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Overview
Sri Lanka’s legal market, which is dominated by a relatively small number of firms, has picked up more work following the end of the civil war and a subsequent rise in foreign investment. Foreign law firms are currently not allowed to establish offices, but numerous domestic players have close contacts with firms from the US and UK.
Varners has been increasingly busy acting for multinational companies, banks and other financial institutions, a sign that the Sri Lankan economy is improving. Julius & Creasy and F J & G De Saram are the oldest and most highly regarded firms in the country, offering broad legal services. DL & F De Saram also enjoys a strong reputation, having been founded as a branch of F J & G De Saram in 1901. Murugesu & Neelakandan fields the longest practising lawyer in the country, Velupillai Murugesu.
Established over 10 years ago, Nithya Partners has expertise in corporate and financial law; its modern and reputable approach has helped it to develop an enviable client base. Other notable practices include boutique and family firms such as John Wilson Partners, which boasts strengths in intellectual property and private client, wills and probate. Paul Ratnayeke Associates, founded by commercial lawyer Paul Ratnayeke, is highly regarded for its dispute resolution practice. Prasanna Goonewardene & Co is notable for banking and finance and Simon & Associates is respected for its property law expertise. Meanwhile, Sudath Perera Associates has built a solid reputation for its strengths in IP and private client, wills and probate, and Tiruchelvam Associates handles corporate and finance matters.