Firms To Watch: Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation

New promising corporate boutique firm Moncey Avocats added solid dispute resolution capabilities, especially in the field of corporate litigation, as the highly regarded Philippe Lauzeral (former founding member of CVML where he headed the litigation and arbitration practice) joined at the end of 2021.
ALDÉBARAN société d’avocats is a new promising dispute resolution boutique launched in January 2021 by the young duo Marion Lambert-Barret and Fanny Rocaboy, both previously associates at Reinhart Marville Torre.
Cabinet Adwise is among the most promising litigation boutiques that launched in 2022. Founder Antony Martinez, formerly in charge of the practice at Archers A.A.R.P.I., has a solid track record and currently handles a number of significant matters in the market.

Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation in France

Allen & Overy LLP

Allen & Overy LLP‘s versatile team is able to deal with all types of disputes; spanning corporate, commercial, financial and regulatory cases. The practice frequently acts for leading banks on high-stakes matters pertaining to investment products, notably defending banks in two class actions which are among the first ones to be launched in France. A good portion of the caseload has a major international component, for example international arbitration proceedings and foreign court enforcement cases before French courts. Disputes involving African jurisdictions are also handled. Additionally, the practice acts in sensitive M&A-related disputes and was recently appointed to handle a major case in relation to liability issues linked to the bankruptcy of a major company. Recently, the firm has also been retained to handle a high-stakes unfair litigation dispute concerning a future pharmaceutical blockbuster, a case which further illustrates further the practice’s large scope of intervention. Denis ChemlaErwan Poisson and Dan Benguigui are in charge.

Practice head(s):

Denis Chemla; Erwan Poisson; Dan Benguigui

Testimonials

‘They provided high-ranking expertise on judiciary and legal issues and all the help we needed.’

‘Erwan Poisson is a high-ranking lawyer, well aware of his clients needs. He helped in a tough and technical environment.’

‘Really good and proactive advice.’

‘They were very clear and crisp in their presentations of the elements in our case and very clear in their advice of what could and could not happen while still clearly outlining the risks.’

‘The team members are very responsive and diligent. They have shown great involvement in the files managed on behalf of our institution.’

‘The team is endowed with precision and competence.’

‘Reliability in terms of advice and compliance with deadlines.’

‘The team has provided expertise in a highly sensitive matter. They have excelled, both in the level of their legal advice and in representing the client in court. This has been a matter that has now lasted quite a few years and the team has maintained a high professional level throughout the entire period.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas

Cale Street

Citigroup

Shell

ACT

Alcatel

Huawei

Indagro

Groupama

UBS

Work highlights

  • Representing BNP Paribas in the first class action initiated in the financial sector before French Courts by consumer association UFC-Que Choisir.
  • Assisting Huawei with a complex multi-jurisdictional dispute regarding various projects conducted in West African countries for the supply of equipment and services in the context of implementing and operating a global system for mobile communications.
  • Assisting an American multinational company in relation to a post-M&A dispute.

BDGS Associés

BDGS Associés is a strong reference for complex disputes. The firm is popular with leading French corporations, including state-owned companies, for high-stakes corporate disputes, often pertaining to publicly listed M&A deals and shareholder conflicts. The team notably acted for Engie in the landmark recent Suez-Veolia M&A battle. In addition to intervening in high-stakes commercial disputes, the practice must also be acknowledged for its expertise in resisting French discovery procedures and is also highly qualified to handle highly strategic regulatory disputes, notably in the banking sector. For instance, the team recently acted in a high-profile price manipulation securities case before the stock-market regulator (AMF)’s sanction committee. Practice head Kyum Lee and Antoine Gosset-Grainville, who regularly acts for banks in strategic regulatory cases, are the key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Kyum Lee

Other key lawyers:

Antoine Gosset-Grainville

Testimonials

‘Kyum Lee is exceptional, accurate, calm and reliable.’

‘Kyum Lee and his associates are remarkable lawyers, able to handle the most complex and strategic litigation.’

‘Kyum Lee is a specialist in contract law and corporate law. He analyses the files in depth and meticulously. All avenues are considered and explored; nothing is left to chance. Combined with an unrivalled knowledge of contract law and corporate law, he is a formidable lawyer.’

‘Kyum Lee is a truly remarkable lawyer. He combines extremely fine legal analyses with an always relevant and pragmatic approach to cases. He always knows his files down to the last detail. He is supported by a solid team and in particular by Florian Dessault who is an outstanding lawyer.’

‘Kyum Lee is an excellent practitioner, technically and in his approach to litigation and the client. Available, responsive, attentive; his advice and his writings are remarkable; as is his team.’

Key clients

Engie

Morgan Stanley

Bpifrance

Ceva Santé Animale

Electricité de France (EDF)

MBDA France

Société Générale

TechnipFMC

Crédit Agricole Assurances (Predica)

La Banque Postale

Lov Group

Air Madagascar

Groupe Partouche

The Bureau (GPG group)

Cybergun

Altice

CMA CGM

Diageo

Bourrelier Group

Work highlights

  • Assisting Engie before the Commercial Court in connection with multiple proceedings initiated by Suez against Engie and Veolia in the context of the sale of Engie’s interests in Suez to Veolia.
  • Assisting Morgan Stanley with appeal proceedings launched against the Sanctions Committee’s decision of the French Financial Market Authority (AMF) that imposed a fine for alleged manipulation of the price of sovereign bonds.
  • Assisting Diageo in connection with a claim for dividend payment against LVMH, related to Diageo’s stake in Moët Hennessy and Moët Hennessy International.

Bredin Prat

Leading French business firm Bredin Prat is a staple name on the market for litigation work. Building on the firm’s first-class M&A capabilities, the litigation team naturally handles the largest M&A-related disputes, especially in the field of high-profile publicly listed transactions. The practice notably played a front role in the handling of the Suez-Veolia M&A battle. The team’s impressive credentials also earns it mandates in highly sensitive shareholder and governance conflicts pertaining to top companies. Besides corporate litigation, the practice is retained by the largest French and international corporations to assist with their most strategic cases, handling commercial and liability litigation, as well as proceedings mixing civil, criminal, regulatory or major international aspects. For instance, the practice successfully defended a client before French courts in a strategic liability case relating to the use of the ‘agent orange’ chemical gas during the Vietnam war. The practice is co-headed by Jean-Daniel BretznerFlorian BouazizSébastien Prat and Eve Duminy; as well as by Didier Martin, who primarily acts in stock-market litigation, and by white-collar crime star Eric Dezeuze. Calmann Bellity, Aurélie Patrelle and Tom Vauthier made counsel in January 2021.

Practice head(s):

Didier Martin; Eric Dezeuze; Jean-Daniel Bretzner; Florian Bouaziz; Sébastien Prat; Guillaume Pellegrin; Ève Duminy

Other key lawyers:

Calmann Bellity; Aurélie Patrelle; Tom Vauthier

Testimonials

‘Jean-Daniel Bretzner is undoubtedly one of the stars of business litigation in France, thanks to a rare combination of encyclopedic knowledge in a large number of fields and his ability to develop new lines of thoughts in defence of his clients. He will examine every possible argument, procedural and substantive, leaving absolutely no detail behind. Jean-Daniel changes the dimension of his ‘à la carte’ team, according to the needs and budgetary constraints of the clients; such flexibility is appreciated.’

‘The partners are accessible and available to their clients. They can be reached on the cellphone, which is very practical and makes the relationship smoother.’

‘The team demonstrates its mastery at managing cases through an appropriate distribution of roles, and an ability to mobilise resources to understand subjects at hand.’

‘Great experience and expertise.’

‘The firm is a true heavyweight litigation powerhouse in France. We have dealt with a number of partners and senior associates, and the quality is consistently exceptional.’

‘Florian Bouaziz is a great litigator.’

Key clients

Airbnb

Bayer/Monsanto

DAF

Danone

Delfin

Domino’s Pizza

Euronext

Foncia

Lactalis

Lagardère

Legrand

Rothschild & Co

Stellantis (former PSA)

Suez

Uber

Work highlights

  • Advising Suez in connection with the public offer project launched by Veolia.
  • Advising Lactalis in disputes led in different countries against the US based bank Citi Bank, in the context of the bankruptcy of the Italian-based company Parmalat.
  • Advised Lagardère in connection with joint demand for seats on its supervisory board issued by Vivendi and activist fund Amber Capital.

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is the go-to-firm for high-profile M&A and corporate litigation as its work on the groundbreaking Veolia-Suez dispute attests. The practice acts for leading companies, banks and investment banks, including for high-stakes commercial and financial litigation. Among many other recent headline cases, the firm acted in the major dispute concerning football broadcasting rights. The team is also managing a number of strategic private enforcement cases following condemnation by the competition authorities. The team is co-headed by the excellent Jean-Yves Garaud, Delphine Michot, who was promoted to partner in 2021, and senior attorney Aude Dupuis, another promising member.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Yves Garaud; Delphine Michot; Aude Dupuis

Testimonials

‘Targeted and effective advice. Excellent quality of work delivered.’

‘Recognised and proven competence of Delphine Michot.’

Key clients

Veolia

IronSource

Vocus International BV and Cision

STIC Private Equity Fund III L.P. and STIC Shariah Private Equity Fund III L.P.

Canal + Group

Google

DuPont

3M

Novasep

Capgemini

Work highlights

  • Representing Veolia Environnement in several proceedings relating to its €12.9bn hostile bid on rival company Suez.
  • Representing Google in connection with several follow-on damages claims launched by providers of online comparison shopping services.
  • Representing SuperSonic, a mobile game publisher and gaming studio based in Israel, in a dispute with French competitor Voodoo due to alleged breaches of a contract.

Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance stands out through its ability to manage a wide range of cases and its high-profile French and international client base, made up of leading banks and corporations, including from the retail, sport, healthcare, telecoms and energy sectors. The team has particularly strong know-how in high-stakes commercial disputes, often handling cases opposing leading competitors in their field, for example in the telecoms sector. The practice also has a strong presence in the retail sector, acting in high-stakes disputes involving complex consumer rights and regulatory issues for several giant distributors. It is also the go-to-firm for high-profile commercial disputes in the sports industry; notably acting in a hard-fought headline case concerning the stakes of French football competition broadcasting rights after that business was severally impacted by the Covid-19 crisis. Product liability cases are another area of strength. Thomas BaudessonDiego de Lammerville and Thibaud d’Alès form the lead trio.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Baudesson; Diego de Lammerville; Thibaud d’Alès

Testimonials

‘Diego de Lammerville and his team intervene for our company on the most complex and strategic disputes. They stand out through their ability to build the most effective strategy by identifying the commercial issues associated with litigation. The results obtained are excellent.’

‘Thibaud d ‘Alès showed stubbornness and enthusiasm, which enabled us to succeed.’

Key clients

Carrefour

Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP)

SFR

Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank

Wells Fargo Bank

Construcciones Y Auxiliar De Ferrocarriles (CAF)

World Rugby

Novartis – Sandoz

Pfizer

JP Morgan

AXA IM

Airbus

Europcar

Kaufman & Broad

Rexel

IPSEN

Work highlights

  • Representing the LFP in litigation against Groupe Canal+ and beIN Sports France in the wake of Mediapro’s business defaulting.
  • Representing the banks in the context of Veolia’s hostile tender offer on Suez.
  • Representing CAF in the context of the public tender launched for the replacement of the trains operating on one of the lines of the Paris regional train service (RER B).

Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier

Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier ‘s first-class litigation practice is able to handle every type of high-stakes dispute. In line with the firm’s thriving M&A practice, the litigation team excels in the field of corporate and M&A litigation and is called upon by the most high-profile clients to deal with the market’s most high-end disputes, often involving landmark public M&A transactions such as the recent Suez-Veolia case. The team also manages an outstanding commercial caseload, representing various leading French companies, international corporations and investors in high-stakes disputes. Class action disputes, for example a highly sensitive matters in the healthcare sector, are another area of strength. The practice recently secured a significant first-instance proceedings victory for defendant Vivendi which was being sued by many investors in relation to stock market investments. High-stakes private enforcement cases in relation to previous antitrust condemnations are also handled. The stellar team is headed by Cyril Bonan and includes the legendary Jean-Michel Darrois and Emmanuel Brochier, as well as the excellent  Matthieu BrochierNicolas Mennesson and Julie Pasternak. Former of counsel François de Bérard left the firm in November 2021.

Practice head(s):

Cyril Bonan

Other key lawyers:

Jean-Michel Darrois; Emmanuel Brochier; Matthieu Brochier; Nicolas Mennesson; Julie Pasternak

Testimonials

‘The best law firm for litigation: it is haute couture. No firm is as connected on the market, and provides services of as good quality as this firm.’

‘Matthieu Brochier is an excellent professional, and his human qualities (availability, wit, humor) make it very pleasant to work with him. He has a lot of tact, shows absolute discretion, and has a real understanding of situations. He is a real asset for negotiations and transactions.’

‘The team is distinguished by an experience in litigation which is very reassuring for the client.’

‘Matthieu Brochier demonstrates remarkable listening and understanding. He is available and very fine in his analyses.’

‘Fixed price billing, known in advance and deadlines are respected.’

Key clients

Lagardère SA

Ligue de football professionnelle

LVMH

Rigoni

Safilo

Suez

Accor

Bertin Technologies

bioMérieux

BPCE

Bouygues

CNAJMJ

CNIM

Crédit agricole

Daimler

Danone

Europcar

Famille Costes

Fimalac Entertainment

Kelkoo

Kering

KKR

Korian

Matra Défense (Airbus’ subsidiary)

NHIS

NRJ

Sanofi

TDE

Vivendi

Webedia

Zhen Sun

Work highlights

  • Advised Suez on Veolia’s hostile takeover bid, notably on the aspects of stock market litigation.
  • Advised Lagardère SA on the negotiation of a settlement agreement with Amber Capital after several years of disputes.

Orrick

Orrick Rambaud Martel is often called upon by leading French and international corporations to handle their most challenging cases. The versatile team, led by Frédéric Lalance, acts in complex matters, mixing commercial litigation with notably competition, corporate and insolvency law issues. Lately, the practice has been handling particularly significant cases in relation to major debt restructuring and insolvency cases which have set up several precedents. The team is also handling a high-stakes dispute opposing two of France’s leading telecoms operators. The practice’s range of expertise also extends to securities and criminal matters and includes complex cross-border matters, with the firm’s international capabilities a clear asset in dealing with exequatur matters and other international disputes. The highly renowned Jean-Pierre Martel is another well-known market figure in the team. Senior associate Cécile Biadatti provides key support.

Practice head(s):

Frédéric Lalance

Other key lawyers:

Jean-Pierre Martel; Cécile Biadatti

Testimonials

‘The team is made up of very competent and specialised members. The availability of the team is a real plus. The team listens and knows how to adapt to our requests while keeping their role of legal advisor.’

‘Very high level of competence. Extensive experience in arbitration and litigation, and at ease working in an international and multicultural environment.’

‘Strong partner involvement.’

‘Frédéric Lalance has successfully supported us for a long time. The involvement has always been very good.’

‘Frédéric Lalance shows availability, clarity and efficiency.’

‘Frédéric Lalance and Cécile Biadatti are a real safe harbor to navigate through complex jurisdictions in both English and French-speaking African countries.’

‘A wonderful disputes team consisting of Frédéric Lalance (partner) who is extremely good at analysing complex cross-border disputes and formulating legal strategies across a range of jurisdictions.’

‘Frédéric Lalance is extremely knowledgeable, client friendly and a great strategist.’

Key clients

Arcole Industries

Bpifrance

Bureau Veritas

Consortium de Réalisation

Coriolis

Crédit Agricole

Diane Wildenstein

DNCA

Elliott

ENEL

Etablissements Peugeot Frères

Eurotitrisation

GIMV

Natixis

Nvidia

Officiis Properties

Opel Bank

Production Resources Group

PwC

Rothschild & Cie

SFR

Syma

Work highlights

  • Represented SFR in a €3bn competition law follow-on damages claim against Orange.
  • Successfully represented Arcole Industries in securing the dismissal of almost €400m worth of claims brought by the judicial liquidator of Mory Ducros, the AGS, 1,000 former employees and two trade unions in relation to the insolvency of two of the client’s former subsidiaries, Mory Ducros and MoryGlobal.
  • Obtained major victories for Italian energy company Enel in 2021 after a fierce and long-running battle involving Albanian judgments against the company over a partnership dispute with more than €430m at stake.

Viguié Schmidt & Associés

Viguié Schmidt & Associés represents well-known corporations and investment funds in their most challenging matters. The litigation practice perfectly complements the firm’s M&A capabilities as several partners of the firm can intervene both as corporate advisers and as litigators in relation to M&A transactions. The team regularly deals with pre-litigation in the context of M&A deals and is frequently retained to act in disputes linked to high-profile public M&A transactions. Governance and shareholder conflicts are another strong field of expertise, as are high-stakes commercial disputes. Recently, the practice has been entrusted with the handling of French proceedings connected to large international disputes or exequatur cases, notably assisting with litigation proceedings linked to a prominent arbitration award which raised major compliance issues.  Yves SchmidtOlivier LoizonNicolas Viguié and Martin Donato head the practice.

Practice head(s):

Yves Schmidt; Olivier Loizon; Nicolas Viguié; Martin Donato

Testimonials

‘Great business acumen, creativity, pragmatism and availability.’

‘Yves Schmid is an excellent lawyer; very fine and intelligent.’

‘Rigour, responsiveness, strong legal competence.’

‘Olivier Loizon is available, responsive and brilliant.’

‘The team has strong legal knowledge and also has a very practical approach to analysing and presenting a case.’

‘Olivier Loizon is very talented, cutting through all of the minutiae to get to the heart of the matter. His presentation style – both written and oral – is concise and convincing. Olivier and his team are also good colleagues. Aside from being extremely capable lawyers, Olivier and his team were a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

RENAULT

EDF Renouvelables

AXA

FIMALAC

SONEPAR

RALLYE

SONY MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT France

ALTER EQUITY

SUEZ

OCP REPARTITION

Pathé

OTCex

Work highlights

  • Representing the board of directors of Suez SA (as well as to the ad hoc committee) in the context of the hostile takeover offer initiated by Veolia on Suez.
  • Representing the State of Libya in various proceedings.
  • Representing AXA in the defense of mass claims brought by companies seeking indemnification for lost profits suffered as a result of the Covid-19 sanitary crisis.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP is appointed by a prominent client base comprising many of France’s leading companies, as well as major international corporations and investment funds. The practice is regularly entrusted with high-stakes M&A-related disputes; it recently acted in a landmark public M&A case. The team also manages a good amount of high-stakes commercial and contractual disputes, including several unfair competition cases. The highly regarded Didier Malka is the head of the practice.

Practice head(s):

Didier Malka

Key clients

Blank

Montefiore

Lagardère

Hilton International

Casino Group

Atos

Engie

Idemia

Worldline

Banque Palatine

Work highlights

  • Representing Lagardère in multiple proceedings led against Amber Capital and Vivendi.
  • Representing Hilton International in a contract dispute with the owner of a luxury hotel in Paris, SIHPM.    
  • Representing Casino Group in various strategic commercial matters.

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP

Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is retained by leading companies and management boards to assist with high-stakes M&A and shareholder conflicts pertaining to major French public companies. The team was recently appointed by Meridiam to act in the high-profile Suez-Veolia dispute. High-level governance issues and the management of high-stakes commercial disputes are other areas of strength. Leading market figure Georges Terrier and counsel Alexandre Vermynck co-head the practice.

Practice head(s):

Georges Terrier; Alexandre Vermynck

Key clients

BRED Banque Populaire

Casigrangi (subsidiary of Groupe Philippe Ginestet)

Groupe Philippe Ginestet

LVMH

Mayhoola

Meridiam

Pierre Balmain (subsidiary of Mayhoola)

Renault’s Board of Directors

Tag Heuer (subsidiary of LVMH)

Work highlights

  • Representing Meridiam in a matter concerning the alleged accusation that Veolia had coordinated its takeover bid of Suez with Engie, and that Engie illegally transferred confidential information on Suez to Veolia and Meridiam.
  • Advising Mayhoola on its action against the majority shareholders of Lanvin for breach of the agreement whereby the latter had granted Mayhoola the exclusive right to acquire control of Lanvin.
  • Advising Groupe Philippe Ginestet in proceedings with the minority shareholder and former manager of one of its subsidiaries.

De Pardieu Brocas Maffei

De Pardieu Brocas Maffei is a great choice for high-stakes commercial disputes, regularly involving complex international aspects. Notable recent work includes a high-stakes case concerning supply issues in the automobile parts sector and several particularly strategic private enforcement claims in competition law, following condemnation by regulators. Barbara Levy is the key contact. Dominique Lefort  excels in banking disputes while Paul Talbourdet is particuarly active in real estate-related litigation. Finally, the firm also manages corporate litigation.

Practice head(s):

Paul Talbourdet; Philippe Dubois; Barbara Levy

Testimonials

‘Very good responsiveness.’

‘Outstanding and responsive.’

‘Barbara Lévy is an excellent lawyer who is used to ‘thinking out of the box’; the results of her work are impeccable.’

‘Unique practice in commercial business litigation on complex files.’

‘Barbara Levy has a level of expertise and litigation strategy well beyond the norm on the Paris market with an impressive track record of won deals.’

‘Remarkable work. Irreproachable file follow-up and technical knowledge.’

‘Barbara Levy manages her team perfectly.’

Key clients

GECINA (EUROSIC)

BOOKING.COM

BNP PARIBAS

CA CIB

PELI

VALEO

SHAFTESBURY

INTESA BANK

AXA REIM

SIEMENS HEALTHCARE

GENERALI

THE NORTH FACE INC.

NAPAPIJRI

TIMBERLAND

MANPOWER GROUP

COMPAGNIE EUROPEENNE DE CREDIT

VEOLIA

MAN TRUCKS

ROBERT BOSCH

BLACKBERRY

ALIER

TALESUN SOLAR

Work highlights

  • Assisting FRENCH PRESS MAGAZINES ASSOCIATION (SEPM) with a litigation initiated against GOOGLE.
  • Advising MAZARS on a shareholder dispute initiated by minority shareholders against ARCELOR MITTAL.
  • Assisting VOLKSWAGEN and MAN TRUCK with private enforcement proceedings launched further to the EU Commission’s condemnations relating to the ‘trucks cartel’.

FTMS Avocats

FTMS Avocats deals with all types of disputes, ranging from mainstream business litigation to niche litigation areas. The practice is particularly sought after by leading banks and asset management firms, notably managing several large-scale liability claims relating to the commercialisation of financial products and complex professional liability issues. Marc Henry and Silvestre Tandeau de Marsac are top recommendations in the that field. In addition, the team manages a solid caseload of complex commercial and industrial litigation, notably in relation to construction work, acting for French and international clients. Cédric Fischer and Tristan Dupré de Puget are the key contacts here.

Practice head(s):

Cédric Fischer; Marc Henry

Other key lawyers:

Silvestre Tandeau de Marsac; Tristan Dupré de Puget

Testimonials

‘Responsive with an excellent business approach, taking into account pros and cons of the matter at stake.’

‘I have worked with Cédric Fischer; much appreciated his problem-solving and enthusiastic approach.’

‘A medium-sized firm with the client at the heart of the relationship.’

‘Technical excellence, creativity, proactivity, fair value for money.’

‘Good understanding of the priorities of our company, very good interpersonal skills.’

‘Silvestre Tandeau de Marsac leads a team of very eclectic experts able to effectively handle any type of litigation such as: the distribution of complex financial products, the regulations applicable to financial players, the recovery of debts arising from the right to commissions, creating sophisticated schemes for marketing products.’

‘Silvestre Tandeau de Marsac has a long experience in banking and financial litigation which allows him to have excellent reflexes and an immediate strategic vision of each file. Beyond the purely legal aspect of the litigation procedure, he is able to offer, in a very short time, practical solutions to the best of our interests. He is perfectly attentive to the needs and challenges of his clients and offers detailed and personalised follow-up of each case, which clearly sets him apart from other lawyers in Paris.’

Key clients

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)

BPCE

Banque Populaire Rives de Paris (BPRI)

Caisse d’Epargne Ile de France (CEIF)

Caisse d’Epargne Rhône-Alpes (CERA)

Caisse d’Epargne Loire Centre (CELC)

Caisse d’epargne normandie (CEN)

Berkshire

Banque populaire mediterrannée (bpmed)

Banque de nouvelle caledonnie

Lloyds banking Group

European Commission

European Investment Bank

Monoprix

Schneider Electric

ALP

ALFYMA INDUSTRIE

Gibson Dunn

Gibson Dunn ‘s team’s strong versatility translates into a highly diverse caseload. The team, which also runs one of the market’s most regarded insolvency practices, is foremost recommended for tackling highly challenging insolvency and debt restructuring-related cases and is handling several high-stakes disputes, including several mass claims disputes involving many investors and former employees. The practice is also regularly entrusted to manage complex and high-stakes regulatory, commercial and mass litigation disputes. It has notably been appointed by a leading corporation to assist with the handling of a new type of regulatory dispute relating to moral loss, pain and suffering linked to tax evasion practice. The team is also currently assisting a client with a major Covid-19 insurance coverage case. Corporate and product liability litigation, such as asbestos-related claims, are also handled. The firm’s international capabilities make the firm a good choice for cross-border matters. Practice head Jean-Pierre Farges, Pierre-Emmanuel Fender and Eric Bouffard are highly recommended.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Pierre Farges

Other key lawyers:

Pierre-Emmanuel Fender; Eric Bouffard

Testimonials

‘Complementarity of the team. Extensive litigation experience.’

‘Jean-Pierre Farges is very intelligent, very committed and endowed with high moral values, reliability and willingness to win loyally. Tenacious.’

‘A very close-knit and a very complementary team of lawyers, very attentive to their clients and their business constraints. A team with whom it is very pleasant to work.’

‘Proximity, professionalism, dedication.’

Key clients

Orchestra

Tapie

Camaieu (CVC, Farallon & others)

LBI Development

DomusVi

Vinci Energies

La Halle

Scan’up

L’immobilière Groupe Casino

Bain Capital LLC

Work highlights

  • Represented Vinci Energies’s subsidiary Cegelec Renewable Energy in a dispute before French courts with a Senegal-based client in connection with an engineering and construction (EPC) contract concerning a photovoltaic plant.
  • Representing LBI Développement in a dispute with Biogroup regarding the acquisition and control of several independent laboratories.
  • Representing a large pool of senior lenders led by CVC, Farallon, Ochziff, Goldentree, HIG Capital/Bayside and Carval in a litigation relating to the insolvency of Modacin France, the holding company of Camaieu.

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP has considerably strengthened its commercial and corporate caseload since Arthur Dethomas joined the firm at the end of 2019. Able to handle a mix of commercial, corporate and criminal law issues, Dethomas has notably been retained by leading investment funds to assist with high-stakes corporate disputes. He has also been entrusted with the management of a high-profile case following the occurring of a fire in a data center. Disputes in the IT and healthcare sectors are other areas of strength, with the practice handling France’s first data class action proof of its expertise in the former, while several high-stakes product liability disputes are a core part of the practice’s healthcare caseload. Christine Gateau, Christelle Coslin and counsel Charles-Henri Caron are the key contacts here. Marine De Montecler and Pauline Faron made counsel in January 2022.

Practice head(s):

Arthur Dethomas

Other key lawyers:

Christine Gateau; Christelle Coslin; Charles-Henri Caron; Marine De Montecler; Pauline Faron

Testimonials

‘A strong team in dispute resolution, with an appreciated ability to be flexible and informative to clients in other jurisdictions.’

‘Both Christelle Coslin and Victor Fabré provide excellent service.’

‘Mastery of complex procedural issues which allows for elaborate and far-sighted strategic advice; efficient approach for serial and mass litigation, particularly relating to medical law and product defects.’

‘Christelle Coslin: brilliant and strategic lawyer who is totally up to the big challenges and has the habit of considering various solutions; she is practical and creative (‘thinking outside the box’). Charles-Henri Caron: very careful and scrupulous work.’

Key clients

Google

Merck

OVH

CBRE

Eurofins Group

Wendel

Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU)

Wikimedia Foundation

Work highlights

  • Representing data hosting service provider OVH in torts actions following a massive fire which destroyed one of its datacenters and led to the loss of data for certain customers.
  • Representing the interests of the Wikimedia Foundation in various disputes brought before French Courts.
  • Defending Merck & Co and its French subsidiary MSD Vaccins in product liability claims brought by French plaintiffs in relation to alleged adverse events of the Gardasil vaccine.

Laude Esquier Champey

Laude Esquier Champey is an established litigation boutique with extensive sector expertise. The firm regularly acts for leading French corporations, notably in the luxury goods, technology and industrial fields, as well as for many international companies and investors. In addition to shouldering a substantial commercial caseload, the practice also handles challenging shareholder conflicts and insolvency-related litigation. The practice also deals with product liability and insurance related work, with recent work including several Covid-19-related coverage disputes. The practice is co-headed by Olivier LaudeVictor ChampeyRichard Esquier and Florent Bouderbala, who was promoted to partner early 2021.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Laude; Richard Esquier; Victor Champey; Florent Bouderbala

Testimonials

‘A good expertise in  technical fields. Very fast responses and great availability.’

‘Olivier Laude has good business acumen which helps him settle disputes.’

Key clients

KERING

BLABLACAR

MITSUBISHI LOGISNEXT EUROPE

EURELEC TRADING

MATISA MATÉRIEL INDUSTRIEL

VALLOUREC

MGA ENTERTAINMENT INC

LAFARGEHOLCIM

MARIE BRIZARD WINE & SPIRITS (MBWS)

Work highlights

  • Representing Kering and its subsidiary Yves Saint Laurent in a dispute with Yves Saint Laurent’s former artistic director Hedi Slimane.
  • Representing LAFARGE SA and LAFARGEHOLCIM in a dispute with D&O insurer AIG EUROPE linked to the ongoing criminal inquiry raised in France against LAFARGEHOLCIM and some of its former directors and employees, regarding the Syrian activities of the company in years 2014 and 2015.
  • Representing BlaBlaCar in various lawsuits initiated by several contractors in connection with the breach by BlaBlabus (subsidiary of BlaBlaCar) of contracts in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Linklaters

Linklaters ‘s practice notably covers post-M&A and commercial disputes in France, including securities and white collar-criminal law litigation. Lately, the team has also seen an increase in matters involving emerging risks of liability litigation and reputation damages linked to social and environmental issues. The firm’s regulatory caseload is also keeping the team increasingly busy, notably in the energy sector. The Paris litigation practice has a strong focus on African-related commercial and criminal law litigation and arbitration, in particular on matters involving Gabon. Practice head Arnaud de La Cotardière and Jean-Charles Jaïs are the key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Arnaud de La Cotardière

Other key lawyers:

Jean-Charles Jaïs

Testimonials

‘The team has good knowledge of the French legal context, but also of other European countries.’

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP

Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP handles a very diverse caseload. Led by Kami Haeri, the team offers experience in disputes spanning commercial, corporate, securities and criminal aspects.  The practice's strong know-how of commercial disputes involving IP aspects and the firm's international capabilities are further assets. Disputes involving African jurisdictions are a core part of the practice's highly international caseload. Leading French and international companies are clients. Of counsel Alexandre Kiabski joined the team from Linklaters in October 2020.

Practice head(s):

Kami Haeri

Other key lawyers:

Alexandre Kiabski

Testimonials

‘Experts in procedure and criminal law, know their cases inside out.’

‘Kami Haeri: always available and very valuable advice.’

Key clients

Francis Baillet

Elliott

Google

ArianEspace

Work highlights

  • Representing Google Ireland and Google Limited in France’s first class action regarding the processing of personal data.
  • Representing US investment fund Elliott in AMF investigation concerning investments made by Elliott in Norbert Dentressangle’ securities.

Racine

Racine is an excellent choice for high-stakes M&A and shareholders disputes, with practice head Bruno Cavalié's as the key contact in that area. The firm has been recently playing a front role in the Suez-Veolia M&A battle, defending Suez, and was also involved in a heated dispute in the media sector. The litigation practice also draws on expertise from the firm’s corporate, competition and restructuring departments to handle commercial, insolvency and real estate-related cases. Antoine DiesbecqLaurent Jourdan, Valérie Ledoux and Sandra Graslin-Latour are particularly involved. The firm assists a prominent client base, including several of France’s leading companies.

Practice head(s):

Bruno Cavalié

Other key lawyers:

Antoine Diesbecq; Laurent Jourdan; Valérie Ledoux; Sandra Graslin-Latour

Testimonials

‘Finesse and great analysis, and a lot of psychology to win!’

‘The team has  a ‘business first’ vision which is essential for companies, in particular to assess the legal risks associated with entrusted files.’

‘Maître Ledoux works efficiently by understanding the economic framework and the activities of our company. She is committed to understanding the industry of her clients in order to provide them with the best possible advice.’

Key clients

Suez

Kering

Fides

Work highlights

  • Representing Suez in various disputes in connection with the acquisition by Veolia of part of Engie’s stake as well as the public offer filed by Veolia on the client.
  • Representing Kering in various proceedings.
  • Representing Fides in relation to a liability action led against the former administrators and management of Crédit Martiniquais.

Reinhart Marville Torre

Reinhart Marville Torre has a large and experienced team able to tackle a wide range of cases. The practice is notably strong in commercial litigation where it acts for many large French and international clients, including in several particularly significant matters in the retail sector. The practice is also regularly appointed to handle post-M&A and shareholder conflicts.  White-collar crime and banking and finance litigation are other areas of strength. Disputes in the sports sector area also handled, including a high-profile case before sport arbitral institutions. The practice is co-headed by  Louis-Marie AbsilAntoine Dérot , Jérôme MarsaudonMarc Susini and Jean Reinhart.

Practice head(s):

Louis-Marie Absil; Antoine Dérot; Jérôme Marsaudon; Jean Reinhart; Marc Susini

Testimonials

‘Jérôme Marsaudon and his team were chosen after a benchmark of numerous litigation firms and were distinguished by their attention to client expectations, both in terms of responsiveness, inventiveness in the technical approach to cases and, from an internal point of view, through their understanding of billing issues.’

‘A very available team, attentive, and which always has a very business-oriented answer to our questions.’

‘Antoine Dérot is very available and attentive, whatever the type of file involved, and I appreciate his knowledge of the industry and the markets concerned.’

‘Availability and commitment of the team, with multidisciplinary skills according to the subjects addressed and access to the best experts.’

‘Analysis and anticipation of situations and perfectly familiar with my case. Louis-Marie Absil challenges internally, with other lawyers, strategies and options before adopting them.’

Key clients

FC NANTES

GENEANET/FILAE (My Heritage)

LA MONDIALE

SOLETANCHE BACHY

JUNE PATNERS

SYSTEME U

MONTANA

BRINK’S

GOODYEAR

LIDL

BOULANGER

BURGER KING

DXC TECHNOLOGY

MONDADORI AXEL SPRINGER

Signature Litigation AARPI

Signature Litigation AARPI is the market’s go-to-firm for high-stakes civil liability disputes, notably acting for many French and international industrial companies concerning highly sensitive asbestos claims. The practice is also involved in several strategic liability cases in the automobile and telecoms sectors, initiated by regulators, consumer associations or individuals. Lately, the team was also chosen by Casino to act on France’s first liability claim concerning the retail industry in connection with the group’s alleged non- compliance with the recent law on duty of vigilance in relation to its activities in Brazil and Columbia. The practice’s varied caseload also includes commercial disputes and disputes involving cross-border elements, including foreign judgment enforcement cases. It was recently appointed in two distinct high-stakes commercial disputes in the media and hospitality sectors. Thomas Rouhette and Sylvie Gallage-Alwis co-head the practice.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Rouhette; Sylvie Gallage-Alwis

Testimonials

‘This practice offers a tailor-made and quality service, combined with availability at all times and great responsiveness. It is unrivaled from this point of view.’

‘I work very regularly with Sylvie Gallage-Alwis. In addition to her great legal skills, I particularly appreciate her availability and responsiveness, her understanding of the world of industry, and her ability to work in a team with other law firms at an international level.’

Key clients

Airbnb

Boeing

Casino

Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank

Deposit Insurance Agency (DIA)

Polaris

Renault

Société Générale

Thalès

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

Work highlights

  • Assisting Casino with a dispute arising from the alleged non-compliance to its obligations deriving from the duty of vigilance.
  • Assisting the Deposit Insurance Agency (DIA), the Russian state-controlled fund overseeing bankruptcies in the Russian banking sector, in dealing with the French aspects of the so-called Pugachev case.
  • Representing Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co in the first civil case relating to fear of developing a cancer because of the alleged exposure to dozens of chemical substances by hundreds of non-employees.

White & Case LLP

White & Case LLP ’s Diane Lamarche has made her reputation acting in corporate M&A and shareholder disputes, acting for companies, directors and executives, as well as investment funds. Lamarche has also been appointed by private clients for high-stakes cases and is well versed in civil liability disputes in the context of insolvencies. Competition and distribution partner Yann Utzschneider specialises in consumer, commercial and economic law litigation. He is notably acting for major retailers and distributors in high-stakes disputes such as unfair competition, breach of contractual relationships and parasitism matters. Former practice head Philippe Métais left the firm in October 2021.

Practice head(s):

Diane Lamarche; Yann Utzschneider

Testimonials

‘Diane Lamarche has great expertise, shows high availability and is very attentive to the needs of her clients. She is  pragmatic, always strives to provide solutions that suit her clients, is excellent in litigation, inspires confidence… and is very nice.’

‘Professionalism and responsiveness.’

Key clients

BNP Paribas Personal Finance

Dyson

Atol

Intermarché

BNP Paribas

Free

Amber Capital

Alec Jr Wildenstein

Deloitte

Robert Zarra (Toys’R’Us Former Director)

Mrs Cristiana Crociani and al.

Work highlights

  • Representing Intermarché in a dispute recently initiated by the French Minister of Economy before the Paris Commercial Court regarding alleged disproportionate advantages.
  • Successfully represented ATOL before the French Supreme Court (Cour de cassation) against Optical Center, a competing optical equipment retail network, in a lengthy dispute.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP is recommended for high-profile corporate, M&A and shareholder disputes. The practice acts for a number of leading French companies as well as for international clients. High-stakes liability cases and disputes involving African jurisdictions are other areas of strength. The team is also involved in a rare private enforcement case that followed a condemnation by the French Financial Market Authority (AMF). Dominique Mondoloni and Grégoire Bertrou co-head the team which includes special European counsel Sophie-Jeanne Laroche.

Practice head(s):

Grégoire Bertrou; Dominique Mondoloni

Other key lawyers:

Sophie-Jeanne Laroche

Testimonials

‘Sophie-Jeanne Laroche has an attention and a reflection of rare efficiency. Immediate adaptation to hazards and immediate intervention. The team is available and efficient.’

‘Good listening skills, analysis and efficiency.’

‘Dominique Mondoloni showed great rigor, good listening skills and was very diligent in handling the file submitted. He stood out through his experience and responsiveness.’

‘Dominique Mondoloni fully understood and addressed all the issues and aspects of the case, however very sensitive, which was entrusted to him. His advice and expertise were greatly appreciated.’

‘Sophie-Jeanne Laroche is an extremely competent lawyer with whom it is very pleasant to work.’

Team very involved up to the partner. Very good listening skills and very good pedagogy of what will work in court. Careful analysis of opposing conclusions and preparation of conclusions for our part. Perfect transparency on our strengths and weaknesses.’

‘Working with Sophie-Jeanne Laroche is a joy: she knows how take the drama out of a dispute, clearly explain the issues, and, as she pleads herself in court, she has excellent knowledge of the judges at the Commercial Court; as a result, she knows how to write strong and well-founded conclusions on the one hand, and prepare the salient points of a pleading that will mark on the other hand. She is exceptionally available and works sufficiently in advance for all questions to be addressed calmly. Finally, she is very balanced on a personal level, which is quite unusual in this environment of great lawyers and it is very appreciable.’

Key clients

Suez

Transdev

Besix/Icade

Air France/Air France-KLM

Arkema

Carl Bayard

Agence Française de Développement

Sportfive

SCI du 12 rue Oudinot

ADVANT Altana

ADVANT Altana is able to deal with a broad range of disputes, acting for French and international companies, and is particularly experienced in disputes in the financial and insurance sectors. The practice notably acts for leading banks and insurers in high-stakes matters concerning loans, insurance and investment products, regularly involving a high number of plaintiffs. The practice also handles a good amount of commercial litigation, product liability and industrial risk cases in addition to assisting clients with M&A and corporate disputes. The firm’s insolvency and restructuring practice regularly handles strategic disputes, with Michel Jockey as the key contact. The practice is co-headed by Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy and Julien Balensi. Counsel Benjamin Dors is also involved.

Other key lawyers:

Michel Jockey; Benjamin Dors

Testimonials

‘Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy is very helpful. She perfectly integrates the challenges of the disputes entrusted to her, and is very involved in the defense of clients’ interests.’

Key clients

AMUNDI

ARKEMA

BOUYGUES

BOUYGUES TELECOM

ONXEO

PROXISERVE

RENAULT

SALINI

SAMSUNG

SCHINDLER

VEOLIA ENVIRONNEMENT

VINCI

CATL BATTERY

EATON

HAGER

TUI

CFAO

BNP PARIBAS

CARDIF ASSURANCE VIE

MALAKOFF MEDERIC SERVICES

MMA VIE ASSURANCES MUTUELLES

MAAF

EURAPHARMA

AXA

PIMBA – IMPORTAÇÃO E EXPORTAÇÃO DE VESTUÁRIO LDA

GUIECKAL – COMERCIO E INDUSTRIA DE CONFECÇOES LIMITADA

TICTEL CONFECÇOES S.A.

SIDI TRADE LDA

HERMANDAD NACIONAL DE ARQUITECTOS (HNA)

BANCO COMERCIAL PORTUGUES (BCP)

ATOTECH

Comité national olympique et sportif français (CNOSF)

TENREIRO DA CRUZ

CARDIF LUX

APAGOR

VEOLIA

AXA

APG

APG's dedicated litigators handle a varied caseload that includes high-stakes regulatory and economic law disputes. The practice recently won several landmark victories against Airbn’b on behalf of the City of Paris. Additionally, the firm is experienced in post-M&A disputes and shareholder conflicts and is recommended for strategic commercial disputes in the distribution sector. Product liability litigation is also handled. Gilbert Parleani and Jean-Marie Gazagnes co-lead the practice which includes Olivier Parleani.

Practice head(s):

Gilbert Parleani; Jean-Marie Gazagnes

Other key lawyers:

Olivier Parleani

Testimonials

‘High relevance and industry knowledge.’

‘Proactive.’

‘Very pragmatic and business-oriented approach. Very good responsiveness, very attractive prices, very good knowledge of our business sector.’

‘Jean-Marie Gazagnes is a trusted lawyer. Very pragmatic and business-oriented approach, he shows excellent responsiveness and has very good knowledge of our business sector.’

Key clients

E. Leclerc

Manpower

Crédit du Nord

Les Indés Radios

British American Tobacco Caribbean

Enedis

BMW

Fiat/Chrysler

ALPHABET France

CNH Industrial

FCA Group (Fiat/Chrysler)

Emerging Capital Partners

ANTARGAZ

AIG Europe SA

FPT Industrial S.p.A.

Invivo

Société Générale

Carmignac Gestion

Birkenstock

 

Work highlights

  • Representing Paris City Hall in disputes with Air BnB before the European Court of Justice and French courts.
  • Represented E. Leclerc (Galec) in connection with a lawsuit brought by the French Ministry of Finance which was dismissed by the commercial court of Paris.

Archers A.A.R.P.I.

Archers A.A.R.P.I. covers commercial and corporate litigation, including shareholder conflicts. The team also deals with disputes linked to the firm’s M&A, restructuring and insolvency practices. The practice is able to deal with complex matters, including disputes involving cross-border elements, and is experienced in assisting French clients with proceedings abroad. Recent matters include a high-stakes dispute in the media sector and a major investment product dispute. Antony Martinez is the head of the practice. Associate Pierre Mounier provides key support.

Practice head(s):

Antony Martinez

Other key lawyers:

Pierre Mounier

August Debouzy

August Debouzy‘s deep bench allows the firm to handle the full range of disputes. The practice shoulders a busy commercial caseload in addition to frequently acting in post-M&A and industrial risk litigation. The team’s prestigious client base includes many blue-chip French and international companies from various sectors, including the aeronautics, energy, insurance and retail sectors. Practice co-heads  Marie Danis and Benjamin van Gaver are highly recommended. Counsel Marie Valentini is also involved.

Practice head(s):

Marie Danis; Benjamin van Gaver

Other key lawyers:

Marie Valentini

Testimonials

‘Involvement, tenacity, creativity.’

‘Efficiency and responsiveness are the main qualities of the teams. They also know how to look for the right skills internally in order to solve a problem.’

‘Professional, courteous and attentive to client issues.’

‘Fantastic ability to handle a wide range of matters in a complex international litigation. They have been able to understand complex local politics, and how that affects outcomes. Overall, remarkable ability to handle extremely varied and complex matters.’

‘Flexible, imaginative and loyal.’

Key clients

VALEO

Carbonnier Lamaze Rasle

Carbonnier Lamaze Rasle frequently acts for French and international banks in litigation pertaining to financial products, but is also experienced in corporate litigation and fraud proceedings. The firm is also well established among leading French companies and family-owned companies, primarily acting in commercial, corporate and bankruptcy-related cases. Edouard De Lamaze heads the practice which includes Jean-Hugues CarbonnierDorothée de BernisFanny Desclozeaux,who handles banking litigation, Michel Rasle, who has particular expertise in media/IP litigation, and criminal law expert Eric Morain.

Practice head(s):

Edouard de Lamaze

 

Other key lawyers:

Jean-Hugues Carbonnier; Dorothée de Bernis; Fanny Desclozeaux; Michel Rasle; Eric Morain

Testimonials

‘Fanny Desclozeaux provides sound advice and a proactive vision over our criminal cases.’

‘They provide enormous support to our organisation in resolving disputes in France. Their technical knowledge is excellent and they help us navigate legal landscape with confidence (including dealing with the language/ translation issues).’

‘We work regularly with Guillaume Carbonnier, who provides us with an excellent level of service. He is responsive, proactive and provides sound commercial advice and strategy. He is able to support us to enable an efficient management of disputes.’

Key clients

LES EDITIONS JALOU

QUINTA COMMUNICATIONS

BAUDINTER (FRANPRIX/LEADER PRICE)

Work highlights

  • Advised publishing company Les Editions Jalou  on the early termination of a licence agreement.
  • Advised production company Bleufontaine (previously Quinta Communications)  on a contractual infringement in the context of a shareholders dispute against Technicolor and its shareholders.
  • Represented SCI Beniguet in relation to the purchase by Casino of the BAUD family shares in Franprix and Leaderprice.

CBR & Associés

CBR & Associés‘ experienced team is a very good choice for high-stakes commercial and consumer-related cases. The high-profile practice’ well-established client base includes many leading names, with the energy, media, retail and tobacco sectors as core areas of expertise. Recently, the practice has acted in highly sensitive Covid-related contractual disputes involving high financial amounts and opposing leading companies, especially energy and broadcasting players. In the telecoms and media sectors, key client SFR has entrusted several strategic cases to the practice. The practice’s expertise in enforcement matters came to the fore in a high-profile dispute following an antitrust condemnation. Practice heads Pierre-Olivier Chartier and Judith Vuillez are highly recommended.

Practice head(s):

Pierre-Olivier Chartier; Judith Vuillez

Testimonials

‘A very responsive and complementary team with great listening skills. The team is very committed and available.’

‘A very well recognised practice. Pierre-Oliver Chartier and his team show excellent skills in managing their cases.’

‘Pierre-Oliver Chartier is a recognised expert in commercial litigation. He has perfect knowledge of civil procedural rules; is highly invested and has excellent pleading skills.’

‘The firm is truly dedicated to its client. Judith Vuilliez is pragmatic and always looking for a solution acceptable to her client from a legal, operational and economic point of view.’

‘An ultra-responsive team, very attentive and complementary. The team is dedicated to our company and is available even under very tight timings.’

‘The lawyers are particularly involved and provide much appreciated support in terms of handling advertising and product regulation disputes. Judith Vuilliez is particularly appreciated and recommended because of her availability at all times, her in-depth knowledge, and her pragmatic opinions on different subjects and different points of law.’

‘The firm distinguishes itself by its mastery of litigation matters. Pierre-Olivier Chartier has detailed and comprehensive expertise in commercial litigation, combined with a pragmatic approach ensuring a perfect match between issues and strategy. Each file is treated thoroughly, no aspect nor any argument is forgotten.’

‘Judith Vuilliez’s team is very dynamic and attentive to our needs. She knows how to respond and adapt to any emergency by delivering high-flying performances.’

Key clients

ADIDAS

BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO

BACARDI MARTINI FRANCE

PRIMAGAZ

KAEFER WANNER

PROCTER & GAMBLE

SFR

NEXTRADIOTV

SPORTSCOTV

TOTALENERGIES

PMU

EUROVIA

TF1

EUROPCAR

ARAMIS

ITV

Work highlights

  • Representing PMU in damage claim proceedings initiated by sports betting operator BETCLIC further to a decision of the French Competition Authority .
  • Acting for the client in a dispute with internet service provider Free relating to the distribution of our client TV channels by the latter.
  • Representing TotalEnergies in a dispute with EDF regarding the suspension of TotalEnergies’s nuclear power supply contract for force majeure due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Chemarin & Limbour

Dispute resolution boutique Chemarin & Limbour bolstered its team in 2021 with the addition of two new associates and Valentine Foucher-Créteau's partner promotion. The firm deals with the full range of commercial disputes, including contractual, consumer law and unfair competition cases. The successful practice recently earned new mandates for major companies from various sectors, including the aviation, finance, consumer, press and IT sectors, and continues to manage a high volume of strategic work for key client Orange, including several high-stakes cases in proceedings involving other leading names in the TMT sector. The team also has prominent longstanding clients in the luxury goods, energy and retail areas. The excellent Alexandre Limbour is the head of the practice.

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Limbour

Testimonials

‘They are formidable litigators who fiercely defend their cases; and have very good knowledge of consumer and business law.’

‘Alexandre Limbour is a very great professional who pleads brilliantly; he knows his clients and their activities perfectly well (for this purpose he maintains constant relations with them even when there is no file).’

‘Very good knowledge of commercial litigation. Perfect mastery of the procedure.’

‘Alexandre Limbour is probably one of the best litigators today. He is a brilliant lawyer and particularly pugnacious.’

‘I particularly appreciated working with Alexandre Limbour because of his availability, his practical approach and his skills.’

Key clients

HAC

Sferis (Group SNCF)

Yves Rocher

Auchan Group

Docaposte Group (La Poste Group)

Lorient Football Club

Orange Group

Orientis

Rabobank

Sofrecom

Vallourec

Louis Vuitton (LVMH Group)

Newrest

Globecast

Bagelstein

Pimkie

Sun’R

Editions Odile Jacob

Eurodep

Facilit’rail France

Viveo France

Orano

Terreal

Banque Internationale du Luxembourg

Ingenico

Primavista

Loomis

Suckle

Groupe Les Echos – Le Parisien (LVMH Group)

Cohen & Gresser LLP

Cohen & Gresser LLP‘s compact team rests on the shoulders of practice head Loïc Henriot who is able to handle a substantial and varied caseload. The practice is appointed by companies and shareholders to act in M&A litigation and shareholder disputes and offers experience in representing former CEOs and other high-ranking executives in sensitive contract termination disputes. The team also takes on commercial disputes and is involved in a major private enforcement litigation in the telecoms sector following a previous antitrust condemnation.

Practice head(s):

Loïc Henriot

Testimonials

‘I worked with Loic Henriot who is a remarkable technical colleague who knows how to combine psychology and strategy in complex situations. He immediately understands the issues, the angles and the strength and weaknesses of the case. He works perfectly in a team, particularly with other disciplines, and his past experience in mergers and acquisitions is very useful in litigation matters relating to company law or post-acquisition litigation. It is a pleasure to work with him.’

Key clients

Digicel Antilles Françaises Guyane

Buffalo Grill

Mr. Pierre Pélissier & other managers

PHS SA & Mr. Yves Watelot

Kuantic SAS

Nerim Groupe

Akuo Energy

Healthy Group

Mrs. Virginie Calmels

Grant Thornton

Flowbird SAS (f.k.a Parkeon SAS)

Loewe

Tordjmans family

Ackermans & van Haaren NV

Manuchar

CS Groupe

Dechert LLP

Dechert LLP runs a busy practice. The team has strong expertise in international cases, notably acting in enforcement proceedings of foreign judgements in France, lately especially in relation to Lebanon, and arbitration exequatur cases. The life sciences sector is another core area of expertise, notably in the field of product liability. Corporate litigation completes the firm’s range, with the team recently acting in a hard-fought shareholder disputes mixing commercial and criminal proceedings. Jacques Sivignon is in charge of the practice. Laurent Martinet left the firm in October 2021.

Practice head(s):

Jacques Sivignon

Testimonials

‘The team  has shown a high level of professionalism. The lawyers have answered our queries in a swift and efficient manner. Their legal opinions and studies are straightforward, well structured and denote a deep knowledge of the law and legal practice.’

‘We are working mainly with Laurent Martinet and Vincent Rouer have shown high level of professionalism and knowledge and are always ready and available to answer our queries. Their advice and opinions were very useful to our corporation.’

‘In-depth knowledge of commercial litigation at an international level with defined strategies and consistent coherent communication.’

‘Jacques Sivignon has systematically provided high-quality work with sound advice and guided strategies. His in-depth knowledge of commercial litigation which he can explain to the client in comprehensible terms is an asset that is very much appreciated.’

‘Jacques Sivignon’s advice has always been excellent and remarkable. Thanks to his insightful analysis, which allowed us to have a clear idea of our legal position and his invaluable advice which went beyond legal interpretation, we were able to find a winning solution for all parties. What sets Me Sivignon apart is his vast experience in the field of litigation and his legal expertise.’

Key clients

Albéa Group

Alten

BYD

Comsa Emte

Dow Chemical

Enedis

Eurogroup

Groupe Casino

Signify (Philips)

Steva

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented COMSA against BOUYGUES before the Paris Court of Appeal in a complex litigation.
  • Successfully represented Dow Chemical Company before the Civil Court of Evry at the final hearing of the Agent Orange matter.
  • Successfully represented a medical device company in a strategic product liability case regarding heart valve implants.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper is able to provide litigation expertise to a varied client portfolio. Investment funds and corporations turn to Marine Lallemand for corporate litigation, recently for a major M&A dispute in the telecoms sector. Senior counsel Bruce Mee and Vonnick Le Guillou offer high-level product liability and insurance expertise and are often involved in sensitive international cases, mainly acting for leading industrial companies, insurers and financial institutions. Le Guillou is particularly renowned in the aviation sector. Fabienne Panneau fields a varied commercial litigation practice, including in the IT sector where she has particularly strong expertise.

Practice head(s):

Vonnick Le Guillou; Marine Lallemand

Other key lawyers:

Bruce Mee; Fabienne Panneau

Key clients

ABN Amro

AIG

Airbus helicopters

Airbus SAS

Arconic

Atlas Copco

AXA

AXA XL

Blackstone

Carlyle

Cube Communications Infrastructures S.A.R.L

Howmet

Idinvest

ING Bank N.V.

LFPI Gestion

MTU France

Rockwell Collins

Tesla Motors France

Tokio Marine

Transdev

Travelopia

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented Cube Communications Infrastructures S.à r.l. in the context of the sale of the entirety of the share capital of Covage to SFR.

Fierville Avocats

Dispute resolution boutique Fierville Ziadé represents several leading industrial corporations as well as financial investors and smaller companies. The practice is able to deal with a broad range of cases from corporate and commercial litigation to major industrial and international cases. It is notably handling sensitive matters in relation to industrial plant and nuclear facilities involving sites in France and in many foreign jurisdictions. The growing team also handles international arbitration cases as counsel or arbitrator. Founding partner duo Jérémie Fierville and Marie-Aude Ziadé is warmly recommended.

Practice head(s):

Marie-Aude Ziadé; Jérémie Fierville

Testimonials

‘Very professional, competent and pugnacious firm.’

‘Jérémie Fierville and Marie-Aude Ziadé are both class acts. They have established a brilliant firm that really fills a gap in the market. They are great lawyers, very commercial and client-focused.’

‘Great understanding and analyses, while taking into account the personality of the clients. The options were discussed at length and were not chosen when we had fully understood all the issues. The team takes the time to explain and… to re-explain. The collaboration was very easy because they are very responsive and attentive to the requests of their clients. Invoicing is clearly announced and respected, the deadlines have been validated together.’

‘During our collaboration, the team (and more particularly Jérémie Fierville) demonstrated great availability, which is very appreciable. We would like to underline the great professionalism of Jérémie Fierville and his sense of humanity. He is very attentive and gave us moral support throughout the procedure. Nothing has been left to chance, everything has been mastered and he has achieved great success (of which we have been the beneficiaries) in the resolution of our dispute.’

‘Great listening, strategy and efficiency.’

‘Very responsive and attentive team.’

‘Jérémie Fierville and Marie-Aude Ziadé have extensive experience.’

Galembert Avocats

Litigation firm Galembert Avocats is a go-to firm for CEOs and individual shareholders facing challenging corporate governance issues and shareholder conflicts, as demonstrated by its large caseload in the field. The firm is highly visible in the private equity circle where it acts alongside managers and minority shareholders in disputes with leading investment funds. It also represents CEOs of leading companies facing complex governance and termination issues. Founding partner Noémie de Galembert and counsel Florence Portal is are recommended.

Practice head(s):

Noémie de Galembert

Other key lawyers:

Florence Portal

Testimonials

‘High professionalism and great follow-up.’

‘Excellent contact and an excellent working relationship.’

‘Fast learner. A very high capacity for synthesis; precise, fluid and clear communication. Focused on the fundamental interests of the case and not to be distracted by minor interests. Relevant analyses and pragmatic advice.’

‘There are very few litigation firms with the level of experience and quality that the firm offers for executive and corporate matters. Their track record in this area in particular is unique. I always recommend the firm and they have never disappointed.’

‘Noémie de Galembert combines great listening, technique, fighting spirit and integrity that distinguish her from many of her competitors.’

‘Noémie de Galembert has succeeded in building a leading commercial litigation practice on the Paris market, acting independently in a dedicated structure.’

‘Noémie  de Galembert and her teams are excellent professionals, combining a very good capacity for analysing cases, taking into account the psychology of the stakeholders and they show finesse in negotiation.’

‘Great professionalism of the team, great involvement of Noémie de Galembert who has a great mastery of law and procedure. Her ability to grasp the issues and her strategic vision of pre-litigation or contentious discussions are very reassuring and allow cases to be handled as effectively as possible. She listens attentively to her clients and takes their wishes into account without giving up on making the recommendations that seem to her to be the best, even if this may go against the clients’ a priori.’

Key clients

Greenflex (Frédéric Rodriguez, founding CEO and shareholder)

Azimut (founding CEO and shareholder)

Faiveley Participations

Erik Maris (former CEO of Messier Maris)

Palais des Thés

Wansquare

WFS

Saint Mamet and Hivest

Eurogroup Company

Tunstall Group Acquisitions

Onduline Group (Richard Seguin, former CEO and shareholder)

Remy Cointreau

Edenred

Z Nautics

Siaci Saint Honoré (key management team)

Belive

John Ozinga (Accor Invest)

Centre Privé de Radiothérapie de Metz

Olivier Melwig (CEO of Acorus Networks)

Work highlights

  • Representing the Faiveley group and its majority shareholders in their dispute with one of the minority shareholders in order to prevent a cross-border merger between two of the group’s companies.
  • Representing the founding shareholder and former CEO of Greenflex – a fully owned subsidiary of the Total group – in a dispute with Total as to the application of the ‘earn out’ clause provided in the SPA concluded with Total.
  • Representing Palais des Thés and its majority shareholders in their conflict with their ex-CEO and minority shareholder who refuses to transfer its shares to the company accordingly to the shareholders agreement.

Grandjean Avocats

Dispute resolution boutique Grandjean Avocats handles a substantial amount of commercial disputes in addition to acting in corporate litigation. The firm also has strong industrial risk and product liability expertise, for example acting in a high-profile case in the healthcare sector, and frequently handles construction and real estate-related disputes. Recently, the firm has advised several hospitality and restaurant chains on disputes involving insurance issues arisen from the Covid-19 crisis. The practice is co-headed by founding partners Jean-Pierre Grandjean, whose expertise extends to mediation, Marguerite Aynès and Thomas Lambard.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Pierre Grandjean; Marguerite Aynès, Thomas Lambard

Testimonials

‘Thomas Lambard and the team have a very high expertise on procedural matters and the team capacity for international work is outstanding. Very high quality and most impressive work.’

‘Very good understanding of a situation where French and English laws and legal concepts are totally interconnected. Thomas Lambard: a brilliant brain with impressive knowledge of proceedings and business law.’

‘Beyond the seriousness, the rigour and the relevance of the firm’s approach, this team considers you (its client) as unique and treats you as unique. It’s amazing.’

‘The team is made up of very complementary partners and works in perfect harmony.’

‘The experience and competence of Jean-Pierre Grandjean are unique. Marguerite Aynès is also very talented.’

‘Excellent service from Thomas Lambard and his associate.’

‘Very good practice.’

‘Particularly stable and very well integrated team.’

Key clients

GlaxoSmithKline Santé Grand Public

Rewe Group

Rallye – GO Sport

Savencia Group

Caisse Nationale de l’Assurance Maladie (CNAM)

AEW Europe/AEW Ciloger

Vaneau

Comeca

Arpent Capital

Algebris

Bénéteau

Katara Hospitality

Project 44

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP has particular strength in the banking and insurance sectors, where it deals with regulatory, financial and commercial disputes for several leading banks and insurers. The team demonstrates particular strength in handling mass litigation pertaining to financial products and complex regulatory issues. Antoine Juaristi and Martin Le Touzé are excellent references in that area. Through Clément Dupoirier, the practice covers a wide of commercial disputes which also includes litigation involving African jurisdictions. The energy sector is a core sector in Dupoirier’s caseload. Associate César Michel also deserves a mention.

Practice head(s):

Antoine Juaristi; Clément Dupoirier

Other key lawyers:

Martin Le Touzé

Testimonials

‘A very good business vision, very pragmatic, excellent advice, total availability.’

‘Clément Dupoirier is an excellent lawyer on all levels: very smart, excellent understanding of business, total availability, a very pleasant way of being (and interpersonal skills). I have no doubts about the good management of the files entrusted to him. Absolutely reliable.’

‘The strength of the  Paris team lies in its individuals and the complementarity of each other’s expertise. The client relationship is excellent. What inspires us the most is the ‘economical optimistic’ state of mind: nothing is impossible.’

‘The strength of the team in Paris lies in its expertise of our issues, its responsiveness, its listening skills and its relational proximity.’

‘Very competent.’

‘The partners with whom I work are very reactive and proactive.’

‘The team has a wide range of skills to cover the various issues encountered in international banking and finance litigation, often requiring cross-border analysis, which they can easily address through their long experience in the field.’

‘We work closely with Clément Dupoirier and other members of his team. They are very quick to respond, attentive to our needs, always available and have a thorough knowledge of the legal and financial regulatory environment. The preparation of our case is meticulously done and thoroughly analysed, enabling them to deliver excellent quality work.’

Key clients

Generali

Crédit Agricole Brie Picardie

Jones Day

Jones Day‘s well rounded practice is popular with large industrial and energy companies as well as with banks. The firm handles a busy financial, corporate and commercial caseload, including several contractual termination and insolvency-related disputes. Additionally the practice acts in several industrial and product liability cases, including a dispute opposing two large companies concerning the payment of environmental liability indemnities. Practice head Ozan Akyurek, Elie Kleiman and Françoise Labrousse are the key contacts. Cyril Philibert made partner in early 2022. Frédéric Gros and of counsel Isabelle Maury bring finance litigation experience to the table.

Practice head(s):

Ozan Akyurek

Other key lawyers:

Elie Kleiman; Françoise Labrousse; Frédéric Gros; Isabelle Maury; Cyril Philibert

Testimonials

‘Very good understanding of our environment.’

‘Thank you to Alexandre de Verdun and Ozan Akyurek for the quality of their support’.

‘Elie Kleiman is an exceptional litigation lawyer and a great strategist.’

‘I had the opportunity to collaborate on a file with Ozan Akyurek whom I recommend.’

‘Highly competent and experienced.’

‘I worked with Ozan Akyurek who stands out for his know-how and experience in the aviation sector. He is calm and focused.’

‘The team has always demonstrated a great ability to understand well practices and the philosophy of its customers. As far as we are concerned, we benefit from a strong relationship based on good experience and constructive and fruitful exchanges. As far as billing is concerned, there are never any unpleasant surprises and we can also have exchanges outside the very coded framework of time spent = time billed. It is these sides that build trust. ‘

‘Ozan Akyurek always shows great availability and pragmatism. Ozan is very attentive and in search of the most appropriate solutions to enable files to be completed the best way and within a reasonable time.’

Key clients

Société de Financement Local

Dexia Crédit Local

Vestergaard Frandsen SA

Latham & Watkins

Latham & Watkins  is active in good amount of commercial litigation, notably relating to the IT and healthcare sectors. The practice also regularly manages corporate and M&A disputes, recently representing an investment fund in a complex matter concerning some aspects of one of France’s recent landmark M&A dispute. As part of the practice’s insolvency litigation caseload, the team assists audit firms facing disciplinary proceedings. Lately, the team has acted for clients facing difficulties in the supply of electronics components, notably in the automobile sector, advising on strategic pre-litigation issues. Private enforcement litigation, antitrust condemnation damage proceedings, and mediation proceedings are growing practice areas. Fabrice Fages and Myria Saarinen are in charge. Elise Auvray made counsel in 2021.

Practice head(s):

Fabrice Fages; Myria Saarinen

Testimonials

‘The litigation team performs high quality work in partnership with our internal teams. The depth of analysis and strategic thinking of this team is remarkable.’

‘Fabrice Fage is very pragmatic, adaptable, flexible and open to ideas. Myria Saarinen provides rigorous in-depth work, has a great sense of synthesis, and is combative.’

‘High availability and responsiveness.’

‘Unique strength-in-depth. Highly organised. Extremely approachable and collaborative.’

They are all extremely approachable, concise, do extensive research and are extremely well joined up. Proactive and very client-focused.’

‘Fabrice Fages has shown great listening skills and great intelligence of the mechanisms of our markets and the regulatory systems that shape these markets. He has identified complex AND effective strategies for managing and resolving commercial disputes. These strategies and the legal analyses of the regulations and the arguments of the proposed opposing parties and our points of view have allowed us to build a coherent argument.’

‘The team is very responsive, serious and professional, the files are handled by experts each in their field.’

‘The members from the firm that I have been able to work with make themselves available; the information is clear and the advice precise to measure the risks and support decision-making. Support in negotiation is very professional.’

Mayer Brown

Mayer Brown is a particularly good choice for corporate, M&A and financial litigation involving listed and non-listed companies and recently played a central role in one of France’s most high-profile listed M&A disputes. The versatile team assists clients from a wide range of sectors, including the insurance, industry and the banking and finance sectors, with French and US listed companies on the client roster. The practice’s varied caseload also features commercial disputes and, increasingly, multijurisdictional disputes for which it frequently collaborates with the firm’s offices abroad. In a highly sensitive case, the team successfully resisted a 'commission rogatoire' involving the International The Hague Convention. The team is also building a practice in duty of vigilance disputes, an emerging litigation area in France. Emilie Vasseur heads the practice. She is surrounded by counsels Nathalie Morel and David Bakouche.

Practice head(s):

Emilie Vasseur

Other key lawyers:

Nathalie Morel; David Bakouche

Testimonials

‘Nathalie Morel has great writing skills and is very incisive in her arguments.’

‘The firm always provides quick answers and puts a team at our disposal so that we can carry out our work with the greatest possible legal certainty.’

Key clients

AGPM

Geoxia Maisons Individuelles

Groupe Demathieu Bard

Lovestate

Synutra

Veolia

WHA Holding

Work highlights

  • Represented Veolia on its takeover battle with Suez.
  • Assisted Ingeneria Franco Espanola Omega, a Spanish company, sued by the judicial liquidator of French company Sutra International, in proceedings regarding payment of €4,5m in damages to compensate for an alleged loss of opportunity.

Paul Hastings LLP

Paul Hastings LLP hired Laurent Martinet in October 21 from Dechert LLP to boost its practice, notably in the commercial litigation area. Martinet has strong expertise in industrial risk litigation, notably handling a busy caseload in the energy sector. He was also recently appointed to act on a range of Lebanese financial disputes, acting alongside banks. The very experienced Philippe Bouchez El Ghozi demonstrates strength in corporate, commercial and financial disputes for banks and leading corporations. Nicolas Faguer left the firm in May 2021.

Practice head(s):

Philippe Bouchez El Ghozi; Laurent Martinet

Key clients

Ausy

Colisée Patrimoine Group

Faurecia

Fives

Hutchinson

Monoprix (Casino/Franprix)

Reed Midem

Rhodia-Solvay

Sodexo

Sodica

Qualium

BKW

Primexis

Energie Mutuelle

Sicame

Peltier Juvigny Marpeau & Associés

Peltier Juvigny Marpeau & Associés is recommended for complex financial, corporate disputes and shareholder conflicts, with practice head Frédéric Peltier's extensive in high demand from several prestigious investment funds. Corporate and white-collar expert Clément Wierre made partner at the end of 2021. Nicolas Partouche handles litigation linked to insolvency and restructuring cases, often involving major fraud elements.

Practice head(s):

Frédéric Peltier

Other key lawyers:

Clément Wierre; Nicolas Partouche

Key clients

BTSG

MJA (Mandataires judiciaires Associés)

FAJR

Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)

Apax Partners

Concorde Finance

Boticinal

Corpore+Sano

Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons handles a wide range of disputes in corporate and commercial litigation. The practice has a strong footprint in the healthcare sector, with practice head Jacques-Antoine Robert a leading market figure, where it acts in many high-profile product liability cases. Industry leaders and investors seek out the practice for various commercial, distribution and corporate disputes. The corporate litigation recently grew thanks to  Guillaume-Denis Faure who is increasingly mandated by private equity funds and whose recent work includes a highly complex dispute pertaining to a securitisation portfolio. Disputes involving commercial agents, criminal, regulatory, distribution and insolvency elements also feature in the caseload. Etienne Kowalski and Alexandre Regniault, who specialises in healthcare industry litigation, also contribute. The excellent Louis-Marie Pillebout (ex Villey Girard Grolleaud) joined the firm in early 2022, strengthening the corporate dispute practice.

Practice head(s):

Jacques Antoine Robert

Other key lawyers:

Guillaume-Denis Faure; Etienne Kowalski; Alexandre Regniault; Louis-Marie Pillebout

Testimonials

‘Excellent expertise; perfect knowledge of court functioning; in depth understanding of legal framework.’

‘Available; solution-oriented; highly wise in their judgement.’

Work highlights

  • Representing Entrepreneur Invest in the context of a fraud affecting Smart Treso Fund.
  • Representing Synlab France in the context of a complex litigation with the president of one of Synlab France’s most important subsidiaries.
  • Represented EDF Renouvelables and EDF Renewables Canada in a commercial agent dispute.

Winston & Strawn LLP

Winston & Strawn LLP is capable to handle the full range of disputes, spanning corporate, securities, commercial and regulatory issues. The firm has established niche expertise in the healthcare sector where it is the go-to-practice for many investors, clinics, mutual insurers, medical and healthcare manufacturers. The team is often acknowledged for its very creative practice, with several of the practice's past disputes having broken new ground in the healthcare sector. In parallel, the team manages a large caseload in relation to many other fields; its ability to handle financial and corporate disputes alongside investment funds must be noted in particular. The practice is led by the excellent Gilles Bigot who is surrounded by Anne-Carine Ropars-FuretMathilde Lefranc-Barthe and Sara Susnjar.

Practice head(s):

Gilles Bigot

Other key lawyers:

Anne-Carine Ropars-Furet; Mathilde Lefranc-Barthe; Sara Susnjar

Testimonials

‘Anne-Carine Ropars-Furet distinguished herself by the quality of her listening skills and her understanding of issues, her analytical capacity, her legal competence, her ability to explain the strategy she proposes and her assessment of risks and costs.’

‘The team is of high quality and appreciated for its professionalism and thoroughness. Its lawyers always deliver excellent work. The partners are very involved and know their files inside out.’

‘Gilles Bigot is a litigation specialist, particularly in the healthcare sector, but not only. He intervenes in complex and high-level cases. He is an excellent professional that I recommend with my eyes closed. His strategic proposals are decisive. His judgement of the situation is always perfectly correct. Anne-Carine Ropars-Furet and Mathilde Lefranc-Barthe are also excellent. They are particularly experienced in alternative dispute resolution methods that they have been practicing for several years.’

Key clients

MNH/Groups NEHS

PointVision

Ramsay Générale de Santé

SC Johnson

OPCO EP

PrivatBank

Vert Marine

GEN BIO

Union Asset Management Holding (UAMH)

Vivalto Santé

Biopath

Holding Portugal Luxembourg

Work highlights

  • Representing two private hospitals, members of the Ramsay Générale de Santé (Clinique Iris Marcy Etoile and Hôpital Privé Jean Mermoz) in two disputes with ambulance companies regarding alleged wrongful termination of commercial relationship.
  • Representing German pension fund Union Asset Management Holding (UAMH) in the aftermath of the Vivendi scandal.

Aramis

Aramis

Practice head(s):

Cédric de Pouzilhac

Testimonials

‘Cédric de Pouzilhac shows excellent understanding of industrial issues; careful analysis of contracts; effective advice and pragmatism.’

Key clients

EDF S.A.

Amundi Immo

Alstom Transport S.A.

Techint

Enedis

Izivia

Work highlights

  • Representing EDF in a multi-counterpart-litigation about a force majeure clause related to the COVID-19 crisis and  French regulated access to nuclear energy (ARENH).
  • Representing Techint SpA in construction litigation.
  • Represented Cobra Europe (Rema Tip Top Group) in post-M&A litigation.

ARMA

ARMA

Practice head(s):

Arnaud Péricard; Maximilien Mattéoli

Testimonials

‘The firm is specialised in handling professional accountant liability cases. Arnaud Péricard is always available and very responsive.’

‘High-level drafting skills: always relevant, very explicit and readable. The interlocutors are also very available and have a flawless sense of service. Arnaud Péricard is, in addition to being very competent, always available and accessible, and listens to his interlocutors.’

‘Arnaud Péricard is excellent in litigation, pragmatic, attentive to the needs of his clients, available, and finds solution.’

‘Good expertise.’

Key clients

Covea Risks – MMA

Liberty Mutual Insurance

Gras Savoye

BDJ

Société de courtage des barreaux (SCB)

Deloitte

In Extenso

Eight Advisory

AVVENS – Crowe Horwath

BDO

Ernst & Young

SophiAssur

Chambre Nationale des Conseils en Gestion de Patrimoine (CNCGP)

National Association of Accountants (Ordre National des Experts Comptables)

Artemont

Artemont

Practice head(s):

Arnaud de Barthès de Montfort; François Berthod

Ashurst LLP

Ashurst LLP

Practice head(s):

Hortense de Roux

Testimonials

‘Hortense de Roux and her senior associate Aurelien Zilbermann are a great team to whom the client interest are at the front and center of what they do. Hortense is an excellent lawyer who always provides sharp and crisp advice. Availability is outstanding. One of the best lawyers you can work with. Enormously business-minded. Stellar success rate.’

‘Hortense de Roux is a sharp counsel with an excellent prediction of what is possible. Very clear, very structured. Communication is top. Simply outstanding.’

‘Excellent litigation practice with Hortense de Roux!’

‘Hortense de Roux and her team are excellent and provide a very high-quality service on time; remarkable.’

‘Very dynamic, responsive and efficient team.’

‘The team offers us exceptional services in litigation management.’

‘Hortense de Roux is exceptional in the quality of her legal knowledge, her availability and above all her advice and suggestions for handling complex cases.’

‘Very good experience in technical and in international litigation, particularly in the IT world.’

‘Hortense de Roux is a sure bet. She is a very good technician and she is very determined.’

Work highlights

  • Successfully advised IBM in a high-profile litigation relating to alleged unfair competition facts.
  • Advised RTE on part of three high-profile COVID-19 related summary proceedings concerning a force majeure contractual mechanism as part of the ARENH agreement between a leading operator of the public electricity network and alternative electricity suppliers.

BG2V

BG2V

Practice head(s):

Camille de Verdelhan; Xavier Carbasse; Roland Gueny; Julien Vernet

Testimonials

‘The team is able to deal with problems with great efficiency. The members of the firm have an excellent ability to work in a team with others firms, in particular in dealing with cross-border disputes.’

Work highlights

  • Represented Herta, a major company in food industry, in a delicate matter regarding an accident that caused the death of a 2-year-old boy.
  • Represented an heiress of the art dealer Daniel Wildenstein in the tax ‘Wildenstein case’.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird

Practice head(s):

Nicolas Morelli

Other key lawyers:

Anne-Florence Raducault; Djazia Tiourtite

Testimonials

‘Perfect follow-up.’

‘Good listening skills.’

Key clients

Renault

Aéroport de Lyon

SunPower Energy Solutions France SAS

Dayco Europe

Photosol

Airbus

Plastipak

Bjorg Bonneterre et Cie (Ecotone)

Materne

Work highlights

  • Advising Renault in relation to pre-litigation and litigation with strategic distressed suppliers, such as MBF Aluminium and Sintertech.
  • Representing SunPower Energy Solutions France SAS in several disputes with former subsidiaries of a carved-out overseas division in relation to alleged safety defects of tens of thousands of solar panels.
  • Assisting PHOTOSOL in a dispute with 3SUN, 3. ENEL GREEN POWER S.P.A and SHARP (EUROP) ELECTRONICS LIMITED concerning the supply of defective solar panels to PHOTOSOL.

Boken

Boken

Practice head(s):

Antoine Beauquier

Testimonials

‘In addition to its technical excellence in business and insurance law, I appreciate the firm for its prompt responsiveness and availability.’

‘Milan Sikyurek is an exceptional lawyer and expert in his field. By his benevolence,  empathy and the excellence of his expertise, he is exceptional to us.’

Key clients

BearingPoint

Crédit Coopératif

Holdar

iXblue

Acapace

BPCE

Bouygues Immobilier

Chambres des métiers de Bourgogne

Rio Tinto

Famille Peugeot

iXblue

Soper

Work highlights

  • Defense of a former main shareholder of a subsidiary of a major energy actor in France in view of the obtention of a settlement agreement.
  • Defended Korelio in litigation against an IT group.
  • Defense of Holdar, the holding of a family group, in a post-acquisition dispute.

Bougartchev Moyne Associés

Bougartchev Moyne Associés

Practice head(s):

Kiril Bougartchev; Emmanuel Moyne; Geoffroy Goubin

Key clients

Lazard

CNES

Generali

LVMH

Dogus

Work highlights

  • Defending Turkish conglomerate Dogus as a majority shareholder of companies in the restaurant sector and a party to of a joint-venture agreemen in proceedings arisen from the fraudulent conduct of a minority shareholder following a transfer of shares.
  • Representing the interests of the founder of Copernic, a company specialising in the field of health and high technology products, as well as his family office in  a dispute with an Anglo-Saxon investment fund having taken a majority stake in the company through an LBO operation.
  • Representing the client in civil and criminal proceedings aimed at challenging merger-takeover operations which, according to the plaintiffs, were carried out on the basis of vote buying.

Brunswick La Morinerie

Brunswick La Morinerie

Practice head(s):

Philippe Brunswick; Maxime de La Morinerie

Testimonials

‘Once the strategy has been validated with the client, the team demonstrates formidable efficiency both in in-depth research of legal texts and case law to support our case, and in the drafting of conclusions. Beyond the legal skills, the individuals with whom I worked demonstrated great human qualities and listening skills, as well as an unfailing involvement.’

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP

Practice head(s):

Constantin Achillas; Philippe Métais; Elodie Valette

Chatain & Associés

Chatain & Associés

Practice head(s):

Antoine Chatain; Jean-Yves Demay Pajot

Testimonials

‘I have never met a firm as committed, and with so much technical expertise combined with exceptional listening and availability.’

Key clients

Compass

Nethys

Cm/Cic

Monoprix

Gigafit

Daher

Galec (Groupe Leclerc)

Aig

Allianz

Biomérieux

Leroux & Lotz Technologies

Fret Sncf

Generali

Hiscox

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

Practice head(s):

Louis de Gaulle

Other key lawyers:

Jean-François Paque; Philippe Feitussi; Vanessa Ruffa

Testimonials

‘A team that finds innovative and smart solutions.’

‘Availability and creativity. Very good follow-up of files.’

‘Both highly competent and pragmatic, the firm is a valuable and efficient aid in the negotiation of disputes and the handling of contentious procedures.’

‘Great availability. True professionalism.’

‘Good negotiation skills, strong experience and technique, responsiveness, availability and excellent work.’

‘Louis de Gaulle has a tremendous ability to rationalise the different perspectives of cross-border litigation and he infuses his team with that ethos. Their collective focus on the best result for the client, rather than the likely result of a particular motion or effort, builds confidence in the advice they give.’

Key clients

CAFE OZ

Gilead

Group Desjouis

Marinex Fashion

Prysmian Group

Sanofi

Somogy Editions d’Art

Action contre la faim

Alstom

BNP Paribas

BPCE

CBS

Cegedim

Celio

Colgate-Palmolive

Corporatek

Crédit Agricole Ile de France Paris

Dexia

Dokhan

Foncière Paris Languedoc (groupe Deromedi)

Gemalto Netsize

Genoway

Goliath

Groupe Bel

Ice Watch

Kellogg

Koch Films

LVMH

Maaf Assurances

My Money Bank

Natixis

NBC Universal

Nexity

Ouest France

Photosol

Porhel

Publicis

R+V Versicherung

Royal Bank of Scotland

RSA

Somfy

Taittinger

TF1

Theolia France (Groupe Futuren)

Total

Touax

UEFA

Viacom

Vivendi

XL Airways

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Bisch

Other key lawyers:

Antoine Kirry

DS Avocats

DS Avocats

Practice head(s):

Arnaud Constant

Other key lawyers:

Marie-Christine Mergny; Bertrand Potot; Xavier Lacaze; ; Guillaume Selnet; Romain Bourgade; Benjamin Potier; Fabrice Van Cauwelaert

Testimonials

‘Bertrand Potot knows his clients very well and offers litigation strategies tailored to the needs of our business. He is always very available and attentive to his customers. His support is greatly appreciated when making urgent and strategic decisions. His oratorical qualities are remarkable.’

Key clients

STATE OF BENIN

Landsbanki

Agence Française de développement

FRET SNCF

SNCF Voyageurs

EIFFAGE

ASL Airlines France

DZB BANK

ACTIS

APST

ARENA

AXA

BAZARCHIC SA

EDF

FNIM

INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL INESTORS

FRANCE

PSA

MONTE PASCHI BANK

RESSOURCETHICA

SAFRAN ELECTRONICS & DEFENSE

ORANGE

SAGEMCOM

STEARINERIE DUBOIS

VIATEMIS

WELDOM

ELIOR Group

Work highlights

  • Representing the State of Benin with the exequatur on the French territory of several arbitrational decisions.
  • Representing Fragonard in damages claims based on unpaid bills and brutal rupture of commercial relationship.
  • Representing Landsbanki Bank and its liquidator in the context of loans classified as toxic by borrowers.

DTMV & Associés

DTMV & Associés

Practice head(s):

Magali Thorne; Lin Nin

Testimonials

‘Ability to consider all the non-contentious options before considering a contentious option: a real saving of time and money for our company, which sometimes avoids long and costly procedures. The adaptability of the firm also remains a major added value, as does the respect of the deadlines requested by their clients – sometimes short. The firm is made up of specialists in various legal fields, allowing a fair distribution according to the context of the subject, a detailed legal analysis combined by these different specialties, but also associated with this ability of Lin Nin to synthesise and explain certain complex legal situations in an understandable manner.’

‘Lin Nin and his team are very responsive and available in case of emergency. The firm remains a human-sized firm favouring client contact, understanding the specificities of our business sector and knowing how to adapt to the context of a multicultural company like ours. Their ability to first seek a pragmatic rather than contentious consensual solution is also one of the characteristics that are highly appreciated. The multidisciplinary nature of the very diverse subjects that Lin Nin and his team can deal with also remains an undeniable added value.’

‘Lin Nin speaks very good English, is quick to grasp the facts and gives reliable advice on French law. He thinks entrepreneurially and anticipates your questions. A very good cooperation partner for us.’

‘Expert team with extensive experience. Very competent partner and good advice on the culture of the company.’

‘Transparent partner as to the advantages, disadvantages or risks, benefits of the procedures. Listening to the objectives of clients and adapts to the strategy.’

‘The availability of lawyers has enabled us to provide rapid responses to our interlocutors in our negotiations.’

Eversheds Sutherland (France) LLP

Eversheds Sutherland (France) LLP

Practice head(s):

Rémi Kleiman

Testimonials

‘Clear communication.’

‘Very good legal advice.’

‘We believe that the team had people with appropriate skills, both legal and communications, to adequately assist us and to keep us informed each step of the way. Rémi Klein was constantly available, assisted in all manners possible, kept the clients and us in the loop at all times, and generally, created a very collaborative and pleasant working environment in our cases.’

‘The team has a very pragmatic and goal-orientated approach to litigation. The team is able to flex between smaller matters that require pragmatic and cost-effective litigation strategies and large and complex matters that require a more tactical and overarching strategies. The work between the European offices in multi-national litigation works seamlessly.’

‘The team is very experienced and knowledgeable in the medical device space. The team is exceptionally responsive.  We appreciate that they take the time to explain the procedural requirements to us, as well providing concise summaries of the potential outcomes of each of these requirements, and what our responsibilities will be for each potential outcome.  In short, we have always felt well prepared, and able to effectively manage our risk because they do such a good job educating us through the litigation process. Their fluency in English and French has also been very helpful.’

‘The French team is very professional, competent, quick to give feedback and support.’

Fieldfisher

Fieldfisher

Practice head(s):

Bruno Paccioni; Philippe Netto; Brigitte Daille-Duclos; Franck Veisse

Key clients

Autodistribution

Akka Technologies

Diesel SPA

H&M

Hema

Maison Margiela

Issey Miyake

Groupe Casino

DXC (ex CSC)

FTPA

FTPA

Work highlights

    Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

    Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.

    Testimonials

    ‘Very competent and available team. Excellent understanding of client needs.’

    ‘Jean-Philippe Pons-Henry is an excellent lawyer, in particular on disciplinary disputes with supervisory authorities (AMF, ACPR for example), who has excellent knowledge of financial products. A reference in his field in Paris.’

    ‘There is a sense of genuine expertise in dealing with very high-value claims in complex and difficult circumstances and a strong sense of being able to handle high pressure situations without excitement. Technical expertise is strong, and intellectual ability is evident. Application levels are high, high client service expectations are met and exceeded.’

    ‘The team is remarkable!’

    ‘The litigation team made up of specialists in the different areas of law concerned by the case, not only pure litigation specialists, which makes it possible to cover all aspects of our case including with a view on the after-litigation.’

    ‘The team remained attentive throughout the case, adapting to our needs as the case evolved. Very good listening and great patience, perfectly grasping the strategic dimension of the file as soon as it is taken in hand.’

    ‘In-depth knowledge of both the regulations and the intricacies of how the regulator works, in the context of a dispute with the AMF, have been invaluable assets. Added to this is an in-depth knowledge of technical subjects such as the functioning of financial markets, the structure of an order book and price formation.’

    ‘The team demonstrates professionalism and great expertise and availability.’

    Jeantet

    Jeantet

    Practice head(s):

    Xavier Pernot; Loraine Donnedieu de Vabres-Tranié

    Other key lawyers:

    Florent Prunet

    Testimonials

    ‘Very practical and specific advice; in-depth expertise up to date with the latest developments in case law; an effective strategy, good communication without delay.’

    ‘A very good strategic approach to cases with a high capacity for negotiation.’

    ‘The team led by Loraine Donnedieu de Vabres-Tranié is very well suited to high-intensity disputes.’

    ‘A 360° vision.’

    ‘High level of service-minded attitude. Clear and concise advise. Gives pushback when needed. High availability level. They did not put a lot of people on the assignment to raise cost, but kept a small and dedicated team.’

    ‘Florent Prunet is excellent in his support, especially in terms of availability and partner-attention.’

    Key clients

    LACTALIS

    LIDL

    DESCOURS & CABAUD

    ENI GAS & POWER France

    FNAC

    SMURFIT KAPPA

    BRICO DÉPÔT

    LEETCHI

    CASTORAMA

    Joffe & Associés

    Joffe & Associés

    Practice head(s):

    Fabrice Hercot; Tehani Goy

    K&L Gates LLP

    K&L Gates LLP

    Practice head(s):

    Louis Degos; Charlotte Baillot; Barthélemy Cousin

    Testimonials

    ‘Excellent competent, dynamic and available team.’

    ‘Very high responsiveness. Excellent strength of proposal in litigation strategy.’

    Key clients

    SIKA Supply Center AG

    SIKA France

    ENIGMA Software Group

    3D SYSTEMS France, 3D SYSTEMS INC., Phenix Systems

    Cummins Inc.

    POC Sweden

    John Bean Technologies AB

    Akzo Nobel

    Exxon Mobil and KBR

    Baltic International Bank

    Mercuria Energy Trading Pte Ltd

    Société Générale Bank & Trust

    Société Générale

    Edeis and Bothnia

    SAAB

    Razel-Bec

    Ecobank Transnational Incorporated

    Work highlights

    • Representing Sika Supply Center in serial claims regarding insulation problems of photovoltaic roofs.
    • Representing ESG and EnigmaSoft Ltd in a dispute against their main competitor Malwarebytes.
    • Representing the Swedish company John Bean Technologies in a dispute pending before French court and an ICC arbitral tribunal following the sale of a deep freezer system to the group Holder.

    Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

    Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP

    Practice head(s):

    Marie-Christine Fournier-Gille; Dominique Penin; Guillaume Forbin; Marie Davy

    Testimonials

    ‘Good team, invested and proposes solutions.’

    ‘Productive discussions with Dominique Penin and his team.’

    ‘Highly professional team, covers all aspects for multinational and multidivisional clients.’

    ‘Comprehensive legal and business knowledge, very client orientated, excellent support in finding optimal solution.’

    ‘Dedicated follow-up on specialised litigation.’

    ‘Guillaume Forbin and Marie Davy show careful monitoring of the client and the files.’

    ‘Reactivity and professionalism.’

    ‘Good responsiveness, stable team, good quality of work.’

    Key clients

    Banque Julius Baer

    BNP Paribas/BNP ASR

    Grant Thornton

    LCL Le Crédit Lyonnais

    Crédit du Nord et ses filiales bancaires

    UBP

    UBS

    Arkema

    International Paper

    Schindler

    Do & Co / Hédiard

    Bank of America

    Bostik

    DMG Mori

    Work highlights

    • Defending the client in a court action brought by 97 people claiming the bank neglected its Tracfin monitoring and declaring duty regarding a Dom Tom tax exemption company.
    • Representing Banque Julius Baer in connection with a liability claim initiated by Vidalo in relation with its alleged failure of duty to warn.

    Largo Avocats DELETE

    Largo Avocats

    Practice head(s):

    Anne-Jessica Fauré

    Testimonials

    ‘A very committed team that listens.’

    ‘Anne-Jessica Fauré was remarkable in resolving our dispute; her significant expertise in the field as well as her analytical abilities, without forgetting her human qualities, allowed us to find the solution in line with our expectations.’

    ‘Remarkable lawyers.’

    ‘Competent, reactive and available.’

    ‘Anne-Jessica Fauré and her associate César Fattah have great listening and attention skills, always present by my side when there are questions or doubts. So far, they have followed a winning strategy.’

    ‘A close-knit, interactive team, knowing how to use mediation when needed.’

    ‘Very fast response times. They are very attentive. Together, Anne-Jessica Fauré and her associate César Fattah looked for and found a way to settle our case while respecting my priorities and my professional integrity. They knew my file by heart and their way of presenting the case in a very clear way made it very understandable. No billing ‘surprises’ and no charges were incurred without my informed consent. Needless to say, I will call on them again to manage my affairs and recommend them without any reservations.’

    Key clients

    Eiffage Construction

    Eiffage Energie Systèmes

    Eiffage Concessions

    SQLI

    Fiabila

    Mr. Serguei Pougatchev

    Mr. Bruno Borie

    CEO and main shareholder of Ducru Beaucaillou

    Generim

    Komposite

    Groupe PEGASE

    JD PROD

    Cushman& Wakefield Design & Build France

    Work highlights

    • Representing Serguei Pougatchev in exequatur proceedings against a Russian state agency, aiming to enforce a judgment sentencing him to pay over €1bn to an insolvent Russian Bank.
    • Representing Generim in exequatur proceedings initiated by Crédit du Maroc, aiming to enforce a Moroccan Court decision sentencing Generim and Résidence du Tourisme to pay €24m Moroccan dirhams (about €2m).
    • Representing sellers acting against Deloitte France to request the annulment of a global share purchase operation of an aggregated amount of €6.9m and seeking damages amounting to €1.1m.

    Le 16 Law

    Le 16 Law

    Practice head(s):

    Jean-Luc Larribau; Alexandra Szekely; Samuel Sauphanor

    Other key lawyers:

    Anne-Claire Hans; Morgan Gizardin

    Testimonials

    A real success story firm due to the high quality of its partners, who combine top legal skills with great energy in a very collaborative and caring environment.

    A very high-quality litigation and arbitration practice; intervenes in a very responsive, pragmatic and comprehensive manner on the often complex subjects it deals with.

    A small, nimble team that punches much higher than its weight. They combine top-flight legal knowledge with excellent judgement, intellectual curiosity, and a drive to understand the factual landscape in all its technical detail. Their work ethic and client service are second to none.

    ‘Jean-Luc Larribau, Samuel Sauphanor and Anne-Claire Hans: great listening skills, work force, collaborative work, team spirit and expertise, cheerful; very responsive, desire to learn and to surpass themselves.’

    ‘The team led by Alexandra Szekely has an excellent knowledge of senior management liability litigation and is well able to manage complex cases in this area. She also has a very good knowledge of the law regarding companies in difficulty and the environment of corporate restructuring.’

    ‘Anne-Claire Hans, is quite remarkable. She is very lively and intelligent, extremely conscientious, invested and demanding with herself and her teams, so that she never lets anything go. I would recommend her without any hesitation.’

    ‘Alexandra Szekely thinks outside of the box, she always gives smart strategic advice, she has excellent advocacy skills.’

    ‘Anne-Claire Hans has a keen instinct for understanding highly technical evidence and marshalling it to her client’s best advantage. She is a skilled, fearless young advocate with a bright future. Jean-Luc Larribau is a wise and seasoned counselor who quickly distills the key dynamics of complex disputes and envisions a path out of the most difficult situations. What I appreciate most about Jean-Luc is that he always provides a menu of options and a recommended course of action with every problem we encounter.’

    Key clients

    Orange

    Exors

    ALSO

    Infineon AG

    Compagnie Européenne de Garanties et Cautions (CEGC)

    UPS France

    ABC Arbitrage

    AEW Ciloger

    Axione

    Suez Groupe

    Patrizia

    Monte Paschi Banque

    Albioma

    Global Wind Power Europe

    Work highlights

    • Representing Orange before the Paris Commercial Court (Tribunal de commerce de Paris) in proceedings brought on the ground of deceptive commercial practices by the consumer association CLCV regarding 5G cell phone packages.
    • Representing a prominent agent in the Middle-East in relation to a claim for payment of outstanding remuneration brought against a worldwide leader in the defence industry.
    • Representing the co-founder and minority shareholder of a well-known company specialised in the recycling of plastics in judicial proceedings whereby the client is seeking (and has successfully managed at first instance level) to exclude the two majority shareholders from the company.

    LPA-CGR avocats

    LPA-CGR avocats

    Practice head(s):

    Xavier Clédat; Alexia Eskinazi

    Testimonials

    ‘Very proactive approach. Strategic thinking and a very homogeneous team.’

    ‘Highly experimented and available, Xavier Clédat makes a difference.’

    ‘Has at heart to understand and integrate the constraints of its clients to define the right defence strategy.’

    ‘I work especially with Xavier Clédat whose extreme technical competence, perspective and availability I appreciate.’

    ‘Very professional team, accessible and available. Very good interpersonal skills.’

    ‘Alexia Eskinazi is very attentive to the needs and expectations of her clients, and the same is true of her team. They are very available. They’re more responsive than any other team I’ve come across. Issues are understood as a whole, the perspective is global. They know how to lead to negotiation when necessary, in the interest of the client, and at other times, innovate in the defence of the interests of the clients.’

    ‘Alexia Eskinazi knows her files perfectly. She is very available. She knows how to be very aggressive when necessary in litigation, and to be innovative in defending her client’s interests.’

    ‘The invoicing is particularly detailed which is very appreciated; the responsiveness of the team is exemplary.’

    as a global vision of complex situations allowing it to explore and invest any avenue likely to open to a solution (judicial/transactional) of the dispute.’

    Key clients

    ERAM NOFEDERATION DES INDUSTRIES NAUTIQUES

    FRANPRIX/LEADER PRICE (GROUPE CASINO)

    NATIXIS NOSFR

    GROUPE PRIMONIAL

    McDermott Will & Emery AARPI

    McDermott Will & Emery AARPI

    Practice head(s):

    Nicolas Faguer

    Testimonials

    ‘Good for complex litigation work in France.’

    Key clients

    Corsica Ferries

    Qualium Investissement

    Malakoff Humanis

    Neocom

    Hutchinson

    Ausy

    Euralis

    Colisée

    PDGB

    PDGB

    Practice head(s):

    Xavier Hugon; Philippe Laye

    Other key lawyers:

    Jean-Marie Gueguen; Bertrand Jardel; Philippe Julien; Marie Albertini

    Testimonials

    ‘Good availability and way to resolve disputes: fast and efficient in negotiation.’

    ‘Bertrand Jardel is responsive, knowledgeable, provides practical and strategic advice and it is a pleasure to work with him.’

    ‘Proximity and knowledgeable.’

    ‘Long relationship of trust; intimate knowledge; good listening and ability to propose solutions.’

    Key clients

    ADILEMA

    ASSOCIATION C’PABON

    CRISTAL UNION

    ALTRAN

    Pinsent Masons LLP

    Pinsent Masons LLP

    Practice head(s):

    Melina Wolman

    Testimonials

    ‘The team, led by Melina Wolman, stands out through its strength of proposal, its excellent client service and excellent support.’

    ‘Melina Wolman is always very present, available, and has an open ear for any problem. If the problem evoked does not fall within her expertise, she will never fail to find THE right person and will always be present to ensure the right follow-up. She was an excellent support during difficult times for my company and myself.’

    Key clients

    Mondex Corporation

    Work highlights

    • Representing Mondex in a major dispute on behalf of the heirs of a Jewish gallerist who was dispossessed of the Modigliani painting Seated Man with a Cane during World War II.

    Reed Smith

    Reed Smith

    Practice head(s):

    Benoît Charot

    Other key lawyers:

    Daniel Kadar

    Testimonials

    ‘Responsive team.’

    ‘Committed and very involved personalities. Daniel Kadar leads the team with flying colours.’

    ‘Good availability, speed and helpfulness.’

    Renault Thominette Vignaud & Reeve

    Renault Thominette Vignaud & Reeve

    Practice head(s):

    Renaud Thominette

    Testimonials

    ‘Renaud Thominette is an excellent lawyer. He listens to his clients. His advice is fair and effective.’

    ‘Human, humble, professional and efficient.’

    ‘Good cohesion and complementarity in the team. Willingness to go after things while remaining affordable.’

    ‘Very high pragmatism and availability; listens to the clients and their needs; very good writing skills; systematically searching for intelligent solutions.’

    ‘The team is made up of complementary lawyers, all technically competent and applying a pragmatic approach to the matters entrusted to them by their clients. Thanks to this complementarity and efficient approach, this firm is an indisputable asset for all SMEs.’

    ‘Renaud Thominette does not hesitate to adopt a transactional approach when possible, which is often preferable to litigation.’

    ‘Skilled and easy contact.’

    ‘Responsiveness and serious advice.’

    Key clients

    Plaza Immobilier

    Bpifrance Investissement

    Lafarge Holcim

    Autorité des marches financiers

    Sodistour

    La Boîte Rose

    Vivescia

    Cholet Dupont

    Australie

    Nutimpex

    Liouba Stoupakova Wildenstein

    Edicourtage

    Alstom

    EMC2

    Yara

    Rossi Bordes AARPI

    Rossi Bordes AARPI

    Practice head(s):

    Dominique Bordes; Eric Boillot

    Key clients

    DELOITTE GROUP

    MOMA GROUP

    NATURAL GRASS

    SEZANE

    EURONEWS

    THE FRENCH NATIONAL OLYMPIC AND SPORT COMMITTEE – COMITÉ NATIONAL OLYMPIQUE ET SPORTIF FRANÇAIS (CNOSF)

    IN EXTENSO

    MAZARS

    Seattle Avocats

    Seattle Avocats

    Practice head(s):

    François Ronget; François de Cambiaire

    Key clients

    YUKA

    MJA LIQUIDATOR/NAOS ACCAMAS

    EMMAUS FRANCE

    MEDIAN DIGITAL PARTNER

    INVESTORS IN BIOCBON

    INVESTORS IN NOVACCESS

    INVESTORS IN ARISTOPHIL AGAINST CNA INSURANCE

    UCB PHARMA

    ITF C/ XPO (DUTY OF VIGILANCE)

    FONDATION CEMAVIE (CREDIT MUTUEL)

    PARTI SOCIALISTE (FEDERATION DE SEINE SAINT DENIS)

    RIVINGTON

    SEMEC (PALAIS DES FESTIVALS ET DES CONGRES DE CANNES)

    62 INVESTORS IN ARISTOPHIL

    INVESTORS IN APOLONIA

    COMMUNE DE PONTAULT COMBAULT

    COMMUNE DE PLAISSAN

    ECOLE MIROIRS CITOYENS

    COLLECTIVE OF 150 CONSUMERS AGAINST THE ONLINE SHOP PEMIBLANC / ELECTROSIGMA

    SHERPA & LES AMIS DE LA TERRE

    VENDOME REM

    AZEA IMMOREC

    PSC

    BAALBEK MANAGEMENT

    BERANGER

    CHATENET

    EELV (EUROPE ECOLOGIE LES VERTS)

    Work highlights

    • Representing UCB Pharma as a defendant in 15 medical liability claims (the ‘Distillbène’ cases).
    • Representing Fondation CEMAVIE in a dispute with a construction company and its subcontractor due to several defects in the building of a retirement home.
    • Representing 15 French municipalities (including Grenoble, Nanterre, Bayonne), region Centre Val de Loire and 5 NGOs (France Nature Environnement, Notre Affaire à Tous, Sherpa, Les EcoMaires & Zea) challenging the French global oil and gas company Total, for its failure to adequately respond to the climate crisis.

    Sharp

    Sharp

    Practice head(s):

    Romuald Cohana; Léopold Farque

    Testimonials

    ‘Romuald Cohana is always available and very responsive; he shows great availability and efficiency and a flexible fee policy that allows us to intervene in all types of cases, which our clients appreciate.’

    Key clients

    Alexandre de Paris

    Aream Capital

    3Disc

    Cdiscount (Casino Group)

    TLC Marketing

    Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

    Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP

    Practice head(s):

    Valentin Autret

    Testimonials

    ‘Valentin Autret shows great reactivity and finesse in his analysis in cross-border cases.’

    Key clients

    SCOR SE

    GEODIS

    LVMH SE

    BELAMBRA CLUBS

    AXIAN GROUP

    SILVER LAKE PARTNERS

    ILIAD

    ONE OF THE LARGEST EUROPEAN BANKS

    Work highlights

    • Advised SCOR SE on its successful strategy against a €8.3bn unsolicited takeover proposal.
    • Represented LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.E. in the litigation relating to its $15.8bn acquisition of Tiffany & Co.
    • Advised GEODIS on the disputes that followed its acquisitions of Sernam’s assets.

    Soffer Avocats

    Soffer Avocats

    Practice head(s):

    Ron Soffer

    Testimonials

    ‘Ron Soffer offers innovative and highly relevant solutions in terms of litigation strategies and is strongly involved in defending the interests of his clients.’

    ‘They are very knowledgeable concerning the French legal system, the judges, and the practicalities of French litigation. They also have a good grasp on US legal concepts and practices, which enables them to provide good advice when cases implicate both the French and US legal systems.’

    ‘Ron Soffer is well versed in US legal concepts and speaks excellent English. Thus, it is easy to talk to him concerning how US precedent might be presented to a French court.’

    ‘Ron Soffer is a brilliant strategist. He has a great analytic sense and an ability to focus on what really matters in the dispute being fought.’

    ‘Very focused and responsive litigation specialists.’

    ‘Ron Soffer is very intelligent, commercial and practical, and goes the extra mile for his clients. He is familiar with both civil and common law systems, and adept at managing multi-jurisdictional cases.’

    Key clients

     

     

    STAS & ASSOCIES

    STAS & ASSOCIES

    Practice head(s):

    Renaud Semerdjian; Christophe Ayela

    Key clients

    Groupe Alrov

    Groupe Soufflet

    Groupe Intermarché

    Group Belambra

    Casino Tranchant

    LBO France

    JJW france

    Groupe Sipromad

    Work highlights

    • Advised Groupe Alrov Hotel Lutetia on all legal aspects of the renovation of the Hotel Lutetia, including negotiation and litigation issues.

    Stephenson Harwood

    Stephenson Harwood

    Practice head(s):

    Nicolas Demigneux

    Testimonials

    ‘International firm, direct access to partners; extremely well-trained associates; all members of the firm are immediately available to discuss problems that could arise downstream or upstream of a particular case; ability to clearly identify the problems and focus only on the essentials.’

    ‘We mainly worked with Nicolas Demigneux and Deborah Attias in Paris. The case involved both strategic and legal thinking and above all an immediate implementation and execution of the means chosen. From our first meeting, the case and the problems that it generated were analysed and identified in a very thorough and efficient manner and a proposal for a solution emerged very quickly. Remarkable intellectual and practical intelligence and exceptional availability.’

    ‘Good listening and team cohesion.’

    ‘Rigorous analysis.’

    ‘The file was handled efficiently in a transversal manner with the cooperation of different teams (tax, litigation and corporate).’

    ‘Nicolas Demigneux is excellent in substance and form. Great responsiveness and availability.’

    Key clients

    MAERSK LINE A/S

    SAS DEGRÉMONT FRANCE

    TRANSASIA COMMODITIES INVESTMENT LTD.

    LION AIR AIRLINE CIEL VOYAGE, TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS

    BIOCON

    OPCO EP

    LA HALLE BUYING OFFICE LIMITED

    BIOCON

    QATAR MUSEUMS AUTHORITY

    ATALIAN

    RAYONIER ADVANCED MATERIALS

    Work highlights

    • Representing Maersk Line in a dispute with various companies of the Bolloré Logistics group (China, South Korea, Philippines, Singapore, Spain, Italy, etc.) in connection with a fire on board of the ship Maersk Honam, in the Arabian Sea, causing the death of 5 sailors and the loss of a large part of the cargo of 8,000 containers.
    • Representing and advising SAS Degrémont France, the water subsidiary of utility giant SUEZ, in a dispute relating to the construction and renovation of a water treatment plant in the South of France with EIFFAGE.
    • Representing Biocon, India’s largest biopharmaceutical company, in a cross-border product liability dispute with AB Science, a French listed company specialising in cancer medications.

    Taylor Wessing

    Taylor Wessing

    Practice head(s):

    Paul-Albert Iweins; Philippe Glaser; Benoît Goulesque Monaux; Pierre-Olivier Leblanc; Laure Hüe de la Colombe

    Key clients

    Lubrizol

    Mandarin Productions

    Teynier Pic

    Teynier Pic

    Practice head(s):

    Eric Teynier; Pierre Pic

    Other key lawyers:

    Raphael Kaminsky; Shaparak Saleh

    Testimonials

    ‘I very much appreciated the listening, the availability, the reactivity and especially the fighting spirit of Shararak Saleh.’

    ‘I strongly feel that the team looked after my best interests both from risks perspective and cost exposure and provided truthful and honest evaluation on the merits of my case. Additionally, the team explored options outside of their original scope and brief in an effort to bring around a satisfactory conclusion.’

    ‘Shaparak Saleh was exemplary in her approach, her vision and attention to detail in exploring all aspects of my case went over and above what was expected. In addition, her communication and honest assessment of the merits to my case and potential alternative options for consideration was again outside of her original brief, this ensured full transparency of my risks and cost exposures.’

    ‘The partners of the firm were very available, showed exemplary professionalism and impeccable legal analysis. We especially appreciated their experience. In terms of legal technique (drafting of the transaction agreement) they brought great legal rigour which was greatly appreciated!’

    ‘What distinguishes the cabinet is first of all a ‘human’ approach in the sense that they were very attentive, educated in their explanations, and offering a complete vision of the situation and the options available. The impression of opening our eyes to all the possible exits with a mapping of the risks associated with each solution. We were thus warned and each decision could be made with full knowledge of the facts.’

    ‘Knowledgeable, highly motivated and caring. Billing is very fair compared to the high quality of service received.’

    ‘Pierre Pic is a quite knowledgeable caring person who takes his client’s case to heart.’

    ‘The team is flexible and responsive, and takes care to provide pragmatic solutions.’

    Key clients

    ArcelorMittal

    GE Thermodyn/Baker Hughes

    Mr. Nizar Dalloul

    Maroc Telecom

    Mr. Barakat

    EOLFI

    Groupe Soufflet

    Metso Outotek

    GE Lighting

    Ponsse

    Suez

    Mr Saleh Tassabehji

    Mr Toufic Achkar

    Mr Hani Abdelnour

    Mr Jassem Misnad

    Vj Jindal Cocoa

    Mr Paul Wei Sun

    Hangzhou SinoTytex

    Hangzhou Red Import and Export

    UGGC Avocats

    UGGC Avocats

    Practice head(s):

    David Gordon-Krief

    Other key lawyers:

    Jean-Jacques Uettwiller

    Key clients

    OCEANIS

    COLAS GROUP

    M.GOUDARD AND MRS. FILLEY

    OCEANIS

    COLAS GROUP

    M.GOUDARD AND MRS. FILLEY

    Villey Girard Grolleaud

    Villey Girard Grolleaud

    Practice head(s):

    Daniel Villey

    Key clients

    SA d’Explosifs et de Produits Chimique (EPC)

    Baccarat executives

    Cleanaway

    Vivien & Associés

    Vivien & Associés

    Practice head(s):

    Emmanuelle Bouretz

    Testimonials

    ‘Professionalism, pugnacity and good understanding and daily support. Emmanuelle Bouretz is available and kind.’

    Wilhelm & Associés

    Wilhelm & Associés

    Practice head(s):

    Pascal Wilhelm

    Other key lawyers:

    Emilie Dumur

    Testimonials

    ‘Pascal Wilhelm and Emilie Dumur show remarkable availability and responsiveness. They analyse problems quickly and very accurately, and propose clear and solid solutions.’

    Key clients

    KRIEF (SOPHIASSUR)

    BETCLIC

    FNAC DARTY

    CARREFOUR

    CHATEAU ANGELUS

    GUIBOR

    BUT

    NOCIBE

    FINANCIERE APSYS

    UNIQUE HERITAGE MEDIA

    ODAS

    ZADIG & VOLTAIRE

    WILES VENTURE

    MAD ATELIER

    Work highlights

    • Defending a legal auditor in the case involving the French subsidiaries of the company AGRIPOLE and its parent company FINANCIERE TURENNE LAFAYETTE, a major operator in the alimentary industry.
    • Defending Château Angelus against two important Bordeaux wine producers/distributors.
    • Representing GUIBOR (an investment fund) in an important shareholder’s dispute.