Auszeichnungen

GEISTWERT is a boutique firm offering dependable expertise in IT and related IP matters. The practice is noted for high-quality work in software contracts and game development. It additionally handles related IP aspects, especially copyright and trade mark matters. GEISTWERT’s further areas of activity include data protection and regulatory advice for tech companies. It is often seen advising technology startups as well as numerous clients in the media, entertainment and electronics industries. The team represents state-owned and private companies on both domestic and multi-jurisdictional matters.

Strengths: One satisfied client notes: „The strengths lie in the know-how of the people. They have a very practical approach and can illustrate the facts well. They give many examples, which helps our understanding.“ Another client adds: „The whole GEISTWERT team is not only particularly competent, but also very easy to deal with and can be reached quickly. They have very fast response times and give clear answers.“

Also on deck are Juliane Messner and Max Mosing, both of whom receive rave reviews. “Juliane is one of the best IP lawyers in the country. She is business oriented and a great team player who can find creative solutions to complex problems – traits which are crucial when navigating complicated, time-sensitive projects.” “With a refreshing approach to problem solving, Max has the capacity to see the bigger picture and always considers matters from a commercial standpoint. Plus, he is friendly and witty, which makes working with him all the moreenjoyable.”

“The perfect fit for software companies”, Alexander Schnider has “a real passion for technology and exceptional business acumen. He is brilliant not just because of his extensive experience and knowledge, but also because he is a master strategist and smart negotiator who thinks critically and performs remarkably in the courtroom.”

Two of its stars are Rainer Schultes and Constantin Kletzer, both of whom “are incredibly knowledgeable and easy to work with. They anticipate the needs of clients before they even ask”. “Schultes has a perfect understanding of his field and an excellent approach to IP matters”; while Kletzer is a “fabulous lawyer who easily comprehends the reality of international business”.

Its “five innovative founding partners and their diverse personalities” have shaped GEISTWERT into “a ground-breaking Austrian law firm that is virtually unrivalled on the market”. A prime pick for any and all branding matters, the team “has revolutionised the local landscape and acts on innovative cases that have yet to break ground in the courts”. As is evident from the amount of spontaneous feedback it attracts, the 2014-established outfit has worked hard to position itself as a premier destination and its efforts have not gone unnoticed. “It is not easy to impress new clients and convince them to work with you,” comments one foreign associate, “but the GEISTWERT team not only does that – it also carries on performing at an exceptional level day in, day out. Their interest in legal, business and technological developments guarantees innovative solutions to complex problems.”

Juliane Messner is the only lawyer in Austria who is also ranked for “Foreign Expertise in Italy”: Italian-qualified Juliane Messner advises prominent clients on trade mark and copyright questions, also in reference to Italian intellectual property law. She has previously been active on trade mark arbitration tribunals convened by the Milan chamber of arbitration. One satisfied client attests: „Juliane Messner is very focused, brings the relevant topics to the point and then immediately shows solutions. She is a brilliant lawyer.“

Rainer Schultes is particularly active defending pharmaceutical companies against trade mark and unfair competitions claims. He additionally assists with international domain disputes. One client notes: „He is very pragmatic and solution-oriented.“

Max Mosing is known for his expertise in IT and media-related IP work. He demonstrates a focus on trade mark mandates, while also advising clients on copyright and domain law issues. One client comments: „His communication and know-how are good. He knows the industry, including media law, image and video rights. He can say if something worked for others, or gives advice whether something would or wouldn’t work in practice.“

Constantin Kletzer represents clients in trade mark disputes and further advises clients on non-contentious trade mark matters. He also assists with copyright issues, domain law and unfair competition. One client lauds: „He is a talented litigator and it is always a pleasure to work with him because he is able to provide practical solutions to complex issues.“

Alexander Schnider boasts strong experience in gaming and tech-related IP issues. He advises clients on trade marks, licensing and unfair competition as well as trade secrets and copyright issues. One client attests: „He knows the gaming industry like no other lawyer in Austria.“ The client adds: „His advice is well founded and he is also happy to explain the legal background for strategic decisions.„

What the team is known for: GEISTWERT is a well-known firm offering an IP service comprising patent and trade mark-related advice, including portfolio management and infringement litigation. The law firm boasts additional experience in domain disputes as well as licence agreements and contentious as well as non-contentious copyright mandates. The team attracts clients from various industries, including gaming, food and drink, life sciences and construction.

Rainer Schultes was named an IP Star 2021 for Patents and Trademarks

Alexander Schnider was named an IP Star 2021 for Trademarks and Copyrights

Max Mosing was named an IP Star 2021 for Trademarks