"Rolf is extremely experienced, has in-depth expertise and has always been supportive."

"Rolf and the other team members came up with pragmatic solutions."

"Rolf is extremely experienced, has in-depth expertise and has always been supportive."

"VISCHER is very professional and still remains agile. VISCHER reacts quickly and well in unexpected situations. VISCHER, especially Rolf auf der Maur, is a very strong negotiator with a clear view of entrepreneurial interests. Rolf auf der Maur and his team have helped us several times in difficult negotiations to find a solution that took our interests into account and was acceptable to the other party."

"The team understands to bring regulatory experts and experts in IT law and data protection to the table, ensuring a holistic and consistent advice, acting as a one stop shop."

"A professional and very effective team, they know what they are dealing with and when facing a challenge, they resolve it in the outmost professional manner."

"Dedicated, responsive and professional. They do not waste your time and every exchange is effective and straight to the point."

"The team is notable in being able to provide technical advice on highly complex areas of law while also remaining practical and keeping the client’s interests at heart."

Lawyer of the year

"He is a strong negotiator with a high level of economic understanding. This often helps to show a pragmatic path even in complex issues."

Rolf Auf der Maur is a popular choice among domestic and multinational media companies for advice on VOD services. Additionally he assists clients with cloud-based projects and technology sector disputes.

‘Very strong partner with Rolf Auf der Maur, who engages very actively himself in the mandates, is very approachable and service-oriented. Very good support from associate Elias Mühlemann. Both are very much oriented to practical commercial aspects of their advice, based on a solid business understanding.’

‘David Rosenthal is the most prominent and active data privacy lawyer in Switzerland. He is the most prolific opinion leader in data privacy in Switzerland. Rolf Auf der Maur is very well connected and has in-depth knowledge of the media and tech industries. Michael Waldner is an expert in health law and has a brilliant mind.’

‘Vischer, especially Rolf auf der Mauer, is a very strong negotiator with a clear view of entrepreneurial interests. Rolf auf der Maur and his team have helped us several times in difficult negotiations to find a solution that took our interests into account and was acceptable to the other party. Christoph Niederer is our contact for all tax issues. He enjoys our full trust and he and his team have rendered us very good services over the years with daily as well as difficult issues.’

Rolf Auf der Maur excels in the field of new communication technologies, with both peers and clients praising his experience handling digital advertising issues.

Rolf Auf der Maur enjoys significant acclaim from peers in the European market, with for a practice that spans the media, entertainment and telecommunications sectors, with and has a special focus on digitisation matters

"Rolf is renowned for his work in the area of digital advertising"

Rolf Auf der Maur comes highly regarded by peers who praise him as “a leading expert with a special focus on digital advertising” and “a pleasure to work with”.

Rolf Auf der Maur is “a highly experienced IT lawyer” with an outstanding record of advising clients from the technology, entertainment and communications sectors on a range of IT issues.

"Rolf Auf der Maur is best in class in intellectual property topics in the media and telecommunications sector in Switzerland."

"Rolf Auf der Maur is best in class in Switzerland."

Rolf Auf der Maur is “very well connected in the industry”, according to sources who celebrate his “client-focused approach”.

Rolf Auf der Maur assists high-profile clients with copyright levies, licensing schemes and advertising matters, in addition to disputes concerning copyright infringement.

"The ability to both provide first-class legal advice and combine it with a clear understanding of business needs and processes in a fast changing environment, is a particular strength of partner Rolf Auf der Maur."

"Rolf Auf der Maur is described as "a long-standing presence and is frequently active in digital advertising", comment knowledgeable respondents."

"Rolf Auf der Maur is a 'long-standing presence in the data privacy market in Switzerland' who is '"particularly active in the digital advertising space'. He comes highly sought-after by clients in the media and entertainment industries."

Rolf Auf der Maur assists high-profile clients with copyright levies, licensing schemes and advertising matters, in addition to disputes concerning copyright infringement. One satisfied client reports him to be "focused on the business success of our company."

VISCHER’s data privacy and data protection team advises companies on compliance matters relating to Swiss and EU data protection and data law requirements as well as the data-related aspects of commercial contracts and M&A transactions. The group has also seen an uptick in instructions to handle data protection-related disputes, including those related to data subject requests. David Rosenthal - an ‘expert in matters of data privacy and data protection’ - is at the forefront of developments in the industry and has been involved in the creation of a statistical method designed to assess the data law risks of foreign lawful access in cases of Swiss banks, hospitals and other operations with sensitive data held in the cloud. Rolf Auf der Maur advises companies primarily from the media, telecoms and IT sectors on all aspects of data law.

Key practice areas for VISCHER are capital markets, M&A, healthcare, TMT and transport as well as public law, competition and litigation. Among the names to note are Klaus Neff, Stefan Kohler, Rolf Auf Der Maur, Benedict Christ, David Rosenthal and Stefan Rechsteiner as well as Christian Oetiker, Michael Waldner, and Christian Wyss.

"Vischer, and in particular Rolf Auf Der Maur, are a pleasure to work with because they have a deep understanding of the market and the dynamics of a quickly developing industry. Thus, they are able to provide very practical advice which does not only consider the legal framework but also business requirements."

"Rolf Auf der Maur is commended for his considerable experience handling mergers and acquisitions and related regulatory matters for clients in the media and telecoms space." He is listed as Global Elite Thought Leader.

"Rolf Auf der Maur is highlighted as an 'well connected and experienced' figure in the Swiss market, with deep understanding of the internet, IT systems and data protection."

"Rolf Auf der Maur, a standout expert in data matters who represents various clients in issues such as internet rights, compliance and regulatory regimes."

Recommended for Data - Data Security

Recommended for Entertainment

Recommended for Data - Data Privacy & Protection

Recommended for Sports & Entertainment

"VISCHER is highly regarded for its healthcare, TMT and transport practices as well as its expertise in capital markets, M&A, public law, competition and litigation matters. Key at the firm include Stefan Kohler, Rolf Auf der Maur, Benedict Christ, Stefan Rechsteiner and Christian Oetiker. Michael Waldner, Klaus Neff and Christian Wyss are other names to note."

Rolf Auf der Maur offers notable strength advising clients within the telecommunication and media sectors on disputes and contractual matters.

Rolf Auf der Maur advises technology and media companies on licensing agreements of all kinds. He is also recommended for his command of data protection and information law.

"VISCHER is 'one of the go-to firms in Switzerlandfor data privacy and data protection'. It facilitates digital transformation projects for companies in the finance and energy sectors, and advises pharmaceutical companies – including Piqur Therapeutics AG – on requirements during clinical trials. Managing associate Thomas Steiner heads the department and is able to 'explain complex aspects in a way that helps'; in recent work, he assisted the Swiss Bar Association with shaping regulations. Steiner and Rolf Auf der Maur 'are both valued experts in the field'. Other highlights include advising Hocoma and Tiko Energy Solutions on Swiss and EU data privacy laws relating to their respective cloud-based connected care and power solutions."

"Clients appreciate VISCHER's 'fast response times, great flexibility' and 'good business sense' when handling cloud-based software as a service offerings, cross-border data security and GDPR issues, and IT sourcing transactions. The team advised Tiko on the business-to-business and customer agreements for its energy consumption optimisation service and is assisting Swisscom AG with various matters following on from representing it in Switzerland's first ISP blocking case. Practice head Rolf Auf der Maur has 'excellent knowledge' and is noted for his 'transparent working methods'. Other work, largely led by Basel-based Christian Wyss, involves third-party collaboration and software licensing agreements for DigitalPK, Skillue and Sympany."

"VISCHER's IP practice handles patent litigation and protection strategies, copyright licensing and agreements for online models and video on demand (VOD) platforms, and trade mark portfolio management. Highlights included team head Stefan Kohler co-ordinating the European market launch of Migros Delica's new coffee capsules compatible with Nespresso machines, and Rolf Auf der Maur successfully defending Swisscom in the first-ever national ISP blocking case. Christian Wyss focuses on due diligence and M&A-related cases."

"VISCHER's TMT practice has experience of sector-relevant convergence issues, regulatory requirements, online services licensing, outsourcing and transfer agreements. Rolf Auf der Maur successfully represented Swisscom as defendant in the first Swiss ISP-blocking matter brought by film rights holders, while Basel-based Christian Wyss assists Sympany with the review, drafting and negotiation of various different IT agreements with suppliers and outsourcing providers. Netflix, Quadrant and Additiv also feature in the client list."

"VISCHER has core strength in the healthcare, TMT and transport sectors and notable public law expertise, while also fielding strong capital markets, M&A, competition and litigation departments. Key partners include Stefan Kohler, Rolf Auf der Maur, Stefan Rechsteiner, Benedict Christ and Christian Oetiker. Michael Waldner and Christian Wyss are other names to note."

"The intellectual property department at VISCHER covers protective, strategic, transactional and contentious matters in relation to patents, copyright, designs and trade marks. Christian Wyss assisted Balderton Capital with the IP due diligence in preparation for its investment into Sophia Genetics' $30m financing round, while team lead Stefan Kohler advises Philipp Morris on the agreements required for the technological development of reduced-risk tobacco products. Rolf Der Maur, who combines intellectual property law with IT expertise, is another name to note."

"Clients highlight that Rolf Auf der Maur "is always available and very creative and efficient when we need to deal with difficult situations." He advises clients from the media and entertainment industry on copyright issues and licensing agreements."

"Rolf Auf der Maur is noted for his expertise across a variety of TMT matters and for his extensive recent activity in data privacy and data security matters. He assisted Quadrant with a global data protection and GDPR compliance project. He also frequently advises on copyright issues. Clients describe him as "very creative and efficient when we need to deal with difficult situations."

"Rolf Auf der Maur at Vischer is well known among peers for his world-class data practice that spans a wide array of matters from privacy and protection to security and telecoms."

"Media specialist Vischer is among national leaders for digital media matters. According to one client “The firm does excellent work. Not only in the core areas of media law but also in other practice areas where we need support, for example tax law and labour law.” With an entertainment specialisation, the practice group advises on television broadcast, film, music and gaming. Managed by Rolf Auf der Maur, the group collaborates with the information and communication, intellectual property and competition departments."

"Vischer delivers ‘a very good performance with quick reactions, subject competency and a solution-oriented approach’. The practice is particularly well known for broadcasting and e-commerce matters, while also handling IT and telecommunication cases. Recent highlights include representing Swisscom in Switzerland’s first ISP blocking case brought by film rights holders and advising Netflix on copyright issues as well as on regulatory requirements for VOD services. Private TV network 3 Plus Group is another active client. Rolf Auf der Maur is a ‘proven specialist’."

"Vischer’s biggest strengths are advisory and contentious IP services in the broadcasting media and life sciences industries. The team is representing Swisscom in the first Swiss ISP blocking case against film rights holders and regularly advises Netflix on copyright issues in Switzerland. Private TV network 3 Plus Group is another key client. Rolf Auf der Maur ‘provides pragmatic, useful advice in a timely fashion’."

"Rolf Auf der Maur assisted EBL with the drafting and negotiation of the framework, licence and systems integration agreements for new asset management software. He has expertise in a range of TMT matters, including data protection and the transition of data management services, as well as notable experience of disputes regarding outsourcing issues. One source highlights his 'business-minded approach' and also appreciates his ability to deliver 'a sound analysis of an issue' and 'options for solutions and real guidance on how to proceed.'"

" Rolf Auf der Maur assists clients with regulatory matters, such as requirements for VOD services, as well as with collective licensing schemes, copyright and competition matters. One client enthuses: 'He doesn't only deliver a sound legal analysis of an issue, he also provides options for solutions and real guidance on how to proceed.'"

"Media specialist Vischer is among national leaders for digital media matters. According to one client “The firm does excellent work. Not only in the core areas of media law but also in other practice areas where we need support, for example tax law and labour law.” With an entertainment specialisation, the practice group advises on television broadcast, film, music and gaming. Managed by Rolf Auf der Maur, the group collaborates with the information and communication, intellectual property and competition departments."

"Vischer’s team has been representing Westwind in a patent dispute regarding heat exchange technology and assisted Netflix with copyright matters. The ‘very skilled and knowledgeable’ Stefan Kohler is an expert for patent and trade mark matters, while Rolf Auf der Maur is recommended for copyright work."

"At Vischer in Zurich Rolf Auf der Maur represents leading media and entertainment companies and advises on a range of internet-related matters. His advice is 'concise and clear' and 'always timely'."

"Media specialist VISCHER is among national leaders for digital media matters. According to one client “The firm does excellent work. Not only in the core areas of media law but also in other practice areas where we need support, for example tax law and labour law.” With an entertainment specialisation, the practice group advises on television broadcast, film, music and gaming. Managed by Rolf Auf der Maur, the group collaborates with the information and communication, intellectual property and competition departments."

"Vischer is particularly strong in public law, where Stefan Rechsteiner is a leading lawyer, and in the healthcare and life sciences sector, where Stefan Kohler has expertise in regulatory and IP matters and Matthias Staehelin regularly handles M&A transactions. Another industry strength is media and telecoms, where Rolf Auf der Maur is recommended."

"Vischer’s Stefan Kohler is recommended for pharmaceuticals patent and trade mark matters, and Rolf Auf der Maur is recommended for copyrights and trade mark matters, most notably in the media sector. Clients include Netflix, 3 Plus and AstraZeneca."

"Vischer’s Rolf Auf der Maur is ‘probably one of the best connected lawyers in the Swiss media, IT and telecoms industries’, and ‘does not only deal with immediate requests but most often thinks at least one step ahead’. Clients include 3 Plus, Netflix, Swisscom, Ring Central and additiv."

"Rolf Auf der Maur gains particular praise for his skill in IP matters in the IT and media fields. Sources confirm his 'good standing,' highlighting that 'in this sector, most companies operating in media know him and that's a testament to his reputation.' He represented 3 Plus Group in various legal matters, including the negotiation of complex licensing agreements."

"Head of department Rolf Auf der Maur is a prominent expert in e-commerce and online media. He advised the 3 Plus Group on the monetisation of video advertising formats on its website and mobile applications. Clients state that 'he knows the law very well and he's very business and solutions-minded, strategic and tactical.'"

Recommended for Entertainmend Law, Information Technology Law, Intellectual Property Law - Copyright, Media Law, Technology Law, Telecommunications Law.

Lawyer of the year 2015, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2023

"Rolf Auf der Maur at Vischer is a 'frequent figure' in the media and entertainment scene and is a 'firm favourite' among clients in this field."

"Vischer is represented by its 'standout' TMT practitioner Rolf Auf der Maur. His 'professional approach' is admired by his clients, as is his ability to 'weigh up risks and find solutions'."

"Vischer’s Stefan Kohler is recommended for pharmaceuticals patent and trade mark matters, and Rolf Auf der Maur is an expert in media sector copyrights and trade marks. Clients include Mattern Pharmaceutical, V-Zug, 3 Plus and Swisscom."

"Vischer’s Rolf Auf der Maur is ‘probably one of the best connected lawyers in the Swiss media and telecoms industries’, and has ‘strong legal and negotiation skills’. Clients include 3 Plus and Swisscom."

»Vischer is a clear market leader, for many reasons. Department head Rolf Auf der Maur is one of them. “Rolf Auf der Maur is very well connected in the media and communications sectors. He knows almost everyone who is relevant in the media and technology sector which facilitates the handling of many matters”, explained one client. The firm’s media and entertainment practice is focused on new media, ranging from online platforms to broadcasting, working closely with the intellectual property and competition divisions. Summarised by one client, “Rolf Auf der Maur and the members of his team certainly have a very high level of technical and legal expertise.”«

"Rolf Auf der Maur has notable experience in handling media and telecommunications matters. Described as 'an expert in this field', he is praised by clients for his 'open and direct style of communication and his ability to give clear guidance on business-critical issues.'"

"Rolf Auf der Maur represents clients from the media, technology and telecoms sectors. Sources regard him as a particularly strong choice for e-commerce mandates."

"VISCHER stands firmly and favourably as one of the country's most prominent practices. Equally renowned head of department Rolf Auf der Maur has long standing experience and expertise owing to 20 years of media law specialisation. "VISCHER manages to simplify complex issues and provide legal certainty. We cooperate with VISCHER because they are of high repute in the market of digital media," commented one client."

"Department head Rolf Auf der Maur is 'very user-friendly and smart in his approach,' say interviewees. 'He has the relevant industry experience and is thoughtful when devising good solutions.' Auf der Maur is also known for his IP practice."

"Rolf Auf der Maur's IP work has a strong focus on the media, IT, entertainment and telecoms industries. Clients say: 'He always looks for a solution that reflects the business interest of the company.'"

"At Vischer, Rolf Auf der Maur represents leading companies from the media, entertainment, telecommunications and information technology industries. He is 'very active' and 'highly regarded' by many for his e-commerce work."

"At Vischer, Rolf Auf der Maur is an 'esteemed' practitioner with 'extensive knowledge' of sports-related media, IT and IP projects, and clients include a wide range of sports media and telecommunications companies."

"Vischer’s department head Rolf Auf der Maur is well connected within the media, telecoms and IT industries. He is ‘extremely responsive and always available’, and has a ‘unique combination of legal skills and industry expertise’. "

"Stefan Kohler leads Vischer’s team, which is known for its copyright expertise, particularly relating to new media and entertainment. It also handles IT and trade mark matters. Rolf Auf der Maur is recommended for his expertise in copyright law relating to new technology."