12 February 2025
roadmap
From Fritz's vision to an international law firm's legacy
Every organisation has its story, and Schoenherr's journey is a testament to how visionary leadership can shape not just a company but an entire industry. From its beginnings in 1950 to becoming the leading international law firm, Schoenherr's success is inseparable from the pioneering spirit of its founder, Fritz Schönherr. A lawyer, academic and innovator, Fritz laid the foundation for the culture of excellence, collaboration and clarity that defines Schoenherr to this day.
Our story begins in Austria, where Fritz Schönherr, a lawyer with a knack for innovation, charted an unconventional path. While leading Philips' legal department in Austria, Fritz simultaneously established his own law practice. Working out of the Philips building, he used a second entrance provided by the CEO to meet with private clients.
A scholar's touch
Fritz's impact extended far beyond his legal practice. As a professor of commercial law at the University of Vienna, he was a towering figure in academia, particularly in intellectual property and competition law. His commentaries became benchmarks, influencing legal thought and practice across Austria. His lectures and writings became tools for refining legal strategies and maintaining a high standard of excellence.
Today, this legacy thrives within Schoenherr. Many of the firm's lawyers actively contribute to academia, lecturing at universities and publishing in their fields of expertise. This tradition, rooted in Fritz's dual commitment to scholarship and practice, continues to ensure that Schoenherr remains a leader in legal innovation.
Clarity and simplicity
In a field often criticised for its complexity, Fritz's commitment to clarity stood out. He believed that legal advice should empower clients by being simple and actionable. His straightforward approach earned him the trust and respect of his peers and clients alike, setting a standard for the firm's ethos.
Fritz's early colleagues – Walter Barfuß, Hellwig Torggler, Christian Hauer and Guido Kucsko – still recall his ability to distil complex issues to their essence through mastery of language and rhetoric. This focus on simplicity and precision became a defining characteristic of Schoenherr.
A culture of collaboration and growth
While Fritz was a visionary innovator, he also recognised the critical role of teamwork. He fostered an ethos of respect, collaboration and mutual learning, while celebrating the unique strengths of each team member. By balancing individuality with a commitment to shared goals, Fritz instilled a sense of purpose that continues to resonate among Schoenherr's professionals.
This collaborative spirit proved instrumental as the firm expanded and adapted to new challenges. Pioneering a path that few other law firms had ventured, Schoenherr established itself as a leader in Central and Eastern Europe long before such expansions became commonplace.
A legacy anchored in innovation
Today, Schoenherr stands as a testament to the principles Fritz championed: clarity, foresight and collaboration. From a one-lawyer operation to an international powerhouse, the firm's journey reflects the enduring impact of its founder's vision. While its tools and technology have evolved, the values Fritz instilled remain unchanged.
In every client interaction, every case tackled and every academic contribution made, Schoenherr embodies the spirit of its founder. Fritz wasn't just a lawyer; he was a trailblazer who saw the law not merely as a profession but as a platform for growth, innovation and collective achievement. His legacy continues to shape the firm, guiding it as it navigates new challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing world.
Anniversaries are the perfect occasion to reflect on one's journey, and Fritz's early colleagues helped us do so.
Walter Barfuß was the first to join Fritz, starting as an associate and later becoming partner. He says that he learned more than just law from Fritz – he gained wisdom and elegance.
Hellwig Torggler joined the firm in 1970 as a partner, remaining in this role for 37 years. To this day, he takes pride in witnessing Schoenherr's remarkable development.
Christian Hauer also joined in 1970, and his impressive art collection continues to be displayed in Schoenherr's Vienna office.
Guido Kucsko was Fritz's last associate, joining in 1980. Somewhere along his (always very artistic) journey, he designed the Schoenherr logo and our firm's corporate design (including but not limited to the flagship office at Schottenring 19).
