In 2026, Pitkowitz & Partners continues its longstanding involvement with the Summer ELSA Law School in Vienna.

As part of this year’s programme, Peter Machherndl and Maximilian Albert Mueller, together with trained mediator Stella-Jo Thurner, delivered an in-depth lecture on mediation. They introduced participants to its key principles and highlighted the practical importance of mediation as an effective method of dispute resolution.

In a further session, Caroline Strohmeier from Pitkowitz & Partners joined Kirstin McGoldrick, Counsel at KNOETZL, to discuss what it takes to build a successful and sustainable career in dispute resolution. Drawing on their own professional experiences, they explored different career paths, the role of women in the field, the professional and personal skills required to succeed, work-life balance, and the growing impact of artificial intelligence on the legal profession.

Both events fostered an open dialogue and led to many insightful questions and personal contributions from the participants.

Pitkowitz & Partners would like to thank ELSA Vienna for the opportunity to contribute to this year’s programme once again, as well as all participants for their interest, engagement and valuable contributions to the discussions.