Rising Stars

Firms To Watch: Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences

Delcade‘s life science practice is headed up by Marie Sanchez, who joined the firm in 2022. The team handles complex litigation, regulatory issues, and contractual matters for a range of clients including emerging therapeutic cannabis and wellness hemp/CBD producers.
The life sciences practice at jasper Avocats is notable for its specialisms in medical liability litigation and due diligence investigations in the context of fund acquisitions. The team is jointly led by Olivier Saumon and Céline Roquelle-Meyer.
K&L Gates LLP has carved out a niche for work involving medical technology and IT in the healthcare sector. The firm assists with joint ventures and acquisitions in this space, as well as providing advice on GDPR and further data compliance matters.

Firms in the Spotlight Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences

Vivien & Associés

Vivien & Associés logo

Vivien & Associés offers competitive legal services and representation across a broad range of key practice areas:

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CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES

CHASSANY WATRELOT & ASSOCIES logo

A FULL-EXPERTISE HUMAN RESOURCES LAW FIRM   Founded in 1987, Chassany Watrelot & Associés (CWA) is one of the main French law firms whose activity is exclusively dedicated to employment law and all other legal areas related to human resources management (insurance law, tax law…).

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Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences in France

Allen & Overy LLP

Notable for its cross-border patent litigation capabilities, Allen & Overy LLP regularly advises leading pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology groups, and pharmaceutical associations on complex and high-profile issues. The team has considerable expertise across M&A, employment, regulatory, and public law, and is supported by a team of senior science analysts. Practice head Laëtitia Bénard handles a range of contentious and non-contentious IP matters, including disputes regarding patents, trademarks, copyright, and unfair competition. Counsel Charles Tuffreau is dual qualified as a lawyer and a representative before the European Patent Office and is a key name for patent litigation relating to pharmaceutical products and medical technologies.

Practice head(s):

Laëtitia Bénard


Other key lawyers:

Charles Tuffreau


Key clients

Bayer


Biogroup


Capio AB


Eli Lilly


Ipsen


Janssen


Nobel Biocare


Korian


Pfizer


ViiV Healthcare


Work highlights


  • Advising a global pharmaceutical and healthcare company in multiple infringement lawsuits brought against numerous major generic companies based on a patent covering one of the client’s blockbusters for the treatment of several types of cancer.
  • Advising Chinese company Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI), the main challenger in the field of genetic sequencing, regarding a dispute against the market leader, Illumina Cambridge.
  • Assisting an American multinational company serving the combined industries of health information technology and clinical research, in relation to a post M&A dispute.

ADVANT Altana

ADVANT Altana acts as counsel for leading pharmaceutical companies on complex product liability and regulatory matters, intellectual property, transactional, and contentious matters. The team has a core focus on guiding clients through IP registration, protection and enforcement, with a keen interest in the biotech industry, e-health, and the use of the ‘big data’ in the medical field. The practice is jointly led by Armand Aviges, Gilles Gaillard, and Jean-Nicolas Soret; they are supported by Philippe de Saint-Bauzel and Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy.

Other key lawyers:

Philippe de Saint-Bauzel; Valérie Lafarge-Sarkozy; Delphine Lapillonne


Key clients

CFAO GROUP


COWEN HEALTHCARE INVESTMENTS


CSRP (Chambre Syndicale de la Répartition Pharmaceutique)


ELEPHANT VERT


EURAPHARMA (CFAO Group)


EUROFINS SCIENTIFIC


GE HEALTHCARE


GRUPPO SAPIO


KURMA PARTNERS


LABORATOIRE SYNBIONYME


LEEM


ONXEO


PHARMALEX


PROCLINIC


SANCARE


SOREDIP


STRYKER


Dechert LLP

Dechert LLP is a popular choice for M&A, antitrust, and regulatory advice as well as litigation and arbitration services and is sought out by top life sciences and healthcare companies. The practice is jointly led by private equity specialist Alain Decombe and Mélanie Thill-Tayara, who has a wealth of experience with high-stakes competition matters. Key lawyer Sophie Pelé is also recommended for her ‘sharp and rare expertise’ in the regulatory and public law aspects of the sector.

Practice head(s):

Alain Decombe; Mélanie Thill-Tayara


Other key lawyers:

Jacques Sivignon; Sophie Pelé; Ermine Bolot; Marion Provost


Testimonials

‘Dynamic team able to coordinate complex regulatory files across Europe. Excellent expertise in the medical device sector and the ability to navigate between advice and litigation when it comes to decisions relating to market access, reimbursement, clinical studies.’

‘Sophie Pelé, partner, has a sharp and rare expertise on the Paris market. She strives to always consider solutions that correspond to the client’s strategy, a very good understanding of the business.’

Key clients

ArchiMed


HRA Pharma


Mayoly Spindler


Robocath


Roche


Sofinnova


Work highlights


  • Represented Roche in a case before the French Competition Authority relating to an alleged abuse of collective dominance with Novartis concerning the “off label use” of Roche’s drug Avastin in the ophthalmic field where Novartis markets blockbuster drug Lucentis.
  • Advised Mayoly Spindler, a French pharmaceutical group, in connection with its acquisition of Ipsen Consumer Healthcare branch, which includes established brands such as Smecta®, Forlax® and Tanakan®, distributed in more than 80 countries.
  • Advised Sofinnova Partners on a long-term strategic and financial partnership in life sciences with Apollo.

Dentons

The life sciences team at Dentons is notable for its transactional work, advising blue-chip industrial clients and top investment funds on major industry challenges and complex regulations. Jean-Marc Grosperrin leads the firm's European life sciences and healthcare group, specialising in both domestic and cross border M&A transactions. The team is jointly led by Grosperrin, tax specialist Julien Le Guyader, and Anne-Laure Marcerou, who has strong expertise in the negotiation of strategic contracts. Pascale Poupelin is also noted for her regulatory work.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Marc Grosperrin; Julien Le Guyader; Anne-Laure Marcerou


Other key lawyers:

Olivia Guéguen; Loïc Lemercier; Pascale Poupelin


Testimonials

‘Jean-Marc Grosperrin: we have been working with Jean-Marc for many years, on various subjects but mainly on international acquisitions, including in the strategic management of post-acquisition disputes. Jean-Marc is always very “business-oriented”, keen to know the business and the processes of these customers, and is always concerned about the win-win solution for each of the parties. His involvement always allows effective coordination of subjects and greatly facilitates the management of invoicing and the negotiation of fees. His motto: “Make our life easier” and it is very appreciable.’

‘High level of experience of the life sciences team.’

‘Anne-Laure Marcerou is incredibly responsive and able to support decision making.’

Key clients

Panasonic


Abenex


Adare Pharmaceuticals


Al.Chi.mia S.R.L


Apellis


Avalun


Boiron


Bpifrance


Dentsply Sirona


Essling Capital


Fujifilm


Gilead


HRA Pharma


Imcheck Therapeutics


IMV Technologies


Ipsen


Kyowa Kirin Pharma


Lactalis


Medday Pharmaceuticals


Microport


MyRobotics


Monash University


Ophta France


Orion Corporation


Pfizer


Recordati


Servier


TBR Dental Group


Verdoso


Work highlights


  • Advised Septodont, the world leader in dental anaesthetics, on the acquisition of the entire dental products portfolio from the French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi, which involved 15 jurisdictions across Europe, Africa and Asia.
  • Advised ImCheck Therapeutics on a €96 million Series C financing round. This new round of financing was led by Earlybird and Andera Partners. Invus and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society® also participated in the round as new investors.
  • Assisted MicroPort, global leader in medical solutions headquartered in Shanghai and listed on the Hong-Kong stock exchange, with respect to Robocath’s new round of financing.

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP‘s cross-practice life sciences team has deep industry knowledge across corporate, regulatory, data privacy, product liability, and intellectual property matters within the sector. Practice head Mikael Salmela has a wealth of experience in the field, and often advises on regulatory assessments and structuring for M&A transactions. Charlotte Damiano is also noted for her work on pricing and reimbursement disputes for pharmaceutical products and medical devices.

Practice head(s):

Mikael Salmela


Other key lawyers:

Stanislas Roux-Vaillard; Patrice Navarro; Charlotte Damiano; Charles-Henri Caron; Emmanuelle Burkic


Testimonials

‘Hogan Lovells is the pre-eminent life science practice in Europe and the Paris team is one of its strongest offices. Pragmatic advice, quickly delivered. Deep industry expertise and good development of associates. The French team is also well-coordinated with the other European offices and anticipates cross-border issues.’

‘Charlotte Damiano has very deep experience in transactional, clinical, regulatory and market access matters in life sciences and gives pragmatic clear advice that is appropriate to the size and maturity of the organisation she is advising. Advice is delivered fast and is accurate, clear and immediately operational. She is very well connected across the industry and particularly strong in the market access landscape.’

‘One can feel a strong collaboration between the various partners of the firm which allows us to always be in contact with the most relevant person according to the questions and topics to be discussed. The knowledge of this firm on the pharmaceutical industry sector is remarkable and covers various key legal areas: compliance, regulatory, market access in particular’

‘My lawyer is Charlotte Damiano who takes care of all my questions on market access in France. She is my sole interlocutor, which allows a follow-up of the files of a remarkable quality and a real implication in the life of the product. Her knowledge of the sector and its evolution is excellent and her recommendations always relevant in terms of substance and form. She is also a good point of contact for teaching our parent companies about the particularities and complexity of the French market.’

‘Hogan Lovells has a deep bench in the life sciences space. In France, I am most familiar with their product liability expertise. They have a diverse team that is knowledgeable and highly engaged/responsive. They work well with other law firms in a virtual law firm model. They are very good about preparing accurate budgets and providing timely and accurate billing with reasonable billing rates.’

‘Charles-Henri Caron and Emmanuelle Burkic are a pleasure to work with, they are experienced, knowledgeable and responsive.’

‘Mikael Salmela: Excellent legal expert but very pragmatic approach, willingness to offer the services corresponding exactly to the needs of the client, finds effective solutions to the problems raised, transparency and honesty, more than just advice, real work partner.’

Key clients

Bristol Myers Squibb / Celgene


Merck & Co., Inc., and its French subsidiary MSD Vaccins


Eli Lilly


Icos Corporation


Voluntis


Medicrea


Valneva


Work highlights


  • Assisted Bristol Myers Squibb/Celgene with a major health data processing authorisation request to the CNIL for an innovative drug treatment under a cohort authorisation for temporary use (cohort ATU) in France, as well as with the launch and deployment of CAR-T products in France.
  • Assisting Merck & Co., Inc., and its French subsidiary MSD Vaccins in the coordination and defence of product liability claims brought by French plaintiffs before the Courts or before Commissions for Conciliation and Indemnification (CCIs) in relation to alleged adverse events of the vaccine Gardasil.
  • Represented Eli Lilly in the French aspects of generic attacks on its oncology product, Alimta.

McDermott Will & Emery AARPI

McDermott Will & Emery AARPI's 'very strong life sciences team' combines expertise in corporate, intellectual property, regulatory, competition, and tax law to provide clients with a comprehensive service. The practice has additional expertise in digital health issues and regularly advises key healthtech players on complex data protection matters. Team lead and business law specialist Emmanuelle Trombe has considerable experience advising French and international companies on joint ventures, product development, and licensing agreements. Anthony Paronneau is noted for his 'availability, quality advice and management of his teams of lawyers'.

Practice head(s):

Emmanuelle Trombe


Other key lawyers:

Anthony Paronneau; Romain Perray; Anne-France Moreau


Testimonials

‘Very good knowledge of the Biotech sector. The team makes itself very available, a wide range of expertise for all the important areas of Biotech structuring (legal, IP, GRPD, etc.)’

‘Anthony Paronneau: availability, quality advice, management of his teams of lawyers.’

‘The solutions provided by Romain Perray and his team are always presented in a practical and affordable way for internal teams. Beyond the expertise and the treatment of a particular problem, the exchanges between the McDermott team and the internal collaborators are accessible.’

‘McDermott’s personal data protection team is very responsive and available. Romain Perray makes his expertise available to the teams in a perfectly accessible, practical and conciliatory way.’

‘Availability, professionalism and rigor. Compared to other firms with which we have worked, the quality is much higher.’

‘Very strong life sciences team, able to help with implementing technology licences, strategic collaborations, and venture capital. Good industry knowledge and relationships with the various actors. Business-oriented.’

‘Emmanuelle Trombe: strong technically and business-minded.’

Key clients

Owkin


Therapanacea


Pierre Fabre


Voluntis


Ribonexus (ex Aglaia Therapeutics)


Dynacure


TreeFrog Therapeutics


Egle Therapeutics


Mutabilis


Corteria


AbolerIS Pharma


Earlybird and Andera Partners


Meiogenix


Tissium


MaatPharma


Aelis Farma


Acticor Biotech


DBV Technologies


Nov Santé Actions Non Cotées


Covidliste


Work highlights


  • Advised Owkin, an artificial intelligence and precision medicine company, on two strategic collaborations with Sanofi and Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS).
  • Advised Therapanacea, an award-winning medical technology company, on the signing of a collaboration agreement with Biogen, a pioneer in neuroscience and one of the world’s first global biotechnology companies.
  • Advised Seroba Life Sciences (formerly Horama) alongside Fund+, Omnes Capital, V-Bio Ventures, Kurma Partners, Idinvest, GO Capital, and Sham Innovation Santé/Turenne, historical shareholders, on the €21.2 million ($25.1 million) the increase in the Series B round of Coave Therapeutics.

Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons remains a go-to name for complex pharmaceutical product liability matters, as well as advising on intellectual property, data protection, and competition law issues. Alexandre Regniault heads the international life sciences group and handles contentious and transactional work for top pharmaceutical, medical device, and biotech companies. Practice co-head Jacques-Antoine Robert is recognised as a pre-eminent legal authority on product liability disputes, and Ombline Ancelin leads on major competition and regulatory matters.

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Regniault; Jacques-Antoine Robert


Other key lawyers:

Etienne Kowalski; Ombline Ancelin; Simonetta Giordano; Julien Moiroux; Emmanuel Garnier


Testimonials

‘The Simmons & Simmons health and life sciences team is remarkable for its very specific experience in the field. Their ability to follow the latest regulatory and legal developments in France and Europe on a very wide spectrum (including artificial intelligence for example) makes them one of the undisputed specialists in the market.’

‘Their integrated collaboration with the firm’s various practices (distribution, labour law, etc.) and the various local offices make them an indispensable business partner.’

‘We are fortunate to work directly with Alexandre Regniault who, beyond his remarkable legal skills, knows the sector in which he operates in an extremely fine and deep way. Alexandre is extremely strategic and pragmatic.’

Work highlights


  • Advising Carmat on a day-to-day basis, manufacturer of the total artificial heart, for the elaboration, organisation and implementation of the commercialisation and distribution process of its product in several European jurisdictions.
  • Advising Cooper Consumer Health, a leading European platform in the field of self-medication (OTC) and self-care, on the acquisition of Lashilé Beauty, a market leader nutricosmetic laboratory for food supplements known as “gummies”.

Viguié Schmidt & Associés

The interdisciplinary team at Viguié Schmidt & Associés handles regulatory issues, competition, product liability, and commercial disputes for key players in the pharmaceutical market. Etienne Gouesse advises clients on pre-litigation strategy, and has experience before administrative, civil, and commercial courts. Iñaki Saint-Esteben specialises in antitrust law and indemnification requests for facts involving restriction to competition.

Practice head(s):

Etienne Gouesse; Iñaki Saint-Esteben


Key clients

JOHNSON & JOHNSON


INNOVAHEALTHPARTNERS


Work highlights


  • Advising Johnson & Johnson Santé Beauté France regarding a private damage claim filed by Carrefour against this company following a decision rendered by the FCA with respect to the home and personal care products industry.
  • Advised InnovaHealth Partners on its acquisition of a controlling interest in Koelis, a leadership innovator in the market for image-guided systems for prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

August Debouzy

With 'a team of experts in the field,' August Debouzy is notable for its patent litigation work, as well as employment and regulatory advice. Dual qualified as engineers, joint practice heads Grégoire Desrousseaux and François Pochart have a wealth of experience leading on complex cross-border patent disputes, EPO litigation, and opposition before the French IPO office for clients across the healthcare, life sciences, and medical devices sectors.

Practice head(s):

Grégoire Desrousseaux; François Pochart


Other key lawyers:

Pierre-Olivier Ally; Hélène Billery


Testimonials

‘A team of experts in the field. During our cooperation François fed us with the needs of the client and helped us to build the strategy. We are directed well in terms of procedural requirements like billing etc.’

‘François was clear and helpful at every stage of the work.’

‘The August Debouzy team collaborates very well, amongst their own team and even with others outside the firm, for example, litigators in other jurisdictions. They are very very hard working, and very responsive and knowledgeable. They are a trusted resource for my company.’

‘Grégoire Desrousseaux has great expertise in his field (IP law and litigation). We rely on his expertise and experience and he has been a great resource for what we are trying to accomplish in France.’

‘August Debouzy supported us in a pro bono approach to secure the intellectual property of our product. Their teams were sincerely committed to supporting our project, advising us on all aspects of intellectual property.’

‘Operationally, what distinguishes August Debouzy from other firms is their great availability and responsiveness. We were very pleasantly surprised by these qualities.’

Key clients

Anthogyr


Brahms


B.Braun


CNRS


Disphar (Nordic Pharma Group)


Essilor


Fresenius kabi


I.Ceram


Insulet


Laboratoires Majorelle


LFB


l’Oréal


Maia Africa


Medtronic


Novasep


Nuvamid


Teva


Wright medical


Work highlights


  • Representing TEVA in defending a preliminary injunction case launched by Bayer on a patent covering a sorafenib salt for the treatment of cancer.
  • Assisted B. Braun in an appeal against a decision of the Director General of the French Patent Office having rejected an appeal for reinstatement of a French patent application.
  • Representing NIPRO in an infringement action launched by Fresenius based on one of its patents covering a dialyser.

Baker McKenzie

The life sciences team at Baker McKenzie stands out for its strengths in corporate M&A transactions, as well as product liability and intellectual property disputes. Drawing on its strong international network, the team acts for pharmaceutical and medical devices companies on cross-border and domestic matters. The practice is headed up by Julie Yéni, who is noted for her 'precision and responsiveness.'

Practice head(s):

Julie Yeni


Other key lawyers:

Katia Boneva-Desmicht; Marie-Françoise Bréchignac; Alain Sauty de Chalon ; Stéphane Davin; Gilles Jolivet; Nathalie Marchand; Arnaud Cabanes; Magalie Dansac Le Clerc; Léna Sersiron; Eric Lasry


Testimonials

‘We are in a complex and changing sector, Baker McKenzie perfectly helps us to develop and to accurately measure the challenges we face.’

‘Julie Yeni has always brought us total satisfaction. Precision and responsiveness.’

Key clients

AbbVie


BMS – Bristol-Myers Squibb


Johnson & Johnson


Laboratoires Servier


Bird & Bird

The full-service practice at Bird & Bird handles corporate, regulatory, and data protection matters. Co-managing partner Emmanuelle Porte specialises in venture capital deals, and jointly leads the team with Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan, who has considerable expertise handling contentious and non-contentious intellectual property disputes. Litigator Yves Bizollon is also noted for his success in numerous highly complex patent cases in France.

Practice head(s):

Emmanuelle Porte; Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan


Other key lawyers:

Yves Bizollon; Ariane Mole; Alexandre Vuchot


Testimonials

‘Expertise on the corporate part, professionalism and responsiveness.’

‘Relevant, committed, available, listening, and also knows how to surround itself with young, highly competent lawyers, to complete the legal projects submitted.’

‘The Bird & Bird life sciences group provides access to a multidisciplinary team that responds to any type of problem a biotech company may face.’

‘Emmanuelle provides us with her invaluable assistance and is always present on the various projects that our company has had to carry out over the past 10 years, both within the framework of complex and cross-border M&A operations, but also on these aspects more business and life science.’

‘Emmanuelle has in-depth knowledge of the biotech community, M&A operations and the various players in these two sectors.’ 

‘Emmanuelle Porte: very technical, very rigorous, precise, very available.’

Key clients

NextMind


Allergan, Inc.


AtriCure


Novalix


Implanet


Korea Investment Partners


Domain Therapeutics


Cardiologs Technologies SAS


Prophesee


Ermium Therapeutics


Edwards Lifescienses


Moon Surgical


Work highlights


  • Assisted Domain Therapeutics in its 39M€ Series A financing with a syndicate of international VC and investors and historical shareholders.
  • Representing Edwards Lifesciences in a major patent infringement procedure implying the infringement of five European patents covering a transcatheter heart valve.
  • Advising Laboratoires Juvise Pharmaceutical on the purchase of the worldwide commercial rights to Pylera from US biopharmaceutical company AbbVie.

Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance acts as counsel for a broad range of clients, including pharmaceutical laboratories, financial investors, medical devices manufacturers, as well as manufacturers of cannabis-based products. The team is jointly led by Thomas Baudesson, David Tayar and Olivier Gaillard. The practice’s compliance expertise was strengthened by the arrival of Dominique Laymand as of counsel from an in-house in February 2022. Gaëlle Merlier left the firm.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Baudesson; David Tayar; Olivier Gaillard


Other key lawyers:

Dominique Laymand; Laurent Schoenstein; Marianne Pezant


Key clients

Andera Partners


Mérieux Equity Partners


Theratechnologies Europe Limited


Viatris


ArchiMed


Creadev


Dassault Systèmes


Dedalus


Ethics


GSK


Innovative Surgery


Insmed


IPSEN


Kurma Partners


LFB


Merck


Mitsui


Nicox


NovoNordisk


Optimed Medizinische Instrumente GmbH


Pfizer


Pyxus International


Ring Holding


Sandoz


Sanity Group


Sanofi


Sofinnova Partners


Stallergenes


Teva


Zoetis


Work highlights


  • Advised international private equity firm Cinven on an agreement with Germany-listed Life Sciences giant Bayer AG to acquire its Environmental Science Professional (BESP) business for a total enterprise value of USD 2.6 billion (approx. EUR 2.4 billion).
  • Advising Teva Pharmaceuticals on all EU antitrust investigations concerning it, both with respect to allegations of abuse of dominance and anticompetitive agreements, which are currently pending before the Commission or the EU courts.
  • Representing Pfizer in individual employment litigation lodged by current or former employees concerning various claims, including the representation of Pfizer before French judicial Courts and the negotiation and preparation of settlement agreements.

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés

De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés is best known for handling regulatory, IP, data protection, and ethics issues surrounding innovative projects for clients in the medtech space. Practice co-head Cécile Théard-Jallu works with both major international clients and French SMEs, with expertise advising on complex clinical research programmes. Jean-Marie Job jointly leads the team and specialises in assisting pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Marie Job; Cécile Théard-Jallu


Testimonials

‘Great knowledge of the market and relevant sources. Great experience in French healthcare market. Business-oriented approach and full availability throughout the process. Genuine interest in law and possibility to provide best-result for the client.’

‘Cécile is a very approachable partner, always available when needed. She is very experienced and has vast knowledge of the industry. She is always willing to help in a timely manner and her comments and thoughts are always to be considered.’

‘The DGFLA team is unique in its commitment, its knowledge of cases and its responsiveness’

‘Cécile Théard-Jallu: perfect.’

Key clients

Alliance digitale maladiecoronavirus.fr


CEGEDIM


CIP


Genopole


Hoya Surgical GMBH


DLA Piper

DLA Piper advises some of the largest global companies and local authorities on data protection, employment, intellectual property, and regulatory issues. Practice head Sonia De Kondserovsky has over 25 years of experience assisting pharmaceutical and medical devices clients on acquisitions and strategic development. Michael Ostrove handles key arbitration and mediation proceedings alongside Frank Valentin, who has a focus on patent litigation. Denise Lebeau-Marianna is a key name for data protection.

Practice head(s):

Sonia de Kondserovsky


Other key lawyers:

Denise Lebeau-Marianna; Michael Ostrove; Jonathan Rofé; Frank Valentin; Marine Gicquel; Yaël Hirsch; Marion Abecassis


Testimonials

‘The expertise of our lawyers, their knowledge of the pharmaceutical environment and current operations, the adaptation of proposals according to our requests.’

‘European player – we had contacts in our different countries of activity.’

‘Good knowledge of the industrial environment. Speed and relevance of the responses provided.’

‘International firm very well established in many countries with a strong health and life sciences practice in many countries, particularly in Europe, which facilitates the management of international projects requiring local expertise. Ability to mobilize multidisciplinary teams, including within short deadlines, with high reactivity.’

‘Sonia de Kondserovski: Partner with extensive expertise in the field of life sciences and M&A. Great negotiating skills. Very good strategic vision.’

‘Very accessible partners, very fluid communication with the legal departments.’

Key clients

Pierre Fabre


Sterimed


Fortive Corp


Becton Dickinson


Danaher


Essilor


European Council


Filorga


Innothera


IQVIA


Nordic Pharma


Qualcomm Life – Capsule


Roche


Santen Pharmaceutical


Seaspine


West Pharmaceutical Services


Edwards Lifesciences


Laboratoires Vivacy


Medtronic


ResMed


Ipsen


Sanofi


Emergent Biosolutions


Pfizer


Teleflex


Work highlights


  • Advised Essential Pharma on its auction bid to acquire the manufacturing and marketing rights to a portfolio of pharmaceutical products from Sanofi.
  • Advised a leading pharmaceutical company in relation to the sale of a medicinal product to a Chinese Partner.
  • Carried out an in-depth multi-jurisdictional strategic analysis comparing two alternative deal structures from corporate, tax, IP, labor, regulatory and antitrust perspectives, taking into account the impact of existing financing agreements entered into between the target and a third party.

Fieldfisher

The multidisciplinary healthcare and life sciences team at Fieldfisher advises domestic household-name clients and international pharmaceutical companies. The firm also recently partnered with regulatory consultancy MedReg Sciences to provide additional support in the regulatory area. The 'remarkable' Olivier Lantrès leads the team and has particular expertise advising on issues surrounding clinical trials. Nathalie Hadjadj-Cazier handles complex intellectual property matters.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Lantrès


Other key lawyers:

Nathalie Hadjadj Casier; Brigitte Daille-Duclos; Franck Veisse; Samuel Pallotto


Testimonials

‘Rare knowledge of a little-known tax in the medical field.’

‘Excellent communication with the various customer contacts; quick response; search for innovative solutions.’

‘Olivier Lantrès is an excellent lawyer and a very good business partner capable of understanding the challenges of his clients and offering them tailor-made solutions. He takes a stand for his clients and provides unfailing support.’

Key clients

Recordati Europe


GE Healthcare


Owkin, Inc


Steris


IQVIA


Air Liquide (group)


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

Best known for its intellectual property and patent litigation work, the practice at Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. advises leading laboratories, venture funds, and emerging life sciences companies. Practice co-head Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier has a wealth of experience handling both domestic and pan-European patent disputes, and Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry specialises in unfair competition and protection of trade secrets. Dimitri Dimitrov has expertise in competition and distribution law, and jointly leads the team alongside Emmanuel Larere, Arnaud Duhamel, and Anne Tolila.

Practice head(s):

Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier; Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry; Emmanuel Larere; Dimitri Dimitrov; Arnaud Duhamel; Anne Tolila


Other key lawyers:

Guilhem Richard; Marie-Ange Pozzo di Borgo; Paul Jourdan-Nayrac


Testimonials

‘Very in-depth knowledge of the field, ability to find solutions, very good analysis of subjects, very close to customers.’

‘Highly skilled and responsive team. Very capable working English to French and vice versa. Excellent on complex law around SPCs.’

‘Emmanuel Larere, Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier – exceptional partners.’

Key clients

Phoenix Pharma


Guerbet


Eli Lilly


Seratec


Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) and ONO Pharmaceuticals


Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH.


J&J and Pfizer


Teoxane


Beckman Coulter


Radiometer


Meril


Erytech Pharma


Inventiva


Gensight


HBC Avocats

HBC Avocats advises French and international clients on the structuring of transactions and the negotiation of strategic partnerships. The 'very experienced team' is highly skilled in the commercial, contractual, and corporate practices of biopharmaceutical companies, venture capital financing sources, and academic and not-for-profit research and development organisations. The practice is led by Jonathan Burnham, who is dually qualified in New York, and corporate law specialist Erwan Cossé.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Burnham; Erwan Cossé


Other key lawyers:

Fabrice Herbin


Testimonials

‘Excellent knowledge of issues specific to our sector of activity (life science).’

‘Jonathan Burnham – Excellent technical knowledge. Ability to conduct contract negotiation.’

‘Small team with highly specialized and highly effective partners in their field, particularly pharmaceuticals and private equity. Very experienced team. Management of the file by a partner or a senior associate, which promotes fluid communication and the absence of duplicates and unnecessary costs. Pragmatic team,’

Key clients

Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership (GARDP Foundation)


Inserm Transfert


Biophytis


Memo Therapeutics


Aleva Neurotherapeutics


Sanofi


Pierre Fabre


Emergence Therapeutics


Onward Therapeutics


OSE Immunotherapeutics


Theranexus


Novasep


Eligo Bioscience


Dynacure


Urosphere


InFlectis BioScience


GoLiver Therapeutics


Addmedica


Perha Pharmaceuticals


OT4B


Xentech


WatchFrog


Blink Biomedical


Austral DX


Axess Vision Technology


Backbone


Esprimed


Geonomy


Luxia Scientific


Priothera


STH Biotech


Stimunity


Work highlights


  • Advised GARDP, a Swiss not-for-profit organisation dedicated to developing and promoting access to new treatments for drug-resistant infections, on structuring, drafting and negotiating a licence and technology transfer agreement with the international pharmaceutical company Shionogi, to obtain the rights to manufacture and commercialise Shionogi’s approved antibiotic cefiderocol in 135 countries.
  • Advised Pierre Fabre on drafting and negotiating various agreements with the biotechnology startup Ribonexus, including an exclusive licence agreement pursuant to which Pierre Fabre licensed various molecules to Ribonexus intended to overcome drug resistance in cancer patients, and investment and shareholders’ agreements relating to Pierre Fabre’s investment in Ribonexus.
  • Advised Emergence Therapeutics, a French and German biotech company, on the French law aspects of its €87 million Series A financing to advance its next-generation antibody drug candidates to treat high need cancers.

LexCase

LexCase has a comprehensive life sciences practice, with a strong focus on complex product liability matters and regulatory affairs. Diane Bandon-Tourret advises major pharmaceutical companies and medical devices manufacturers on regulatory issues and product liability matters. She jointly leads the team alongside public law specialists Alain De Belenet and Raphaël Apelbaum, who assist clients with local public health agency inspections and government audits.

Practice head(s):

Diane Bandon-Tourret; Alain de Belenet; Raphaël Apelbaum


Other key lawyers:

Maxime Büsch; Victoire Storksen


Testimonials

‘Availability, listening, responsiveness, technical skills, sense of customer service.’

‘Diane Bandon Tourret and Victoire Storksen are recommended.’

‘In-depth knowledge of the law and of our company.’

‘Strengths: skills, strong expertise in health, regulatory, defective product liability, responsiveness, availability, pragmatism.’

‘Diane Bandon Tourret: great expertise, good team, pragmatism, availability.’

Key clients

Fujifilm


Medtronic


Philips France Commercial


Philips RS North America


Koninklijke Philips NV


Pierre Fabre Groupe


Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmetique


Pierre Fabre Médicament


Olympus


Essilor International


Colgate Palmolive


SNITEM


Coloplast


Horizon Therapeutics


Theramex


Work highlights


  • Drafting a memo on applicable guarantees (General, Regulatory and contractual) for Medical Devices. Extensive training to the major actors of medical devices’ industry on the matter.
  • Provision of legal and regulatory assistance to OLYMPUS group, daily, to implement the integration of FH ORTHO (intervention on a post-merger and acquisition phase).
  • Assisted several clients of the Conference Bleue Network (mostly US and Asian medical devices manufacturers with EU subsidiaries and pharmaceutical companies) in their discussions with the French Competent Authority (ANSM) to obtain marketing rights for the French market through derogatory proceedings in close coordination with European law firms.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright's cross-practice healthcare and life sciences team provides an integrated commercial M&A, compliance, regulatory, antitrust, and data protection offering. Competition specialist Marta Giner Asins co-leads the team and is noted for litigating in complex cross-border matters. Joint practice head Marion Roquette-Pfister is a public law and regulatory expert, regularly advising on clinical trials, market access, and early access programmes. Nadège Martin leads on intellectual property disputes.

Practice head(s):

Marta Giner Asins; Marion Roquette-Pfister


Other key lawyers:

Christian Dargham; Karine Montagut; Nadège Martin


Key clients

Pfizer


Sanofi


Pfizer France


Abbott


SYNLAB


Amarin


Energizer


Work highlights


  • Advised Pfizer in the context of strategic negotiations with the French State for the supply of PAXLOVID, drugs against COVID-19.
  • Advised Sanofi France in the frame of negotiations of a strategic partnership with Roche to improve the care of diabetic patients via connected devices.
  • Assisted PFIZER France on the enforcement of the French new regulatory regime applicable to drug shortages in France, which is a strategic issue for pharmaceutical companies.

Winston & Strawn LLP

Winston & Strawn LLP is notable for its advice on corporate matters, including M&A transactions, structuring, and financing for investment funds within the life sciences sector. Practice co-head Gilles Bigot works with publicly and privately managed health institutions, national laboratories, and healthcare practitioners. Julie Vern Cesano-Gouffrant jointly leads the team, drawing on previous in-house experience to assist clients with leveraged buyouts, joint ventures, and recapitalisations.

Practice head(s):

Gilles Bigot; Julie Vern Cesano-Gouffrant


Other key lawyers:

Sara Susnjar


Testimonials

‘We have found the firm to have the best expertise in the market to grow and scale medical practices in the highly regulated French market. Drawing from their experience working with the French Medical counsel and previous cutting-edge cases has been very valuable for us.’

‘Gilles Bigot and his team are also very supportive of startups and new ventures. We appreciate their ability to help small but promising ideas which otherwise would not be able to navigate the complex regulatory environment.

‘Gilles has accelerated our learning curve and given us confidence in our ability to get our solution in the market.’

‘Ultra-efficient team, available 7 days a week and always proactive. Have been able to adapt to the increasing and intense workload,’

‘Julie Vern and the team have been entirely dedicated to the mission, very efficient, always friendly and above all extremely available. With great rigor, they know how to manage a very large number of files at the same time while maintaining great efficiency.’

‘Among the best industrial expertise. Adapted the fee structure to the buildup model.’

‘Julie Vern and Gilles Bigot have managed to build a strong trust relationship allowing us to foresee a long-term partnership with the firm.’

Key clients

Biofutur


EverImmune


Imapole


Ipsos


JUUL Labs


La Croix Rouge Française


Ogènes


Omnes


Oradianse


Bridgepoint


PointVision


Proveca


Ramsay Générale de Santé


Sarah Santé Group


Abenex Capital SA


Telemos Capital / MedEuropa


Capital Croissance


CRF Jeanne d’Arc


MBO & Co.


Dentius


Core Equity Holdings


Medipass


Centres de Médecine Nucléaire


PlusDental


Work highlights


  • Assisted Omnes, a benchmark player in diagnostics in the Ile-de-France regions, and the Biofutur group in its sale to Inovie in 2022 for €300 million.
  • Advised Imapole, a company active in the radiology sector, on the opening of its share capital to major private equity and institutional funds, respectively, Eurazeo and Bpifrance.
  • Advised SEVETYS on its structuring, and all its legal and regulatory matters since its creation.

BCTG Avocats

The healthcare and life sciences team at BCTG Avocats has key strengths in commercial negotiation, contracts, and distribution law matters. Hugues Villey-Desmeserets and François Dauba jointly lead the team, both specialising in commercial policy and competition and regulatory issues. Litigator Gaëlle Bloret-Pucci handles intellectual property and data disputes.

Practice head(s):

Hugues Villey-Desmeserets; François Dauba


Other key lawyers:

Gaëlle Bloret-Pucci; Marie Paquier


Key clients

Caudalie


Teva Santé


Stada (EG Labo)


Johnson & Johnson Santé Beauté France


GenoSafe


Ipsen


Servier


NHCO Nutrition


Melisana


Uriage


Work highlights


  • Assisted Teva Santé in proceedings initiated by the DGCCRF before the Correctional Court following an alleged violation of the legal ceiling of discounts on invoices, and the anti-gift law.
  • Advised Caudalie before the Belgian Competition Authority and the French Competition Authority following a complaint filed in November 2017 by two Belgian online pharmacies for alleged resale price maintenance practices.
  • Advised Alliance Healthcare as a third party to a contemplated merger between two major pharmaceutical wholesalers active in several countries and in particular in France. Assistance was provided during the pre-notification phase in order to point out competition concerns raised by the contemplated merger, and with respect to assets.

Delsol Avocats

Delsol Avocats provides an integrated life sciences service to high-profile medical devices manufacturers, laboratories, and biotech and medtech companies. The practice is co-led by Jeanne Bossi Malafosse, who specialises in personal data protection with a focus on health information systems. Joint team lead Gaëlle Merlier joined the firm from Clifford Chance, further strengthening the practice's capacity to handle regulatory matters and corporate transactions in the healthcare sector.

Practice head(s):

Jeanne Bossi Malafosse; Gaëlle Merlier


Other key lawyers:

Bastien Pavec


Testimonials

‘Extensive expertise in legislation and regulations relating to life sciences, high availability and responsiveness. Flexibility.’

‘The Delsol team stood out in several aspects-: we had to quickly understand concepts that were unfamiliar to us and the team helped a lot in this regard. Understanding of the stakes of an immature company: requirement for speed, need for clear recommendation, flexibility on invoicing. Expertise: we bring organizational and technological innovation to the health sector, and this requires being able to use Delsol’s health expertise while exploring new avenues.’

‘Gaelle Merlier and Bastien Pavec: regulatory expertise in the health sector, available and strong desire to help us achieve our objectives.’

‘A high level of expertise and a (rare) fluidity in exchanges. Deadlines are respected. We have to set up processes due to a major dispute and they are proactive in proposing to centralize via their shared document tool. They don’t have a “heavy hand” on invoicing.’

‘They are pragmatic and proactive. I work with Gaëlle Merlier and Bastien Pavec. They have expertise in different areas of health that allows us to find solutions to the problems encountered.’

Key clients

EURAZEO


FIAC – Filière Intelligence Artificielle et Cancer


IMPROVE


INSMED


IPSEN PHARMA / IPSEN CONSUMER HEALTHCARE


OWKIN


DOCAPOSTE


IMPACT HEALTHCARE


MENARINI


NOVARTIS


RHISA


SANTÉ CIE


THELIOS


UNICANCER


UNILABS


URGENCEMED


VIATRIS


WIVETIX


Work highlights


  • Advised AgorIA Santé on setting up the consortium and obtaining CNIL authorisation to create a health data warehouse.
  • Advising Eurazeo during its exclusive investment negotiations with Sevetys, a major group of veterinary clinics.
  • Advised RHISA in order to obtain CNIL authorisation to create a health data warehouse focused on medical images.

Goodwin

Goodwin's life science offering was bolstered by the arrivals of venture capital expert Anne-Charlotte Rivière and IP specialist Marie Fillon in 2021. The practice advises private and public companies on corporate M&A transactions, patent disputes, and healthcare regulatory matters. Thomas Dupont-Sentilles is also noted for his expertise supporting a number of venture capital and investment firms on their investments in the sector.

Practice head(s):

Anne-Charlotte Rivière


Other key lawyers:

Marie Fillon; Thomas Dupont-Sentilles


Testimonials

‘Marie Fillon provided her advice with complete discretion, respecting the wishes of operational staff and working in harmony with her colleagues.’

Key clients

AlgoTherapeutix


Arkhn


Biomunex


Bpifrance


Cathay Capital


Cégédim Santé


Cerba Healthcare


DNA Script


DentalMonitoring


DTA Medical


eCential Robotics (former Surgivisio)


Eurazeo


Genfit


Germitec


Graegis Pharmaceuticals


Go Capital


IK Investment Partners


Johnson & Johnson Innovation


Kurma Partners


Lauxera Capital Partners


LBO France


Qynapse


Robocath


Sofinnova Partners


SpineVision


Vivalto Partners


Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Drawing on the firm's international presence, the team at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is well known for handling complex cross-border patent litigation, post-merger integration, and restructuring for clients in the life sciences sector. Litigator Frédéric Chevallier heads up the practice in Paris, and is supported by employment specialist Emma Röhsler, who has forged a reputation for complex reputational risk matters.

Practice head(s):

Alan Montgomery; Shaun McVicar; Frédéric Chevallier; Laura Orlando


Other key lawyers:

Emma Röhsler


Key clients

Sanofi


Work highlights


  • Advising Sanofi in relation to one of its fastest growing products, Aubagio®, for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (teriflunomide).
  • Advising Sanofi in relation to one of its fastest growing products, Jevtana®, for the treatment of prostate cancer (cabazitaxel). At this stage this has involved three preliminary injunction patent proceedings initiated in France against Teva, Accord Healthcare and Ever Pharma who committed alleged acts of infringement of Sanofi’s patent rights, one patent revocation action initiated by Accord Healthcare, and three patent infringement actions started against these entities.

Jones Day

Jones Day's cross-practice team advises life sciences clients on complex commercial transactions, regulatory disputes, and intellectual property matters. Renaud Bonnet co-leads the firm's global private equity practice, and advises healthcare clients on M&A and capital markets deals. Françoise Labrousse focuses on health and safety compliance investigations and regulatory enforcement litigation.

Practice head(s):

Françoise Labrousse; Renaud Bonnet


Other key lawyers:

Thomas Bouvet; Charles Gavoty; Linda Hesse; Armelle Sandrin-Deforge; Geoffroy Pineau-Valencienne; Elodie Simon; Bénédicte Graulle


Testimonials

‘Very strong team, excellent experience in arbitration and patent litigation matters in life sciences sector. Specific capabilities in plant varieties rights.’

‘Thomas Bouvet is an excellent professional in arbitration matters.’

Key clients

Institut Pasteur


Nanobiotix


Sanofi


Amplitude


Eligo Bioscience


Latham & Watkins

Latham & Watkins provides a fully integrated life sciences service, advising clients on EU regulatory and compliance matters, corporate transactions, and privacy and antitrust issues. The team assists household name multinational companies and fast-growing startups in the pharmaceutical and biotech space. The 'exceptional and absolutely essential specialist' Eveline Van Keymeulen heads up the practice, and has considerable expertise advising on medical cannabis and hemp-based product regulations.

Practice head(s):

Eveline Van Keymeulen


Other key lawyers:

Denis Criton; Olivier du Mottay


Testimonials

‘Eveline Van Keymeulen: expert in her field, super responsive and available, pragmatic approach, clear communication, precise summary. Totally reliable for her follow-up and attention to detail, able to adopt a benefit/risk approach. With L&W we work as a team while being able to rely on experts when necessary.’

‘High-quality team, reactive and which masters perfectly the technicality of its activity.’

‘Eveline Van Keymeulen is an exceptional and absolutely essential specialist in health sciences.’

‘I appreciate the colleagues at Latham & Watkins for their in-depth knowledge in the field of life sciences and health. They are distinguished by their particular expertise and the excellence of their advice.’

‘I have already collaborated several times with Eveline Van Keymeulen and I was able to admire her deep expertise. She convinces with her excellent advice and her extremely impressive knowledge of the subject.’

Key clients

Alliance Pharma


Abbott


Eleusis


Euronext


Inari Medical


Les Laboratoires Servier


MeiraGTX


Recor Medical


Binx Health


bioMérieux


Anne’s Daye (DAYE)


EFPIA (European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations)


European Sperm Bank


GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)


Dr. Max Bdc, S.R.O.


Ipsen


ReCor Medical


ProPharma Group


Veracyte


Marinus Pharmaceuticals


Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB (SOBI)


Air Liquide Santé France


Magenta

Led by Gaël Hichri, the practice at Magenta specialises in providing competition and regulatory advice to clients in the pharmaceutical and healthcare spaces. The team has expertise advising on competition and distribution laws across the EU and France, as well as a range of economic regulations throughout the region.

Practice head(s):

Gaël Hichri


Testimonials

‘I am in contact with Gaël Hichri with whom we have developed a good discussion relationship that allows an effective exchange.’

‘The team has very strong experience in competition law, commercial law and health law. It impresses with the quality of the analyses, the simplicity of the communication, the availability to exchange and the pragmatism of the solutions found. Not to mention a real awareness of the budgetary imperatives of the clients that keep the fees reasonable and are adapted to the needs of the company.’

‘Gael Hichri is a rising star in competition law. He makes accessible the subtleties of competition law and is really engaged on the files with his clients. In addition to his pragmatism, legal expertise and commitment, his economic and political skills are also very valuable and useful.’

Key clients

Bausch & Lomb


Organon


Sanofi Santé Grand Public (Opella Healthcare)


UPSA


Ipsen


Bouchara-Recordati


Astellas


Alcon


Essity


HRA Pharma


Asepta


Work highlights


  • Assisted Quies before the Tribunal de commerce d’Evry following a claim brought by Oniris, its main competitor in the market for mandibular advancement devices (“MAD”).
  • Advised Organon in a pre-contractual summary procedure initiated by Amgen concerning the award to Organon of a public contract for the supply of biosimilar pharmaceutical products

Mercure Avocats

The 'agile and available team' at Mercure Avocats provides corporate, commercial, and regulatory advice to major players on the French life sciences market. Practice co-head Agathe Simon specialises in M&A transactions, and has additional experience negotiating and drafting complex contractual arrangements. Joint team lead François-Maxime Philizot is a pharmaceutical regulatory expert who handles matters regarding regulations on healthcare products and medical devices.

Practice head(s):

François-Maxime Philizot; Agathe Simon


Testimonials

‘Excellent knowledge of health law.’

‘High speed of execution and flexibility.’

‘Agile and available team.’

Key clients

Fondation Ipsen


Syndivia


Sanofi Pasteur


HRA Pharma


Biogaran


Ipsen Pharma


Correvio (now Advanz Pharma)


3C Health


Odimma


Predimed Technology


Koelis


Inatherys


Medetia


Work highlights


  • Assisted the French biotech Syndivia in the context of the creation, with TVM Capital Life Science, of Auricula Biosciences, a US-based company dedicated to the development of innovative therapy for patients with K-Ras mutant malignancies.
  • Advised an investment fund on the investment in innovative platforms of medical and biological imaging.
  • Assists Sanofi Pasteur in the negotiation of its EU R&D and distribution agreements relating to vaccines and in the review of specific issues relating to competition and pharmaceutical aspects.

Pinsent Masons LLP

The life sciences team at Pinsent Masons LLP is well known for supporting disruptive businesses, which it assists with licensing issues, regulatory matters, and antitrust investigations. Emmanuel Gougé heads up the French intellectual property group and has extensive expertise in cross-border patent litigation. Gougé jointly leads the healthcare team with Annabelle Richard, and legal director Jules Fabre, who handles both complex litigation and transactional matters such as R&D agreements for biotechnology companies.

Practice head(s):

Emmanuel Gougé; Annabelle Richard; Jules Fabre


Other key lawyers:

Virginia de Freitas


Key clients

Zentiva


Accord Healthcare


Teva Pharmaceuticals


IVC Evidensia


Work highlights


  • Represented Accord in a high-profile patent litigation (fast-track preliminary injunction and revocation action) against Sanofi in relation to its generic version of Sanofi’s blockbuster prostate cancer treatment Jevtana (cabazitaxel).
  • Represented Zentiva in the context of defending an application for a fast-track preliminary injunction from Novartis against sales of Zentiva’s generic version of a fingolimod, Novartis’ blockbuster multiple sclerosis treatment (Gilenya), on the basis of alleged patent infringement.

Reed Smith

The team at Reed Smith provides high-level strategic advice across the full spectrum of life science and healthcare needs, with particular expertise advising on product liability disputes, competition issues, and regulatory matters. The practice is jointly led by Marianne Schaffner, Daniel Kadar, Marc Lévy, and Natasha Tardif. Isabelle MacElhone is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Marianne Schaffner; Daniel Kadar; Marc Lévy; Natasha Tardif


Other key lawyers:

Isabelle MacElhone


Testimonials

‘Excellent mastery of the field in question during our collaboration.’

‘Daniel Kadar, excellent mastery of cases, especially in its “cross-border” aspects involving various jurisdictions.’

‘Great availability, good understanding of the business.’

Taylor Wessing

Taylor Wessing‘s life science practice is noted for its strength in complex regulatory matters. The team is led by Evelyne Friedel, who has developed a specialism in pharmaceutical law with a focus on clinical research agreements. Marc Schuler handles contentious and non-contentious intellectual property matters, and private equity expert Anne-Juliette de Zaluski advises large national companies and start-ups on M&A transactions.

Practice head(s):

Evelyne Friedel


Other key lawyers:

Marc Schuler; Anne-Juliette de Zaluski; Inès Tribouillet


Testimonials

‘Systemic approach, global presence (particularly in Asia), team diversity.’

Work highlights


  • Assisted FRESENIUS in the negotiation of its clinical trial agreements with French hospitals.
  • Assisted LABORATOIRE THEA – THEA PHARMA on EU regulatory and commercial issues (marketing authorisations, parallel imports, agreements with pharmacist groups and hospitals).
  • Assisted SHOCKWAVE MEDICAL with the development of the distribution in France of its medical devices by a new French company.

Bignon Lebray

Bignon Lebray's cross-practice team advises life science clients on intellectual property disputes, regulatory issues, and competition matters. The practice is led by Barbara Bertholet, who assists clients with the structuring of their projects with regard to innovation and its protection, regulatory constraints, and product distribution.

Practice head(s):

Barbara Bertholet


Other key lawyers:

Thomas Buffin; Caroline Cazaux; Tanguy Dubly; Elise Dufour; Nicolas Moreau; Sébastien Pinot; Edouard Waels


Key clients

Laboratoires Cooper


Sandoz


Yposkesi


NG Biotech


Dedienne Santé


Weleda


Medac


Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL)


Gattefossé


Netri


Viatris


Work highlights


  • Representing SANDOZ before the French courts in a litigation for SPC infringement and unfair competition against DAIICHI SANKYO, a “princeps” pharmaceutical company, and SANOFI, further to the forfeiture decision of the SPC by the French Patent Office (INPI), the validity of this decision being also currently challenged before the Court.
  • Advising Dedienne Santé, a Menix Group company, defendant in patent litigation brought by Amplitude, a competitor. Also advising the client regarding intellectual property matters (patent licence, patent co-ownership agreement) and regulatory matters.

Ginestié Magellan Paley-Vincent

Ginestié Magellan Paley-Vincent offers specialist support in health litigation, representing clients in complex civil and criminal cases concerning medical liability, as well as in disciplinary cases against healthcare professionals. The firm also provides advice on corporate governance for private healthcare companies, as well as assisting with medical equipment development investment funds and negotiating healthcare PPP contracts. Nathalie Boudet-Gizardin, a specialist in matters concerning radiology and nuclear medicine, leads the team with medical liability litigator Catherine Paley-Vincent.

Practice head(s):

Catherine Paley-Vincent; Nathalie Boudet-Gizardin


Intuity

Intuity is a boutique healthcare and life sciences firm which specialises in representing major pharmaceuticals companies, including AstraZeneca and Boehringer Ingelheim, in contentious matters including civil claims and administrative disputes. The practice is led by Christophe Hénin, an expert in competition law and the pharmaceuticals regulatory environment. The vastly experienced Alain Gorny, a specialist in healthcare product liability, is also integral to the team.

Practice head(s):

Christophe Hénin


Other key lawyers:

Alain Gorny


Key clients

Diasorin


Astrazeneca


Laboratoire Brothier


Boehringer Ingelheim


Laboratoire Majorelle


Medtronic France


Trb Chemedica


Orion Pharma


Expanscience Laboratoires


Kyowa Kirin International


Bottu


Ipsen


Nordic Group


Santen


Lerins & BCW

LERINS advises healthcare providers, medical insurance groups, pharmaceutical companies, and investment funds on a range of health law matters. The team has additional expertise in novel issues such as health data warehouses, big data, and reuse of data for secondary purposes. The practice is jointly led by Luc Castagnet, Bertrand Vorms, Bruno Lorit and Marguerite Brac de la Perriere.

Practice head(s):

Luc Castagnet; Bertrand Vorms; Bruno Lorit; Marguerite Brac de la Perriere


Key clients

MedIn+


Echosens


Gleamer


Work highlights


  • Assisting Echosens with the regulatory and GDPR compliance of its cloud solution and activities, and with its big data strategy.

MCE CARREL

MCE CARREL's life sciences practice is best known for its advice on clinical trials, IP strategy, and co-development and licensing agreements. The team is co-led by biotechnology specialist Alexandra Carrel who is dual qualified in Geneva. Joint practice head Jeremy Pappalardo was made partner in January 2022, and has expertise in digital IP and contract management for healthcare clients. Mathilde Salavin is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Alexandra Carrel; Jeremy Pappalardo


Other key lawyers:

Mathilde Salavin


Testimonials

‘Jérémy Pappalardo is a very competent person on the aspects that were crucial for us: IP, contract negotiation with an SATT, protection of innovation, etc. Jérémy is very familiar with the challenges of DeepTech and has a strong appetite for digital and datascience.’

‘Alexandra Carrel knows how to elucidate legal concepts when discussing a contract. She is very knowledgeable in the Biotech/Pharma licensing field. She is a skillful negotiator.’

‘Mathilde Salavin is experienced in the field of Biotech/Pharma licensing. She works thoroughly and replies promptly to urgent questions.’

‘Ms Carrel and Ms Salavin are very trustworthy, act professionally and at the same time establish a personal relationship.’

‘Very good professionals. Thoroughly familiar with complex negotiations. Perfect mastery of contracts (the devil is in the details).’

‘Their level of responsiveness, availability and creativity knows no comparison to our knowledge. All in a calm, educational and thoughtful style, but knowing how to be firm when the situation demands it.’

‘Another particularly useful quality, probably resulting from their long practice with small and medium-sized companies: a pragmatism that helps to resolve conflicting or blocked situations.’

‘Mathilde Salavin is distinguished by her keen sense of the client which sometimes gives her a culture as exemplary as that of the company she defends. Alexandra Carrel imposes herself with unequalled legitimacy on European subjects, in particular of a Germanophile nature.’

Key clients

Apmonia


Anagenesis


Averoa


Bactolytix


Biodol


Blackleaf


Cureab (Suisse)


Dianosic


Epigene Labs


Ermium


Evora Biosciences


Exeliom Biosciences


Gencovery


Mabqi


Domain Therapeutics


Imcheck Therapeutics


Phost’In


Robeauté


Scipio


Work highlights


  • Advised DOMAIN THERAPEUTICS on the research collaboration agreement (signed in April 2022).
  • Assisted the client in negotiation of the collaboration agreement between Epigene Labs and Servier (published 27th January 2022).
  • Assisted SYNDIVIA (TVM) in the negotiation of amended and restarted licence agreements with CNRS.

Mermoz Avocats

Mermoz Avocats provides specialised corporate and private equity advice to key players in the life sciences industry, including digital healthcare startups, investment funds, and pharmaceutical companies. The practice is jointly led by Thomas Hermetet, Arnaud Levasseur, Gilles Roux, Nada Sbaï, Tristan Segonds and Aurélie Bonsch.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Hermetet; Arnaud Levasseur; Gilles Roux; Nada Sbaï; Tristan Segonds; Aurélie Bonsch


Key clients

ARKEA CAPITAL, BPIFRANCE and MACIF


POINT VISION GROUP (MANAGERS)


APAX, CRÉDIT MUTUEL EQUITY and Bpifrance


NOVETUDE SANTE


CICLAD


AXA VENTURE PARTNERS/TANKER


NUTRITION & SANTÉ


EDUKEA FORMATION SANTE


EURIS


KURMA PARTNERS


SPARRING CAPITAL


SERB


Work highlights


  • Advising the managers on the first LBO of Point Vision, a network of ophthalmology centres employing over 600 people.
  • Advising Apax, Crédit Mutuel Equity and Bpifrance on the secondary LBO of Teknimed, a leader in biomaterials manufacturing.
  • Advising Groupe Serb for the acquisition of the rights from Ipsen, a French leading biopharmaceutical company, to commercialise Xermelo® outside the US and Japan.

Osborne Clarke

The life sciences practice at Osborne Clarke assists clients with matters regarding a range of regulations and standards that govern the operations of the health products industry, as well as broader corporate issues and disputes. Regulatory and compliance specialist Thomas Devred leads the team, which was bolstered by the arrival of litigator Joanna Peltzman in 2022.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Devred


Other key lawyers:

Joanna Peltzman; Claire Le Grand; Justine Pellerin


Testimonials

‘Thomas Devred: very open, very communicative and accessible.’

‘Very pleasant collaboration with the France team which has gained a lot of expertise – France team is always available and relevant in its analyses.’

‘Thomas Devred – very sharp, straight to the point. Very relevant and available. Good analysis. Justine Pellerin, very reactive, serious. They are really 2 trustworthy people within OC France.’

Key clients

Grifols


Mallinckrodt – Therakos


PCM – Trials


Unicancer


Laboratoire Expanscience


Contrafect


Moderna


ViforPharma


Work highlights


  • Advised Mallinckrodt pn the drafting and negotiation for a contract with a French Public hospital for a retrospective study (access to hospital’s patients database for analytical and statistical research) / advised on related data privacy issues and GDPR compliance.
  • Advise Moderna in regulatory and data privacy regarding procedures and contracts for the conduct of phase 3 clinical studies.
  • Advise Professional Case Management Trials on a home nursing operating model for decentralised clinical trials and draft related contracts and other various documentations.

Squire Patton Boggs

Squire Patton Boggs has considerable expertise handling complex product liability litigation for pharmaceutical firms and medical devices manufacturers. The practice is also well-placed to advise on mass tort litigation and surgical malpractice claims. The team is jointly led by managing partner Carole Sportes and Valérie Ravit.

Practice head(s):

Carole Sportes; Valérie Ravit


Testimonials

‘The team is very reactive and is highly appreciated for its force of proposal. It has specific skills in the field of health and manages large files.’

Taliens

IP boutique Taliens advises some of the world's leading pharmaceutical and life science companies on complex cross-border disputes, and provides support on non-contentious agreements and licences. Practice co-head Jean-Frédéric Gaultier has considerable expertise advising on patent disputes. Joint team lead Grégoire Triet and counsel Tougane Loumeau joined the firm from Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. in January 2022.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Frédéric Gaultier; Grégoire Triet


Other key lawyers:

Tougane Loumeau


Testimonials

‘A team made up of very competent and available collaborators and associates.’

Key clients

Johnson & Johnson


Dow Pharmaceuticals, now Bausch Health


Work highlights


  • Advising a major international pharmaceutical innovator in a race to bring an important new product to market, despite significant hurdles created by existing patents.
  • Advising one of the world’s biggest suppliers of COVID-19 vaccines on the IP provisions in its French employment contracts, drafting critical changes to ensure compliance with French law.
  • Acting for a global pharmaceutical group in its appeal against the French Patent and Trademark Office’s decision to refuse a supplementary protection certificate.

UGGC Avocats

UGGC Avocats advises private and public companies and health facilities on the production and distribution of their products, as well as liability disputes. Practice head Sylvie Welsch specialises in medical liability law, and is supported by competition and regulatory expert Malka Marcinkowski.

Practice head(s):

Sylvie Welsch


Other key lawyers:

Malka Marcinkowski; Judith Le Floch; Laure Orange


Key clients

AdBio partners


Therinvest


Bpifrance


Advent France Biotechnology and Mutuelle d’Assurance des Professionnels de la Santé (MACSF)


Innothera Group


Guillemain SAS


Olmix group


Work highlights


  • Advised AdBio Partners, formerly Advent France Biotechnology on the acquisition of the French biotech company SynHelix, a company specialised in DNA synthesis technology, by the Belgian group Univercells, which specialises in the manufacture and marketing of equipment for the production of vaccines and biotreatments.
  • Assisted Therinvest in the convertible bond investment of Biogen, a neuroscience pioneer, in Therapanacea, which specialises in information technology to boost innovation in healthcare.
  • Assisted Advent France Biotechnology (AFB), a venture capital firm specialising in life sciences seed capital, in the creation of Thabor Therapeutics, a start-up aimed at developing an innovative therapeutic approach for patients suffering from chronic inflammatory diseases.