Firms To Watch: Leading firms

Pejovic Legal was founded in October 2022 by the former head of Karanovic & Partners in cooperation with local lawyers, Milena Rončević Pejović. As well as being a hospitality expert, her practice encompasses the full-spectrum of corporate and commercial legal services, with a particular focus on advising clients on their Montenegrin branch establishment.
A boutique IP firm, Zivko Mijatovic & Partners specialises in trade mark, design, and patent prosecution and enforcement. Marija Savic is the practice head, while Rajka Vukcevic is also a key contact.
Led by Milos Komnenić and Nemanja Radović, Law Office Komnenic & Partners is a specialised commercial law firm that frequently assists clients on business transactions across various sectors, with a particular focus on real estate and hospitality.

Leading firms in Montenegro

BDK Advokati

BDK Advokati is a ‘technically strong and very pragmatic‘ full-service law firm with particular expertise in M&A and banking and finance. The team is also a key port of call for foreign investors, with notable experience in investment service regulation. The ‘outstanding‘ practice head, Luka Popović , often advises clients on a breadth of transactional work and greenfield projects, and is a specialist in the gambling and hospitality sectors. Bisera Andrijašević, who leads the firm’s life sciences and healthcare team is also recommended, especially for her expertise in state aid. Jelena Brajković  left the firm in July 2023 to set up an independent practice.

Practice head(s):

Luka Popović


Other key lawyers:

Bisera Andrijašević


Testimonials

‘Technically strong and very pragmatic. They are very well-connected in the market. ’

‘Luca Popovic is outstanding, he is a fantastic technical lawyer with a diplomatic and commercial approach to negotiations. ’

Key clients

Sandberg Capital


Abu Dhabi Capital Group


Fortenova Group


Fusion Capital


Net Holding


Hoffman La Roche


Epam system Inc


Zorlu Enerji


Energean


Kotor Hills


NLB


Hotusa Group


Work highlights


  • Advised Abu Dhabi Capital Group on the sale of the group of companies that own and operate The Capital Plaza, a premium business and residential complex in Podgorica, Montenegro.
  • Advising Fortenova Group on their acquisition of the Montenegrin retail chain Franca.
  • Advising a client on various aspects of their acquisition and development of a lead/zinc mine in Montenegro.

Harrisons Solicitors

Harrisons Solicitors is praised as a ‘unique legal practice‘, and is well-regarded for its expertise in tourism and real estate projects. Further lauded for its ‘deep expertise and extensive experience’, the practice’s recent caseload encompasses activity in the maritime sector, frequently assisting yacht owners, operators and, insurers. Experienced litigator Milan Keker heads the practice in Podgorica, focusing his practice on M&A, restructuring, real estate, as well as energy, most notably renewables. Goran Martinovic is focused on foreign investments in the tourism sector.

Practice head(s):

Milan Keker


Other key lawyers:

Goran Martinovic


Testimonials

‘The individuals I have had the privilege to work with at Harrisons Solicitors LLP in Montenegro truly stand out in several ways. First and foremost, the dedication and commitment of the team members are exceptional. In addition, their deep expertise and extensive experience in their respective fields are remarkable. I must also mention the outstanding communication and teamwork skills. They are truly professionals.’

‘They are responsive and available when we need support, even for last minute urgent requests. They understand our business and provide commercial advice.’

‘Harrisons Montenegro is a unique legal practice that distinguishes itself in several notable ways, making it an attractive choice for potential clients seeking legal services in Montenegro. I like that this firm places its clients at the center. The team understands that each client has unique needs and objectives, and this ensures that the legal solutions provided are tailored to the specific circumstances and goals of the client.’

Key clients

EBRD


Adriatic Marinas


Lustica Development


Aer Rianta International (ARI)


EU Delegation to Montenegro


DEG


Royal Group (UAE)


Dahlem


British Embassy Montenegro


Qair International


Vantage Drilling


Corporacion America Airports (CAAP)


Fortenova Group


Aggreko


Intermediate Havarie – Baretung


Alucon


British Council Montenegro


Samer & Strugar shipping


Work highlights


  • Acted as legal counsel to EBRD on a EUR 82 million loan to Montenegrin Electricity Company, Elektroprivreda Crne Gore a.d. Nikšić, and Green Gvozd LLC for the development, construction, and operation of 55 MW wind power plant located in Gvozd.
  • Acted as legal counsel to EBRD on a EUR 4 million loan to Voli, the largest Montenegrin retail chain, for the purchase and fitting of solar panels with up to 4 MW capacity and electric vehicle charging stations at its facilities and logistics centres.
  • Acted as legal counsel to the European Union Delegation to Montenegro on employment and labour law, civil law, and insurance matters.

Moravčević Vojnović and Partners in cooperation with Schoenherr

Moravčević Vojnović and Partners in cooperation with Schoenherr is a ‘top quality‘ full-service law firm, with particular expertise in M&A, banking and finance, and project development. Practice head Slaven Moravčević is an expert in dispute resolution, and specialises in telecommunications, energy, and privatization mandates. Nikola Babić heads the banking and finance group, and Miloš Laković focuses on energy and infrastructure projects with a particular emphasis on renewables. The group also includes Luka Veljović, who provides ‘expert advice‘ on a wide range of issues relating to corporate and construction matters. Other key members of the team include real estate specialist Ana Ivanović, Vasilije Grgurević who is proficient in capital market matters, as well as Petar Vučinić and Ana Cerović.

Practice head(s):

Slaven Moravčević


Other key lawyers:

Nikola Babić; Miloš Laković; Luka Veljović; Petar Vučinić; Ana Ivanović; Ana Cerović; Vasilije Grgurević


Testimonials

‘The team is highly effective, and always focuses on our highest priority. They are effective lawyers, they seek the heart of matter, and suggest how to reach the agreement or resolution based on experience and knowledge.’

‘I would like to highlight their organization skills, experience, and availability. They provide us with the needed answers in an exceptional turnaround time, and they are always good at helping us with minimizing or mitigating legal risks. ’

‘They are available to provide expert advice when required, which is customized to our relevant needs and requirements.’

Key clients

Lidl


CWP MNE


Deutsche Bank AG


Hyatt


State of Montenegro


Enemalta plc


Shanghai Electric Power


ICBC Austria Bank GmbH


EBRD


Mozura Wind Park doo Podgorica


Elektroprivreda Crne Gore AD Nikšić (EPCG)


Fortum


United Group


Enel Global Trading


Citigroup Global Markets Limited


Erste Group Bank AG


Merrill Lynch International


Société Générale as the Joint Lead Managers


The Ministry of Transport and Maritime Affairs of Montenegro


UNIQA Insurance Group AG


UNIQA Österreich Versicherungen AG


Raiffeisen Bank International AG


Sucafina


Hydra Brokerage DMCC


Société Générale


Atena Bohor


Novi Volvox


Work highlights


  • Advised Deutsche Bank AG Frankfurt and Deutsche Bank AG’s London Branch on a EUR 100 million term facility agreement with the State of Montenegro.
  • Advising the German retail supermarket chain Lidl on expanding its presence in the region and entering the Montenegrin market.
  • Advising one of the largest hotel operators, Hyatt, in relation to the franchising arrangement with a Montenegrin company Krolbay d.o.o. The franchising relates to a condo hotel consisting of approximately 206 accommodation units, as well as 27 apartments, and 21 villas located on the Montenegrin seaside, in the bay of Kotor.

CMS

With in-depth expertise in business operations and compliance, CMS boasts a strong presence in M&A, corporate, and commercial law. The practice, which is lauded for its ‘great depth and breadth’ is co-headed by M&A specialist Radivoje Petrikić and Milica Popović who leads the banking and finance team. Tamara Samardžija, is skilled in regulatory matters and employment law.

Practice head(s):

Radivoje Petrikić; Milica Popović


Other key lawyers:

Tamara Samardžija


Testimonials

‘We are working with CMS on a significant dispute. Their in-depth technical knowledge of the laws and procedures in the region is what makes them unique, as well as being able to articulate their advice with the complexities of the laws of England. Their disputes team is first rate with great depth and breadth. ’

‘Radivoje Petrikić and Tamara Samardžija are excellent disputes lawyers.’

Key clients

Hystead Limited


UGT Renewables LLC


EVN/WTE Group


Deutsche Bank AG


Porsche


EchoStar Corporation


Citibank


Flutter International


Santiment


MGAC UK Holdings


Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL Japan)


Kansai Helios Group


Otis


Monir


Amgen


D. Trading International S.A. (DTISA)


Fragomen


Work highlights


  • Advised Hystead Limited on the sale of Delta City Mall in Podgorica, Montenegro.
  • Advising UGT Renewables LLC on a joint development agreement with EPCG, in relation to the development of a new large-scale solar power plant in Montenegro.
  • Representing EVN/WTE Group in arbitration proceedings relation to high-value investment projects in Montenegro.

Doklestic Repic & Gajin

Doklestic Repic & Gajin has an ‘exceptional level of expertise‘ in M&A and corporate transactions, and is well-equipped to advise clients on commercial agreements and reorganisations. The practice is co-headed by the ‘prominent figure’ Slobodan Doklestic, and Danilo Radulovic who focuses on restructurings. The team also includes Dragan Gajin who heads the firm’s competition department, and Ljubinka Pljevaljcic who specialises in contract, corporate, and employment law.

Practice head(s):

Dr Slobodan Doklestic; Danilo Radulovic


Other key lawyers:

Dragan Gajin; Ljubinka Pljevaljcic


Testimonials

‘I am delighted to provide an unequivocally positive recommendation for Doklestic Repic & Gajin law firm, particularly in the realm of corporate and M&A work. The exceptional level of expertise and dedication displayed by the entire team, under the leadership of Slobodan Doklestic has consistently exceeded our expectations.’

‘A highly professional, responsive, and business-oriented team’

‘The firm’s stellar performance in corporate and M&A work speaks volumes about their dedication to excellence. Their consistent ability to deliver exceptional results has earned our utmost confidence and respect.’

‘The team has multiple strengths, huge knowledge, and a willingness to reach out to you and help whenever needed. Their diversity of experience and professional knowledge is more than great.’

‘Slobodan Doklestic is a prominent figure in the field of corporate and M&A work. He is a true market leader whose extensive experience and unparalleled expertise make him a standout choice.’

‘Slobodan Doklestic’s leadership and guidance have been nothing short of exemplary. His wealth of experience in corporate matters, coupled with a strategic mindset, have been pivotal in steering our corporate ventures towards favorable outcomes. His accessibility, responsiveness, and commitment to our business have fostered a level of trust that is truly remarkable in the legal profession. ’

‘Slobodan Doklestic and Danilo Radulovic, in particular, exemplify unwavering commitment and unparalleled skill in navigating complex corporate transactions. Their insight, diligence, and innovative thinking have consistently proven invaluable in achieving favorable outcomes for clients.’

‘Slobodan Doklestic and his team are perfect. He is such an experienced professional who knows all the court practices and laws. Collaboration with him was so perfect and proactive we that we resolved all our labour cases without going to court.’

Key clients

Philip Morris


World Bank


Beluga Group


MOL Group


NLB Bank


NELT & Co.


MonteCredit


Tarkett


Crnogorski Telekom (Montenegro Telecom / member of Deutsche Telekom Group)


Air Montenegro


Carlsberg


University of Montenegro


Saint Gobain


Adecco


VisionFund International


Medicover


DTD Holding


Hewlett Packard


Move one Inc.


DT Termo


AmRest


Topia Group


Work highlights


  • Advised Beluga Group on the acquisition of a target company in Montenegro.
  • Advised Philip Morris on matters relating to its distribution in Montenegro.
     
  • Provided MOL merger control assistance in Serbia and Montenegro.

Joksovic, Stojanovic & Partners

Frequently advising foreign investors and public sector entities, Joksovic, Stojanovic & Partners boasts expertise in real estate, as well as corporate and tourism law. Practice head Petar Stojanovic provides ‘innovative legal solutions‘ in M&A, foreign direct investments, and privatisation projects. Other key team members include Goran Vucic and Danilo Vukčević .

Practice head(s):

Petar Stojanovic


Other key lawyers:

Goran Vucic; Danilo Vukčević


Testimonials

‘Joksovic, Stojanovic & Partners is dedicated to their clients’ legal interests. From my personal experience of co-operating with them in legal matters connected to Montenegro, I know that they always provide their clients with accurate and honest information regarding their legal affairs and the possible outcomes of legal procedures. They are a perfect example how to practice law with dignity and integrity.’

‘Joksovic, Stojanovic & Partners has devoted and readily available senior lawyers with vast experience in various fields of law. The complexity of the matters we are facing as investors in Montenegro require the structure, experience, and resourcefulness that this team has.’

‘I very much respect Petar Stojanovic for his ability and willingness to study any particular legal issue in so much detail that it impresses all parties involved. ’

‘On numerous occasions, Petar Stojanovic has provided innovative legal solutions based on his vast experience, holistic understanding, and approach to the Montenegrin legal environment. He is able to discern what is most important for the investor, and how to best deal with obstacles by applying diversified legal mechanisms.’

‘Petar Stojanovic gives direct advice. ’

‘Petar Stojanovic has an exceptional feeling for the nuances of law, and has contributed significantly to our commercial operations with his interpretation of relevant regulations and given legal advice .’

Key clients

Government of Montenegro


Qatari Diar


Mercury Group – Sonuba Montenegro doo


National Museum of Montenegro


Nelt Co. (Neregelia, Montenomaks etc.)


Alkemy SPA


Teknox – Caterpillar


Meridian Bet (Member of Meridian Gaming Group)


Renault Nissan


Montecco


Monteput doo


Work highlights


  • Advised the Government of Montenegro on contract implementation for the construction of highway Bar-Boljare.
  • Advised the Montenegrin subsidiary of Qatari Diar on the development of a major real estate project in Montenegro, the tourist complex “Blue Horizons,” valued at approximately EUR 250 million.
  • Advised Sonuba Montenegro doo – a member of Mercury Group, regarding the planned investment for development of a tourist complex in Maljevic location near Bar, Montenegro. The value of the planned investment is over EUR 400 million.

Karanovic & Partners in cooperation with local lawyers

Lauded by clients for its ‘professional and high-quality service‘, Karanovic & Partners often assists hospitality and tourism investors with real estate, infrastructure, as well as banking and finance mandates. Milan Lazić  heads the regional arbitration and litigation practice, Sandra Perišić is adept in corporate, real estate and employment matters, and Vera Vučelić Radunović is proficient in energy issues.

Practice head(s):

Milan Lazic; Vera Vučelić Radunović; Sandra Perišić


Testimonials

‘Karanovic & Partners provides professional and high-quality services.’

Key clients

CEE BIG BV


Philip Morris Montenegro doo Podgorica


PETROL Montenegro, part of PETROL Slovenia


Ernst & Young Montenegro


BCL Holding


Chopin Vodka/CMI


Stihl


BB Invest Group


Ericsson


Inditex Group


Work highlights


  • Advised CEE BIG on their acquisition of a shopping mall, Delta City.
  • Advised Inditex Group, a multinational fashion retail group on various corporate, regulatory, contentious, real estate and employment matters.
  • Advising BB Invest Group on the construction, development, and operation of the Wolf Condominium Project in Kolasin, Montenegro, which will consist of a condo hotel and residential complex.

Bojovic Draškovic Popovic & Partners

With in-depth expertise in the technology, entertainment, real estate, and shipping sectors, Bojovic Draškovic Popovic & Partners advises both domestic and international clients on a wide range of commercial matters. Practice head Vuk Drašković is an expert in corporate, commercial and M&A matters, Uroš Popović, specialises in US law, and other key members of the team include Stefan Golubović , Miloš Andrejević, and Simona Vračar.

Practice head(s):

Vuk Drašković


Other key lawyers:

Uroš Popović; Stefan Golubović; Miloš Andrejević; Simona Vračar


Testimonials

‘Bojovic Draskovic Popovic & Partners’ team distinguishes itself through its highly specialized expertise in corporate law.’

‘The team members are renowned for their in-depth knowledge and experience in navigating the complexities of doing business in SEE.’

‘What sets Bojovic Draskovic Popovic & Partners apart is their innovative approach to legal problem-solving. The team is known for thinking outside the box, employing creative strategies, and staying ahead of legal trends to provide clients with cutting-edge solutions.’

‘The team at Bojovic Draskovic Popovic & Partners comprises individuals with diverse legal backgrounds and complementary skill sets. This diversity enhances the firm’s ability to handle multifaceted legal issues comprehensively.’

‘Their reputation for legal excellence, industry-specific knowledge, and a client-centric approach solidifies their position as a top-tier firm in Montenegro.’

‘I had the privilege of engaging the services of Bojovic Draskovic Popovic & Partners and I am thrilled to share my outstanding experience with this remarkable law firm and its exceptional team of lawyers.’

‘The team has successfully handled numerous high-profile cases, securing favorable outcomes for its clients and solidifying its reputation as a go-to firm for challenging legal matters.’

‘Vuk Drašković, Uroš Popović and Stefan Golubović stand out.’

Key clients

The Walt Disney Company


Philips


Samsung


MSC Global Shipping Company


Odvjetnik Mitja Vidmar


EBRD


Signify


Dentons


Work highlights


  • Advised EBRD on the restructuring of their project finance regarding the development of a luxury hotel chain in Montenegro, the Hilton Podgorica.
  • Advising Odvjetnik Mitja Vidmar on dividend’s distribution and the liquidation and insolvency of local banks under Montenegrin regulation.
  • Advised HERE Global B.V. regarding a project for the development of mapping and navigation services in Montenegro.

Durutović, Vuksanović & Kraljević Attorneys-at-law

The ‘client-centered’ and ‘trustworthy‘ practice Durutović, Vuksanović & Kraljević Attorneys-at-law frequently advise clients on the full-spectrum of contentious and non-contentious construction, real estate, and housing matters. The firm’s founding partner Tamara Durutović has extensive legal experience in real estate transactions, corporate relations, and litigation. The team also includes Biljana Vuksanovic, who is a specialist in civil litigation, and Anja Kraljevic, whose practice mainly focuses on preparing due diligence for acquisition of property.

Practice head(s):

Tamara Durutovic; Biljana Vuksanovic; Anja Kraljevic


Testimonials

‘They are professional, reliable, trustworthy, client-centered, fair, reputable, and responsible.’

‘Good value, execution, and promptness.’

‘We could not be more satisfied with Biljana Vuksanovic. What is important for us from a non-profit sector, is that we know we could rely on her if we needed pro bono service. ’

Key clients

Neregelia LLC


Zetagradnja LLC


Domaca Trgovina LLC


Bigova Bay LLC, Kotor


Confederation of trade unions of Montenegr


Carine LLC


Montenegrin Telekom JSC


Capital Podgorica


BRIV Construction LLC


The Energy Regulatory Agency


Alkaloid LLC


BBI Development LLC


Montenomaks Control & Logistics LLC


Kotor Municipality


Napredak JSC


Expo Commerce LLC


Nelt LLC


Easy Drive LLC


Gold travel LLC


Gorenje LLC


Work highlights


  • Representing Zetagradnja in various court proceedings in Montenegro and preparing legal opinions related to its business activities, especially in the areas of planning and construction.
  • Advised Carine on preparing various contracts.
  • Representing Domaca trgovina in various court proceedings.

Radonjic / Associates

The full-service law firm Radonjic / Associates is well-equipped to advise clients on a wide-spectrum of banking, capital markets, M&A and competition mandates. The practice is led by Vladimir Radonjic whose practice encompasses real estate, corporate and commercial matters, dispute resolution and energy projects. Maja Velimirovic is noted for her M&A capabilities.

 

Practice head(s):

Vladimir Radonjic; Maja Velimirovic


Key clients

Vitol Gas and Power B.V.


Danske Commodities A/S


G5 Entertainment Group


Golf Scape doo Podgorica


Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd


Blue Grid Gas & Power S.A.


Bumech S.A.


Ermenegildo Zegna Group


Work highlights


  • Represented Bumech SA, a Poland-based company operating in the coal mining support and machinery industry on complex litigation proceedings.
  • Advising the global energy company Vitol Gas and Power B.V. on acquiring a license to trade energy on the Montenegrin electricity market.
  • Represented the relevant Swiss bankruptcy authority in co-operation with Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd in a foreign bankruptcy proceeding.

Law Office Vujacic

With notable activity in the aviation and real estate sectors, Law Office Vujacic demonstrates a ‘profound understanding of the client’s needs‘ and advises both domestic and international clients on the full array of commercial, corporate, and civil law matters. The practice is co-headed by Sasha Vujacic, and the ‘dedicated’ Jelena Vujisic who is an expert in foreign investments and business establishment.

Practice head(s):

Sasha Vujacic; Jelena Vujisic


Testimonials

‘The team demonstrated a profound understanding of our needs and always exceeded our expectations with their legal skills.’

‘Sasha Vujacic has more than 30 years experience as a lawyer and always finds the best legal and cost efficient solution for every legal issue.’

‘Jelena Vujisic Partner is very dedicated and committed to the interests of the clients.’

Key clients

Microsoft Montenegro


PricewaterhouseCoopers Consulting


Telemach Crna Gora


Coca-Cola HBC Srbija


QSI International School of Montenegro


Knauf


Televizija Vijesti doo


Daily press doo (Vijesti daily newspaper)


Western Union/Montenegro Transfers


Acibadem Sağlik Hizmetleri Ve Ticaret Anonim Şirketi


WOODINVEST Beruhazo


GE Capital Aviation Services Limited


European Bank For Reconstruction And Development


KfW IPEX-Bank GMBH


CROWE RS


Responsibility Investments AG


DeFacto Global Magazacilik Anonim Sirketi


Nippon Paint Group/Dulux Group


Atlantic Grand


Suzuki


Work highlights


  • Advising the European Bank for the Reconstruction and Development, and KfW IPEX Babk GMBH on a finance project for the development of the first wind farm in Montenegro, Krnovo Wind Farm.
  • Advising GECAS on its aircraft sale to a new airline company in Montenegro, ToMontenegro.
  • Advising WOODINVEST Beruhazo on their residential development project, ‘Risan Bay’.

Vukmirovic Mišic Law Firm

Vukmirovic Mišic Law Firm boasts vast expertise in real estate, capital markets and IT matters. Head of the practice Lana Vukmirovic Misic is thoroughly experienced in corporate, commercial, M&A and dispute resolution. The team also includes Milica Komar who is proficient in capital market matters, and primarily focused on contractual and corporate matters, Marija Zivkovic, who is experienced in IP, and litigation specialist Amra Ademovic.

Practice head(s):

Lana Vukmirović Mišić


Other key lawyers:

Milica Komar; Marija Zivkovic; Amra Ademovic;


Key clients

Addiko bank AD, Podgorica


TF Capital


4iG Nyrt


VHM Development


VHM Solutions


NLB bank


LB Agency Services


Municipality of Podgorica


Vodovod Podgorica


Zain Property Development


OTP bank Nyrt, Budapest


CKB bank


Siemens Energy


Embassy of the Republic of Austria in Montenegro


NOZAX


First Line Software


Fashion Company


Municipality of Pljevlja


Railway Infrastructure JSC


Embassy of Greece in Montenegro


Public Works Authority, Montenegro


fleka


Work highlights


  • Advising VHM Development on their real estate development projects, including negotiating agreements with contractors, purchase agreements, and condominium rules.
  • Advising the Municipality of Pljvelja on issues relating to their waste-water treatment plant project in Pljevlja.
  • Acted as Montenegrin legal counsel for 4iG Nyrt on their acquisition of One Telecom.