CMS Francis Lefebvre > Paris, France > Firm Profile
CMS Francis Lefebvre Offices
2 RUE ANCELLE
92522 NEUILLY-SUR-SEINE
France
CMS Francis Lefebvre > The Legal 500 Rankings
France > The regions Tier 1
A market-leading firm in the provinces, CMS Francis Lefebvre offers a comprehensive practice in business, tax and public law for both SMEs and large foreign based companies operating in the Auverge Rhône-Alpes region. Leadership is shared between Lyon-based François Coutard; Jean-Thomas Heintz, a specialist in mergers and acquisitions; Laurent Romano, an expert in health law; and François-Xavier Awatar, noted for his in-depth knowledge of commercial and distribution law. Guilaume Bossy is another key member of the team and leverages his expertise in the field of employment law.Practice head(s):
François Coutard; Jean-Thomas Heintz; Laurent Romano; François-Xavier Awatar
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Lyon team (in particular that of François Xavier Awatar with whom we mainly work), knows how to be responsive, the files are shared between several lawyers and collaborators, which allows us to always have someone someone to talk with and who knows how to do it.’
‘We work with Francois Xavier Awatar and are very happy with it.’
‘Creative and efficient team.’
‘Attentive, responsive, agile. Very good understanding of the issues.’
‘Responsiveness, professionalism, efficiency.’
‘Available and attentive.’
‘They are a great team, really invested in each case they’ve got to manage. They don’t hesitate to work without counting their working hours when the files requires it.’
Key clients
Aeroports de Lyon
Nicollin
Capstone
Blue Altitude Invest
Iltom
De Buyer
Benta
Immerialys
In extenso
Envia cuisine
Immerialys
Etex Group
Radisson hôtel group
Symbio
Avadel
Work highlights
- Assisting with the acquisition of a target group of companies located in Luxembourg and Belgium.
- Advised Etex on the closure of a plant and managed the subsequent litigations with the employees concerned.
- Advised Envia Cuisines on the development of a second franchise network to sell an upper range of kitchens and furnishing under the trademark Cuisines Gusto.
France > Capital markets: debt capital markets Tier 2
CMS Francis Lefebvre is kept busy acting for banking institutions and arrangers on a large array of transactions including updates of EMTN programmes and subsequent issuances, covered bonds, as well as sustainable finance and Euro PP loan issuances. The Paris team, which also handles work for issuers, is also able to manage international work including recently advising advising on Schuldschein loans and on Turkish- and Czech-related issuances. The team is jointly headed by experienced duo Marc-Etienne Sébire and Rosetta Ferrère.Practice head(s):
Marc-Etienne Sébire; Rosetta Ferrère
Testimonials
‘Rigor and availability.’
Key clients
BNP Paribas
Crédit Agricole CIB
Crédit Mutuel Arkéa
Natixis
HSBC
SFIL
Klépierre
Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
Bel
Pricoa
Imerys
Work highlights
- Advising Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and Crédit Agricole S.A. on the establishment of the €82 billion covered bonds retail format programme of Crédit Agricole Financement de l’Habitat SFH.
- Advising Bel on its €195 million (including €20 million Namensschuldverschreibung) and $120 million multi-tranche sustainability-linked Schuldschein loans.
- Advising SFIL Group (SFIL and its refinancing entity, CAFFIL) on the update of their retail format programmes.
France > Data privacy and data protection Tier 2
Praised for its ‘availability, efficiency and competence’, CMS Francis Lefebvre is well placed to assist domestic and multinational companies, as well as public entities, with data protection compliance in relation to e-commerce, digital platforms and connected vehicles, among other issues. The team also has a focus on cyber security and is geared to assist online platforms with their response to CNIL investigations. Anne-Laure Villedieu oversees matters and counts privacy impact assessments and employee-related data issues among her areas of competence. Maxime Hanriot is a key contact for the negotiation of the data protection aspects of M&A deals. Pierre Fumery is praised for his ‘effective support’.Practice head(s):
Anne-Laure Villedieu
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A team that quickly understands the issues and provides pragmatic responses.’
‘Pierre Fumery provided effective support.’
‘The CMS team is always helpful and very knowledgeable on data privacy and security matters, not only in France but also in Europe. They come up with alternative solutions and recommendations.’
‘Whenever we need any help from any of the team members, they always get back to us in a timely manner and they are open to discussing different perspectives.’
‘CMS was always keen to offer solutions that were simple to implement and capable of evolving.’
‘Anne-Laure Villedieu demonstrated her very good technical knowledge of GDPR issues in a complex environment, involving different entities in an international context.’
‘The availability, efficiency and competence of the team make it infinitely valuable.’
‘Anne-Laure Villedieu has remarkable expertise.’
Key clients
Al Khaliji France
Bank of China
CTS Eventim
SPIE Operations
SPIE France
Newmont
Ideal promotion
Work highlights
- Advising Al Khaliji with respect to all its data protection issues, and acting as the external DPO of the company.
- Implemented a global GDPR compliance programme for SPIE Operations, affecting all subsidiaries of the SPIE Group located in France and elsewhere.
- Implemented a specific GDPR compliance programme for SPIE France and its subsidiaries, relating to their activities in France.
France > Derivatives and structured finance Tier 2
CMS Francis Lefebvre runs a busy structured finance and securitisation practice. The team advises arrangers, credit institutions and funds on the structuring of various assets (trade, financing, exotics) and covered bonds and also handles cross-border work; Grégory Benteux and Alexandre Bordenave are key names in this area. The team is also active on the derivatives front through Marc-Etienne Sébire and counsel Pauline Larroque; they assist corporations and financial institutions with various matters including innovative green derivatives in the electricity space.Practice head(s):
Grégory Benteux; Marc-Etienne Sébire
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Pauline Larroque is an excellent professional in the field of structured financing.’
Key clients
Sienna AM France
Crédit Agricole Leasing & Factoring, La Banque Postale Leasing & Factoring
Credit Agricole SA, Credit Agricole CIB
MMB SCF, My Money Bank CCF SFH
Crédit Agricole Home Loan SFH,
SFIL
CAFFIL SCF
BPCE SFH
Crédit Mutuel Home Loan SFH
La Banque Postale Home Loan SFH
Sofac Structured Finance
BNP Paribas
Bpifrance financement
Société Générale / Crédit Mutuel
Work highlights
- Advising Credit Agricole SA on the setting up of a new covered bonds issuer and a €83 billion covered bonds programme and the issuance of 26 series of covered bonds for a cumulative amount of more than €40 billion.
- Advising on the extension of an existing securitisation programme arranged by Société Générale for the Crédit Mutuel entities.
- Advising BNPP on the implementation of a securitisation of buy-now-pay-later receivables.
France > Employment Tier 2
CMS Francis Lefebvre stands out for its 'pragmatic and strategic approach to problems' and is also noted for its ability to collaborate with colleagues from across the firm's network. The group acts for a diverse mix of clients drawn from a range of sectors and is highly regarded for its work handling collective and individual litigation, criminal employment law and new forms of work organisations. Laurent Marquet de Vasselot , Pierre Bonneau, Caroline Froger-Michon and Nicolas Callies are key members of the team.Other key lawyers:
Laurent Marquet de Vasselot, Pierre Bonneau, Caroline Froger-Michon; Nicolas Callies
Testimonials
‘In the panorama of law firms, Francis Lefebvre is among the best on the market, if not the best. They demonstrate reliability, precision, rigor, with a very pragmatic and strategic approach to problems. Their profile precisely meets our needs and expectations’.
‘High responsiveness and understanding of our subjects. Great agility in taking our requests into account and in the way we collaborate. For example, they are able to integrate into our digital tools to facilitate collaborative work.’
‘We have built a long-term relationship with CMS which allows us to treat sensitive and high-impact subjects as well as less impactful subjects with always the same degree of reliability in the responses. The team works very well – communicates with each other, which also allows us to have answers within a very short time which correspond to our expectations. More precisely, the ability to issue legal recommendations with different levels of risk-taking and an ability to explore more precise points by calling on other expertise within the same firm is very valuable (e.g. criminal, tax etc…). ’
‘The key qualities are listening to the customer’s request and their ability to identify the need, responsiveness and availability to the request (sometimes on weekends, sometimes late in the evening) with a very good understanding of the internal issues, the quality of the analyzes and documents provided, ability to write and prepare turnkey documents on request within very short deadlines. Ability to alert on legal innovations that may directly concern our company and to help implement measures.’
‘What was extremely satisfying is the availability and responsiveness of the individuals. They can be reached any time and respond within a very short period of time. Also, the advice is very pragmatic and to the point. One can see that the individual lawyers understand what corporate clients need and advise respectively.’
‘The strength of this team lies in the excellence of its support which is based on the ability to intervene in advice, in litigation and on matters of expertise in social law (social security, URSSAF litigation, secondments and expatriation, collective procedures, etc.). Furthermore, beyond technical and legal support, the team is also present to support us in operational implementation, its ability to adapt, particularly by combining the use of technologies while maintaining the personal connection, the diversity of its team and their sense of service.’
‘Ability to create lasting bonds with their clients.’
‘Efficiency, speed, in-depth social analysis. Always up to date with current events. Ability to deal with very complex files from a social point of view. Social Law and mobile application is a plus.’
Key clients
Chambre Nationale des Commissaires de Justice
Nissan
Auchan
Imerys
InstaDeep
Symbio
Work highlights
- Assisted Nissan with the required consultation obligations towards the French works council and the European works council regarding the sale of its subsidiary in Russia.
- Assisted Auchan—the French multinational retail group—in multiple employment matters.
- Advised Imerys in the context of two M&A transactions that had several employment-related implications.
France > Industry focus: IT and internet Tier 2
A rapidly growing firm with a prestigious portfolio of clients, CMS Francis Lefebvre covers the full gamut of IT-related matters, including litigation, general advisory issues, contractual mandates, and regulatory matters. The practice is led by Anne-Laure Villedieu, who regularly appears before the courts and regulators. Jean-Baptiste Thiénot and Florentin Sanson are also key team members.Practice head(s):
Anne-Laure Villedieu
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The specialties offered corresponded to our needs.’
‘The team demonstrates great responsiveness and availability to answer questions and issues.’
‘Maxime Hanriot helped our company tremendously thanks to his great client orientation, curiosity and ability to challenge the status quo.’
‘The team is particularly responsive and involved. It knows how to adapt to the client’s maturity level and plan for the long term. The firm was also able to offer a working framework adapted to the constraints of a start-up (commitment, one-off interventions, invoicing). All of the collaborative tools offered are suitable and effective.’
‘They demonstrate a real attraction to new legal issues and a good understanding of the technological issues that are their source.’
Key clients
Sage
Circular X
CTS Eventim
Kadensis (Renault Group)
Weytop
Newmont
Work highlights
- Assisting Circular X with the drafting and negotiation of various IT contracts.
- Assisting Weytop with its strategy to enter into the market, as well as with the drafting and negotiation of IT contracts.
France > Media and entertainment: Music Tier 2
CMS Francis Lefebvre’s IP and TMT department draws on the firm’s global network to assist both national and international clients with a multitude of matters in the music space. IP specialist Anne-Laure Villedieu heads the team, whilst Florentin Sanson has significant expertise in advising on the production and exploitation of musical works, collaborating closely with the full-service firm’s tax, employment and corporate teams.Practice head(s):
Anne-Laure Villedieu
Other key lawyers:
France > Tax Tier 2
CMS Francis Lefebvre's broad offering covers both contentious and non-contentious tax matters, including mandates concerning general taxation of private companies, as well as state-owned enterprises. The team includes experts in project management, international tax and tax litigation. Stéphane Austry coordinates the tax litigation and controversy group and Bruno Gibert focuses his practice on transfer pricing. Other key team members include Edouard Milhac, who is a key name for transactional tax; Anne-Sophie Rostaing, who is knowledgeable of corporate tax, Jean-Charles Benois, Frédéric Gerner and Ludovic Duguet.Other key lawyers:
Stéphane Austry; Bruno Gibert; Edouard Milhac; Anne-Sophie Rostaing; Jean-Charles Benois; Frédéric Gerner; Ludovic Duguet; Daniel Gutmann; Agnès de l’Estoile-Campi; Chantal Bouquet
Testimonials
‘The best team in Paris for international taxation and transfer pricing policy topics. Excellent knowledge of technical subjects and the French tax administration to obtain rulings or negotiate litigation. Excellent mastery of treaties to avoid double taxation and international mechanisms.’
‘Extremely responsive team with practical and concrete solutions to implement’
‘Anne-Sophie Rostaing is an exceptional lawyer. Always available and responsive, she is very attentive to her clients and knows how to demonstrate teaching with regard to tax matters, the contours of which are sometimes complex. Anne-Sophie is also capable of schematizing her tax analyzes so that for example, they cannot be presented to a board, which is a real asset.’
‘A great team of complementary specialists.’
‘I would like to congratulate Anne-Sophie Rostaing for her professionalism, her availability, her listening skills and the relevance of her advice.’
‘Combination of practical expertise and solid experience with academic analyses/prospective doctrines. Responsiveness to current events. Relevant weighting between prudent and innovative approaches.’
‘Daniel Gutmann: extraordinary expertise and great pedagogy. Agnès de L’estoile-Campi: solid international expertise integrating complex territories. Chantal Bouquet: practical knowledge of complex regimes in France’
‘It is an efficient, proactive and reactive team, available. Always with clear and concise renderings. Good spirit within this firm: Your file is always taken care of even when the partner with whom you are used to working is not available.’
Key clients
Tennaxia
Nissan
Emeria
Vivendi
French Banking Federation (Fédération bancaire française)
Association Française des Entreprises Privées (AFEP) Association
Biogroup
Rubis Terminal
Ardian
Bouygues Immobilier
Work highlights
- Assisted French Banking Federation (FEDERATION BANCAIRE FRANCAISE) and several French and foreign banks on considering the possibility to justify “Cum Cum” reassessments without change of legislation and without grounding those reassessments on anti-abuse provisions.
- Advising RUBIS TERMINAL GROUP on tax assistance in the context of the refinancing of part of the group’s third-party indebtedness and re-leveraging of the group.
- Advising NISSAN GROUP, along with a CMS international team, on the exit from Russia and the compliance with the existing EU regulations.
France > Administrative and public law Tier 3
CMS Francis Lefebvre covers a large range of public issues for a top client base made up of leading French and international sponsors and companies. Through Claire Vannini the firm provides strategic advice on regulatory, state aid and financial issues spanning various sectors (including energy, telecoms and media) including challenging regulations before the highest French and EU institutions. François Tenailleau is recognised for his high-level public procurement and contract expertise, including in the litigation arena. The team also deals with urban-planning and environment law issues. Counsels Kawthar Ben Khelil and Thomas Carenzi are two other key names to note.Practice head(s):
François Tenailleau; Claire Vannini
Other key lawyers:
Kawthar Ben Khelil; Thomas Carenzi
Testimonials
‘Very experienced team, in particular on public procurement and concession law. Excellent mastery of the most complex legal subjects, combined with a very pragmatic and business oriented approach.’
‘Kawthar Ben Khelil demonstrates great responsiveness and availability, providing essential legal insight.’
‘Pragmatic team able to work with other legal professionals in a constructive and productive manner. High quality services. ’
‘François Tenailleau can advise both the public and the private sectors, and knows how to surround himself with the right people. Kawthar Ben Khelil: meticulous expertise and customer relations of exceptional quality.’
‘ François Tenailleau’s team has very in-depth knowledge of public contract law and market practices. Their recommendations are very precise and clear. They never lose sight of the big picture, even when dealing with complex, multi-faceted cases. They are always attentive to constraints and fully available. ’
‘Thomas Carenzi quickly grasps the essence of any problem and has high added value expertise in public contracts. He demonstrates availability, foresight and great rigor. ’
‘The team is professional, very attentive and responsive. High quality of service.’
‘Strong pragmatism and ability to anticipate technical issues. The team is particularly innovative and has been able to adapt its recruitment to today’s new challenges.’
Key clients
La Banque Postale
Engie
Caisse des dépôts et consignations
Interparking
Corsica Linea
Bruker France
Société d’exploitation des ports du détroit
British Embassy in Paris
Lexmark International
NGE
Meridiam
Eiffage Construction
Eiffage Aménagement
Indigo
Crédit Agricole group
Léon Grosse
Veolia Energie France
McCourt Global
Total Raffinage France
BPCE Lease
Paris Saint Germain Football (PSG)
Semmaris
Moma Group
Waga Energy
Monnaie de Paris
Union nationale des centres sportifs de plein air (UCPA)
Agence pour la formation professionnelle des adultes (AFPA)
Belambra
Work highlights
- Advising Meridiam on state aid issues in connection with the funding of a complex real estate project in the city of Marseille intended to host a private university named “La Plateforme”.
- Assisted Caisse des dépôts et consignations, one of the shareholders of Air Austral (airline), in the context of the notification to the EU Commission of a restructuring aid of approximately €140 million to Air Austral.
- Advised Veolia Energie France on an innovative public contract for the operation and the development of a low carbon urban heating and cooling network on the Paris-Saclay University site.
France > Banking and finance: Bank regulatory Tier 3
At CMS Francis Lefebvre, Jérôme Sutour leads a solid practice, advising a range of asset management firms, banks and other financial institutions on the setting up of their French activity and in dealing with compliance, M&A, internal reorganisation and prudential requirements. The team also has strong expertise in the area of blockchain and crypto assets.Practice head(s):
Jérôme Sutour
Key clients
Hines SGP
N26
IM Global Partner (IMGP)
Ostrum
Mirova
Natixis
Acer Finance
Work highlights
- Assisted HINES SGP with the structuring and creation of a fund (OPPCI) (EUR 450 M).
- Setting up of N26’s French branch.
- Assisting IMGP in the acquisition of SYZ Asset Management (a Luxembourg AIFM).
France > Environment Tier 3
The environment group at CMS Francis Lefebvre is regularly instructed by constructors, developers, constructors, banks, and investments funds for its expertise in waste management, circular economy and renewables matters. The team supports clients on transactional, regulatory and contentious matters. Céline Cloché-Dubois steers the practice and specialises in environmental regulatory mandates, and has additional expertise in the real estate space.Practice head(s):
Céline Cloché-Dubois
Other key lawyers:
Marc-Etienne Sébire; Anne Plisson
Key clients
VEOLIA
ZEHNDER Group
USLEEP
SIEMENS
KSB
FUCHS Lubrifiant France
ENGIE
WAGA Energy
PHOTOSOL
Work highlights
- Advised Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy on the sale of a 3.9GW portfolio of onshore wind projects worth €580m to SSE Renewables.
- Advised Waga Energy on the financing of 6 new WagaBOX projects (units that produce biomethane).
- Advised USLEEP on the negotiation of a commercial lease agreement for its first warehouse in France.
France > EU, competition and distribution Tier 3
CMS Francis Lefebvre is noted for the strength of its distribution law practice, with a wealth of experience in advising both suppliers and retailers on mergers, disputes and investigations, and also has significant expertise in EU regulatory matters. In addition, the team routinely advises on merger notifications to both the FCA and the European Commission and is increasingly active in foreign investment control proceedings. The experienced trio of Nathalie Pétrignet (an expert in distribution law), Claire Vannini and Denis Redon leads the practice.Practice head(s):
Nathalie Pétrignet; Claire Vannini; Denis Redon
Other key lawyers:
Vincent Lorieul
Testimonials
‘A perfect mastery of competition law and commercial law, particularly in the field of distribution and customs. A perfect knowledge of our group and its sectors of activity. Very high level of responsiveness and great courage. Clear and wise advice. When working as a team with other firms, their efficiency is clearly higher.’
‘The team stands out for the significant reputation and quality of the lawyers. They handle important cases.’
‘Very good knowledge of the law and case law and insight into draft laws. Very good knowledge of the FMCG sector, allowing them to deliver opinions adapted to our needs.’
‘Nathalie Pétrignet has very good knowledge of the world of FMCG, and is accessible and pragmatic.’
Key clients
Nissan Group
Alstom
General Electric Energy Power France
Paris Saint Germain (PSG) Football Club
Trigano
Der Grüne Punkt GmbH and PRO Europe
Work highlights
- Advising Nissan on its exit from Russia and compliance with existing European regulations.
- Advising Trigano on numerous mergers in the distribution of leisure vehicles sector.
- Acting for GE Energy Products France in major litigation relating to restrictive competition practices brought by the Minister of the Economy.
France > Industry focus: Energy Tier 3
Practice head(s):
Aurore-Emmanuelle Rubio; Céline Cloché-Dubois; Claire Vannini
Other key lawyers:
Thierry Postif
Testimonials
‘An attentive team with diverse skills.’
‘The team stands out for its professionalism, availability and attentiveness to the client.’
‘Competent, responsive and proactive.’
Key clients
GRTgaz
Ailes Marines
Sorégies
Océole
Veolia Energie France
Engie
Ionity
France > Insolvency Tier 3
With its holistic approach, CMS Francis Lefebvre's restructuring and insolvency practice guides a diverse client base, including debtors, investors, shareholders, and creditors, through every facet of amicable and insolvency proceedings. Alexandre Bastos, with over 20 years of experience in restructuring and insolvency law, leads the practice, actively overseeing major ongoing cases spanning various industry sectors. One notable highlight is his advisory role in a high-value matter involving multiple jurisdictions for Allicance Green Services. The practice also boasts the expertise of key figures, including Guillaume Bouté.Practice head(s):
Alexandre Bastos
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Alexandre Bastos follows the entire file, including down to the smallest details, and effectively controls the work of juniors.’
‘The team knows how to put its expertise and its network at the service of the company to help it get through this difficult period in the best possible conditions and to find the most efficient solutions with it. She knows how to adapt to the needs of her clients and mobilise the necessary expertise both in France and internationally if necessary.’
‘The team offers solidity and a depth of experience for the benefit of resolving business difficulties.’
‘Complementarity responsiveness professionalism advanced legal research.’
Key clients
ALLIANCE GREEN SERVICES
ALGONQUIN FRANCE HÔTEL SERVICES
SODIAAL and its affiliates
UCPA
ATRADIUS
NAGRAVISION
POLARIS
BPCE GROUP (NATIXIS – CEGC)
SISECAM FLAT GLASS
SAINT GOBAIN
BANQUE PALATINE and FCP MICADO FRANCE
MUTARES SE & Co. KGaA
Work highlights
- Advised ALLIANCE GREEN SERVICES, a subsidiary of ARCELORMITTAL group, within the framework of the takeover of the activity of PHOENIX SERVICES FRANCE, a key services provider for the iron making industry market and the subsequent appeal against the judgment adopting the transfer plan.
- Advised ATRADIUS, a credit-insurer, within the framework of the successive conciliation proceedings and the subsequent insolvency proceedings of CNIM, an industrial equipment supplier and assembler under the aegis of the Interministerial Committee for Industrial Restructuring (CIRI).
- Advised NAGRAVISION (KUDELSKI Group) within the framework of the difficulties faced by SmarDTV GLOBAL and SmarDTV TECHNOLOGY under French insolvency proceedings and during the disposal of their activities within the framework of disposal plans adopted by the Commercial Court of Marseille.
France > Intellectual property: Copyright Tier 3
CMS Francis Lefebvre offers extensive IP guidance to clients under the leadership of Florentin Sanson. The team addresses a wide range of matters, including collective copyright management in music, TV rights clearances, anti-piracy efforts, pre-litigation infringement actions, disputes, and enforcement actions. Leveraging its international network, the team assists national and multinational companies, public entities, and individuals with copyright and copyright-related issues in both contentious and non-contentious contexts. It brings a wealth of experience, particularly in the entertainment, IT and internet, and real estate sectors.Practice head(s):
Florentin Sanson
Testimonials
‘The team are approachable, responsive and thorough. We are able to rely on them and are happy to continue to work with them.’
‘Florentin Sansom is consistently reliable and meticulous in his advice.’
France > Intellectual property: Trade marks and designs Tier 3
The CMS Francis Lefebvre team is renowned for providing tailored IP advice, particularly in technology, media, and communications. Co-led by Anne-Laure Villedieu and Jean-Baptiste Thiénot, the team handles both contentious and non-contentious matters. Sabine Rigaud heads the trade mark and design division, specialising in IP rights for luxury, ready-to-wear, and cosmetics companies. Rigaud’s team excels in reorganising intangible asset portfolios in collaboration with their skilled tax department, supported by Anaïs Arnal for trade mark-related matters, negotiations, contracts, and litigation.Practice head(s):
Anne-Laure Villedieu; Jean-Baptiste Thiénot; Sabine Rigaud
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Fast, precise and clear in its recommendations, the risks and consequences of our decisions.’
‘The CMS Francis Lefebvre team is human and professional at the same time. CMS does not hesitate to be innovative by adapting its services to the needs of each client.’
‘Sabine Rigaud particularly stands out. His ability to adapt easily to his foreign interlocutors facilitates communication. Their dynamism and professionalism make them an essential resource.’
Key clients
Advance Publications
Bolton Group
Four Seasons – Hotel George V B.V.
Michelin
Semmaris (Marché de Rungis)
Work highlights
- Assisting Advance Publications in pre-litigation and customs seizures in relation with the Vogue trade mark.
- Assisting the Semmaris, France’s largest wholesale food market, with respect to trade mark filing strategy, litigation and agreement drafting.
- Assisting the Four Seasons Hotel George V in its trade mark portfolio management and proceedings before the offices.
France > Private equity: Fund formation Tier 3
The 'dedicated and attentive' lawyers at CMS Francis Lefebvre are routinely called upon by investment funds, asset management companies, credit institutions, and family investors for their fund formation expertise. Practice co-head and 'reference in his field' Jérôme Sutour specialises in assisting managers with the establishment and operation of alternative and private equity funds. Corporate specialist Thomas Hains co-leads alongside him.Practice head(s):
Thomas Hains; Jérôme Sutour
Other key lawyers:
Léa Hadjadj
Testimonials
‘This team is made up of experts, dedicated and attentive to its customers, always available and particularly efficient.’
‘Jerôme Sutour is a reference in his field, and he is ably assisted by senior associate Léa Hadjadj.’
Key clients
SAFER
Mirova
Columbus
Eurazeo Invesment Manager
Stanhope Capital SAS
Delubac AM
Quaero Capital
Technology & Strategy / Ardian
Idia Capital Investment
France > Banking and finance: transactional work Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Grégory Benteux; Alexandre Bordenave; Geoffrey Levesque; Alexandre Chazot
Testimonials
‘Very attentive and look for solutions.’
‘Alexandre Bordenave has real expertise and understands clients’ needs. ’
‘Great availability and very good listening skills. ’
‘Grégory Benteux: great perspective. Alexandre Bordenave: extremely available, outstanding technician.’
‘Geoffrey Levesque and Marc-Etienne Sébire provide work of a very high quality. Available and responsive.’
‘Very available team. Fluid communication with clients.’
‘Marc-Etienne Sébire: very practical, great technique, accessible and available.’
‘Very good expertise, responsiveness and adaptability’
Key clients
Bpifrance
Natixis
BPCE Lease
La Banque Postale
Bel
Nadia
Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel des Côtes d’Armor
Banque Populaire Grand Ouest
BNP Paribas
KBC Bank
Penta Infra BV
Work highlights
- Advised Bel on the refinancing of its multi-currency revolving credit facility.
- Advised Groupe Nadia in relation to a LMBO loan arranged by Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel de l’Anjou et du Maine et Banque Populaire Grand Ouest for the reorganisation of the shareholding of the Group.
- Advised Caisse Régionale de Crédit Agricole Mutuel des Côtes d’Armor, Banque Populaire Grand Ouest, BNP Paribas and KBC Bank in relation to a facility agreement for an amount of EUR 100,000,000 to the benefit of Ekinops to finance its external growth strategy.
France > Intellectual property: Patents Tier 4
CMS Francis Lefebvre's patents practice is centred around contentious work, acting for life sciences, electronics and mechanical sector clients in patent litigation. The group also works in tandem with patent experts in the firm's wider international network to handle disputes pertaining patent ownership between employers and employees, patent infringement litigation and associated claims for damages. Led by Jean-Baptiste Thiénot, the team is also adept at advising on R&D and licensing agreements and portfolio audits.Practice head(s):
Jean-Baptiste Thiénot
Testimonials
‘Efficient team, pragmatic advice.’
Key clients
Leifheit
E-Diagmed
Trilogiq
Amosan Distribution
Work highlights
- Representing Amosan Petrochemicals in patent revocation proceedings.
- Successfully acted for a diagnostic biotech company in an action concerning the patent for its AI technology.
France > Real estate Tier 4
Key strengths of the real estate practice at CMS Francis Lefebvre include the structuring of investments, development work, acquisition and divestment. Investors, insurers, developers and corporations regularly feature on the group’s client roster. The practice is jointly led by Benjamin Bill, Florence Chérel, Aline Divo and Céline Cloché-Dubois, following the departure of Philippe Riglet and Géraldine Machinet in November 2022.Practice head(s):
Benjamin Bill; Florence Chérel; Aline Divo; Céline Cloché-Dubois
Other key lawyers:
Arnaud Valverde
Testimonials
‘It is an essential team on the market. Aline Divo is exceptional in terms of skill and kindness.’
‘A well-structured firm with expert specialists. Well-monitored employees with sufficient numbers to respond to emergencies.’
‘Extensive real estate team allowing it to handle a large quantity of documents that need to be worked on. Aline Divo is an excellent professional.’
‘The team is responsive and offers innovative solutions.’
‘ A firm with a mastery of legal solutions to provide to the client. Precise analysis of files.’
‘Arnaud Valverde was available throughout the case and very responsive during our discussions. His legal analysis is a real asset. We highly recommend his services.’
Key clients
BNP Paribas
Deka Immobilien GmbH
Union Investment GmbH
Carlyle
Sienna Real Estate
Segro
Pimco (Allianz Real Estate)
LVMH Group
Franklin Templeton
Société Générale
AXA Real Estate
Ivanhoe Cambridge
UBS Real Estate
NewCold
Penta
CBRE Investment Management
Arcade Group
Work highlights
- Assisted BNP REIM with the acquisition of two retail parks (‘Enox’ in Gennevilliers and ‘Mon Beau Buchelay’ located in the Paris region).
- Assisted Union Investment with an off-plan acquisition of a mixed use building located in Lyon.
- Assisted Penta with its entry into the market involving the acquisition of a data centre facility located in the Paris region.
France > Mergers and acquisitions Tier 5
Practice head(s):
Arnaud Hugot; Alexandre Delhaye; Thomas Hains; Benoît Gomel
Testimonials
‘A team that remains calm and shows formidable efficiency.’
‘The team is competent, available, very responsive and helps clients analyze priorities.’
‘Benoît Gomel is particularly efficient.’
‘Alexandre Delhaye’s team is responsive, creative and attentive. Solutions are always discussed with us regardless of the complexity of the problem. Very good risk analysis. We work together in a very collaborative way and in a very friendly atmosphere.’
‘Very good knowledge of the healthcare sector.’
Key clients
Amethis
Bindawood Holding
Biogroup
Elsan
Engie
Gilgen Door Systems
Groupe Saint Gobain
Groupe Nadia
Idia Capital Investissement
Mediaco
Meridiam
Nextstage
NGE
Nissan Group
Palm Beach (Cannes)
Saipem
Siemens Gamesa
Tennaxia
Vivalto Santé
France > Capital markets: equity capital markets
CMS Francis Lefebvre > Firm Profile
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Banking, finance and capital markets | |||
Business law and taxation for Africa | |||
Commercial | |||
Competition and EU | |||
Consumer products | |||
Corporate, M&A | |||
Dispute resolution | |||
Employment and pensions | |||
Energy | |||
Environment | |||
Funds | |||
Hotels and leisure | |||
Infrastructure and project finance | |||
Insolvency and restructuring | |||
Insurance | |||
Intellectual property | |||
Life sciences | |||
Patrimonial | |||
Private equity | |||
Public law | |||
Real estate and construction | |||
Tax | |||
Technology, media and communications |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Mr Christophe Aldebert | He is a tax specialist with expertise in VAT matters. He works… | View Profile | |
Ms Elisabeth Ashworth | Elisabeth Ashworth joined the Tax Intelligence Department of CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats… | View Profile | |
Mr Stéphane Austry | Coordinates the tax litigation and controversy group of the firm (domestic and… | View Profile | |
Ms Annabelle Bailleul-Mirabaud | Partner. She specialises in international taxation with an expertise on permanent establishments, CFC… | View Profile | |
Mr Alexandre Bastos | Head of Insolvency & Restructuring team. Alexandre Bastos is a partner responsible for… | View Profile | |
Mr Ghislain Beaure d'Augères | Partner. His practice embraces both advice and contentious work for a clientele… | View Profile | |
Ms Kawthar Ben Khelil | Kawthar Ben Khelil is a Counsel within the Public law Department of… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-René Bénichou | Partner in direct taxation. Jean-René Bénichou joined Bureau Francis Lefebvre Avocats in… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-Charles Benois | Jean-Charles Benois joined CMS Francis Lefebvre in 2012 (and was co-opted as… | View Profile | |
Mr Grégory Benteux | Partner, Head of Securitisation and Structured Debt. He specialises in both domestic… | View Profile | |
Mr Gaëtan Berger-Picq | Gaëtan Berger-Picq joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1997 and became a partner in… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-Philippe Bidegainberry | Jean-Philippe Bidegainberry joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1997. A tax specialist, Jean-Philippe… | View Profile | |
Mr Benjamin Bill | Benjamin has extensive experience in the work with clients on complex real… | View Profile | |
Mr Henri Bitar | Henri Bitar is a partner in VAT. He joined CMS Francis Lefebvre… | View Profile | |
Mr Pierre Bonneau | Pierre Bonneau joined the Employment Law Department of CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in… | View Profile | |
Mr Alexandre Bordenave | Alexandre advises financial institutions and their clients in the implementation and negotiation… | View Profile | |
Mr Raphaël Bordier | Raphaël Bordier is a partner in CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats’s Employment Law… | View Profile | |
Mr Guillaume Bossy (Lyon) | Guillaume Bossy is a partner lawyer in the employment law department of… | View Profile | |
Mr Guillaume Bouté | Guillaume is a consel specializes in insolvency law, corporate restructuring, acting both… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-Fabrice Brun | Partner specialised in civil law, commercial law, enforcement measures and criminal business… | View Profile | |
Mr Nicolas Callies | Nicolas Cailles joined the Employment Law Department of CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in… | View Profile | |
Mr Pierre Carcelero | Pierre works specifically in the field of corporate and group taxation, with… | View Profile | |
Mr Laurent Chatel | Laurent Chatel specialises in local taxation. A partner at the firm since… | View Profile | |
Ms Florence Chérel | Partner. She assists investors as well as developers in the context of… | View Profile | |
Ms Céline Cloché-Dubois | Partner and Head of the Environment Practice. She acts for a large… | View Profile | |
Mr Michel Collet | He has an extensive experience in assisting inbound and outbound investments. He… | View Profile | |
François Coutard | François Coutard is a partner in the Employment Law team of CMS… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-Eric Cros | Jean-Eric joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1989 and is currently Head of… | View Profile | |
Mr Xavier Daluzeau | Xavier Daluzeau specialises in international taxation. His main practice areas are transfer… | View Profile | |
Mr Damien Decolasse | Partner. He specialises in employment law and provides advice in collective and individual… | View Profile | |
Mr Pierre Dedieu | Pierre Dedieu is a partner in CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats’s International Taxation… | View Profile | |
Mr Vincent Delage | Partner specialised in employment law and pensions. He provides advice in collective… | View Profile | |
Mr Alexandre Delhaye | He is a partner at CMS Bureau Francis Lefebvre’s Corporate/M&A department. He specialises… | View Profile | |
Mme Aline Divo | She is a partner in the Real Estate Legal Department. She works in… | View Profile | |
Mr Arnaud Donguy | Arnaud Donguy is a partner in the Direct Contributions Department of CMS… | View Profile | |
Mr Philippe Donneaud | Philippe Donneaud started his career in the Taxation Department of CMS Francis… | View Profile | |
Mr Pierre-Jean Douvier | Pierre-Jean Douvier specialises in international law. He co-manages the International team. His… | View Profile | |
Mr Ludovic Duguet | Partner specialises in direct taxation and works mainly on restructuring operations in… | View Profile | |
Mr Olivier Dutheillet de Lamothe | Partner. Olivier Dutheillet de Lamothe joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 2014 as Counsel… | View Profile | |
Ms Rosetta Ferrère | Rosetta Ferrère is Partner in Capital Markets. She has a broad experience… | View Profile | |
Mr Richard Foissac | Partner in Tax. He intervenes particularly in real estate taxation, wealth taxation,… | View Profile | |
Mr Christophe Frionnet | Christophe Frionnet is a direct taxation specialist and specifically handles matters relating… | View Profile | |
Mrs Caroline Froger-Michon | Caroline Froger-Michon is Co-Head of the CMS Employment & Pensions Group. In… | View Profile | |
Mr Stéphane Gelin | Stéphane Gelin is Head of the CMS Tax Group. In this position,… | View Profile | |
Mr Arnaud Gérardin | Partner in the Tax department. Arnaud is managing the Strasbourg office of… | View Profile | |
Mr Frédéric Gerner | Frédéric is a partner at CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats specialising in direct taxes.… | View Profile | |
Mr Bruno Gibert | Partner specialised in international taxation and transfer pricing. On this last domain,… | View Profile | |
Mrs Cathy Goarant-Moraglia | Cathy joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1995, and became a partner in… | View Profile | |
Mr Bruno Gouthière | Bruno Gouthière joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats on June 1, 1989. | View Profile | |
Mr Thierry Granier | His practice mainly focuses on international taxation, particularly in relation to mergers… | View Profile | |
Mr Renaud Grob | Partner in corporate taxation. | View Profile | |
Mr Philippe Grousset | Partner in direct taxation Expert in direct taxes specialized in the following… | View Profile | |
Mr Daniel Gutmann | Daniel Gutmann is a partner in the Tax Doctrine team. He is… | View Profile | |
Mr Dimitar Hadjiveltchev | Dimitar develops services dedicated to the franco-bulgarian relations, together with Jivko Sedlarski… | View Profile | |
Mr Maxime Hanriot | Maxime assists local and international clients in legal counselling and litigation, in… | View Profile | |
Mr François Hellio | François Hellio has over twenty-five years’ professional experience and is involved in… | View Profile | |
Mr Laurent Hepp | Partner specialised in Corporate taxation. He advises French and international groups on… | View Profile | |
Mr Alain Herrmann | He is mainly involved in national and international restructuring of companies, job preservation… | View Profile | |
Mr Arnaud Hugot | Partner in Corporate/M&A department, he is specialising in M&A transactions, including private… | View Profile | |
Mr Luc Jaillais | Partner in direct taxation. | View Profile | |
Mr Olivier Kuhn | Partner. He is specialised in civil law, general business law, enforcement measures,… | View Profile | |
Mr François Lacroix | François Lacroix joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1980. He became a partner… | View Profile | |
Mr Thomas Laumière | Thomas Laumière is a partner in the Tax law team of CMS… | View Profile | |
Mr Arnaud Le Boulanger | Arnaud Le Boulanger heads the Economics team of CMS Legal, in charge… | View Profile | |
Mr Christophe Le Camus | Christophe joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1990 and became a partner in… | View Profile | |
Mr Dimitri Leboff | Dimitri Leboff joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in May 1999 and became a… | View Profile | |
Mr Christophe Lefaillet | Christophe Lefaillet joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1989 and became a partner… | View Profile | |
Mr Laurent Marquet de Vasselot | Partner specialised in Employment and social security law: National and international restructurings,… | View Profile | |
Mr Romain Marsella | Romain is a tax specialist and works on advisory and litigation issues… | View Profile | |
Mr Edouard Milhac | Partner specialised in international and domestic taxation. He advises on mergers and… | View Profile | |
Mr Laurent Mion | Partner in banking & finance. He is particularly involved in banking and… | View Profile | |
Mr Rodolphe Olivier | Partner in employment and pensions. He is mainly involved in litigation in… | View Profile | |
Mrs Nathalie Pétrignet | Partner in EU, Competition & distribution. She is highly involved in national… | View Profile | |
Mr Denis Redon | Partner in EU, Competition & Distribution. His activity covers all EU and… | View Profile | |
Mr Johann Roc'h | Partner in international taxation. He advises clients on all tax issues related… | View Profile | |
Alexandra Rohmert | Partner in Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions | View Profile | |
Mr Thierry Romand | He has substantial experience in advising corporate clients on employment law issues.… | View Profile | |
Mr Laurent Romano (Lyon) | Laurent Romano is a partner of CMS Francis Lefebvre Lyon, in the Economic,… | View Profile | |
Mr François Rontani | Partner in international taxation. | View Profile | |
Ms Anne-Sophie Rostaing | Partner specialist in corporate tax, Anne-Sophie assists French and international companies with… | View Profile | |
Ms Aurore-Emmanuelle Rubio | Aurore-Emmanuelle Rubio is a counsel at CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats. She is… | View Profile | |
Mr Julien Saïac | Partner specialised in international taxation. He handles questions related to corporate taxation,… | View Profile | |
Mr Florentin Sanson | Florentin is a counsel active in contentious and non-contentious matters in various… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-Christophe Sauzey | Jean-Christophe joined CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats in 1987 and became a partner in… | View Profile | |
Mr Marc-Etienne Sébire | Partner, Head of Capital Markets: Debt Capital Markets (plain-vanilla and structured bonds.… | View Profile | |
Mr Jérôme Sutour | Partner, Head of Financial Services: Asset management (funds structuring with an emphasis… | View Profile | |
Mr François Tenailleau | Public contracts (including public procurement contracts, concessions, PPP). Public property, urban planning,… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-Baptiste Thiénot | Jean-Baptiste Thiénot is partner in the IP team of CMS Francis Lefebvre… | View Profile | |
Mr Pierre-Sébastien Thill | Pierre-Sébastien Thill is an expert in international taxation. Pierre-Sébastien has specialised in international… | View Profile | |
Ms Claire Vannini | Claire is a partner of the EU law, Regulatory & Competition department,… | View Profile | |
Mr Christophe Vezinhet | He specialises in direct taxation and works mainly in the field of… | View Profile | |
Ms Anne-Laure Villedieu | Anne-Laure Villedieu heads the Technology and IP Team of CMS Francis Lefebvre.… | View Profile | |
Mr Philippe Zoubritzky | Partner in direct taxation. | View Profile | |
Mr Olivier de Saint Chaffray | Olivier de Saint Chaffray joint CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats’s Taxation Department in… | View Profile | |
Mme Agnès de l'Estoile-Campi | She is a partner within the International Taxation team. She mainly works… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 520 at this office : 400Languages
Armenian Arabic Bulgarian Dutch English French German Greek Hungarian Italian Japanese Mandarin Norwegian Polish Portuguese Romanian Russian Spanish Ukrainian VietnameseMemberships
CMS is an international full-service law firm acting for major global and domestic corporations. 4 5000 lawyers work for CMS in over 78 offices.Other
Contact : Pierre-Sébastien Thill Other offices : Casablanca Other offices : Lyon Other offices : StrasbourgLegal Briefings
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- The regions
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Capital markets: debt capital markets
- Data privacy and data protection
- Derivatives and structured finance
- Employment
- Industry focus: IT and internet
- Media and entertainment: Music
- Tax