, and she advises startups and established companies in particular. After completing her law studies at the University of Zurich in 2014, Michelle Wiki worked as a junior lawyer at Wenger & Vieli Ltd. She has been admitted to the Bar of the Canton of Zurich since 2017. Prior to her return to Wenger & Vieli Ltd., Michelle Wiki worked fot three years as a lawyer at a business law firm in Zurich.
Nadine Zanetti mainly practices in the areas of construction and real estate law, real estate transactions, as well as contracts for work and services. She advises our clients and represents them in administrative and judicial proceedings. Nadine Zanetti graduated in law from the University of Zurich in 2011. She was admitted to the Bar in 2013. Prior to working as a lawyer at Wenger & Vieli Ltd., she worked for several years as a lawyer at a law firm for construction and real estate law in the Zurich area, as an intern at a leading business law firm in Zurich, and as a research assistant at the University of Zurich. Nadine Zanetti is in the process of writing a doctoral thesis in the area of the law governing building contracts for work and services. She is currently in training as an SBA certified construction and real estate law specialist.
Nadine Grüter advises and represents national and international companies and individuals in construction and real estate law, particularly in private and public construction law, in planner and contractor agreements, in real estate transactions, in tenancy law, and in legal disputes. “What fascinates me about my work as a lawyer is the constant personal interaction with clients and the challenge of addressing their individual needs and concerns. I enjoy working together with them to develop the best solutions. In my free time, I have been passionately playing golf for over 20 years. I also enjoy spending time in the mountains and with friends and family.“
Nathalie Germann has been working as a lawyer at Wenger Vieli since 2020, advising both companies and private individuals, primarily in the areas of migration and labor law.“It was the television series ‘Suits’ that finally set me on the path to becoming a lawyer – and now here I am! My job is exciting and at the same time challenging, so I find balance in my passion for world travel and discovering foreign countries. But I also enjoy trying out new cooking and baking recipes, and then sharing the results with my loved ones.“
Nicolas Bracher works as a lawyer both advising and litigating for companies and private individuals in private and commercial law. He focuses his practice on advising and litigating in financial services and insurance law as well as in inheritance and foundation law.Nicolas Bracher is co-head of the Financial Services Practice Group at Wenger Vieli Ltd. He regularly publishes articles on liability issues in financial services law in academic publications and is also a speaker at conferences in this area. He is also a member of the boards of trustees of three charitable foundations.“I worked for courts and an administrative judicial authority for over seven years and therefore know the processes and functioning of the judiciary well from my own experience. This helps me to efficiently represent the interests of my clients.“
Niklaus Kunz works primarily in the areas of law with respect to banking and financial markets, capital markets and compliance. He advises clients on complex regulatory issues as well as compliance matters and represents them in proceedings before regulatory authorities. In addition, he has extensive experience in capital market law and transactions. “What I like about being a lawyer is that this profession is truly varied, and enables me to meet many interesting people and hear their stories. I like to explore the various facets and circumstances surrounding a problem in order to find the most advantageous solution.“
Orlando Battaglia advises financial market participants on legal and regulatory issues, compliance matters, as well as FinTech business models, and represents them before authorities. Furthermore, he specializes in corporate and contract law. “The intersection of business, law, and technology is a source of fascination and motivation for me in my daily work. My personal dedication, enthusiasm for intricate legal and regulatory matters, and a deep affinity for emerging technologies all contribute to the basis for crafting legal solutions that also align with entrepreneurial perspectives.“
Thanks to his long-standing experience, Pascal Honold has extensive expertise in the field of corporate law, in general, and M&A practice, in particular. He prefers to advise on national and international business transactions in the areas of M&A, private equity, and venture capital, as well as corporate restructuring and financing rounds. His clients include nationally and internationally active medium-sized companies, corporations and start-ups, entrepreneurs, and investors, as well as investment funds and family offices.“Empathy, teamwork, and staying focused on the goal – this life lesson learned from sports has today become the guiding principle of my professional career.”
During his business studies in St. Gallen, Pascal Schmuckli worked as a tax consultant at KPMG AG. This provided him with the opportunity to be involved with engagements on a national and international level, allowing him to constantly expand his knowledge gained during his studies and in his practice. At Wenger Vieli, Pascal Schmuckli advises individuals and legal entities. “What fascinates me about the theory of taxation is its complexity and the interaction between business and the law. Working together in a team, I enjoy meeting every tax law challenge for my clients."
Patric Eggler mainly advises private individuals, entrepreneurs, and medium-sized companies. He is a member of the Start-up Desk and looks after entrepreneurs and their companies from foundation to exit. As a former ice hockey player, he is also part of the Sports Desk and advises athletes and sports clubs, along with national and international sports associations. “As a co-founder of the Hardwald Brewery, I know from my own experiences the problems young entrepreneurs and companies can face. I want to share this knowledge with my clients, along with the expertise acquired from my work as a tax expert.”
Patrick Kern's practice focuses on corporate and commercial law, M&A, contract law and financial services. Before joining Wenger Vieli Ltd. as a lawyer, Patrick Kern gained practical experience in the legal department of a major Swiss bank, as a law clerk at the District Court of Affoltern, as a junior lawyer at a medium-sized business law firm in Zurich and in an international industrial group. Patrick Kern completed his law studies at the University of St. Gallen (M.A. HSG in Law). Prior to that, he also graduated from the University of St. Gallen with an M.A. HSG in Accounting & Finance. “Not only am I passionate about legal issues, but I also enjoy exploring historical sites around the world and scenic landscapes while hiking in the mountains. I also have a great weakness for pastries of all kinds, which I not only love to eat but also bake myself on occasion.“
Patrizia Castellazzi specializes in the areas of inheritance law and estate planning. Previously, she worked as a court clerk at the District Court of Dietikon. “As a solution-oriented and empathetic person, it is important to me to address the individual concerns of my clients and to present a tailor-made solution with great commitment."
After pursuing a career at a Swiss universal bank, Peter Altorfer decided to get a start in the legal profession at a smaller law office specialized in advising and litigating on behalf of banks. In recent years, the importance of private clients and the work of legal entities in supervisory bodies have increased. In addition to analyzing legal issues, Peter Altorfer is interested in how problems are embedded within private clients’ broader environments. He is also on the board of directors of various companies, as well as on the board of trustees of a number of non-profit organizations. He appreciates the variety in his work that comes from advising both companies and private individuals. “In my private life, I am interested in the meaning of philosophy, particularly drawing on Stoicism and its later developments. I believe that both one’s professional and one’s private life should be influenced by this.”
Peter Hafner specializes in leading civil litigation in commercial and economic law cases. The focus of his work lies in representing the interests of companies from the finance and trade sectors in proceedings before state courts and arbitration tribunals, as well as in advising and safeguarding interests in contentious disputes between companies and their employees. Peter Hafner is ranked among the leading litigation lawyers in Switzerland by Chambers, The Legal 500, and Who's Who Legal. "Effectively representing a party in contentious cases requires good communication, knowledge of the facts of the case, prudent litigation management, and strong negotiation skills. Therefore, the role of a litigation lawyer is extremely diverse and exciting."
Roman Heiz is a partner at Wenger Vieli and Head of the Construction and Real Estate Law Team. He advises on real estate law, private and public construction law, and tenancy law. His main focus is on real estate transactions (M&A, bidding processes, property purchase contracts, sale and lease back), work contracts, full service general contractor contracts, general contractor contracts, general planning contracts, architects contracts, specialist planning contracts, business leases and supply contracts (plant construction). He represents his clients in all legal and administrative disputes in these specialist areas. “Guiding the client to success with experience, passion, personal commitment and the endurance of a triathlete - that is what I very much like about being a lawyer.”
Sabine Taxer works primarily in the areas of labor and employment law, immigration law as well as general corporate and commercial law. Sabine Taxer completed her law studies at the University of Zurich in 2013. She was admitted to the Bar of the Canton of Zurich in 2018. Following her studies at the University of Zurich, she completed a court internship as a trainee at the District Court of Zurich and then gained further practical experience as an intern at a business law firm in Zurich. Before joining Wenger & Vieli Ltd. as a lawyer, Sabine Taxer worked at a litigation-oriented law firm in Zurich.
Sophia Hartwig works in the Construction and Real Estate Law Team and advises and represents clients primarily in the areas of construction and real estate law, real estate transactions, work contract law, and tenancy law.“With my degrees in journalism and law, I have found my calling in the communication-heavy legal profession. In my free time, too, I really enjoy having interesting conversations, mainly with family and friends. However, I also enjoy the occasional peace and quiet I get when walking my dogs or playing sports.“
Stefan Müller works primarily in the areas of labor and employment law, immigration law as well as general corporate and commercial law. His focus is on comprehensive labor and employment law advice, assistance in applications for residence and work permits and advice in connection with venture capital and private equity financing. He heads the immigration practice and is co-head of the Labor & Employment Law practice group at Wenger & Vieli Ltd. Stefan Müller advises national and international companies in all aspects of labor and employment law as well as corporate law. His practice also includes advising and representing clients in labor law disputes. He also provides comprehensive advice to national and international companies in connection with venture capital and private equity financing. Furthermore, Stefan Müller assists international companies in applications for residence and work permits for foreign nationals. As a notary of the Canton of Zug, Stefan Müller provides all types of notarial services. Stefan Müller is on the board of the Immigration and Naturalization Committee of the American Bar Association (ABA) and on the board of the Junior Chamber International (JCI) Zug. He is also a member of the Executive Committee of AIJA (International Young Lawyers' Association) as well as a member of the Board of Directors of several companies.
Tatjana Merz works mainly in the areas of inheritance law and estate planning. After graduating in law from the University of Zurich in 2015, Tatjana Merz worked as a trainee and court clerk at the Zurich District Court, and as a junior lawyer at a Zurich law firm focusing in particular on family and inheritance law. She was admitted to the Bar in 2020.
Una Paunovic represents and advises individuals and corporations in proceedings before courts and regulatory authorities. As a criminal defense lawyer, she particularly specializes in representing clients in front of criminal prosecution authorities. Furthermore, she regularly counsels clients on the preparation, implementation, and analysis of internal and regulatory investigations. “As a lawyer, I consider it my foremost duty to listen and comprehend how I can assist effectively. To me, this encompasses attentiveness, trust, and empathy.“
Urs Landolf specializes in national and cross-border tax advice for companies and individuals. His preferred areas of expertise are advising family-run companies and their owners in tax and succession matters. Urs Landolf has a broad experience in the internationalization of companies. He advises individuals and executives in tax and pension matters. He also assists international companies in matters of Swiss tax policy. In addition, he acts as an executor of wills and serves on boards of foundations and boards of directors. Urs Landolf is a lecturer in business taxation at the University of Zurich. Prior to joining Wenger & Vieli Ltd. Urs Landolf was a partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers for 25 years, including many years in executive customer-related functions performing managerial tasks on a national and international level.
Valerio Preisig specializes in litigation for complex national and international disputes before state courts and arbitration tribunals. He provides counsel and representation to businesses and individuals throughout all stages of dispute resolution. “As a lawyer, you gain insights into various aspects of life, businesses, and industries. Only those who develop a deep understanding can work together with clients to develop optimal strategies and solutions. That is what fascinates me about the legal profession.“
Wolfgang Zürcher specializes in venture capital, private equity, corporate acquisitions and capital markets law, in particular equity placements / private placements, IPOs and public takeovers. He also advises investors, investment clubs and various private equity funds with regard to structure, capital raising and investments and also provides notarial services. Wolfgang Zürcher is a recognized representative on the SIX Swiss Exchange. He regularly speaks at seminars and conferences in the areas of private equity and capital market law. Prior to joining Wenger & Vieli Ltd., he was an assistant to the Chair of Corporate and Banking Law at the University of Zurich and worked for one year in a law firm in the USA.
Yannic Lütolf works primarily in the areas of construction and real estate law, real estate transactions, work contract law, and tenancy law. He advises clients and represents them in administrative and judicial proceedings.
Zarah Kronbach was admitted to the bar in 2021 and primarily practices law in the areas of Banks and Financial Services Providers and Litigation. “After my first bachelor's degree in International Affairs, I realized that I truly wanted to create something solid and concrete, and learn an instrument. In law, I have found this instrument and I truly enjoy applying it.“