August Debouzy > Paris, France > Firm Profile
August Debouzy Offices
7 rue de Téhéran
75008 Paris
France
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August Debouzy > The Legal 500 Rankings
France > Compliance Tier 1
August Debouzy assists an impressive client base, comprising many of France’s top companies, as well as many large international groups, from various industries including technology, energy, public infrastructure, hospitality and manufacturing. The team is frequently instructed to assist with risk mapping work and implementation of compliance programmes, spanning anti-corruption, duty of vigilance and ESG requirements. It has a strong know-how in the field of Sapin II anti-corruption compliance and corresponding AFA (French Anticorruption Agency)-led audits. The practice is also a popular choice to advise on international sanctions. The strong team is co-headed by France’s former Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve, Astrid Mignon Colombet and Benjamin van Gaver. Olivier Attias and Valérie Munoz-Pons, who were promoted to the partnership in 2023, are other key names.Practice head(s):
Bernard Cazeneuve; Benjamin van Gaver; Astrid Mignon Colombet
Other key lawyers:
Olivier Attias; Valérie Munoz-Pons; Anais Coviaux
Testimonials
‘Very clear and periodic invoicing. Good follow-up.’
‘Great availability and great responsiveness.’
‘Perfect knowledge of the issues, quick and clear answers taking into account legal and business constraints’
‘Great quality advice; remarkable availability and exceptional customer relations; state-of-the-art expertise and availability.’
‘Olivier Attias is to be distinguished for his pragmatic approach; he is focused on finding a practical solution for his client. He understands the operational constraints and is not limited to the purely legal analysis of the subjects.’
‘Olivier Attias and Anaïs Coviaux are very responsive and are keen to provide pragmatic and concrete answers to our requests.’
‘High quality expertise. A sincere desire to understand the client in order to offer an appropriate response.’
‘Astrid Mignon Colombet combines creativity, passion and commitment in her practice. She is a great legal expert who knows how to use her know-how to respond to prospective issues.’
France > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1
The data privacy and protection team at August Debouzy remains a leader in the marketplace, providing a comprehensive service to corporates in media (JCDecaux), tech (Microsoft), food (Danone), tobacco (Philip Morris), energy, sports (FIFA), beverages (Pernod Ricard) and hospitality. Headed by Florence Chafiol, an expert in data privacy litigations with the French Data Protection Authority (CNIL), the group also advises on data protection/privacy audits, the implementation of compliance programs, crisis management and due diligence. Other key figures in the team include senior associate and data protection compliance specialist Roxane Blanc Dubois, senior associate Stéphanie Lapeyre (who focuses on new technologies).Practice head(s):
Florence Chafiol
Other key lawyers:
Roxane Blanc Dubois; Stéphanie Lapeyre; Alice Hourquebie
Testimonials
‘Good understanding of customer needs and price adaptation. Very good technical knowledge. Competent, friendly and responsive team.’
‘Florence Chafiol is an outstanding support in our current endeavours with the French Data Protection Authority.’
‘Clear guidance in a proactive approach.’
‘Always prompt and great to deal with, positive and helpful and responsive.’
‘Florence Chafiol is a technical expert who combines this expertise with charm with hard work and real world client experience. The result is always the best for clients and for instructing lawyers alike.’
‘Excellent firm with partners who are experts in their field.’
‘Florence Chafiol is an excellent lawyer who provides advice and legal services of the highest standard.’
Key clients
JCDecaux
Total Energies Electrice et Gaz France
France Médias Monde
Yogosha
Murex
Omnicom and its affiliates (TBWA -Fleishmann Hillard – Omnicom Public Relations Group, MMG etc.)
Microsoft
Accor SA
Ariane Group
Accenture
Veolia Environnement
Philip Morris France
TotalEnergies SE & Total Global Procurement
Danone
Costco
Neuflize OBC
La Poste Telecom
Muji
Shift Technology
Pernod Ricard
Eurazeo
Wendel
Accenture
FIFA
My Money Bank/Cerberus
GIE AXA
RATP
SNCF
Work highlights
- Assisting Pernod Ricard’s data protection team with regards to various data protection issues, including marketing, social media and e-commerce.
- Assisting, from a data protection prospective, Cerberus/My Money Bank Group, in the context of the purchase by MMB of HSBC Continental Europe’s retail banking business in France.
- Assisting the DPO team of GIE AXA in several matters related to the implementation of global projects among the AXA Group and on day-to-day issues related to the compliance with the GDPR of the AXA Group.
France > Employment Tier 1
August Debouzy fields a large and highly experienced team which is trusted by many leading French and international corporations, as well as SMEs spanning the retail, travel, recycling, transport and industrial manufacturing sectors. The team is at ease dealing with complex collective and individual employment issues, and is retained to assist with major downsizing projects and high-pressure situations; the group recently helped a client facing a strike and blockade actions. The practice also deals with M&A projects, and is increasingly appointed by companies to assist with managing disputes involving former CEOs or high-level executives, as well as sensitive sexual harassment situations. The employment practice is rounded out with social security, compensation and benefits expertise, serving CAC 40 companies and major French and international industrial groups. Paris’ bar superstar Emmanuelle Barbara manages the practice, which also includes the highly regarded Fabienne Haas, Marie-Hélène Bensadoun, Virginie Devos, Eric Manca, Catherine Le Manchec and Anaïs Qureshi. Counsels Diane Reboursier, Sonia Moreau and Laure Hosni also provide support, while counsels Isabelle Hadoux-Vallier and Boris Léone-Robin are key contacts for social security issues.Practice head(s):
Emmanuelle Barbara
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Serious team, involved, available. Searching for the most appropriate solutions for the company.’
‘Virginie Devos is professional, committed, provides very good advice, available and looking for solutions.’
‘Claire-Lisa Leclerc has character and tenacity, provides great follow-up and understanding. Emmanuelle Barbara shows great anticipation and finesse of analysis’.
‘Excellent advice, commitment and availability, particularly from Emmanuelle Barbara and Sonia Moreau.’
‘Ultra-responsive, innovative, highly customer-oriented, extremely efficient team. The support of the other specialities of the firm where one finds some of the best lawyers in the market is a huge asset.’
‘Marie-Hélène Bensadoun has a pragmatic approach, resolutely adapted to its clients, made of a great experience in social law.’
‘Competence, responsiveness, commitment’.
Key clients
Office Depot
Bergams
TUI France
ANEM
Work highlights
- Representing an individual before the Court of Appeals of Paris in the criminal matter in which they are accused of alleged fictitious employment.
- Assisting Office Depot in a recourse claim against the French State regarding the labour inspection’s refusal to grant the authorisation to terminate “protected employees” during a reorganisation.
- Assisting the ANEM with negotiations for a branch agreement establishing a profit-sharing agreement and an inter-company savings plan at branch level.
France > Industry focus: IT and internet Tier 1
Technology and digital transformation specialist Mahasti Razavi; the ‘remarkable’ Florence Chafiol, who has strong advisory and litigious experience in the field, and expert in technology and consumer law Alexandra Berg-Moussa, lead the team at August Debouzy, which has a ‘well-earned reputation as a law firm with great experience in IT matters’. A considerable portion of the team’s workload has cross-border reach, with many matters wherein it advises internationally renowned clients including TotalEnergies Global on high-value acquisitions, digital transformation transactions and on the development and drafting of digital policy. Additionally, it regularly handles complex disputes relating to such issues as project failures. The May 2022 addition of senior counsel Marc Mossé, who was previously in a senior in-house role with a major technology company, has further bolstered the team. Since publication, Nicolas Quoy left the firm.Practice head(s):
Mahasti Razavi; Florence Chafiol; Alexandra Berg-Moussa
Other key lawyers:
Anne-Sophie Lampe; Stéphanie Lapeyre; Cen Zhang; Antoine Boullet; Marc Mossé
Testimonials
‘August Debouzy have the best attorneys with the most sophisticated legal advice and we are very happy with them. On top of their collaborative abilities, the team is very friendly and nice to work with, which is unique.’
‘Through the quality interactions, you feel the team’s desire to help in every conversation. They are an extraordinary group of human beings.’
‘August Debouzy have a well-earned reputation as a law firm with great experience in IT matters. Their IT group is composed of top-qualified lawyers, some of whom have worked for IT companies – their advice is very practical and not overly theoretical. The firm is big enough that they are able to pull in lawyers from other groups in order to render full picture advice on certain subject matters, which is very much appreciated.’
‘The lawyers in the IT Group at August Debouzy, are very qualified, practical in their advice, know the world and environment of IT companies, and are therefore great advisers. They are quick to answer as they are fully aware of the fast paced nature of the IT business.’
‘The team’s exceptional qualities include its understanding of our business and our constraints; the fact that they are not just legal experts but they are also courteous, respectful of our commitments, available, have a high-quality of expertise and, above all, correspond appropriately to our needs and requests.’
‘Florence Chafiol is remarkable and accurate, she knows how to decide, advise and argue to support a side from start to finish – in her teams, Cen Zhang and Antoine Boullet in particular are very reliable and available; they know how to associate with other departments when needed. Stéphanie Lapeyre is also remarkable for her enthusiasm and precision. The whole team is modest and do not force your hand in any situation.’
Key clients
New Suez (i.e., Consortium of investors incl. Meridiam, GIP, CDC Group and CNP Assurances)
Rohde & Schwarz
PingIdentity
Microsoft
Cerberus / My Money Bank
Accor SA
TotalEnergies SE & TotalEnergies Global Procurement (TGP)
Veolia Environnement
Zuora Inc.
Qvest Media France
EDF et EDF Assurances
Pernod Ricard
Philip Morris France
Aptiv
Technip Energies
Broadridge
Work highlights
- Advising US private equity firm Cerberus (owner of MMB Group) on the acquisition of the retail banking activities in France of HSBC, in particular on all contractual, IP, IT, digital and data matters.
- Defending US software company Zuora in an IT expertise proceeding involving 8 parties; the claimant alleges that it has suffered over €26m in damages.
- Advising Technip Energies on the development and drafting of its digital policy on how to protect digital projects and their valuable components, through intellectual property rights.
France > Intellectual property: Copyright Tier 1
August Debouzy assists its clients in a wide range of copyright matters, advising on developments in European IP law and carrying out compliance audits and risk assessments to ensure companies fulfil their obligations under EU directives governing copyright. The firm has a strong cross-border practice and makes uses of its network of international firms to support clients seeking to enforce their IP rights in France and across Europe. Led by TMT expert Mahasti Razavi and media, art and white-collar criminal law specialist Basile Ader, the practice group also assists in drafting copyright licence agreements and is active in civil and criminal litigation before the courts, including infringement claims and seizures. Counsel Amélie Tripet focuses her practice on copyright, media and communication law and is sought after for the drafting of contracts and representation before courts.Practice head(s):
Mahasti Razavi; Basile Ader
Other key lawyers:
Amelie Tripet
Key clients
Première Media
Meridiam
Work highlights
- Assisted Première Media in a dispute related to ownership of rights to set photographs of famous movies from the 1950s and 1960s.
- Assisted a consortium of Meridiam, GIP and Groupe Caisse des Dépôts in the carve-out of certain New Suez activities resulting from the sale by Veolia, in particular regarding the transfer and licensing of certain IP rights.
France > Intellectual property: Patents Tier 1
August Debouzy is recognised for its patent work in France and Europe, assisting clients with the full spectrum of contentious and transactional matters. Infringement and nullity actions, in addition to appeals and opposition proceedings before the French and European IP offices, form the mainstay of the firm’s patent offering. The team also conducts freedom-to-operate analyses, valuations and is able to assist with licensing agreements and contractual matters. FRAND litigation specialist Grégoire Desrousseaux is adept at advising the telecoms, mechanics and electronics sectors and leads the team alongside François Pochart, who advises clients in the healthcare, pharmaceutical, life sciences, biotech and chemical industries. Promoted to partner in January 2023, Lionel Martin is well regarded for his advocacy before the French courts and EPO.Practice head(s):
Grégoire Desrousseaux; François Pochart
Other key lawyers:
Lionel Martin; Pierre-Olivier Ally
Testimonials
‘August Debouzy’s teams are very responsive and are able to offer advice from the best experts in a short time.’
‘The AD team has a fantastic knowledge of both French and EPO case law with capability to respond to queries in a detailed, useful and timely manner.’
‘Grégoire Desrousseaux is particularly distinguished by his ability to analyse complex situations and provide relevant advice to his clients. His pragmatism, his open-mindedness, and his perfect knowledge of French jurisdictions allow him to deliver quality advice to his clients, in complete transparency, and to enable them to confirm and implement their strategic choices. From our point of view, he is one of the best in this area in Paris.’
‘François Pochart is very knowledgeable and aware of a client’s commercial objectives when providing his advice.’
‘August Debouzy’s advice offers a double expertise of lawyer and IP advice relevant to the fields of the acquisition of law and the exercise of law. This double skill allows you to activate the best levers in a very fluid way.’
‘Quality advice on intellectual property issues. Good support with competent experts for patent filing.’
‘The practice of litigation in intellectual property with regard to essential patents requires a good knowledge of the ecosystem, the position of the various authorities and the case law in France but also abroad. The team dealing with IP litigation at August & Debouzy has developed this expertise with a good understanding of the issues for the various players and in particular for the European industry.’
‘The legal services provided by this team are very good and can meet the needs of clients very well. At the same time, the team is highly innovative and can provide some unique insights or solutions for patent litigation strategies.’
Key clients
CpK Interior Products
Foubert Papiers Plastiques
K-Fee System Gmbh (Kruger Group)
Nipro
Altirnao Inc
Bricard
Xiaomi
Alcatel Lucent International (Nokia Group)
Alcon
Anthogyr
B.Braun
Brahms
CNRS
Disphar (Nordic Pharma Group)
Epsilon composite
Essilor
Fresenius kabi
HCT Packaging
I.Ceram
Insulet
Laboratoires Majorelle
LFB
L’Oréal
Maia Africa
Medtronic
Novasep
Nuvamid
Suez
Società Italiana Boccole Srl (SIBO)
Teva
Total
Verescence
Wright Medical
Work highlights
- Assisted Xiaomi against Philips and ETSI in their FRAND dispute over patents essential to LTE and UMTS standards.
- Defended Teva in a preliminary injunction case launched by Bayer on a patent concerning sorafenib salt for the treatment of cancer.
- Representing NIPRO in an infringement action launched by Fresenius based on one of its patents covering a dialyser.
France > Media and entertainment: Newspapers Tier 1
The team at August Debouzy is led by experienced litigator Basile Ader, alongside Mahasti Razavi and Florence Chafiol. The group is well-equipped to handle complex matters for its broad array of globally renowned claimant and defendant clients in complex criminal defamation cases concerning reputational damage, or confidential information has been disclosed to the public, for example. In addition, the team advises clients on their right to reply to defamatory content. Its expertise covers print press and online articles and often spans multiple jurisdictions. Counsel Amélie Tripet has particular expertise in press, libel and publishing.Practice head(s):
Basile Ader; Mahasti Razavi; Florence Chafiol
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Basile Ader has a very strong experience in the field of press law and an excellent knowledge of the media, which allows him to consistently deliver very relevant and pragmatic advice to his clients. He is accompanied in his task by Amélie Tripet.’
Key clients
Marie-Claire
Mojado Centerblog
Epinomis
R.E.S.P.E.C.T DOM
Radio France
Heroes Media
EDF
Le Parisien
Valmonde
M. Didier Robert
Work highlights
- Assisting Radio France, which is part of the consortium Forbidden Stories, in several criminal defamation cases against the Kingdom of Morocco, following the public disclosure of the ‘Pegasus Affair’.
- Assisting EDF in obtaining a favourable recommendation from the Jury de Déontologie Publicitaire, with regards to the alleged breach of ethics obligations of a competitor whose communication methods were intended to disparage EDF’s reputation.
- Assisting Marie-Claire in obtaining the dismissal of a criminal defamation case on the grounds that the action was time-barred, as well as providing representation with regards to a criminal complaint for defamation filed before the investigating judge.
France > Administrative and public law Tier 2
August Debouzy is increasingly retained to advise on highly strategic work. The firm has prominent regulatory law expertise and is retained to assist with strategic reorganisation projects and the management of sensitive regulatory issues, notably in the media and rail sectors – among its recent highlights, the practice advised on a strategic public audiovisual reorganisation project and on a major privatisation. The team also increasingly receives instructions to assist clients with obtaining foreign investment authorisations, notably in the defence area, as well as handling various other sovereign issues, particularly in the field of data and cloud computing. EU public law and EU regulatory law are other strong areas of focus for the team, which further strengthened its capabilities in these areas after hiring Marc Mossé in May 2022; he joined from Microsoft. The team also has additional strength handling sensitive interactions between the public and private sectors as well as expertise in litigation and public procurement. The highly regarded Vincent Brenot and Emmanuelle Mignon are the practice heads; counsel Hélène Billery provides additional support. Of note, the practice further strengthened its capabilities following the arrival of top regulatory expert Nicolas Baverez from Gibson Dunn in early 2023.Practice head(s):
Vincent Brenot; Emmanuelle Mignon
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Efficient, good technique, responsiveness, attentive to customers’ needs, ability to propose concrete solutions and support the customer when taking risks, reliable and trustworthy.’
‘Emmanuelle Mignon and Vincent Brenot show high technique, very good listening skills and understanding of customers’ needs. They have a very good knowledge of business circles and governmental bodies.’
‘Emmanuelle Mignon is extremely precise and efficient. She understands issues quickly and gets involved.’
‘Precise understanding of issues and needs. Advanced skills. Respond in a timely manner’.
‘Emmanuelle Mignon provides laser-like precise advice and extraordinary reliability.’
Key clients
RATP
Printemps Group
Altarea Cogedim
SMB (Société Minière de Boké)
Veolia
Philip Morris
Microsoft
Nike
EDF
SNCF / SNCF Réseau /SNCF Mobilités
Dassault Aviation
Ynsect
Galeries Lafayette Group
Unibail Rodamco Westfield
France Galop
Santé publique France
Didi Mobility UK
EDF-ENR
Bolloré Logistics
i.Ceram
Eurazeo
IK Partners
Work highlights
- Advised Alpac Partners on foreign investment rules clearance regarding its acquisition of Euronews.
- Successfully represented Agence Française de Développement (“AFD”) in a dispute filed by American Express Global Business Travel contesting the awarding of a €120m public procurement contract.
- Advised Eurazeo on foreign investment issues regarding its sale of Orolia.
France > Dispute resolution: White-collar crime Tier 2
August Debouzy manages quite a diverse caseload, defending companies as well as corporate executives and individuals. The white-collar criminal team frequently combines forces with the firm’s employment law practice to handle major cases that intersect both areas. The practice also regularly handles corporate-related criminal and financial infractions as well as tax evasion, corruption and money laundering cases. It also defends several companies or executives facing allegations of human rights abuses, particularly linked to their operations abroad in conflict zones. The highly regarded Astrid Mignon Colombet co-heads the practice alongside Benjamin van Gaver and Basile Ader. Valérie Munoz-Pons and Olivier Attias, who were promoted to the partnership in 2023, are also key contributors.Practice head(s):
Benjamin van Gaver; Astrid Mignon Colombet; Basile Ader
Other key lawyers:
Valérie Munoz-Pons; Olivier Attias; Amélie Tripet; Manon Krouty
Testimonials
‘An innovative, friendly and most attentive team that listens to customers. The team is available, pragmatic and understands the needs of clients. Advice is always a clever balance between the legal and practical aspects; the client is always advised as accurately as possible with success.’
‘Benjamin Van Gaver and his team, including Amélie Tripet and Olivier Attias, are exceptional. Benjamin is an excellent jurist knowing perfectly the rules of law, who manages elegantly to present to customers alternative solutions, all in the sole interest of the customers. Benjamin has a strong legal culture while remaining humble and measured.’
‘Olivier Attias is pragmatic and has good judgement. He stands out for his responsiveness and availability.’
‘Excellent follow-up, in particular via modern and efficient means of communication such as signal or WhatsApp, which allows direct and constructive exchanges.’
‘Olivier Attias and Manon Krouty demonstrate great professionalism.’
‘Astrid Mignon Colombet is a very dedicated and sharp criminal law lawyer. She is very responsive, easy to approach and with an eye for detail. She listens carefully, does not overcharge fees and delivers high quality advice.’
‘High quality lawyers, with a constant concern for high quality of service and advice. Astrid Mignon Colombet and her team are very available. This team has the finest capacity for risk analysis.’
‘The team goes above and beyond for their clients; they are very straight forward and accompany clients every step of the way. They are always willing to discuss matters and explain all aspects very well, making decisions easier to reach.’
Key clients
MRS PENELOPE FILLON
TEAM BAHRAIN VICTORIOUS
NEXA TECHNOLOGIES (TOP MANAGEMENT)
SNCF
SOLUTIONS 30
EXXELIA
M. OLIVIER BARBEROT (FORMER HR DIRECTOR OF FRANCE TELECOM)
MR BULGARI
FREENOW
GÉRARD LOPEZ (FOOTBALL)
SOCIETE GENERALE
NIKE
A FRENCH PERSONALITY IN CINEMA
A SUBSIDIARY OF THE DERICHEBOURG GROUP
AMAZON
AMERICAN EXPRESS FRANCE (FORMER CEO)
A CONSULTING FIRM
TECHNIPFMC
MCDONALD’S FRANCE AND MR. NAWFAL TRABELSI
PHILIP MORRIS
NEOEN
Work highlights
- Defending Mrs. Fillon before the Court of Appeal of Paris against allegations that she benefited from fictitious employment roles.
- Defending SNCF before the Evry Correctional Court, regarding the indemnification of victims of the 12 July 2013 Brétigny-sur-Orge train derailment, which killed 7 and injured hundreds of others.
- Assisting Solutions 30 which has been the target of anonymous reports in December 2020 mentioning alleged links with mafia organisations and money laundering.
France > Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences Tier 2
With 'a team of experts in the field,' August Debouzy is notable for its patent litigation work, as well as employment and regulatory advice. Dual qualified as engineers, joint practice heads Grégoire Desrousseaux and François Pochart have a wealth of experience leading on complex cross-border patent disputes, EPO litigation, and opposition before the French IPO office for clients across the healthcare, life sciences, and medical devices sectors.Practice head(s):
Grégoire Desrousseaux; François Pochart
Other key lawyers:
Pierre-Olivier Ally; Hélène Billery
Testimonials
‘A team of experts in the field. During our cooperation François fed us with the needs of the client and helped us to build the strategy. We are directed well in terms of procedural requirements like billing etc.’
‘François was clear and helpful at every stage of the work.’
‘The August Debouzy team collaborates very well, amongst their own team and even with others outside the firm, for example, litigators in other jurisdictions. They are very very hard working, and very responsive and knowledgeable. They are a trusted resource for my company.’
‘Grégoire Desrousseaux has great expertise in his field (IP law and litigation). We rely on his expertise and experience and he has been a great resource for what we are trying to accomplish in France.’
‘August Debouzy supported us in a pro bono approach to secure the intellectual property of our product. Their teams were sincerely committed to supporting our project, advising us on all aspects of intellectual property.’
‘Operationally, what distinguishes August Debouzy from other firms is their great availability and responsiveness. We were very pleasantly surprised by these qualities.’
Key clients
Anthogyr
Brahms
B.Braun
CNRS
Disphar (Nordic Pharma Group)
Essilor
Fresenius kabi
I.Ceram
Insulet
Laboratoires Majorelle
LFB
l’Oréal
Maia Africa
Medtronic
Novasep
Nuvamid
Teva
Wright medical
Work highlights
- Representing TEVA in defending a preliminary injunction case launched by Bayer on a patent covering a sorafenib salt for the treatment of cancer.
- Assisted B. Braun in an appeal against a decision of the Director General of the French Patent Office having rejected an appeal for reinstatement of a French patent application.
- Representing NIPRO in an infringement action launched by Fresenius based on one of its patents covering a dialyser.
France > Industry focus: Luxury goods Tier 2
August Debouzy provides a one-stop-shop for IP, IT, data protection, competition law, employment, regulatory and tax matters, taking a multidisciplinary approach to advising major global luxury brands active in the fashion, automotive, cosmetics, hospitality, jewellery and beverage sectors. Mahasti Razavi has IT expertise, Florence Chafiol specialises in data protection and project launches and Alexandra Berg-Moussa handles major digital transformations of supply chains.Practice head(s):
Mahasti Razavi; Alexandra Berg-Moussa; Florence Chafiol; Guillaume Aubatier; Laurent Cotret; Vincent Brenot; Xavier Rhomer; Marie-Hélène Bensadoun; Fabienne Haas
Key clients
Chateau Beausejour
Fashion Partner
Malesherbes 26
Printemps Group
J.J.W. France
Paris Society
L’Oréal
Nike
France > Media and entertainment: Art Tier 2
August Debouzy‘s team predominantly assists with matters involving the sale and purchase of high-value assets at auction, as well as advising on negotiations regarding partnerships involving supporting artworks. It also has notable experience in dealing with art proceedings relating to forgery. In addition, many of the team’s matters involve tax issues relating to donations, as well as audits, involving art. Basile Ader and Mahasti Razavi are the practice heads.Practice head(s):
Basile Ader; Mahasti Razavi
Key clients
Thierry Curial de Brevannes
Goya Subastas
Work highlights
- Advised the art seller Thierry Curial de Brevannes as part of a dispute before the civil and criminal courts regarding the purchase of a Giacometti lamp.
- Assisting Goya Subastas, a major Spanish auction house located in Madrid, in the context of the recovery of the price of the sale of a pair of vases to a French buyer.
France > Private equity: venture/growth capital Tier 2
August Debouzy's private equity team assists leading companies and investments funds with capital raising projects, and is deeply involved with key players in the startup sector. The practice offers advice on venture and growth capital operations, as well as LBOs, MBOs, and M&A transactions. Julien Aucomte has considerable expertise handling major cross-border transactions and Julien Wagmann advises on management packages and shareholders’ disputes. Senior associate Laure Khemiri is also a key name.Practice head(s):
Julien Aucomte; Julien Wagmann
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Good quality, serious team, which is gaining momentum.’
Key clients
CAISSE DES DEPOTS ET CONSIGNATIONS
10T
GREENOAKS CAPITAL
SEQUOIA CAPITAL
RAISE INVESTISSEMENT
CAPZANINE
CATHAY CAPITAL
ELAIA PARTNERS
AXELEO CAPITAL
ISAI GESTION
KERNEL INVESTISSEMENTS
ALSID
TINYCLUES
ARTÉMIS
VINCI GROUP (LNRD INVEST)
QAPA
Work highlights
- Advised Coatue, Fidelity and Catalio in the context of their minority investment (Series C) in the capital of DNA Script, a company developing a DNA printer capable to create up to 96 DNA fragments within hours for laboratories.
- Assisted Sequoia Capital, a US venture capital firm, in connection with the French law aspects related to its investment in Zefir, specialist in instant property sale, in the context of a total capital raising of 20 million euros, and in Multis Inc, specialist in crypto wallet for business, in the context of a total capital raising of 5,3 million euros.
- Advised Recommerce Group, a forerunner in refurbishment since 2009, on its cooperation with United.b (Boulanger, Electro Dépôt, Hifi, Krëfel, etc.) and other leading industrial actors.
France > Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation Tier 3
August Debouzy is a popular choice for significant commercial litigation disputes and manages a busy caseload in that area. The team has noted a recent increase in disputes connected to the rise of commodities prices (it acts in several cases concerning abrupt contract termination and renegotiation between suppliers and buying companies, notably in the industrial field). The team also handles corporate and post M&A cases, notably concerning earn out issues. The client base is made up of various French and international companies. The practice also shows strong ability to handle matters involving strong international components. It is led by Marie Danis and Benjamin van Gaver, with Olivier Attias, who was promoted to partner in early 2023, and senior associate Karol Bucki also providing key support.Practice head(s):
Marie Danis; Benjamin van Gaver
Other key lawyers:
Karol Bucki; Olivier Attias
Testimonials
‘Technicality, efficiency, professionalism’.
‘A good technical approach, and a very good understanding of matters at stake in cases.’
‘A good team with very diversified profiles and know-how.’
‘The team of Benjamin Vvn Gaver is of very high quality, and especially counsel Lionel Martin. Technically strong, they are also very practical and communicate well with international clients.’
Key clients
VALEO
Work highlights
- Representing car spare parts manufacturer Valeo in proceedings with its main competitor Nissens regarding unfair competition accusations.
France > Environment Tier 3
August Debouzy handles a range of environmental issues through its broader public law offering, with experience in matters ranging from the circular economy to permitting and pollution. The practice is led by Vincent Brenot, who has expertise in real estate and M&A transactions in addition to standalone environmental matters.Practice head(s):
Vincent Brenot
Other key lawyers:
Hélène Billery; Emmanuel Weicheldinger
Testimonials
‘The team is of a very high standard with a high level of expertise on new, complex environmental subjects with multiple operational consequences.’
‘Vincent Brenot is a remarkable lawyer, with a very strong capacity for commitment and proposal, to help identify a clear path to follow to resolve issues. It is a real pleasure to work with Vincent on environmental subjects with increasingly high stakes.’
‘August Debouzy demonstrate a good knowledge of French environmental law. The key attributes are their pragmatic approach to issues and the service which they provide to clients, which is first-class.’
‘Vincent Brenot is a standout lawyer. Astute and intelligent, with a keen understanding of the dynamics of how businesses operate. Vincent is forward-thinking and proactive in his approach, seeking solutions in a practical context.’
Key clients
McDonald’s France
Nike
Spie Batignolles
EDF
SNCF
SNCF Réseau
SNCF Mobilités
Ynsect
Sequens
GDE-ECORE
LVMH
Volta Inc
Work highlights
- Advising McDonald’s France on circular economy matters to adapt to the new French legal framework.
- Assists Envision AESC with the environmental law aspects of the implementation in France of a gigafactory project for the production of battery modules.
- Advised Seqens on the mining law aspects of its sale by Eurazeo to SK Capital Partners.
France > Industry focus: Energy Tier 3
August DebouzyPractice head(s):
Leïla Hubeaut
Other key lawyers:
Valéry Denoix de Saint Marc; Laure Bonin; Julien Wagmann; Julien Aucomte; Vincent Brenot; Ergen Ege
Key clients
Envision AESC
NetZero
NEoT Capital
TotalEnergies
Qair International
Winning Simandou Consortium
EDF
Caisse des dépôts et consignations
Sabella
Meridiam
Work highlights
- Advising Winning Consortium Simandou for the co-development of the Simandou integrated infrastructure project, which is estimated at $15bn and includes the development of 650km of railway and an industrial port.
- Assisting Envision AESC with the implementation in France of a giga-factory project for the production of battery modules, estimated at $2bn.
- Assisting Voltalia with a new project consisting of the design, financing, construction, operation, maintenance and transfer of two solar photovoltaic plants to be located at Farrafenni and Basse, in Gambia.
France > Insolvency Tier 3
August Debouzy often assists debtors in managing their restructuring and insolvency situations. The team regularly acts in small to mid-cap market restructuring and insolvency cases and was recently involved in matters spanning various sectors: fashion, maritime, sport as well as real estate and manufacturing. The practice also handles related litigation. Practice head Laurent Cotret is supported by senior associates Clément Quernin and Armelle Loste.Practice head(s):
Laurent Cotret
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The restructuring team led by Laurent Cotret demonstrates formidable efficiency, particularly in complex assignments with very tight deadlines and under pressure. The availability and responsiveness of its members make it a major asset.’
‘Laurent Cotret has highly developed qualities to provide strategic solutions in negotiations. The team is very responsive and professional in the production of final documents.’
‘Particularly available and committed, their commitment allowed us to cover all our subjects, from the acquisition strategy, the mastery of state aid mechanisms, and the renegotiation of inherited contracts. Their mastery of subjects allows them to offer valid options quickly.’
‘Laurent Cotret has an impressive capacity for work, combativeness and commitment and has been able to find innovative and intelligent solutions on many topics.’
‘Clément Quernin is very available, attentive, particularly committed and is an excellent lawyer.’
‘Cotret and Quernin know how to listen to their customers to fully understand the issues, expectations and stall their approach.’
‘The team is organized and knows how to combine multiple skills. They go to the bottom of the files and always check the validity of their advice’.
‘Laurent Cotret is a lawyer who knows how to decipher complex situations, simplify their presentation so that the parties involved in the case go directly to the heart of the debate. He is also methodical and skillful in putting the interlocutors around the table and engaging them in building solutions.’
Key clients
ORANGE
ALTEO GARDANNE
FASHION PARTNER
SENTIENS
GEORGES THIOL
TRINITY INVESTMENTS DESIGNATED A.C
JJW HOTEL GROUP and AL JABER Family
AGATHA
NESTOR
MARS FILMS
RICCOBONO PRESSE INVESTISSEMENT
XL AIRWAYS
DIETRICH CAREBUS GROUP
SERCIB – SCCV SOLARIS
OGER INTERNATIONAL
FAMAR LYON
Work highlights
- Advised the Football Club de Girondins de Bordeaux on its financial restructuring.
- Advised Orange on the dispute with its former business partner Scopelec.
- Advising Alteo group since it was taken over under a continuation plan by the UMSI group.
France > Media and entertainment: Sports Tier 3
France > Banking and finance: transactional work Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Laure Bonin
Testimonials
‘Reactive team during the solicitations, and constructive in the negotiation. Strong ability to meet deadlines.’
Key clients
Crédit Lyonnais
Banque CIC Est
Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel de Lorraine (Crédit Agricole Group)
Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel d’Aquitaine (Crédit Agricole Group)
Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel Pyrénées Gascogne (Crédit Agricole Group)
Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel Charente Périgord (Crédit Agricole Group)
Banque Populaire Rives de Paris
Société Générale
M&G Real Estate
HSBC Continental Europe
Muzinich
Caisse d’Epargne Hauts de France
Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank
BNP Paribas
Natixis
Castellet Hospitality
Work highlights
- Advising the lenders (Société Générale and others) in connection with the EUR 139m refinancing of the existing sponsor-less debt of Scaff’Holding and the financing of the acquisition of Sogestis.
- Advising BNP Paribas and Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank in connection with the EUR 184m financing of the takeover followed by a squeeze-out procedure on Bel initiated by Unibel.
- Advising the lenders (Crédit Lyonnais and others) in connection with the EUR 75m financing of the LBO of Hivest Capital on Agora Technologies SA.
France > EU, competition and distribution Tier 4
Boosting its team with the hire of senior counsel and EU expert Marc Mossé from Microsoft in June 2022, August Debouzy’s competition practice collaborates regularly with other departments, with Renaud Christol and Alexandra Berg-Moussa co-leading with corporate partners on cross-border M&A such as Lafarge Holcim’s multi-jurisdictional acquisition of PRB. As well as working with restructuring colleagues to gain state aid approval from the European Commission for Brittany Ferries, Christol acts as sole lead in a breadth of private enforcement actions, encompassing matters such as cartels, abuse of dominant position and anticompetitive agreements, while Berg-Moussa is experienced in distribution matters.Practice head(s):
Alexandra Berg-Moussa; Renaud Christol
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The August Debouzy team is distinguished by its pragmatism and its understanding of commercial issues and legal issues. Accessible and concrete advice from August Debouzy provides clear and unambiguous direction.’
Key clients
Microsoft
TotalEnergies
Nike
Orange
Colas and its subsidiaries
Costco Wholesale
DDB Omnicom
Sagemcom
Lafarge Holcim
Transcovo (Kapten/FreeNow)
Recommerce Solution
Petit Bateau
Becton Dickinson
Genvia
Havas
Bertelsmann
Caisse des dépôts et consignations
Brittany Ferries
Schlumberger
Work highlights
- Advised Lafarge Holcim on the acquisition of PRB (turnover of €360m) before the French Competition Authority.
- Advised Brittany Ferries on obtaining a major individual state aid of €61m before the European Commission.
- Advised TotalEnergies on a merger filing in Africa before the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC) in connection with the development of its activity in carbon sinks.
France > Intellectual property: Trade marks and designs Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Mahasti Razavi; Grégoire Desrousseaux
Key clients
Château Beauséjour HDL – Courtin
Altarea
Deepgray Vision
Voodoo
Dassault Aviation
Maytronics France
SNCF
Editions Bionnay
Work highlights
- Advised Maytronics on strategy and carried out a verification prior to the filing of a French and EU design.
- Assisted Voodoo with its brand strategy and the registration of trade marks.
France > Mergers and acquisitions Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Julien Aucomte; Julien Wagmann
Other key lawyers:
Valéry Denoix de Saint Marc; Etienne Mathey
Testimonials
‘Julien Aucomte is available and a good negotiator in deals.’
Key clients
Dassault Aviation
Thales
TotalEnergies
Orange
Caisse des dépôts et consignations
Veolia
Bertelsmann
Meridiam
Holcim
Microsoft
Korian
SNCF
Airbus
Nexity
The Adecco Group
Work highlights
- Advised Orange S.A. through the implementation of a contribution of assets via a merger by Orange S.A. to its subsidiary, TOTEM France, of all its sites and passive infrastructures present in mainland France.
- Advised the Swiss group Holcim, one of the major players in innovative and sustainable construction solutions resulting from the merger between the French company Lafarge and the Swiss company Holcim, in connection with the acquisition of 100% of the group PRB – Produits du Revêtement du Bâtiment.
- Advised the Caisse des dépôts et consignations (CDC) on a private auction process between PE funds which led to the sale to Tikehau Capital of a 40% stake in Egis.
France > Private equity: LBO Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Julien Aucomte; Julien Wagmann
Other key lawyers:
Etienne Mathey
Key clients
CAISSE DES DEPOTS ET CONSIGNATIONS
TIGER GLOBAL MANAGEMENT
ARGOS WITYU
RAISE INVESTISSEMENT
CAPZANINE
CREADEV
I SQUARED CAPITAL
CATHAY CAPITAL
KKR
MERIDIAM
INFRAVIA CAPITAL PARTNERS
BRIDGEPOINT
10T
GREENOAKS CAPITAL
ELAIA PARTNERS
AXELEO CAPITAL
ISAI GESTION
KERNEL INVESTISSEMENTS
Work highlights
- Advised the Caisse des dépôts et consignations (CDC), on a private auction process between PE funds which led to the sale to Tikehau Capital of a 40% stake in Egis, the leading French engineering company specialising in construction engineering and mobility services.
- Advised the shareholders of Laboratoires Majorelle in the context of its sale to the investment fund EW Healthcare Partners.
- Advised the French Private Equity fund Argos Wityu on the sale to Crédit Agricole Leasing & Factoring of Olinn group, a major operator in France of rental solutions for technological equipment, under LBO since 2018.
France > Real estate Tier 4
August Debouzy‘s practice was established in September 2021 with the joining of dual specialist in real estate and construction Guillaume Aubatier from King & Spalding in 2021; they were accompanied by specialist counsel Dorian Scemama and senior associate Malvina Dahan, who has a special focus on real estate transactions, commercial leases, construction contracts and asset management matters of high-value. The team frequently advises on the full range of factors surrounding real estate transactions on key real estate, particularly in Paris. Notably, founder of and former partner at AREA Avocats Antonia Raccat joined the team in February of 2023.Practice head(s):
Guillaume Aubatier
Other key lawyers:
Dorian Scemana; Malvina Dahan; Alix Kianpour
Testimonials
‘A dynamic and available team, perfectly aware of the problems of a small structure like ours. They have expertise covering all of our issues.’
‘Guillaume Aubatier, Dorian Scemana and Alix Kianpour are particularly standout.’
Key clients
Envision
CNP Assurances
La Française Real Estate Partners
M&G Real Estate
Segro Plc
WeWork
Deka Immobilien GmbH
Diderot Real Estate
Novaxia
Banque Pictet
Inmark
Scaprim
Accuracy
Constructa Asset Management
Ingka Investment
Ikea
Clemium Real Estate
Hugo Boss
6ème Sens Immobilier
Paref Asset Management
Paris Society
Estée Lauder
Colliers Global Investor
EDF-ENR
Infarm
Hermès
ERM Environnement
Foncière du 8
France Gallop
La Plateforme Campus
Primonial
Volta Charging
Volta Truck
Ynsect
SARP (groupe Véolia)
Fondation Robert de Sorbon
Sostrene Grene
Aegide Domitys
Total
Lafarge
Gilson
Nike
Altara-Cogedim
Unibail-Rodamco
Burberry
Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations
Apsys
Work highlights
- Advising M&G Real Estate on the acquisition under a forward sale and financing acquisition of a large logistic platform.
France > Dispute resolution: International arbitration Tier 5
August DebouzyPractice head(s):
Marie Danis; Valéry Denoix de Saint Marc
Other key lawyers:
Marie Valentini; Karol Bucki
Testimonials
‘In-depth knowledge of commercial law and issues facing large groups. Leading French lawyers with an exceptional level of English. They who know French law perfectly and are strongly involved in the evolution of the law. Super premises where you can hold an arbitration very comfortably. Their tech tools allow very efficient collaboration and are well suited to handling complex files with voluminous documents. Very modern approach to invoicing, with a perfect understanding of how budgets work in large companies’
‘Marie Danis is a very intelligent, tenacious, strategic and pleasant lawyer – it is very pleasant to work with such an efficient person. She also has an incredible network. Marie Valentini is perfectly bilingual (French / English) which is very useful in international disputes. She is curious, very attentive to detail, diligent and very intelligent. The firm has an excellent ability to adapt the size of its team to the needs of each case’
‘Valéry Denoix de Saint Marc is excellent, professional, intelligent and cooperative.’
‘Strong ability to adapt its team according to the technical specificities of a file, in a very short time’
‘Speed of execution and clear and useful advice.’
‘Marie Danis is a leading lawyer, available, efficient and involved. She is an excellent arbitrator, already recognized in the field.’
Key clients
Albanian Road Authority
Tetronics International Limited
United Mining Supply|Specter Aviation Limited
Alteo Gardanne
Work highlights
- Representing two entities of a global group in two ICC arbitration proceedings initiated by commercial agents.
- Representing Tetronics in annulment proceedings initiated by Blue Oak Arkansas before the International Chamber of the Paris Court of Appeals challenging an ICC award issued in April 2020.
France > Tax Tier 5
Practice head(s):
Xavier Rohmer; Philippe Lorentz
Key clients
FONDATION EURAZEO
FONDATION PARTAGE ET VIE
TRIGANO
SIEMENS AG
ROBECO FRANCE
DEVOTEAM
LIU JO
OGURY LTD
SIA PARTNERS
GROUPE CAHORS
ABF
BIJOUX BURMA SAS
BOTIFY
CATHAY CAPITAL
CHARLES RIVER
COMPAGNIE D’EFFRETEMENT ET DE TRANSPORT
COVEA
CPI GLOBAL
ONET
EYROLLES
GDE ECORE
IPSOS
IST CARDIOLOGY
LABORATOIRES GRIMBERG
LABVANTAGE LIMITED
LA MAISON BLEUE
MICROPOLE
THIBIERGE & COMAR SA
TNP CONSULTANTS
VALTECH
XMCO PARTNERS
YOHJI YAMAMOTO
5M VENTURES
VH 15 NOTAIRES
Employment > Social security: compensation and benefits
August DebouzyFrance > Construction
August Debouzy > Firm Profile
The firm: For over 25 years, our law firm has been driven by an entrepreneurial passion, offering our clients much more than just the law.
Our assistance to our clients is based on the recognized know-how of our teams in all fields of business law. Our 160 lawyers are committed to advising you and defending your interests to help you achieve your objectives for growth, innovation, compliance and legal protection of your business activities.
As an economic player and corporate citizen, we are fully aware of the employment, environmental and social responsibility we face as a business.
In a fast-changing world, you can rely on us to act with the highest professional standards and agility. Together, we will devise solutions that will help you anticipate, succeed and stay ahead.
Areas of work
- Corporate – M&A
- Private equity
- Restructuring
- Banking and finance
- Real estate and construction
- Projects and infrastructure
- Tax law
- Employment and social security law
- Dispute resolution
- Arbitration
- White-collar crime
- IT and data protection
- Intellectual property, media and art
- Patents
- Competition distribution and consumer law
- Commercial and international contracts
- Public law and public procurement law
- Environmental law
- European law
- Wealth and asset management
- Business ethics
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Corporate | Gilles August | ||
Corporate | Valéry Denoix de Saint Marc | ||
Corporate | Julien Aucomte | ||
Corporate | Laurent Cotret | ||
Corporate | Julien Wagmann | ||
Corporate | Jérôme Brosset | ||
Corporate | Etienne Mathey | ||
Corporate | Leïla Hubeaut | ||
Employment | Emmanuelle Barbara | ||
Employment | Fabienne Haas | ||
Employment | Philippe Durand | ||
Employment | Marie-Hélène Bensadoun | ||
Employment | Virginie Devos | ||
Employment | Eric Manca | ||
Employment | Catherine Le Manchec | ||
Employment | Anaïs Qureshi | ||
Technologies, intellectual property, media | Mahasti Razavi | ||
Technologies, intellectual property, media | Florence Chafiol | ||
Technologies, intellectual property, media | Grégoire Desrousseaux | ||
Technologies, intellectual property, media | François Pochart | ||
Technologies, intellectual property, media | Lionel Martin | ||
Litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime | Marie Danis | ||
Litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime | Benjamin van Gaver | ||
Litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime | Bernard Cazeneuve | ||
Litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime | Basile Ader | ||
Litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime | Astrid Mignon Colombet | ||
Litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime | Valérie Munoz-Pons | ||
Litigation, arbitration and white-collar crime | Olivier Attias | ||
Public, regulatory and environment | Nicolas Baverez | ||
Public, regulatory and environment | Vincent Brenot | ||
Public, regulatory and environment | Emmanuelle Mignon | ||
Real estate and construction | Guillaume Aubatier | ||
Real estate and construction | Antonia Raccat | ||
Tax | Xavier Rohmer | ||
Tax | Philippe Lorentz | ||
Competition, distribution and consumer | Alexandra Berg-Moussa | ||
Competition, distribution and consumer | Renaud Christol |
Lawyer Profiles
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 160 Number of partners : 37Languages
Albanian Arabic Chinese Czech English French German Italian Korean Persian Portuguese Russian Spanish Turkish VietnameseInternational Capabilities
Since the foundation of our firm, our international culture has enabled us to advise the clients on complex cross-border transactions and disputes.
Our network of partner firms is a major advantage when working internationally. We have a support of more than 140 firms in 121 different countries, all chosen for their excellence, independence, and leadership on their domestic market. The relationships that we have developed with these “best friend” firms over the years allow us to provide our clients with centralised, organised and proactive services in the jurisdictions where they operate. Apart from this network, August Debouzy’s lawyers themselves reflect our international culture. Our team is able to work in 15 different languages.
Many of our lawyers studied and practiced law abroad, including the United States, and are the members of foreign bars such as Brussels, Berlin, Frankfurt, New York, Madrid, etc. This major strength enables us to support and assist a large number of leading international companies doing business in France. They represent 55% of our clients.
In 2019, we have also created a German Desk consisting of more than twenty French, German, and English speaking lawyers.
August Debouzy has recently developed a custom-made offer for its international clients. CustomAd was created for the companies, with offices around the globe. We have a bespoke solution for the cross border legal projects. We offer a unique possibility to choose the best law firms in the jurisdictions of our clients’ interest and to have a global overview of the working process through a single platform.
Furthermore, as an independent law firm, we are flexible when it comes to working with those in other jurisdictions. Therefore, in every country we partner with a law firm known for its excellence in the specific practice area. CustomAD allows our clients to:
- Bring together the law firms of their choice around the world within a single secure platform
- Change or add law firms during the project (e.g. if another country takes part in the project)
- Follow up a project through a dedicated lead coordinator and an easier coordination of the working methods
- Keep track of the progress of the project, through several customizable and scalable modules
- Receive a global approach of the billing fees
Diversity
August Debouzy has always been committed to ensuring a balanced representation of men and women. Promotion is based solely on performance and there has never been any salary inequality between men and women in the firm. Remuneration packages consisting of salary and bonuses are based solely on performance and seniority within the firm. We do not publish any details of our employees’ remuneration since this is confidential information.
65% of the firm’s staff are women and 35% are men, and 14 of the 32 partners are women. Since 2001, the firm’s Managing Partner has been a woman. The firm has been a partner of the Women’s Forum since it was formed, and actively contributes to its research work. August Debouzy is also signatory of the statement of support for the General Counsel for Diversity & Inclusion. August Debouzy has always paid special attention to the recruitment of people from different cultures and origins. Our lawyers come from all over France, and for some of them, from even further abroad. The fact that so many languages are spoken within our firm is a good example of our commitment in this regard. The firm attaches great importance to the wealth of backgrounds within the firm, whether in terms of training (engineering, business school, etc.) or experience. August Debouzy has always promoted diversity and is proud of its lawyers’ different backgrounds, which each contribute to the firm’s strength, expertise and energy. Our lawyers come from a broad range of French and international universities, including many who have dual bar admissions and/or other professional experiences, such as in-house counsel, engineers and politicians. The firm also strives to attract lawyers with unusual career paths and experience. We believe that while training and experience in law are a prerequisite, individual talents such as entrepreneurial spirit, managerial qualities and digital skills, to mention just a few, are also essential for a large law firm.
Client Testimonials
CLIENT: Florence Samaran (General counsel continental Europe)
COMPANY/FIRM: Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
TESTIMONIAL: “I have the great opportunity to work with Vincent Brenot, Partner, and Hélène Billery, counsel in his team, on litigation administrative law.
I particularly value their technical skills, their good knowledge of case courts and their clients business as well as, their open speaking mindset, which enable their clients to have a clear vision of the situation, what is at stake and the risks.
They hold a strong agility to integrate a team and participate actively to the drawing of a strategy and adapt it all along if need be.
Their high commitment and responsiveness in any circumstances is also very remarkable.
Talented and great mindset which lead to an enjoyable and successful relationship.”
- Compliance
- Data privacy and data protection
- Employment
- Industry focus: IT and internet
- Intellectual property: Copyright
- Intellectual property: Patents
- Media and entertainment: Newspapers
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Administrative and public law
- Dispute resolution: White-collar crime
- Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences
- Industry focus: Luxury goods
- Media and entertainment: Art
- Private equity: venture/growth capital
Firm Rankings
- Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation
- Environment
- Industry focus: Energy
- Insolvency
- Media and entertainment: Sports