Described as ‘a paragon of legal excellence,’ Cerha Hempel demonstrates proficiency in unfair competition and state aid litigation, as well as private enforcement proceedings, cartel law disputes and professional liability claims. The team operates in an array of industries such as automotive, insurance, fintech and financial services. Practice head Irene Welser handles the full spectrum of national and international litigation and arbitration, with notable specialisms in corporate, post-M&A and shareholder disputes. Michaela Siegwart takes the lead on the firm’s insurance disputes, whereas Holger Bielesz is regularly instructed on insolvency, corporate and banking litigation, as well as consumer claims.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'Outstanding in every aspect: fast response times, precision and broad professional expertise.'
'Holger Bielesz und Paul Krepil impress with their in-depth experience in commercial litigation, as well as their economic and practice-oriented approach.'
'They offer impeccable knowledge and a profound grasp of commercial litigation. They are industry specialists who truly understand the nuances of the business world. The seamless coordination between different departments ensures that clients benefit from comprehensive solutions, drawing from varied expertise.'
- 'The team shines not just in their proficiency but in the way they align their core values with client needs. Their innovative practices, combined with a genuine care for their clients, position them at the forefront of the legal sector.'
‘The firm houses an assembly of brilliant legal minds. However, two individuals, in particular, have consistently showcased unparalleled expertise, commitment, and a distinctive approach that sets them leagues apart from competitors. Irene Welser has expansive mastery in the field. Holger Bielesz pours dedication and passion into his work.'
- 'The team remains a paragon of legal excellence. The combination of experience and fresh perspectives within the team reinforces my belief that this firm stands unmatched in its commitment to justice. ’
‘Cerha Hempel is a broadly positioned law firm that is also very competent in insurance law matters. It is characterised by excellent research work, comprehensive specialist knowledge and legal sensitivity, even in highly complex cases.’
'We work closely with the team Michaela Siegwart and Irene Welser. Both partners are excellent lawyers who always find an answer to complex legal problems.'
Key clients
- IRMA Investments GmbH
- SPAR AG/ASPIAG Management AG
- NOVOREAL Immobilieninvest AG
- City of Vienna/WIENER STADTWERKE
- Spar European Shopping Centers GmbH (SES)
- UNIQA Österreich Versicherungen AG
- DUNAKESZI JÁRMŰJAVÍTÓ KORLÁTOLT FELELŐSSÉGŰ TÁRSASÁG
- HERVIS Sport- und Modegesellschaft m.b.H.
- Wiener Linien GmbH & Co KG
- ASFINAG
- ÖBB Infrastruktur AG
- McDonald’s GmbH
- Apleona HSG GmbH
- Hey Communications & Production GmbH
- INTERSPAR Gesellschaft m.b.H.
- MACON A.B.
- MTK Group
Work highlights
- Represented SPAR AG against an animal welfare association (Verein gegen Tierfabriken) regarding dirty campaigning.
- Represented STRABAG in enforcement proceedings of an ICSID arbitral award of €75m against Libya.
- Advised the City of Vienna and Wiener Stadtwerke on their antitrust damage claims against five truck manufacturers involved in the trucks cartel, by way of private enforcement.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Irene Welser