Best Merger & Acquisition Lawyers in Austria

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Founded in 2003
English
Reif u. Partner Rechtsanwälte OG is an Austrian regional law firm with offices across Graz, Vienna, Villach, Feldbach, Kapfenberg and Mürzzuschlag, offering multi-disciplinary legal services to businesses and private clients. The firm highlights a broad bench of lawyers whose combined...
PACHER & PARTNER
Graz, Austria

Founded in 1957
50 people in their team
German
English
Founded in 1957 as a civil law firm, we have continually expanded our field of activity by bringing on new partners.Our team brings together a wide range of personalities with different professional specializations. As a modern business law firm, we place particular emphasis on the highest legal...
LIKAR Rechtsanwälte
Graz, Austria

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
German
English
With the presence of our academic and business consultants plus the interdisciplinary co-operation with economical advisers, management consultants, chartered accountants, notaries and financing-experts we are able to offer comprehensive solutions for extensive projects (one-stop-shop).For...

7 people in their team
English
Hämmerle & Hämmerle Rechtsanwälte GmbH operates from Rottenmann and Irdning in Austria, offering a broad spectrum of legal services with a focus on corporate, insolvency, family and criminal law. The firm is led by Mag. Michaela Hämmerle and Mag. Andreas Hämmerle as managing partners,...
DORDA Rechtsanwälte GmbH
Vienna, Austria

Founded in 1976
200 people in their team
German
English
DORDA Attorneys at Law. We deliver clarity. Our strengths are precision, innovation and flexibility. Our services in all areas of business law ensure our clients optimal clarity in their decision making. Our success is based on commitment and internationality. We nurture our cooperation with...

Founded in 1985
3 people in their team
English
Autherith | Samek | Imre is an Austrian law firm with offices in Krems an der Donau and Vienna. The Krems location has operated since 1985, and a Vienna presence was established in 2020 to better serve clients across the region. Led by Dr. Alois Autherith LL.M., Mag. Rainer Samek and Mag. Michael...

Founded in 1994
50 people in their team
German
English
My team and I have been at home in this sensitive segment for a long time. If a marriage is about to end, it is in everyone's interest to handle the separation respectfully and quickly. If children are involved, the top priority is to act as carefully as possible. Because in addition to the fair...

Founded in 2024
6 people in their team
English
GOLDA-ZENZ RECHTSANWÄLTE GmbH combines long-standing local experience with a compact, specialist team based in Mondsee, Upper Austria. The practice is led by Dr. jur. Rafaela Golda-Zajc, who has practiced in Mondsee since 1988, together with Mag. jur. Bernhard Zenz; the firm presents a continuity...
HBA Lawyers
Graz, Austria

Founded in 1989
200 people in their team
German
English
We support companies, private individuals and the public sector in all legal matters. Long-term and ad hoc.Strategic and operational.We want to provide you with outstanding legal quality and we want you to measure us against this. We only pursue economically viable solutions: consistently and with...
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About Merger & Acquisition Law in Austria

Merger & Acquisition (M&A) law in Austria is a complex field that deals with transactions involving the consolidation of assets or entire companies. Austrian M&A transactions typically include mergers, acquisitions, and takeovers, which are often part of broader business strategies. The Austrian legal framework for M&A is governed by both European Union regulations and national laws, ensuring that transactions are carried out fairly, transparently, and in compliance with competition policies. Legal advisors specializing in this field provide crucial support, helping companies navigate regulatory requirements, evaluation processes, taxation issues, and ensuring the protection of all parties involved.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Engaging in M&A transactions can be legally and financially intricate. Here are several scenarios where legal assistance is often required:

  • Due Diligence: Legal experts perform comprehensive checks to ensure all relevant facts of the transaction are disclosed and assessed.
  • Contract Negotiation: Lawyers assist in drafting and negotiating terms to protect interests and ensure contracts are legally binding and enforceable.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Legal advice ensures compliance with Austrian and EU regulatory requirements, including competition law and sector-specific regulations.
  • Dispute Resolution: In cases of disagreement or issues post-transaction, legal counsel is necessary for resolution and enforcement of legal rights.
  • Tax Implications: M&A transactions often have complex tax implications requiring expert legal guidance to optimize tax outcomes.

Local Laws Overview

The legal landscape for M&A in Austria is influenced by both national and EU regulations, which must be considered during transactions. Key components include:

  • Competition Law: Austrian and EU competition laws prevent anti-competitive practices, thus requiring certain transactions to be notified and approved by the competition authority.
  • Corporate Governance: The Austrian Stock Corporation Act and Commercial Code outline governance structures and shareholder rights that impact mergers and acquisitions.
  • Securities Regulations: For public companies, adherence to the Austrian Takeover Act is essential to ensure transparency and fairness in takeover offers.
  • Foreign Investment Control: Austria has specific rules for foreign investments in sensitive sectors, requiring consent from authorities to ensure public interest is protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of due diligence in M&A transactions?

Due diligence is a critical process where a comprehensive appraisal of a business is conducted, covering financial performance, legal obligations, and potential liabilities to inform decision-making during M&A transactions.

Are there mandatory disclosures in Austrian M&A deals?

Yes, certain transactions require disclosures to regulatory bodies, particularly if they impact market competition, involve public companies, or fall within regulated sectors.

What are the typical steps in an M&A transaction in Austria?

Standard steps include planning and strategy development, due diligence, negotiation of terms, regulatory approvals, contract drafting, and finally, closing the deal.

How are employees affected by mergers or acquisitions in Austria?

Employees’ rights are protected under Austrian labor laws, which may include potential information and consultation obligations with works councils or employee representatives.

How can competition law affect my M&A strategy?

Competition law can impact M&A by requiring certain transactions to be reviewed or blocked by Austrian or EU competition authorities if they reduce market competition.

What is a merger control filing?

It is a notification submitted to competition authorities to seek approval for a proposed transaction to ensure it does not significantly hinder competition in the market.

Can foreign companies freely invest in Austrian businesses?

Generally yes, but investments within specific sensitive sectors require prior approval from Austrian authorities to ensure public interest and national security.

What tax considerations are involved in M&A in Austria?

M&A transactions may attract several taxes, including capital gains tax and stamp duties, which require strategic planning and legal advice to manage effectively.

What is the significance of the Austrian Takeover Act?

This act regulates the procedures for public takeovers, ensuring that shareholders are treated fairly and transparently during such transactions.

How long does a typical mergers and acquisitions process take in Austria?

Timelines can vary depending on the transaction's complexity, but typically range from several months to over a year, factoring in negotiations, due diligence, and regulatory approvals.

Additional Resources

For more comprehensive assistance and information on M&A in Austria, the following organizations can be beneficial:

  • Austrian Competition Authority (BWB): Provides oversight and guidelines on competition law and merger control.
  • Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA): Offers guidance and regulations related to financial market transactions.
  • Austrian Economic Chambers (WKO): Offers resources and support for businesses, including those involved in M&A activities.
  • Ministry of Finance: Provides guidelines on tax implications related to corporate transactions.

Next Steps

If you are considering an M&A transaction in Austria and require legal assistance, consider the following actions:

  • Consult with an M&A lawyer who is familiar with both local and international regulations.
  • Ensure you have a clear understanding of your objectives, risks, and the legal implications involved in the transaction.
  • Leverage resources offered by professional organizations and governmental bodies to enhance your understanding of the process.
  • Engage a professional team, including accountants and financial advisors, to support various aspects of the transaction.

By taking these steps, you are positioned to navigate the complexities of M&A transactions in Austria successfully.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Austria through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Merger & Acquisition, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.