Firms To Watch: Insolvency

Boutique firm Le 16 Law’s restructuring team, under the leadership of Alexandra Szekely, is well-regarded for its expertise in representing debtors, creditors, shareholders, and directors in cross-border restructuring and insolvency cases.
Under the guidance of Nicolas NEF NAF, M7 Avocats’ restructuring and insolvency department is steadily establishing itself as a prominent player in the market. The practice provides a comprehensive range of services for insolvency proceedings, offering assistance to debtors, creditors, managers, and procedural entities at every phase.
Led by Pierre-Alain Bouhénic, who brings over 25 years of experience to the table, Moncey Avocats boasts a highly promising restructuring practice. The practice provides comprehensive guidance on all aspects of restructuring and insolvency, handling both contentious and non-contentious cases with expertise.
The restructuring department at Squadra Avocats has recently gained added strength with the addition of Charles Morel. The practice is frequently engaged in litigations associated with insolvency proceedings and are a reliable choice for defending company directors and shareholders who are confronted with liability claims.

Firms in the Spotlight Insolvency

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…).

View Profile...

CBR & Associés

CBR & Associés logo

Established in 1994, CBR & Associés is an independent corporate law firm made up of lawyers who enjoy excellent reputations in their various fields based on their technical expertise, the added value they bring, their ability to provide tailor-made services, their deep involvement in strategic and complex matters and their outstanding responsiveness.

View Profile...

Vivien & Associés

Vivien & Associés logo

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

View Profile...

Insolvency in France

Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier

The insolvency division of Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier maintains its distinguished reputation in the market, known for its adept handling of intricate transactions and legal disputes, including distressed M&A, asset takeover proposals, and litigation. Led by François Kopf, the team stands out for its combined proficiency in advisory and litigation matters. With extensive experience in restructuring transactions and high-profile insolvency proceedings, Kopf serves a diverse client base, including debtors, managerial stakeholders, investors, and parties involved in judicial liquidations. The department’s success is further bolstered by Mathieu Della Vittoria, co-head of restructuring and insolvency, who is recognised for his expertise in distressed litigation and courtroom experience, supported by a deep understanding of civil and commercial procedures.

Practice head(s):

François Kopf


Other key lawyers:

Mathieu Della Vittoria


Key clients

Creditors’ representatives of Orpea


Financière Immobilière Bordelaise (FIB)


JouéClub


Marne et Finance


SNGST


CNIM Groupe


Creditors’ representatives of Getir, Frichti and Gorillas


Court receivers and creditors’ representatives of Rangers Sécurité


CNAJMJ


Mr. Etienne Binant (former CEO of Biom’Up)


Nexatys


Ommic


NG Promotion


Succession Amon


IFH – Interfaces


Creditors’ representatives of Comexposium


Work highlights


  • Advised Orpea’s creditors’ representatives during the accelerated safeguards proceedings of the company, resulting in the restructuring of its debt of nearly ten billion euros and the granting of nearly two billion euros of new financing.
  • Advised JouéClub on the takeover of the “La Grande Récré” distribution network, (220 shops in France and abroad, 750 employees).
  • Advises Financière Immobilière Bordelaise (FIB group), that owns significant real estate properties in France and has developed in the hotel and retail sectors, in the context of its ongoing in-court insolvency proceedings.

De Pardieu Brocas Maffei

The restructuring and insolvency team at De Pardieu Brocas Maffei provides a comprehensive range of services to distressed companies and their shareholders. Strengthened through collaboration with other departments, the team offers multidisciplinary skill, leveraging the expertise of restructuring and insolvency specialists in conjunction with partners from corporate M&A, finance, employment law, and competition practices. Heading the team are Philippe Dubois and Joanna Gumpelson, both of whom possess extensive experience in representing a diverse client base, including French and foreign investment funds, banks, lease-finance institutions, and debtors. Other key individuals include Ségolène Coiffet, and Clément Maillot-Bouvier, both experienced in advising distressed companies, creditors, and investors in debt restructurings and insolvency proceedings.

Other key lawyers:

Ségolène Coiffet; Clément Maillot Bouvier


Testimonials

‘With excellent involvement and knowledge of client expectations, this is a multidisciplinary firm able to respond to all the issues of the same file.’ 

‘Philippe Dubois and Ségolène Coiffet are experienced restructuring lawyers capable of establishing the necessary synergies with other specialists (lawyers, financial advisors, etc.) to carry out a complete analysis of the situation from the different prisms of the discussions.’ 

‘A senior team which not only has recognised technical expertise, but also assists its clients in the best trading strategy.’

‘The team has a very good command of international specificities in the context of restructuring with numerous stakeholders.’ 

‘Philippe Dubois and Clement Maillot-Bouvier clearly stand out in the Parisian legal restructuring environment in that they know how to combine high-level financial practice with real knowledge of the judiciary. Clement Maillot Bouvier, who is certainly one of the future best actors in the field, also knows how to explain the most complex problems calmly and simply, even when the urgency can make his interlocutors lose their calm.’

‘They offer expertise, technicality, humility and efficiency.’ 

Key clients

Alchemy Partners


Angelo Gordon


BNP Paribas


Damartex


European Investment Bank


Eiffel


Farallon


Goldman Sachs


Groupe BCPE (Natixis, Bred, Palatine, Caisses d’Epargne et Banque Populaire)


Groupe Crédit Agricole (CA CIB, LCL, Caisses Régionales)


Groupe Sea Invest


Kartesia


Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits


Metabolic Explorer


Renault


Société Générale


TDR


Technicolor


Tikehau


Work highlights


  • Advising a pool of nearly 60 banks on the €9.5bn debt restructuring of Orpea Group, implemented following the approval of an accelerated safeguard plan by the Commercial Court of Nanterre in July 2023.
  • Advising Pierre & Vacances – Center Parcs as on its €1.2bn debt restructuring, implemented following the approval of an accelerated safeguard plan by the Commercial Court of Paris in July 2022.
  • Advising a pool of banks in the context of the financial restructuring of the group Agapes Restauration, operating notably Flunch, Il Restorante, 3 Brasseurs and Salad & Co, implemented following the approval of a conciliation agreement by the Commercial court of Lille Métropole in July 2021.

Gibson Dunn

Gibson Dunn’s restructuring and insolvency team remains a formidable presence in the market, distinguished by its track record of advising on the most intricate proceedings and transactions in recent years. This team draws upon the collective expertise of specialists in insolvency, banking, litigation, employment, and tax. Helmed by the seasoned Jean-Pierre Farges, the group offers strategic counsel to a diverse client base, encompassing distressed companies, banks, creditors, shareholders, hedge funds, auditors, and seasoned insolvency practitioners experienced in navigating restructurings, both domestically and across international jurisdictions. Notable contacts within the firm also include Amanda Bevan-De Bernède, a dedicated expert in complex cross-border debt transactions, as well as distinguished restructuring transaction specialists Bertrand Delaunay, Pierre-Emmanuel Fender, Benoît Fleury, and Nataline Fleury.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Pierre Farges


Other key lawyers:

Amanda Bevan-de Bernède; Bertrand Delaunay; Pierre-Emmanuel Fender; Benoît Fleury; Nataline Fleury


Testimonials

‘An experienced multidisciplinary team, in which you can trust to deal with difficult situations.’

‘Jean-Pierre Farges is an experienced and combative lawyer, who knows how to guide his clients with lucidity.’

Key clients

Casino Guichard-Perrachon


Ad Hoc Group of Secured Lenders to Technicolor


S.I.T.I R (Pierre et Vacances SA / Center Parcs)


Stock J Jennyfer


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Latécoère Group


Diis Group


GIE Vapiano


Groupe Canal+


Scopelec Groupe


Celio


Appart’City


Arc Holdings


Coriolis Group


Hopps Group


Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP

Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP provides comprehensive assistance to a diverse array of stakeholders, encompassing debtors, shareholders, investors, corporations, the French state, and judicial administrators in intricate legal matters. Under the leadership of renowned expert Philippe Druon, the team collaborates with lawyers from various practice areas, offering specialised expertise spanning the entire transaction spectrum, with capabilities encompassing refinancing, restructuring, insolvency, and distressed M&A cases. Additionally, key contacts in the firm include Astrid Zourli, known for her adept representation of debtors and creditors in domestic and international insolvency proceedings, and Cécile Dupoux, recognised for her track record in handling a wide range of complex restructuring and insolvency issues.

Practice head(s):

Philippe Druon


Other key lawyers:

Astrid Zourli; Cécile Dupoux


Testimonials

‘Philippe Druon offers flashes of genius, while Cristina Marin has an excellent knowledge of the files and quality of advice.’ 

‘The team is certainly the best in the area.’

‘A very strong team in all key dimensions: technical, strategic and relational with all stakeholders in these complex and difficult subjects.’ 

‘Philippe Druon is our main contact. We have worked with Philippe for over 15 years, and he has always been key in helping us find a solution in the complicated situations we have faced.’ 

‘Very helpful practical information and guidance.’ 

Key clients

Searchlight Capital Partners – Latécoère


REEL – CNIM


Chenavari – FIB


3F Holding – Casino


Beacon Biosignals – Dreem


Nextstone/ Mat-Immo/ Concert’O – Orpéa


Demeter Investment Managers


Kaporal


Exterion Media/ Giraudy


Cheyne – MND


Work highlights


  • Representing Nextstone Capital and Mat Immo Beaune, which together form Concert’O, in their capacity as Orpea shareholders, on Orpea’s financial restructuring.
  • Advising 3F Holding on a restructuring offer for Casino Guichard Perrachon, involving a new money injection of EUR 900 million and a debt-to-equity swap of circa EUR 3 billion.
  • Representing Searchlight Capital Partners in relation to the financial restructuring of Latécoère SA, which is a listed company and a tier one partner to major international aircraft manufacturers.

Latham & Watkins

Latham & Watkins’ restructuring team adeptly guides clients through a broad spectrum of scenarios, ranging from out-of-court pre-insolvency work-outs to intricate insolvency proceedings. In the vibrant French market, the team boasts a formidable reputation for its expertise of high-profile distressed LEO work-outs, debt-to-equity swaps, share deals, insolvency arrangements, and complex cross-border restructuring cases. At the helm is the seasoned Alexandra Bigot, who orchestrates the team’s efforts in harnessing the collective knowledge of the firm’s banking, private equity, capital market, employment, tax, and finance specialists. This depth of expertise, complemented by their industry sector insight, ensures the successful execution of restructuring endeavours. The team also includes key contacts, such as Hervé Diogo Amengual, with experience representing international clients in both transactional and litigation aspects of restructurings, alongside accomplished recently promoted partner Thomas Doyen.

Practice head(s):

Alexandra Bigot


Other key lawyers:

Hervé Diogo Amengual; Thomas Doyen; Celia Jiquel


Testimonials

‘A very professional team which has grown and has great competence at all levels.’

‘Thomas Doyen and the team were available and able to establish dense documentation in a relatively short period of time. Latham & Watkins is at the high standard of the market.’

‘Our adviser, Thomas Doyen, was able to be persuasive to the opposing party to assert our point of view and also guide us on the strategy to adopt. He was an actor in the negotiation and played an active role.’

‘The team is very available; the exchanges are clear and useful.’

‘Outstanding responsiveness and solution-oriented attitude, even when dealing with the most difficult of situations. Worked extremely effectively and collaboratively as a team, both in terms of the core group based in France, and with regard to coordinating with their colleagues in other jurisdictions.’

‘Provided clarity and leadership in giving crystal clear guidance as to critical issues and needs of the specific process we have been involved in. An absolutely essential source of support.’

‘Thomas Doyen has an incredibly client centric approach: responsive, solution-oriented, and with the seniority and confidence to support in the exercise of pragmatic and commercial judgements in the most difficult of situations. Also evidenced his market knowledge and network on multiple occasions, facilitating access to other high-quality advisers in critical areas.’

‘Celia Jiquel is cool, calm, and collected. A great sense of poise and balance when providing her advice on tricky issues and delicate topics, as well as evidencing skill in bringing together various parties to get things done. Utterly committed to delivering a positive result for her client.’

Key clients

Ad Hoc Committee of Casino TLB Lenders


Briarwood Chase Management


Apollo Management Ltd


Pimkie


Fortress


Smyth’s Toys


HSBC


Natixis


Société Générale


BUT


Alcentra


Work highlights


  • Advising the steering committee of EUR 1.4 billion Term Loan B lenders in the €>6 billion financial restructuring of the Casino group, a French leading food retailing group, with a turnover of more than €30 billion and more than 200,000 employees worldwide
  • Advised Briarwood Chase Management as key shareholder and creditor in the context of the financial restructuring of Technicolor Creative Studios, a French group involved in visual effects, motion graphics and animation services for the entertainment, media and advertising industries, with a turnover of more than €780 million and more than 10,000 employees worldwide
  • Advised the French banks in the context of the restructuring of the Damartex group, a French group operating as a European leader in the silver economy, with a turnover of more than €700 million and more than 3,300 employees

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP’s restructuring division is an undisputed leader, with strong recognition across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Continental Europe. This practice, adept at navigating a significant caseload and catering to a diverse client base, offers expert guidance on intricate cross-border matters. Its purview encompasses LBO restructuring, amicable proceedings, and insolvency cases, where they actively engage in some of the market’s most substantial affairs. Facilitating this strength is a culture of collaboration, with co-leaders Anne-Sophie NouryJean-Dominique De Cassini and new arrival Céline Domenget-Morin at the helm, integrating with other divisions, especially those immersed in transactional and financial activities. Laura Bavoux further fortifies the practice, specialising in high-stakes French pre-insolvency and insolvency cases, along with cross-border restructuring, across various sectors such as law, retail, media, telecommunications, and sports. Cesar Puech Routier joined the firm alongside Domenget-Morin in late 2023.

Practice head(s):

Anne-Sophie Noury; Jean-Dominique Daudier de Cassini; Céline Domenget-Morin


Other key lawyers:

Laura Bavoux; César Puech-Routier


Testimonials

‘The team covers several key areas of expertise, including regulated activities, restructurings, tax and financing, which has enabled us to benefit from a full range of legal services during the receivership period of the company.’

‘The strengths and assets of this team lie in its constant responsiveness and availability to provide us with rapid and efficient assistance. Its lawyers are highly experienced and qualified, which translates into quality legal advice. They take the time to understand our specific needs, which allows us to benefit from tailored and relevant advice.’ 

‘Jean Dominique Daudier de Cassini, specialist in recovery and restructuring operations. We benefited from his expertise and his global view regarding the legal and judicial procedure and strategy.’ 

‘The team’s greatest strength is its detailed and historical knowledge of all the players in the distressed business market. Their excellent reputation among their clients is even shared by debtors.’

‘Available, competent, pleasant and innovative.’

Key clients

SELARL FHBX


Groupe Casino


Bpifrance


Glass Holding


Orange


Intersport


SELARL FHBX & Thevenot Partners


Phoenix


NJJ Presse Sud


Lysogene


Salaün


SGR


Royer


Klepierre


Benta Pharma Invest Holding


Work highlights


  • Advised SELARL FHBX and SELARL AJRS as judicial administrators in connection with the subsequent sauvegarde accélérée proceedings of Orpea.
  • Advised Intersport France in the takeover of the assets and activities of the Go Sport Group in the context of the receivership proceedings opened in favour of the Go Sport Group holding company and at the level of the operating company, Go Sport France.

White & Case LLP

Leveraging the expansive global network of its offices, White & Case LLP’s restructuring and insolvency division maintains its prestigious standing as a preeminent force in the industry, handling a variety of high-profile cases in domestic and international markets, including notable matters like ORPEA, Technicolor, and Europcar Mobility Group. Under the leadership of Saam Golshani, the team represents creditors, debtors, investors, and potential buyers across a wide range of issues stemming from corporate reorganisations and insolvency proceedings. Alexis Hojabr brings expertise in advising on complex multi-creditor and financial restructurings, often involving alternative investors, hedge funds, and distressed companies. Other key contacts include Alicia Bali and Hugues Racovski, both skilled in navigating domestic and cross-border restructurings for multinational clients.

Practice head(s):

Saam Golshani


Other key lawyers:

Alexis Hojabr; Alicia Bali; Hugues Racovski


Testimonials

‘One of the best teams in the area. Very competent, innovative and deal driven.’ 

‘Saam Golshani is a good negotiator and fine strategist.’

‘Alexis Hojabr has good technical skills and is very present on all deals.’

Key clients

Air Austral


KKR


Kartesia


Apollo Global Management


Hertz France


Golden Tree


Strategic Value Partners


Davidson Kempner


Centerbridge


Attestor Capital


BPI


Oaktree


Blackstone


Dream Yacht


Fortress


Angelo Gordon


Hayfin


Bybrook


Monarch


Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF)


Work highlights


  • Advised Vallourec’s ad hoc group of bondholders and RCF, led by Apollo, SVP, Bybrook and M&G, on the negotiation of an Agreement in Principle reached as part of the financial restructuring of Vallourec, world leader in premium tubular solutions for the energy markets and for demanding industrial applications.
  • Advised the majority of Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) debtholders, including financial institutions and investment funds, on Europcar Mobility Group’s overall financial restructuring and subsequent accelerated financial safeguard.
  • Advised the bondholders on the financial restructuring of the Solocal Group, the leading European provider of digital solutions for SME companies.

Ashurst LLP

Ashurst LLP’s restructuring and insolvency practice holds a prominent position in the French market, excelling in both transactional and contentious cases. Their expertise has been instrumental in advising creditors, sponsors, and new money providers in navigating complex cross-border situations and overseeing numerous significant debts restructuring cases. Practice head Noam Ankri, with a diverse background spanning New York, London, and Paris, brings a unique multicultural perspective to cross-border deals, coupled with his proficiency in high-yield bonds within French restructurings. The team also features notable professionals such as Elsa Decourt, specialising in complex cross-border restructurings, and Astrid Hubert-Beniost, who offers experience in distressed M&A transactions and various corporate issues related to reorganisations, in both amicable and judicial contexts.

Practice head(s):

Noam Ankri


Other key lawyers:

Elsa Decourt; Astrid Hubert-Benoist


Key clients

Man GLG


Warwick


Bank of New York Mellon


Village Nature Tourisme


Boussard & Gavaudan


Goldman Sachs


ODDO BHF


Credit Agricole Investment Bank


Anchorage Capital


Tresidor


BlackRock


Carlyle


Angelo Gordon


LBI ehf


Dyal Capital Partners


SPCM S.A./SNF


Renaissance Luxury Group


Sun Capital Partners


Bombardier Inc.


Société Générale


Work highlights


  • Advising the steering committee of the unsecured creditors of the listed company Casino Guichard Perrachon S.A, namely the French law unsecured notes issued under the Company’s EMTN programme maturing in 2024, 2025 and 2026, in connection with the approx. €7 BN financial restructuring of the Company.
  • Advised the group of senior RCF lenders in connection with the €600m financial restructuring of listed company Solocal.
  • Advised the steering committee of the bondholders in connection with the €280m default of listed French fashion retailer SMCP’s Chinese shareholder Shandong Ruyi.

Bird & Bird

Bird & Bird boasts one of the largest restructuring teams in Paris, maintaining its role as a key player in the market. The team specialises in handling large-scale cases, with a primary emphasis on advising creditors and stakeholders in intricate situations, demonstrating equal prowess in both litigation and transactional matters. Co-headed by Nicolas Morelli and Romain de Ménonville, the team has been instrumental in several headline cases across diverse sectors such as manufacturing, energy, retail, hospitality, and tourism, while also showcasing expertise in trusts. Key contacts at the firm include Jessica Derocque, a dedicated member of WIR (women in restructuring) with a particular focus on debt restructuring cases, as well as litigation specialist Céline Nézet and Pierre-Jean Chernard, who excel in debt restructuring and insolvency matters on behalf of creditors.

Practice head(s):

Nicolas Morelli; Romain de Ménonville


Other key lawyers:

Jessica Derocque; Céline Nézet; Pierre-Jean Chenard


Testimonials

‘Romain de Ménonville is an excellent lawyer, with impressive technical knowledge and a pragmatic approach.’

‘Nicolas Morelli is also an excellent lawyer with great technical skills.’

‘High availability, strong responsiveness and effective support in finalising negotiations.’

‘Available, responsive and proactive.’

‘An available team, with very good knowledge of the expectations of creditors in the context of preventive procedures.’

‘High commitment and excellent knowledge of the need of banks in restructuring.’

‘In restructuring, Nicolas Morelli stands out for his extensive experience in restructuring. His advice is wise and pragmatic.

Céline Nézet stands out for her always positive attitude. It is a valuable asset in long and complex operations.’

Key clients

Arkéa Entreprises et Institutionnels


Banque Palatine


Banque Populaire


Barclays PLC


BNP Paribas


Bpifrance


Bred Banque Populaire


Caisse d’Epargne


Crédit Coopératif


Crédit Industriel et Commercial


Crédit Lyonnais


Fosun


French State


Goldman Sachs


Banco de Sabadell


Banco do Brasil


KBC Bank


Groupe Crédit Agricole


HSBC Continental Europe


La Banque Postale


La Banque Postale Asset Management


Natixis


Neuflize OBC /ABN AMRO


Société Générale


Unicrédit


UPS France


Work highlights


  • Advised HSBC Continental Europe, Arkéa Banque Entreprises et Institutionnels, Bpifrance, KBC Bank N.V, Banco do Brasil AG, Banco Sabadell SA et Unicredit on Orpea debt restructuring through both out-of-court restructuring proceedings and “new regime” accelerated safeguard proceedings.
  • Advised Bred Banque Populaire on Casino-Monoprix debt restructuring through both out-of-court restructuring proceedings and “new regime” accelerated safeguard proceedings.
  • Advised Goldman Sachs, Arkéa Banque Entreprises et Institutionnels, Banque CIC Sud Ouest, Bpifrance, Crédit Lyonnais, Société Générale in relation to the second round of the Latecoere debt restructuring.

Bredin Prat

Bredin Prat’s restructuring and insolvency practice draws upon the strengths of various departments within the firm, bringing experience to the forefront in managing high-profile domestic and cross-border financial restructuring, distressed M&A transactions, insolvency cases, and litigation matters. Co-led by Olivier Puech and Nicolas Laurent, the team operates across a broad spectrum of sectors, including construction, financial services, energy, media, and technology. Its advisory portfolio encompasses guiding investors in asset takeover deals and assisting shareholders in selling interests in distressed companies while also actively participating in litigation proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Olivier Puech; Nicolas Laurent


Other key lawyers:

Karine Sultan; Mathilde Sigel


Testimonials

‘Always available, extremely close to the business. Calm under high pressure and extremely clear and precise in their advice.’

‘Nicolas Laurent is very experienced and has a hands-on approach.’

‘This is one of the best teams in the market in terms of restructuring, with high-end service and constant involvement. The team stands out because it brings together one of the best practitioners in terms of preventing difficulties (Nicolas Laurent), an expert in collective procedures and associated litigation (Olivier Puech) and finally one of the very best in terms of financing (Karine Sultan).’ 

‘Nicolas Laurent is a leading restructuring lawyer. Extremely intelligent, energetic and pugnacious, he excels in complex files where his technical expertise and involvement clearly make the difference.’

‘Karine Sultan is an extraordinary lawyer, calm, firm and to the point, she reassures her clients and has total mastery of the subjects.’

‘Olivier Puech is incisive, precise and outstanding, he is probably the best litigation lawyer in corporate restructuring.’

‘Very seasoned restructuring team, mastering all aspects of collective proceedings in France, both in and out of court.’ 

‘Always available to brainstorm on strategic and tactical next moves, and very fast to integrate our objectives/goals into the management of the case.’

Key clients

Amer Sports Corporation


April


Areva


B&M


Casino Guichard-Perrachon


Blade


Buffalo Group


CCI Paris Île de France


DHL


Eramet


Groupe Bertrand


Jaccar Holding


Love & Food


Marne & Finance


Potel et Chabot


STS Group


Stellantis


Despature Family / Damartex


Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP

The team at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP excels in intricate cross-border transactions, actively participating in restructurings and transactions within the French market in recent years. Leveraging the extensive experience of co-heads Guilhem Bremond and Laurent Mabilat, the practice offers guidance across both in-court and out-of-court restructurings. They are also adept in litigation and provide counsel on distressed investments, representing major companies, their shareholders, and creditors, with a notable presence in the transport, retail, and industrial sectors.

Practice head(s):

Guilhem Bremond; Laurent Mabilat


Other key lawyers:

Fabrice Grillo; Stéphanie Corbière; Guy Benda; Marie Roche


Testimonials

‘A results-oriented team.’

‘Extensive experience of complex restructurings, with international players such as restructurings of French mid-sized companies.’

‘Constructive approach to negotiations with strong involvement of partners, creativity of the solutions adopted.’

Key clients

Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC).


Pierre & Vacances Euro PP Bondholders (BNPP, Schelcher Prince Gestion, La Mondiale)


Compagnie Nouvelle de Manutentions Portuaires (CNMP)


Eurazeo Investment Management


Eugene Perma


BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Crédit Industriel et Commercial, Crédit Lyonnais, La Banque Postale, Natixis and Société Générale


Work highlights


  • Advising certain bank lenders under the Casino EUR 2 billion senior secured revolving credit facility.
  • Advised Compagnie Nouvelle de Manutentions Portuaires (CNMP) holding of the CNMP Group, within the rehabilitation proceedings (redressement judiciaire) opened towards its subsidiary Compagnie Nouvelle de Manutentions et d’Exploitations Portuaires (CNMEP).
  • Advising Eugene Perma in connection with its €75 million debt restructuring and a disposal of interests. The matter involved interactions and negotiations with the French tax and social security authorities and financial creditors (mainly French banks).

Linklaters

Linklaters’ team boasts expertise in the field of restructuring and insolvency, regularly tackling intricate restructurings on both domestic and international fronts. Their counsel extends to a diverse client base, including shareholders, management, creditors, investors, and debtors. Co-heading the practice is Aymar De Mauléon, a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience in insolvency and restructuring. His involvement in high-profile restructurings, such as Casino, Orpea, and Rally, is complemented by his proficiency in insolvency-related litigation. Collaborating as co-head is Carole Nerguararian, who engages across the full spectrum of processes, spanning from out-of-court to judicial proceedings, specialising in cross-border financial and operational restructuring; leveraging the firm’s international network to handle global cases effectively.

Practice head(s):

Aymar de Mauléon; Carole Nerguararian


Testimonials

‘A dedicated team with a force of innovative proposals for complex situations encountered in the context of international restructurings.’ 

‘The team is responsive, detail-oriented, precise and highly competent.’ 

‘They have great availability and strong attention paid to the customer and their needs.’ 

‘Aymar de Mauléon offers professionalism, pedagogy, confidence, leadership and experience.’

Key clients

Barry Callebaut


BPCE (Crédit Foncier de France)


CGG


European Investment Bank


DIIS group (Orpéa matter)


European Bank forof Reconstruction and Development


French Ministry of the Economy (acting through CIRI, its special situation team)


IDI


IJohn CockerillITM Entreprises


KKR (Famar matter)John Cockerill


MontaguKKR (Famar matter)


New Look groupMontagu


Paprec GroupNew Look group


ProthinPaprec Group


Prothin


Sienna AM France (formerly Acofi Gestion) (La Grande Récré matter)Prothin


Solvay Energy Services


Walor InternationalSienna AM France (formerly Acofi Gestion) (La Grande Récré matter)


Work highlights


  • Advising the John Cockerill group in the distressed take-over of Hamon, which involved combined Belgian and French insolvency processes coupled with M&A transactions regarding the various foreign subsidiaries whose assets/shares are to be acquired.
  • Advising Montagu as part of 2 successive conciliation proceedings being opened in respect of the portfolio group Aqualung, in order to effectaffect the financial restructuring of the group and to organise its sale to the benefit of one of its lenders.
  • Advising Groupement Les Mousquetaires as part of the business negotiations with Casino and the key stakeholders within the framework of conciliation proceedings, on the acquisition of several batches of sale of circa 190 sale points, as part of Casino’s financial and operational restructuring.

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP’s restructuring team collaborates with colleagues across various departments, providing assistance to international bondholders, key shareholders, debtors, and corporations in navigating intricate and substantial restructuring mandates. Under the leadership of cross-border restructuring expert Lionel Spizzichino, the practice has recently played a pivotal role in significant debt restructuring cases within the French market, including the high-profile Casino and Orpea cases. Additionally, the team has been instrumental in guiding debtors through France’s largest bankruptcy case this year, offering counsel to GoSport and GAP France in their insolvency proceedings. Among the firm’s notable experts is Audrey Nelson, renowned for her experience in complex out-of-court restructuring matters, as well as her expertise in LBO debt and lender-led restructurings.

Practice head(s):

Lionel Spizzichino


Other key lawyers:

Audrey Nelson


Testimonials

‘The main strength of Willkie’s team lies in its excessively commercial approach; they are very close to customers and extremely responsive.’

‘The team is there to find solutions and not create problems or impose unnecessary constraints. Very commercial in approach, extremely respected by her clients and outstanding negotiators.’

‘They are a key player and reference on the market.’

‘Lionel Spizzichino is always at ease and extremely agile in negotiations and resolving tense situations.’

Key clients

Air France Group and Air France KLM (holding)


Cheyne Capital


Fidera


HLD


JPMorgan Chase & Co – Global Special Situations


OpenGate Capital


Anchorage Capital Group, Carmignac, Schelcher Pringe Gestion, Boussard & Gavaudan


Strategic Value Partners


Carronade, M&G, Jupiter


Work highlights


  • Advised the Steering Committee of the unsecured creditors of Orpea S.A. in its EUR 9 billion debt restructuring and one of Europe largest debt for equity swap.
  • Advised the Steering Committee of the unsecured creditors of Casino Guichard Perrachon in its EUR 7.5 billion debt restructuring.
  • Advised GoSport and GAP France on their insolvency proceedings.

ADVANT Altana

As an integral part of an internationally integrated practice specialising in restructuring, ADVANT Altana offers clients seeking expansion opportunities in Europe a unique advantage, adept at navigating the intricate and nuanced commercial landscape of the region. Co-led by Michel Jockey, a specialist in external growth and strategic corporate litigation, and Pierre-Gilles Wogue, a seasoned counsellor and litigator, the thirteen-lawyer team excels in handling all legal aspects related to restructuring scenarios. Its client base includes major players in the finance, real estate, and high technology sectors. Additional key figures at the team include Mana Rassouli and Julien Balensi.

Practice head(s):

Michel Jockey; Pierre-Gilles Wogue


Other key lawyers:

Mana Rassouli; Julien Balensi


Testimonials

‘Mana Rassouli offers excellent advice; she is both pragmatic and operational.’

‘A dynamic and mobilised team capable of addressing the various subjects surrounding the company in difficulty.’

‘Incomparable mastery of the relationships and practices of all the actors involved in collective procedures, coupled with excellent litigation expertise.’

‘Mana Rassouli has incomparable technical expertise in the field of collective procedures. In addition, Mana Rassouli has a perfect command of associated litigation. Endowed with an impressive work capacity, she demonstrates very strong rigor and demonstrates an exceptional aptitude for understanding and mastering operational issues.’

Key clients

Aldi


Altarea


Apogee (Hp) Group


Bastide


Blive Group


Defta


Eurobail Group


Groupama


Groupe Figaro


Ivanhoe Cambridge


Natixis


Samsung Electronics France


Secom


Sirob Group


Teract


Work highlights


  • Advising Samsung Electronics France on all legal aspects related to restructuring and insolvency, in several different matters with its suppliers and contractors facing difficulties: CEAT, Iacono, Cobrason, Visionair, Megadepot, MDA Group and GPDIS France.
  • Advising OMMIC in the sale process to the US listed group Macom.
  • Advising a healthcare network “RESEAU NATIONAL ADN SANTE”, branch of Bastide Group, specialised in home care and ambulatory care, on numerous insolvency proceedings.

Archers A.A.R.P.I.

Archers A.A.R.P.I.'s restructuring and insolvency practice offers comprehensive guidance across a broad spectrum of matters, adeptly navigating both contentious and non-contentious mandates. Their expertise extends to representing debtors in insolvency proceedings and advocating before courts. Leading the practice is Fabrice Patrizio, who brings over two decades of experience in restructuring, insolvency, litigation, and arbitration. He is supported by partners Jean-Maurice Gaillard and Paul-Henri De Cabissole, both advising banks, debt funds, and investors in the real estate sector.

Practice head(s):

Fabrice Patrizio


Other key lawyers:

Jean-Maurice Gaillard; Paul-Henri de Cabissole


Testimonials

‘A very good, professional and impactful team.’

‘A particularly technical and friendly team, with significant seniority.’

‘Fabrice Patrizio stands out for his ability to particularly quickly understand the business challenges of these clients and use the appropriate arguments to highlight them during negotiations.’

‘Very responsive, professional, simple and agile, creative with solutions.’

Key clients

Colony Capital


Campine


August Debouzy

August Debouzy's restructuring and insolvency practice has experienced notable growth, propelled by its impressive client portfolio featuring industry giants such as Nike, TotalEnergies, and Les Girondins De Bordeaux. The team consistently handles cases within the small to mid-cap market segment and demonstrates prowess in related litigation. Laurent Cotret leads the practice, overseeing cross-border matters that extend across various sectors, including aviation, transport, technology, entertainment, sports, and pharmaceuticals. The firm’s roster of notable practitioners includes Clément Quernin and Armelle Loste, further enriching the practice’s expertise and capabilities.

Practice head(s):

Laurent Cotret


Other key lawyers:

Clément Quernin; Armelle Loste


Testimonials

‘The team stands out for its ability to adapt, its attentiveness and expertise.’

‘A very experienced team with a pragmatic approach that spares no time and knows how to provide appropriate advice and also knows how to be flexible depending on the problems encountered.’ 

‘A team with expertise that meets high expectations and provides relevant, precise and useful answers and advice.’

‘Very high responsiveness and availability.’

Key clients

AGS


Galeries Lafayette


Stockholders ICBS


Perrino Group


TNP Consultants


Rugby club US Dax


Top Office / Adveo


Football Club Chateauroux – Le Berrichonne


Adamo (Orpea)


Nike


Didaxis


Alteo


Dassault


JJW Hotel Group


DCG Carebus Group


Valenciennes Football Club


Anthony Garcon


Orange


Girondins


Brittany Ferries


Riccobono Presse Investissement


TotalEnergies (Titan Aviation)


Work highlights


  • Advising ADAMO in the framework of Orpea’s restructuring. The client is an association of minority shareholders of Orpea, which gathers more than 3,000 shareholders.
  • Advising Football Club de Girondins de Bordeaux in restructuring its financial planning, which helped the club secure its place in League 2 for the next season.
  • Advising the Brittany Ferries Group (B.A.I.) with respect to the restructuring of its financial indebtedness. In 2020, B.A.I. faced significant difficulties, resulting mainly from the health crisis and subsequent government measures.

BDGS Associés

BDGS Associés' insolvency and restructuring team takes on high-profile, cross-border cases, showcasing a particular prowess in international matters involving strategic or politically sensitive assets. Guided by the seasoned Henri Cazala, who is praised for his 'inventiveness and determination to find solutions in complex situations', the team provides counsel to major shareholders, leading corporations, as well as debtors and bondholders. They have recently been instrumental in debt restructuring cases within the public events and healthcare sectors. Noteworthy figures in the practice also include Laurène Boyer and Antoine Gosset-Grainville.

Practice head(s):

Henri Cazala


Other key lawyers:

Antoine Gosset-Grainville; Laurène Boyer


Testimonials

‘Extremely efficient and responsive team, making strong progress in the difficult restructuring market.’

‘Henri Cazala is particularly service-oriented and responsive.’

‘Professional, competent and friendly team. Quality services provided, good project monitoring, business developers.’

‘A leading team, technically sound and benefits from a formidable network. It’s a pleasure to work with them.’

‘I often work with Henri Cazala. I appreciate his inventiveness and determination to find solutions in complex situations. It is a trusted partner for our strategic choices.’

‘Laurène Boyer is excellent.’

‘A remarkable team. The work is clear and always done on time.’

‘Henri Cazala is a very high-level lawyer. He always understands our needs and is efficient in all circumstances.’

Key clients

Aether Financial Services


Agence des Participations de l’Etat


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


Canal+


CMA CGM


Crédit Agricole Assurances


Eiffel Investment Group


Equitis Gestion


Mutares


Raise Impact


SNCF


Stokomani


Accor


Work highlights


  • Advising the Canal+ Group, a French audiovisual group, as part of the acquisition from Orange of OCS (a French pay-TV package dedicated to series and movies) and Orange Studio (a French film and series production company), following a competitive bid process.
  • Acted as mediator at the request of Orpea, a listed group and a leading global player in care and living pathways for vulnerable people, as part of the restructuring of its indebtedness and the research of new money under conciliation proceedings.
  • Advising SNCF, the French public railway group, in the context of in-depth investigation opened by the European Commission on 18th January 2023 regarding alleged State aid amounting to €5 billion received in the past by Fret SNCF, a subsidiary of SNCF active in the railway freight sector, especially on the strategy and arguments for challenging the alleged state aid, and on the implementation of a plan for the economic discontinuation of Fret SNCF announced by the French government last May to avoid any risk of the company being wound up.

Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance’s restructuring and insolvency team is a recognised global authority, featuring experts spanning key European jurisdictions, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas. Its reputation stems from its proficiency in handling intricate, cross-border restructuring and insolvency matters, encompassing all aspects, including financing, litigation, market regulation, real estate, and employment law. Delphine Caramalli leads the team, with strong support from Marie Crumière, having recently made significant contributions to cases in the French market, including the Orpea group and Getir BV.

Practice head(s):

Delphine Caramalli


Other key lawyers:

Marie Crumière


Testimonials

‘The team is well-structured and organised, with complementary skills.’

‘Marie Crumière is particularly distinguished by her creativity and rigor.’

‘Delphine Caramalli is incredibly dynamic with high-quality advice.’

‘Marie Crumière is a very good lawyer, pragmatic and able to advise clients in a realistic and concrete manner. Courageous, she knows how to secure solutions in a complex environment.’

‘All of the lawyers have a business-minded attitude and were very creative in terms of the solutions they have offered to us.’

‘Delphine Caramalli is an amazing lawyer, someone who you would want to be on your side when you need it the most. Her knowledge of restructuring and insolvency is amazing, but more than that, she can strategise with you based on the company’s requirements.’

‘Extremely high level of experience in the field of restructuring.’

‘An available, professional and welcoming team.’

Key clients

ING Bank NV


GETIR BV


ADMIRAL for the acquisition of LUKO COVER as part of DEMAIN ES’s accelerated safeguard procedure


MACNICA, for the joint venture with Gaussin that co-acquired NAVYA in the framework of a sale plan


AETHER FINANCIAL SERVICES


Lessors leasing the majority of the aircraft 80% of Lion Air’s fleet including:|CARLYLE||DUBAI AEROSPACE||MACQUARIE||AERGO||BOC AVIATION||AERCAP||SMBC||ALTAVAIR


ATREAM (a Group’s institutional landlord) in the overall restructuring of Pierre et Vacances, alongside Alcentra (a Group’s financial creditor) and Fidera (also a Group’s financial creditor) and Atream (the “Investors”), as well as the main bank creditors, its Euro PP creditors and its main Ornane bondholders (the “SteerCo”).


Raiffeisenlandesbank Oberösterreich


Ligue Professionnelle de FootbalL


Bnp Paribas Fortis (Hamon / HTEF)


Work highlights


  • Advised several individual lenders (such as ING Bank as secured lender of €60 million within the €1.5 bn secured C facility under the June Protocol – for which Clifford Chance has been involved, and an unsecured loan of €100 million), Mediobanca as Schuldschein lender (holding a claim of €50 million) and an ad hoc committee of international banking Taiwanese institutions Schuldschein lenders (holding a claim of €130 million).
  • Assisted Macnica, a leading Japanese semiconductor company with FY21 sales of $7.6 billion, in forming and implementing a successful joint venture that secured the acquisition of Navya by the Gaussin group.

CMS Francis Lefebvre

With its holistic approach, CMS Francis Lefebvre's restructuring and insolvency practice guides a diverse client base, including debtors, investors, shareholders, and creditors, through every facet of amicable and insolvency proceedings. Alexandre Bastos, with over 20 years of experience in restructuring and insolvency law, leads the practice, actively overseeing major ongoing cases spanning various industry sectors. One notable highlight is his advisory role in a high-value matter involving multiple jurisdictions for Allicance Green Services. The practice also boasts the expertise of key figures, including Guillaume Bouté.

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Bastos


Other key lawyers:

Guillaume Bouté


Testimonials

‘Alexandre Bastos follows the entire file, including down to the smallest details, and effectively controls the work of juniors.’

‘The team knows how to put its expertise and its network at the service of the company to help it get through this difficult period in the best possible conditions and to find the most efficient solutions with it. She knows how to adapt to the needs of her clients and mobilise the necessary expertise both in France and internationally if necessary.’

‘The team offers solidity and a depth of experience for the benefit of resolving business difficulties.’

Key clients

ALLIANCE GREEN SERVICES


ALGONQUIN FRANCE HÔTEL SERVICES


SODIAAL and its affiliates


UCPA


ATRADIUS


NAGRAVISION


POLARIS


BPCE GROUP (NATIXIS – CEGC)


SISECAM FLAT GLASS


SAINT GOBAIN


BANQUE PALATINE and FCP MICADO FRANCE


MUTARES SE & Co. KGaA


Work highlights


  • Advised ALLIANCE GREEN SERVICES, a subsidiary of ARCELORMITTAL group, within the framework of the takeover of the activity of PHOENIX SERVICES FRANCE, a key services provider for the iron making industry market and the subsequent appeal against the judgment adopting the transfer plan.
  • Advised ATRADIUS, a credit-insurer, within the framework of the successive conciliation proceedings and the subsequent insolvency proceedings of CNIM, an industrial equipment supplier and assembler under the aegis of the Interministerial Committee for Industrial Restructuring (CIRI).
  • Advised NAGRAVISION (KUDELSKI Group) within the framework of the difficulties faced by SmarDTV GLOBAL and SmarDTV TECHNOLOGY under French insolvency proceedings and during the disposal of their activities within the framework of disposal plans adopted by the Commercial Court of Marseille.

FTPA

FTPA’s restructuring and insolvency practice boasts a wealth of experience, adeptly managing legal and financial restructurings for financially distressed companies, representing debtors, takeover entrepreneurs, and shareholders. Co-headed by Edouard Fabre and Romain Lantourne, both specialists in insolvency, restructuring, and litigation, the team adopts a multidisciplinary approach to a wide range of transactions, renowned for their ability to tackle complex matters with technical and innovative solutions. Additional team members include trust law specialist Bruno Robin and Antoine Techekhoof, whose expertise extends the practice into areas such as M&A, contract law, and distribution law.

Practice head(s):

Edouard Fabre; Romain Lantourne


Other key lawyers:

Bruno Robin; Antoine Tchekhoff


Testimonials

‘Good legal knowledge, including changes to the law.’

‘Very good knowledge of the customs of the courts and their environment.’

Key clients

Finotel


Altead Group’s former directors


Caire (Air Guyane & Air Antilles)


Smart Treso Conseil’s former directors


VSD


Atradius


Euler Hermes


BTSG


SMA/SFEP


Work highlights


  • Advising the Caribbean airline company CAIRE (Air Antilles/Air Guyane) in its financial restructuring, then its insolvency proceedings following the strike that affected the company.
  • Advising the hospitality group Finotel holding five hotels in Paris in its insolvency proceedings
  • Advised the French famous magazine VSD in its rehabilitation plan followed by its sale plan to Heroes Media.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP’s restructuring and insolvency team, comprising a diverse group of lawyers, offers comprehensive counsel on all facets of restructuring and insolvency deals. The practice services clients in the telecommunications, technology, and investment funds sectors, adeptly handling a broad spectrum of high-profile, multi-jurisdictional insolvency matters. Additionally, the team plays a pivotal role in assisting the French government with the granting and restructuring of state-sponsored loans. Under the leadership of corporate debt restructuring specialist Pauline Bournoville, the team has experienced substantial growth in recent years, particularly in its role on the creditors’ side, an expansion fuelled by noteworthy new instructions from both French and foreign banks.

Practice head(s):

Pauline Bournoville


Other key lawyers:

Emma Bonnefoi


Testimonials

‘Very responsive and a complementary team, both in restructuring advice and documentation.’

‘A proactive team, providing solutions and able to take the lead, when the situation requires it, in place of the client’s advice.’

‘Pauline Bournwille is very committed and goes to the front in negotiations always with mastery. Very good, clear and transparent communication with its creditor clients.’

Key clients

Banque Fiducial


BNP Paribas Group


BPCE/Natixis Group


Crédit Agricole Group


Commonwealth Bank of Australia


ENGIE Group


FRENCH STATE (Délégation Interministérielle aux Restructurations d’Entreprises – Interministerial delegation for corporate restructuring & insolvencies)


HSBC Continental Europe


Louis Pasteur Group


SEWAN


Société Générale Group


Work highlights


  • Advising the French State (Interministerial Delegation for Corporate Restructuring – Délégation Interministérielle aux Restructurations d’Entreprises) on the negotiation of 100 M€ public debts owed by Ascoval and France Rail industry for the rehabilitation proceedings of the group.
  • Advising a sum of the entities of the BPCE Group, notably Caisse d’Epargne et de Prévoyance Grand Est Europe, Caisse d’Epargne CEPAC, Caisse d’Epargne Rhône Alpes (CERA), Banque Palatine, Caisse d’Epargne Loire Champagne and Caisse d’Epargne Ile de France (CEIDF) on the restructuring of the Marne & Finance Group’s indebtedness within the frame of pre-insolvency proceedings.
  • Advised the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Lunar Aircraft Trading Company 3 Limited, two lessors of aircrafts, in the context of rehabilitation proceedings of two French companies (lessees) members of the Lion Air Group.

Jones Day

Jones Day possesses a distinctive ability to respond swiftly and effectively to both French and cross-border restructuring cases. Under the leadership of Fabienne Beuzit, the team has played a pivotal role in numerous transactional restructurings and bankruptcies over the past decade, providing counsel to a diverse array of stakeholders, including debt and investment funds, banks, debtors, and corporations, across various aspects such as bankruptcy proceedings, in and out-of-court restructurings, M&A, and insolvency-related litigation. Notably, Rodolphe Carrière has been involved in matters concerning start-up and tech companies in recent months.

Practice head(s):

Fabienne Beuzit


Other key lawyers:

Rodolphe Carriere


Testimonials

‘International insolvency team with the ability to handle specific topics thanks to the variety of departments in this law firm.’

‘Fabienne Beuzit and Rodolphe Carriere are very professional, available and responsive to needs.’

Key clients

AD Breizh


Bank Of China / ORPEA


Athyrium Capital / Biom’Up France


Diebold group / Diebold France


Electrolux


Scotch & Soda


SAS Pôle Hospitalier Privé


Tikehau Capital / SECAN


Voodoo


Work highlights


  • Advising Bank of China within the restructuring of Orpea Group.
  • Advising Tikehau Capital in its acquisition of Secan a major player in the French aerospace industry.

McDermott Will & Emery AARPI

The insolvency and restructuring department at McDermott Will & Emery AARPI stands out for its proficiency in handling a diverse range of financial and industrial restructuring cases, providing comprehensive advice to debtors, buyers, creditors, and shareholders through seamless collaboration with other departments and international teams. Under the leadership of Timothée Gagnepain, an expert in LBO transactions, the team’s experience spans various sectors, encompassing financial institutions, marketing services, food retail, real estate, and technology, with a particular emphasis on the private equity domain. Noteworthy professionals at the firm also include both Théophile Jomier, who specialises in corporate transactions, and Lucille Madariaga, recognised for her proficiency in contentious matters during and after restructuring, as well as in commercial litigation.

Practice head(s):

Timothée Gagnepain


Other key lawyers:

Théophile Jomier; Lucille Madariaga


Key clients

Bio C Bon


TriplePoint Capital


Weinberg Capital Partners


GLAS Agency


Andera Partners


Batipart


ACIAM (Camaieu)


Work highlights


  • Assisted Andera Partners in negotiations with its portfolio company, BIG/Loyalty.
  • Assisted TriplePoint Capital in the negotiations with its debtor, Luko, a French leading insurtech, and Luko’s other shareholders and creditors.
  • Assisted PE fund Weinberg Capital Partners during the financial difficulties faced by its portfolio company BEST Environment.

Peltier Juvigny Marpeau & Associés

Peltier Juvigny Marpeau & Associés houses a robust insolvency practice, successfully managing small to mid-sized mandates spanning diverse industries such as food, clothing, power, books, aeronautics, and transportation. Under the guidance of Nicolas Partouche, the firm offers strategic counsel to companies navigating pre-insolvency and insolvency proceedings, assisting in the development of recovery plans, and supporting insolvency practitioners in complex cases and litigation, including asset recovery and debt liability. Julie Cavelier further strengthens the practice, providing guidance to clients in both amicable and judicial insolvency proceedings, having been appointed to counsel in February 2023.

Practice head(s):

Nicolas Partouche


Other key lawyers:

Julie Cavelier


Testimonials

‘A very structured and organised firm.’

‘A coherent, united and very competent team.’

‘An excellent cocktail of know-how, efficiency and availability.’

Key clients

Dometvie Group


Groupe Monoprix


Miquel Aras & Associes (Michaël Aras) and SELARL Yvon Perin et Jean-Philippe Borkowiak (Yvon Perin) – for Camaïeu


Ello Managers


Chapitre.com


SELAFA MJA


SCP BTSG2


Mr. Thierry Gloriès


B. Gnecchi


SELARL Asteren


MJS Partners


Alain-François Souchon


Work highlights


  • Advised Dometvie Group, specialised in home improvements for people with reduced mobility, in the opening of safeguard proceedings and the adoption of a recovery plan.
  • Advised Monoprix Group, which is the exclusive supplier of the Getir group for the monoprix brands, with its commercial relations with the Getir Group (Getir France, Gorillas Technologies France and Frichti) in the context of their insolvency proceedings.
  • Advised the Judicial Liquidators in the context of the insolvency proceedings of Camaieu to safeguard employees’ rights relating to the portability of health and provident cover, which were suspended by AG2R Preovyance following their redundancies for economic reason.

PLM Avocats

PLM Avocats thrives on a demanding caseload, skilfully navigating diverse challenges through both amicable and judicial means. At the helm is Patricia Le Marchand, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience from leading international law firms. Her leadership drives significant engagement across a wide array of sectors, encompassing health/biotech, investment funds, real estate, and luxury industries. Complementing her expertise are standout team members, including Stephanie Garcia, Florian De Coulon de Labrousse, Morgane Michel, and Lea Besson.

Practice head(s):

Patricia Le Marchand


Other key lawyers:

Stéphanie Garcia; Florian De Coulon de Labrousse; Morgane Michel; Léa Besson


Testimonials

‘Good commitment, highly technical and professional.’

‘Very strong personal involvement alongside entrepreneurs in difficulty.’

‘Exceptional mastery of legal restructuring methods and tools, as well as the corresponding negotiation processes. Very strong positive interactivity with other stakeholders in dealing with business difficulties.’ 

Key clients

Wedo


Alandia Industries (Telma)


E4V


Marne et Finance


Paulette à Bicyclette


RDV Invest (Nysa)


International Design


Racine

The restructuring and insolvency team at Racine has demonstrable expertise in both contentious and non-contentious matters. The practice works in seamless collaboration with various practice teams, addressing all legal aspects concerning distressed companies, including employment law, financing law, M&A issues, and EU competition law matters. Co-led by Antoine Diesbecq, Laurent Jourdan, and Emmanuel Laverrière, the team excels in handling cross-border cases, industrial restructurings, and debt restructuring for distressed LBOs. Its proficiency extends across various areas, including ad hoc mandates, conciliation, safeguard, judicial liquidation, and social restructurings.

Practice head(s):

Antoine Diesbecq; Laurent Jourdan; Emmanuel Laverrière


Other key lawyers:

Julie Molinie; Lisa Ducani


Testimonials

‘An excellent team which combines efficiency, empathy and technical expertise.’

‘Laurent Jourdan is one of the best restructuring lawyers in Paris.’

‘Lisa Ducani is capable of moving the most complex files forward.’

‘Great understanding and mastery of files.’

‘Very good at listening to customer needs.

‘Antoine Diesbecq has tremendous experience, providing valuable advice with restraint and always in the interest of his client. A fine tactician, Antoine knows how to wait for the right moment to draw his weapon.’ 

Key clients

Seissigma


Leavy.co


Auxiga


Gagéo


Banque des Territoires


Akillis


Kering


Fillon Technologies


Richemont


Themis


Work highlights


  • Advising Seissigma on its liquidation process resulting from a financial and commercial conflict between the client and Maisons Pierre (its franchisor) stemming from the Covid-19 crisis.
  • Assisting PRO’JET in its court reorganisation after it was converted from a safeguard proceeding.
  • Representing Kroll Advisory and its administrators in the context of the ceasing of trading activities of Eve Sleep France (a subsidiary of UK-based ESR 2022 PLC (in Administration, formerly Eve Sleep PLC)) that was wholly reliant on the support of the parent company to trade.

Simon Associés

Simon Associés houses a seasoned team who represent debtors, shareholders, and investment funds. Their portfolio spans a wide range of cases, encompassing a significant portion of small and mid-market matters, while consistently attracting larger mandates. Notably, the practice are currently advising CDiscount on the restructuring of its financial structure and equity within the context of the Casino Group restructuring. The practice is co-headed by Jean-Charles Simon and Emmanuel Drai, with key contributions from Philippe Saigne and Hubert de Frémont.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Charles Simon; Emmanuel Drai


Other key lawyers:

Philippe Saigne; Hubert de Fremont; Sophie Nayrolles; Kristell Quelennec; Paul Minet


Testimonials

‘Emmanuel Drai is committed and passionate. He listens to management, understands business leaders in their experiences in crisis situations. A leader in all dimensions to bring stakeholders on board towards a shared solution.’

Key clients

CASINO/CDISCOUNT


EMERAUDE


DUCATILLON


CHULLANKA


BAGEL CORNER


BATIWEB


LA GRANDE RECREE


COURTE PAILLE


Work highlights


  • Advising the subgroup CDISCOUNT within the context of the CASINO Group restructuring,
  • Advised the n° 2 international polymer distributor EMERAUDE for the restructuring of its 450 m€ debt and equity.

VALOREN

VALOREN, specialising in restructuring and insolvency, offers comprehensive representation to companies, shareholders, investors, and credit institutions across a spectrum of matters. The team's expertise spans amicable proceedings, social and financial restructuring operations, and M&A transactions. Co-led by Virginie Verfaillie-Tanguy, a distinguished litigator with a specialisation in special situations and liability matters within the context of insolvency, and Virginie Lockwood, renowned for her proficiency in social law restructuring, the practice is well-regarded for its ability to adeptly handle intricate cases across diverse industries, including the hotel, pharmaceutical, and retail sectors.

Practice head(s):

Virginie Verfaillie Tanguy; Virginie Lockwood


Testimonials

‘Excellent file analysis capacity and quality network.’

‘The Valoren team is excellent. They have a broad strength and depth amongst the team. They are extremely proactive and responsive on matters and are a fantastic firm to work with.’

‘Virginie Verfaillie Tanguy is extremely experienced and knowledgeable. She is very clear in her advice and has been invaluable.’

Key clients

Jjw Limited


Fiji


Geoxia


Homeloop


Atelier Ile de France


Compagnie de Tocqueville


Synthexim


Hilco Capital


Tigre Yoga Club


Metrixware


Work highlights


  • Advised JJW Limited, represented by its Liquidators appointed by the Royal Court of Guernsey, which is the main shareholder of JJW France’s Group (four companies for which a sales of assets plan have been ordered by the Court) and of the Hotel de la Tremoille (in receivership).
  • Assisting the Jina group in the renegotiation of its debt (mainly bank debt), first in an amicable framework and then in the context of a safeguard (since March 2022).
  • Assisting Atelier de l’Ile de France and AIF Europe since the autumn in the preparation of its recovery plan following the opening of receivership proceedings in accordance with the judgement of the Meaux Commercial Court of 28 March 2021.

Alerion

Under the leadership of Gilles Podeur, the restructuring and insolvency practice at Alerion assists clients across a spectrum of matters. Leveraging synergies with other practices, including M&A and financing, enhances the team’s capability to handle intricate transactions requiring cross-disciplinary expertise. Consequently, the team is actively engaged in mandates of varying sizes, from landmark restructurings of large companies, such as CNIM and Alinea, to mid-sized restructurings. The practice's expertise extends beyond transactional work to encompass out-of-court debt renegotiation, insolvency proceedings, and associated litigation, often with a significant cross-border dimension.

Practice head(s):

Gilles Podeur


Key clients

Pimkie


Ipsa Holding


Work highlights


  • Advised the shareholder of Pimkie regarding its sale pursuant to a court-sanctioned conciliation agreement.

Allen & Overy LLP

With robust support from the firm’s complementary areas of restructuring, spanning finance, M&A, litigation, real estate, taxation, and social and public law, Allen & Overy LLP’s restructuring and insolvency practice is well-equipped to offer clients comprehensive assistance on intricate restructurings. Under the leadership of Hector Arroyo, the practice caters to a diverse client base that encompasses debtors, international creditors, private equity, hedge funds, shareholders, and investors. Its cross-border and cross-practice approach ensures effective support for complex restructuring endeavours.

Practice head(s):

Hector Arroyo


Other key lawyers:

Julien Roux; Adrian Mellor; Antoine Santoni


Barbier Legal

Barbier Legal, a boutique firm with a dual presence in France and Switzerland, excels in navigating the cross-border market. Under the leadership of Jérôme Barbier, the team specialises in cases spanning small to mid-sized markets, demonstrating a knack for handling complex matters, including litigation. Notably, the team’s recent accomplishments include providing counsel to the GREEN RIDERS group (PAT COM and MUJOO) in a cross-border engagement involving conciliation, ad hoc authorisation proceedings, and receivership proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Jérôme Barbier


Other key lawyers:

Diane Beaupuy


Testimonials

‘They have a great sense of pragmatism, efficiency and mastery of technical skills, as well as great negotiation skills and ability to find solutions.’

‘The team’s strengths are cohesion, the ability to propose solutions and overall support for customers.’

‘Diane Beaupuy is a rigorous lawyer.’

‘The team is really very innovative.’

‘Excellent team, very involved in its files and rigorous.’

‘Jérôme Barbier and Diane Beaupuy are excellent in their field.’

‘Very pragmatic team, in-depth knowledge of the issues of collective and amicable procedures.’

‘Jérôme Barbier stands out for his experience and his deal-making abilities.’

Key clients

PAT COM


MUJOO FRANCE


SECURISPACE FRANCE ST


SECURISPACE FRANCE SIS / SECURISPACE GESTION


PETIT PAN


ARCUEIL BAUDRAN


UI GESTION


THEGREENDATA


Work highlights


  • Advised GREEN RIDERS group (PAT COM and MUJOO) for conciliation and subsequently ad hoc authorisation proceedings, and for receivership proceedings, which began in April 2023.
  • Advised SECURISPACE group (SECURISPACE FRANCE ST, SECURISPACE FRANCE SIS and SECURISPACE GESTION) for preventive proceedings and subsequently insolvency proceedings intended to bring about an overall restructuring of the group.
  • Advised company PETIT PAN concerning the drafting of a safeguard plan in September 2020, and later with the launch of receivership proceedings in December 2022, with a view to carrying through the operational restructuring of the business and the adoption of a business continuity plan.

Boché Dobelle

Specialising in the field of restructuring and insolvency, Boché Dobelle consistently manages highly intricate and international cases, showcasing accomplishments this year, notably the successful and innovative restructuring of Lion Air Group. At the helm of the practice are Mylène Boché-Robinet and Véronique Dobelle, both noted for their proficiency in international insolvency mandates. Their expertise extends to serving mid-market enterprises and major corporations, along with offering support to creditors, investors, and insolvency officers across a spectrum of matters, encompassing debt restructurings, insolvency proceedings, distressed M&A activities, and litigation linked to insolvency issues.

Practice head(s):

Mylène Boché-Robinet; Véronique Dobelle


Testimonials

‘Mylène Boché-Robinet and Véronique Dobelle are true specialists in companies in difficulty.’

‘Close, very dynamic and a responsive team.’

‘The strength of this firm is the availability of its partners, particularly Mylène, with whom I work regularly, and the relevance of the advice and strategies provided.’

‘Very operational team. Véronique Dobelle is on the front line and very proactive.’

‘Kindness, proactive, strong expertise, availability and strength of proposal.’

‘Mylène Boché-Robinet is an excellent lawyer, acting in cross-border-insolvencies.’

‘High-quality, very professional and responsive team that does tailor-made work adapted to each file.’

‘I was able to observe the very great qualities of my colleague Mylène Boche, with whom I had the opportunity to collaborate on various occasions. I particularly appreciated her pugnacity, creativity and responsiveness in tense situations involving major issues.’

Key clients

Lion Air


HCOB Bank (Orpea case)


Horizon Group


Getaround Inc.


Arcelormittal


Rise Art Limited


Akoustic Arts


Mr Moustapha Hadji


NutriDry


Work highlights


  • Advised Ciel Voyage and Lion Air groups in their restructuring process following the global aviation industry’s crisis in 2020 / 2021.
  • Advising Arcelormittal France in the context of major difficulties with its co-contractor Phoenix Services (US group, affiliate of Apollo Global Management Inc.).
  • Advised an unsecured lender (German bank) in the context of the restructuring process of Orpea (conciliation proceedings in June 2022 and in September 2023).

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner’s restructuring and insolvency department extends its services to a diverse client base, encompassing debtors, creditors, stakeholders, and shareholders, both nationally and internationally. Benefitting from a robust cross-border capacity spanning France, the US, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East, the team, led by the dual-qualified Didier Bruère-Dawson, offers a spectrum of business advisory and crisis management skills, along with formidable litigation expertise. Notable figures in the department include Philippe Métais, who handles litigation before the French and European courts, and bankruptcy, restructuring, and insolvency expert Marie Gicquel, who joined the practice in June 2023.

Practice head(s):

Didier Bruere-Dawson


Other key lawyers:

Philippe Métais; Marie Gicquel; Noe Couturieux; Laura Ngoune


Testimonials

‘Very dynamic and proactive.’ 

‘Marie Gicquel’s technical qualities were appreciated, as well as her availability and responsiveness.’

‘This is a very fine firm with cutting-edge expertise in restructuring. The restructuring team was strengthened this year with the arrival of counsel Marie Gicquel.’

Key clients

Altice Group


Banor Capital


BFP Capital


BNP Paribas Immobilier


Qilin Group


Pixmania


Crazy Horse


Galeries Bartoux Group


Chammas & Marcheteau

Chammas & Marcheteau’s restructuring and insolvency practice, established in April 2020, has been steadily building a strong reputation in this field. The team handles transactional and corporate restructuring mandates, with notable expertise in assisting SMEs with debt renegotiations and financing arrangements. Under the leadership of Stéphane Cavet, the group offers cross-practice expertise to both domestic and international clients. Its recent engagements span a wide array of sectors, including service and industrial companies, e-commerce, and real estate. Additionally, the team has been further strengthened this year with the additions of Jérôme Opalinski and Marie Thomas.

Practice head(s):

Stéphane Cavet


Other key lawyers:

Jérôme Opalinski; Marie Thomas


Testimonials

‘Availability, work and creativity in the files.’

‘The team is very innovative.’

‘I knew Stéphane Cavet through a very complex file. He is an undisputed expert in bankruptcy law and demonstrates great imagination and agility combined with an exceptional technical level.’

Key clients

Jechange


Union Investment


Primavista


Suez


Krono-Safe


Moreno


Strudal


Groupe Sebbin


Work highlights


  • Advises PRIMAVISTA, which has 340 employees and a turnover of €32 million, in the framework of its safeguard proceeding.
  • Advises GROUPE SEBBIN, which has 140 employees and a turnover of €20 million, in the framework of its receivership.
  • Advised SUEZ a world-renowned company, which has turnover of €7 billion and approximatively 35,000 employees, to acquire the assets and activities of BIOENTECH within the framework of a disposal plan.

Dentons

Under the guidance of insolvency expert Audrey Molina, Dentons’ restructuring and insolvency department provides counsel to distressed companies on matters related to insolvency procedures, court-ordered reorganisations, and litigation, both domestically and internationally. The team’s primary strengths lie in debtor representation, cross-border restructuring, distressed M&A, and out-of-court workouts. With the added support of their cross-practice collaboration, the team advises individuals across a wide spectrum of industries, including banking, entertainment, food, and travel, enabling them to offer comprehensive and full-service capabilities.

Practice head(s):

Audrey Molina


Testimonials

‘A very operational team, which provides solid solutions to face the technical challenges of collective procedures.’ 

‘Technically impeccable and a remarkable team.’ 

‘Audrey Molina followed our file from start to finish and testified throughout the process to the qualities mentioned above.’  

DLA Piper

DLA Piper’s restructuring and insolvency practice stands as a full-service powerhouse, uniquely equipped to navigate international restructurings. The practice’s advantage lies in the vast expertise available across the firm’s various departments, encompassing corporate finance, tax, environmental, real estate, and more. Guided by Caroline Texier, an expert in international distress and bankruptcy litigation, the team boasts an impressive client base, routinely sought after to advise large organizations and their subsidiaries.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Texier


Other key lawyers:

Maxime Nativelle


Testimonials

‘Available and attentive.’

 

Key clients

CAM-SPC (Manoir Group)


Gap Inc.


LMLD (Nysa)


Blackstone (Pharmacie Bailly)


IHG Hotels & Resorts


Valmet Corp.


Covéa


BIC


Concord


Lego


Invest Tech Bank


Stripe


Mapper


Beep


Focus International


Work highlights


  • Assisting GAP in the context of, inter alia (i) finding a solution with the franchisee (dept reschedule agreement, waiver) (ii) a possible reorganization plan presented by the franchisee and (iii) the drafting and filing of its multiple proof of claims for more than €50 million against the franchisee and the guarantor.
  • Advised BIC, world-famous French manufacturing corporation, in the context of the takeover of ADVANCED MAGNETIC INTERACTION (AMI), a tech company specialised in digital communication, within the conciliation proceeding of AMI.
  • Advising LMLD, a French company that operates more than 60 spirit shops in France and the UK under the NYSA brand, in the context of a second Conciliation proceedings (amicable debts restructuring) opened in November 2022 and then in its reorganisation proceedings opened in April 2023.

FIDAL

With expertise spanning multiple regional offices, FIDAL’s restructuring and insolvency team plays a pivotal role representing major banks in substantial debt restructuring cases. Simultaneously, it provides assistance to debtors, court-appointed receivers, and investors in smaller-scale matters. Co-led by Isabelle Vincent, Arnaud Roiron, and Brigitte Petitdemange, the team offers multifaceted expertise across various industry sectors, including banking, real estate, healthcare, and tourism.

Practice head(s):

Isabelle Vincent; Arnaud Roiron; Brigitte Petitdemange


Other key lawyers:

Yves-Marie Herrou; Mathieu Aurignac; Patrick Espaignet; Hedy Saoudi


Testimonials

‘Efficiency, sympathy and moderation.’

‘The team is operational, has excellent knowledge of the banking sector, debt restructuring and preventive and collective procedures.’

‘Isabelle Vincent is an excellent lawyer, is pugnacious and perfectly resists pressure.’

Key clients

Société Générale (Deal Rallye)


GCS des 3 Frontières (Clinique Des 3 Frontières)


EOS France


SELARL JSA (Judicial Liquidator)


Harrouet Group


Bodet Group


Unyk Sport (Groupe Chausséa)


BCM Group


Sofibra Group Oceania Hotels


Work highlights


  • Advising SSociété Générale on the financial restructuring of CASINO Group holding companies.
  • Assisting UNYK SPORT as Intersport partners, in certain sales outlets taken over as part of Intersport’s plan to sell the GO SPORT chain of stores.
  • Assisting HARROUET Group, in the presentation of several takeover bids in the agricultural sector which also includes real estate assets such as land and buildings.

Franklin

Numa Rengot leads Franklin’s restructuring and insolvency department, providing expert guidance to clients in navigating the regulatory landscape in France. The team assists clients at every juncture, from pre-insolvency matters to the post-insolvency process, including formal insolvency proceedings before the courts. Its regular advisory role spans insolvency administrators and private equity firms, particularly concerning major restructuring and distressed M&A tied to France. Additionally, the team handles matters for other stakeholders, including banks and commercial partners.

Practice head(s):

Numa Rengot


Other key lawyers:

Arnaud Pédron; Pierre Dupuys


Testimonials

‘Inventive, dynamic and close to the customer.’

‘Rigor, availability and strategy are the characteristics of the restructuring team led by Numa Rengot.’

‘Very professional and responsive.’

‘Numa Rengot piloted our operation from A to Z, providing us with the perfect strategy to implement in order to anticipate each step to be one step ahead while absorbing the stress of such an operation for us.’

‘A united, close-knit team that ensures real follow-up of the file.’

‘High knowledge and availability.’

Key clients

Lise Charmel


Chemet SA & Chemet GLI


Sprint


Regroupement et Diffusion de Saint-Lubin


Groupe Magellim


Groupe Avenel


Groupe Diffusion Plus


Groupe Damaël


Groupe IBL Ltd


Fitnessea


Imprimeur Maury


Jay & Joy (NewCo)


Work highlights


  • Advised IBL Ltd on the superstore chain Run Market recovery plan.
  • Advised to Maury Imprimeur in its negotiations with the energy supplier and the State.
  • Advised César Augier on the acquisition before the courts of Jay & Joy, a pioneer and leader in France in the market for plant-based alternatives to cheese.

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

Guided by M&A expert Jean-Gabriel Flandrois, Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.’s restructuring division encompasses a wide range of cases. This includes pre-insolvency procedures such as mandate ad-hoc and safeguard proceedings, as well as comprehensive insolvency proceedings, covering all aspects of judicial restructuring. The team excels in representing debtors during conciliation proceedings and provides strategic guidance to shareholders and creditors in critical market scenarios. Moreover, the division benefits from the extensive experience of Nadia Haddad, who has a strong track record in litigating insolvency-related matters both domestically and internationally, serving a diverse client base before the French courts.

Practice head(s):

Jean-Gabriel Flandrois


Other key lawyers:

Nadia Haddad


Testimonials

‘Very dynamic team that knows how to deal with complex situations with rare technical mastery, a lot of pragmatism and great humanity. They are one of the best teams on the market.’ 

‘Nadia Haddad has worked on the most important cases in recent years. She leads the department and is always at the forefront in determining strategies and solutions.’

‘Very good team. Nadia Haddad in particular is very constructive and experienced in the subject.’ 

Key clients

Réseau de Transport d’Electricité (RTE)


Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations


RATP Capital Innovation


Gibson Brands


Orpea


Transperfect


Dreem SAS


Sercel


Work highlights


  • Advised Vantiva, the main shareholder of Technicolor Creative Studio’s (“TCS”) (which belonged to ex Technicolor group) in the context of TCS conciliation proceeding, in order to find an agreement on the global financial restructuring of the company.
  • Advising Orpea’s board of directors in connection with several corporate matters, including (i) a shareholder activism campaign involving Orpea and (ii) the financial restructuring of the company.
  • Advised Transperfect, a world leader in language services and technology solutions for major international groups, as part of its acquisition of Groupe Hiventy, an international specialist in the post-production, localization, distribution and restoration of audiovisual and film content.

Jeantet

Jeantet‘s restructuring and insolvency practice distinguishes itself with its comprehensive, cross-functional approach. This approach encompasses legal, economic, financial, operational, and social considerations, providing support to businesses, shareholders, and partners in both out-of-court and legal proceedings. Headed by Laïd Estelle Laurent, the practice brings robust expertise to the technical and operational aspects of restructuring operations. The team excels particularly in matters that entail a corporate and M&A dimension, with ongoing high-profile engagements in the aviation sector.

Practice head(s):

Laïd Estelle Laurent


Other key lawyers:

Jean-François Adelle; Laetitia Ternisien


Testimonials

‘The team is very efficient in finding solutions and also friendly.’

‘They offer dynamism and responsiveness at all times.’

‘Laïd Estelle Laurent is pugnacious, pragmatic, and efficient.’

Key clients

Figeac Aero


Berger International – Groupe Emosia


Jumbo Diset


Apollo Global Management


Toyota Motor Europe


Prisma Media


Caisse d’Epargne de Bourgogne Franche-Comté


Agence nationale pour la formation professionnelle des adultes (AFPA)


La Companie Agricole Investissement


Max Plus Group


COOLOC


BBW


Fullwood limited


Lamoure Rivals

Co-headed by Bérangère Rivals, an expert in restructuring disputes, and Lionel Lamoure, a specialist in underperforming LBOs and distressed M&A, the insolvency practice at boutique firm Lamoure Rivals is continuously expanding its presence in the market. The practice offers support to a diverse client base across a spectrum of matters, including recent cases involving financial restructurings, distressed M&A acquisitions, as well as conciliation and insolvency proceedings. It covers all aspects of the amicable and judicial phases of managing distressed companies, serving debtor companies, shareholders, investment funds, financial investors, prospective buyers, and creditors, currently on a trajectory of ongoing growth in the market.

Practice head(s):

Bérangère Rivals; Lionel Lamoure


Testimonials

‘The Lamoure Rivals team is one of the best restructuring teams on the French market.’

‘Excellent technical skills and extensive experience in the distressed business sector and procedures in such situations. Beyond these qualities, what differentiates this firm from other firms is their tactical intelligence, their ability to analyse files not on a purely technical aspect but also to have an analysis of the situation.’

‘Beyond his technical skills and tactical intelligence, Lionel Lamoure demonstrated great availability and responsiveness.’

Key clients

123 Investment Managers


Alpiq


Andera Partners


BPI


Blue Horizon Ventures


Citibank Europe Plc


Covivio Hotels


Credit Mutuel Factoring


Credit Mutuel Equity


Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (CA-CIB)


Factofrance


Equitis Gestion


Financière Fonds Privés


FNB Private Equity


Gecina


SIIS Développement


Gimv


Idico (ex Omnes)


Idex Group


La Mondiale


Valade


La Vie Saine


Oxygen Phone


Weinberg Capital Partners


STEF


Work highlights


  • Advising an industrial group, a French leader of decarbonise heating, in its financial, operational, and capital restructuring.
  • Advising a factoring company in the restructuring of the operational financing (exceeding €200m) of Groupe Casino.
  • Advising a PE Fund in its acquisition of a majority stake in a French coffee production and distribution company, within a distressed M&A process involving the carveout of group Ohayon galaxy’s company.

Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright's restructuring and insolvency practice offers comprehensive guidance on financial restructuring and insolvency matters, including cross-border cases and international arbitration disputes. Led by Philippe Hameau, a veteran with over 30 years of experience in litigation, the team brings a wealth of expertise from its leading partners. They have recently advised clients across diverse sectors, such as manufacturing, commodities, finance, and retail.

Practice head(s):

Philippe Hameau


Other key lawyers:

Alexandre Roth; Guillaume Rudelle


Testimonials

‘Good quality of work and an excellent practice.’

Key clients

Fibre Excellence


GFG Alliance


HELIOT Europe


Société Générale


Work highlights


  • Advising Paper Excellence and its subsidiary, Fibre Excellence, in the context of Fibre Excellence’s restructuring.
  • Representing and assisting GFG Alliance as part of the difficulties it faced in France as a result of the bankruptcy of Greensill.
  • Advising HELIOT Group as part of its bid to takeover part of the activities of the French insolvent IT company Sigfox.

Orrick

Since April 2023, Orrick's restructuring and insolvency practice witnessed significant growth, due to the addition of practice leader Aurélien Loric, formerly with Eversheds Sutherland (France) LLP. Loric's arrival revitalised the practice, reaffirming its capabilities in this domain. Bolstered by a global network, the team serves as the preferred legal counsel for clients dealing with distressed situations, leveraging its expertise in highly regulated industry sectors, such as financial services and private equity. Notable expertise is also provided by Francois Wyon, who advises stakeholders in both amicable and judicial contexts.

Practice head(s):

Aurélien Loric


Other key lawyers:

François Wyon


Testimonials

‘Professionalism, true understanding of the subjects, technicality and agility.’

‘Aurélien Loric is fast, professional and a good leader. François Wyon is professional and trustworthy.’ 

‘Great ability to understand and adapt to complex contexts.’ 

‘A cohesive and tight restructuring team, which is among the most reliable on the market.’

‘Aurélien Loric has perfect mastery of constraints and financial issues.’

‘François Wyon is very good at understanding the situation and the objectives pursued by the different classes of affected parties. Very high availability and ability to reassure clients.’

‘The team is united and proactive.’

Key clients

Alcentra


Anchorage Capital Group


Attestor Limited


Boussard et Gavaudan


Carmignac


Davidson Kempner


DIIS Group


DNCA


Ecofi


Eiffel Investment Group


Fidera


Financière Arbevel


Schelcher Prince Gestion


Zencap Asset Management


Work highlights


  • Advised Alcentra and Fidera as part of an investor group (including Atream) in the implementation of a September 2022 agreement (originating from a March 2022 agreement) with Pierre et Vacances.
  • Advising a steering committee consisting of five French and foreign financial institutions that coordinates over fifty creditors (comprising domestic and foreign par lenders, as well as hedge funds) with a collective unsecured debt of approximately €2 billion in the financial restructuring of Orpea S.A., a prominent player in the nursing home sector in France and Europe.
  • Advising a group of secured creditors including Attestor Limited and Davidson Kempner, in the financial restructuring of Casino Group, a leading food retailer, with more than 11,500 stores worldwide across France and Latin America.

Osborne Clarke

Osborne Clarke's restructuring and insolvency practice has steadily expanded its presence, engaging in counselling and litigation, representing a diverse client base that includes debtors, shareholders, creditors, buyers, and insolvency practitioners. Under the leadership of Nassim Ghalimi, the team collaborates closely with the firm’s corporate and M&A division. Its advisory role in cross-border cases underscores the team's evolving expertise in the restructuring and insolvency practice.

Practice head(s):

Nassim Ghalimi


Other key lawyers:

Paul Lafuste


Testimonials

‘One of the best teams on the market in terms of technical expertise in collective procedures.’

‘Osborne Clarke’s strengths lie in his extensive knowledge of the sector and specific practices relating to companies in difficulty.’

‘Nassim Ghalimi excels through his skills as a communicator and through his knowledge of the sector.

‘Responsiveness, quality of advice, precise follow-up of files, compliance with deadlines and operational support in business crisis situations.’

‘Availability, responsiveness, creativity and dynamism.’

Key clients

Arcole


ZF PWK Mecacentre


Entreprise Générale Léon Grosse


Sunrise SA


A PLUS FINANCE|TRAIL SOLUTIONS PATRIMOINE


PIPM


Selarl El Baze Charpentier


SNCF Retail & Connexions / SNCF Gares & Connexions


DIM France SAS


GROUPE TRANSATLANTIC HOLDING


Educ-Up


CD&B


Helzear Exploitation


Webforce 3


Work highlights


  • Advised Arcole (a French turnaround fund), on the acquisition of Allimand as part of safeguard proceedings with classes of creditors, by means of a cross-class cram-down (one of the first cases in France where this mechanism has been applied).
  • Advised Mecacentre, the French subsidiary of one of the world’s leading automotive suppliers, in its difficulties. Court-ordered receivership opened by the Saint-Etienne Commercial Court on July 7, 2023.
  • Advised Entreprise Générale Léon Grosse in its takeover of the assets and activities of Rinaldi Structal, a company in receivership (takeover approved by the Lyon Commercial Court).

Rescue Law

Led by Serge Pelletier, the insolvency practice at Rescue Law provides multifaceted solutions, catering to a diverse client base that encompasses small and mid-cap companies, ETIs, receivers, and investment funds. The team, bolstered by the valuable input of professionals such as Sollenn de Corta, offers comprehensive support to clients, both domestically and internationally. Notably, the practice is noted for its expertise in real estate litigation, further strengthening the firm’s dedication to delivering all-encompassing legal services.

Practice head(s):

Serge Pelletier


Other key lawyers:

Sollenn de Corta


Testimonials

‘Serious, responsive and attentive.’

‘A team that is both cutting-edge, technically, and very human. Good contacts in commercial courts, which is extremely appreciated.’ 

‘Savvy restructuring professionals.’ 

Key clients

B&B Hôtels SAS


DxO Labs


Maud Dermo Esthetique


Perry Process Equipment ltd


Groupe SFPI


E-b-trans


Hôtel du Lion


Groupe Malvaux


SA des anciens Ets Lucien Demeyere


Fédération Française de Cyclisme


Virtual Time


Prêt à pousser


Création Bois Construction


Prêt à Pousser


Marbotic


Groupe Tech’net


Hôtel de Trémoille (JJW group)


SAS Modetrotter


Urbismart


Work highlights


  • Advising the shareholder of a furniture manufacturer (a French century-old family business, which employs 750 employees) with its safeguard and safeguard exit proceedings.
  • Advising a French agritech company promoting agriculture that respects the environment and preserves the health of workers, on the implementation of its conciliation.
  • Defending the interests of the managers in the action “en comblement de passif” (“a liability claim for a shortfall in assets”) of a private sales website specialising in branded clothing, shoes and accessories.

Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons' restructuring and insolvency practice offers strategic counsel to mid and large-cap international companies, entrepreneurs, investors, and institutions. Their expertise covers both transactional and litigation proceedings, with a significant emphasis on cross-border matters and specialised French situations, small ecosystems, and related entities. The practice is under the leadership of Sandra Esquiva-Hesse, a dual-qualified practitioner admitted to the New York and Paris bars. Over the past year, the team has been actively engaged in various industries, including banking, real estate, and pharmaceuticals, leading to the recent expansion with the appointment of two new associates, Maxence Boucher and Aya Lemseffer.

Practice head(s):

Sandra Esquiva-Hesse


Other key lawyers:

Maxence Boucher; Aya Lemseffer


Testimonials

‘The team, headed by Sandra Esquiva-Hesse, stands out in its technicity, strong workforce and modern position.’

Stephenson Harwood

Under the leadership of Alexandre Koenig, who was promoted to partner in May 2023, the restructuring and insolvency practice at Stephenson Harwood closely collaborates with all departments in the Paris office. It brings together specialists in distressed company law and is backed by experts in financing, corporate law, litigation, and employment law. This multidisciplinary approach ensures smooth handling of complex cases, helping clients prevent and resolve disputes related to corporate challenges and insolvency proceedings. The practice’s versatility allows them to tackle both high-stakes, large-scale mandates and mid-cap cases, both domestically and internationally, with support from the firm’s global practice.

Practice head(s):

Alexandre Koenig


Testimonials

‘The team is very competent and responsive. Alexandre Koenig uses creativity to achieve client goals. He is also flexible and knows how to adapt to the client’s budget and constraints.’ 

‘The team led by Alexandre Koenig is of very high quality. They were efficient, proactive, very available and gave us very good advice throughout the process of responding to our offer to buy out a company in collective proceedings. They have done remarkable work in building a relationship of trust with all the stakeholders in the file.’ 

‘We worked directly with Alexandre Koenig and his team. Alexandre managed our file and our response with great intelligence and personal investment. He is diplomatic, knows how to find the key success factors and highlight them.’

‘A team that knows how to work in a network and has great expertise and experience.’

‘Extremely responsive and creative team, able to work alongside French or foreign clients and effective in presenting the French particularities of takeovers of companies in difficulty in France.’

‘Alexandre Koenig is a stand-out expert who adds value beyond legal advice. He is able to achieve results through this detailed knowledge of the intricacies of the law and his network together with his charming, disarming manner and ability to engineer innovative solutions. ’

‘The team is distinguished by its in-depth expertise in specific areas of law, which allows it to provide high quality legal advice in these areas. The lawyers on the team work closely with each other, which promotes a continuous exchange of ideas and knowledge, beneficial to clients.’ 

‘Alexandre Koenig’s remarkable performance in terms of legal advice, the quality of his drafting of documents, as well as his ability to represent our interests in an exemplary manner are aspects which deserve to be praised.’ 

Key clients

Circet


Transportation Partners


iWire


Teak Capital


Foliateam


Scopelec Energies Services


ILCI Business School


Work highlights


  • Advising Circet as part of its takeover of most of the activities of the Scopelec Group, the largest cooperative group in France, out of French receivership proceedings, in one of the largest judicial restructuring deals of 2022/2023 in France.
  • Advising Transportation Partners in connection with the restructuring of the Indonesian airline group Lion Air, which involved 200 aircraft and 50 lessor groups in the context of the insolvency proceedings of multiple French SPVs dedicated to the management of the Lion Air Group’s aircraft fleet.
  • Advising Teak Capital, a privately held industrial investment portfolio in the Asia Pacific and LATAM regions, in the context of the development of its European and French development strategies, notably through its bid to take over the business of French industrial company CHAINES ET ROUES DENTEES RAFER out of French receivership proceedings.

Taylor Wessing

Taylor Wessing's insolvency practice, led by Kristell Cattani and supported by key contacts such as Slougui Inès, specialises in guiding companies through preventive measures, including conciliation, ad hoc mandates, and judicial safeguards, while also providing crucial support during restructuring processes, including receivership and judicial liquidation. Their services encompass aiding businesses in search of restructuring solutions, assisting managers navigating individual sanctions, and facilitating asset acquisitions within collective proceedings. With a diverse client base spanning SMEs to major corporations across industries such as food, transport, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and hospitality, their expertise caters to a wide range of clients.

Practice head(s):

Kristell Cattani


Other key lawyers:

Slougui Inès


UGGC Avocats

UGGC Avocats provide valuable support to distressed companies, shareholders, directors, creditors, and insolvency practitioners across various scenarios, including reorganisation, acquisitions, and legal proceedings. Co-headed by Thierry Montéran and Marine Simonnot, the team’s international practice is a vital component of its work, bolstered by its affiliation with Interlaw, which enables them to effectively handle cross-border insolvency and disputes. The practice's client base attests to its expertise in handling insolvency cases.

Practice head(s):

Thierry Montéran; Marine Simonnot


Testimonials

‘The team is multidisciplinary, allowing an optimised and comprehensive approach to subjects. The quality of the advice and the dynamism of the speakers are valuable assets. Throughout the process, suggestions are made to enrich the treatment of the subjects submitted to study, including innovative approaches in certain cases.’

‘Marine Simonnot is undoubtedly a brilliant lawyer, both in terms of skills and permanent enthusiasm.’

‘The team has excellent and knowledge of management of litigation in the French courts arising in connection with cross-border insolvency issues. The team is accessible and user-friendly, providing clear and practical advice. ’

Key clients

Armoric Holding


Foxlease


Trowers and Hamlins


KW-Kranwerke GmbH


GetJet Airlines UAB


Petro-Chem


Fédération Nationale du Bois


Baronnie-Langet in his capacity of representative of AOM Air Liberté


Concept 4


Philippe Denavit


Nouvelles Rives


Jean-Pierre Véron


Veil Jourde

Headed by Eugénie Amri, the insolvency practice at Veil Jourde assists a client base consisting of debtors facing financial difficulties, managers, shareholders, investors, and creditors, in all business sectors, covering a broad range of restructuring mandates. The team’s work includes amicable and confidential proceedings, financial restructurings, collective proceedings, and related litigation, regularly working alongside the M&A and finance departments to provide the expertise and specialist skills needed to effectively manage cases.

Practice head(s):

Eugénie Amri


Testimonials

‘Eugénie Amri demonstrated exceptional professionalism through her availability, the clarity of her reports, and the relevance of her advice. Even in difficult situations, occasional for us and habitual for her, she remains very calm, calm in her judgments and recommendations, without unnecessary catastrophising but by proportionally alerting her clients of the risks involved.’

‘Professional, efficient and attentive to clients. One of the best teams of lawyers in business restructuring.’

‘Tight and a very dynamic team.’

‘Pragmatic and efficient solutions of the highest quality. They are an extremely professional and reactive team, guiding us at all times.’

‘Eugénie Amri possesses exceptional expertise. Her knowledge is impressive, and in addition to the solution-oriented advice, the quality of the results is outstanding.’

‘The team is always available, always adapt to our situations and do not hesitate to go the extra mile.’

‘Eugénie Amri is professional. She follows the files very closely and her opinions and advice are always relevant.’

Key clients

San Marina


Yano Group


Région Réunion and Sematra


France Cacao


Coiffure de la Madeleine


Numsight Consulting France


Lagardère Média


Alpine Aluminium


Work highlights


  • Advised SAN MARINA regarding the opening and conduct of its reorganisation proceedings and its judicial liquidation proceedings.
  • Advised the Région Réunion and SEMATRA, the reference shareholder of Air Austral, in the shareholding and financial restructuring of Air Austral and the arrival of new investors.
  • Advising YANO GROUP, a Japanese industrial group, on its investment in Titan Aviation and Groupe Pourprix, those two French companies being under reorganisation proceedings.

Vivien & Associés

The restructuring and insolvency department at Vivien & Associés is recognised for its robust international client portfolio, catering to small-cap, mid-cap, and large companies. Led by Laurent Assaya, a seasoned professional with expertise in pre-insolvency and formal insolvency proceedings, particularly in the corporate realm, the team maintains regular collaborations with investment and hedge funds, and proficiently manages insolvency-related litigation.

Practice head(s):

Laurent Assaya


Testimonials

‘Efficiency, availability, quality of the relationship, very good understanding of the files and strong technical skills.’

‘Smart, fast and good people.’

‘Laurent Assaya and his colleagues are very business-oriented and quickly understand the challenges of their clients. We particularly appreciated their pragmatic approach to the file, the relevance of their advice and their responsiveness and availability in their support.’

‘Close-knit team with real availability, including on high-profile or smaller files.’

Key clients

3DS Dassault Systèmes


BVA


Charles River Laboratories


Cladrius


Cyrus Capital Partners


Electrolux


InVivo


Nexity


Schlumberger


Yara


Work highlights


  • Advised 3DS in connection with the acquisition of the Innova Regtech Solution under a sale plan before the commercial court of Paris.
  • Advised the InVivo group with the reorganisation of the fast-food activities carried out under the “Pomme de Pain” brand, structured under conciliation proceedings before the commercial court of Créteil.
  • Advised Hanse Yachts AG in connection with the sale of 100% of the share capital and voting rights of Privilège Marine SAS, under conciliation proceedings.

VOLT Associés

Mobilising a multidisciplinary team, VOLT Associés’ restructuring and insolvency practice provides assistance to clients in small and mid-cap restructurings. Its services encompass turnaround strategies, distressed debt restructurings, the securing of DIP financings, and the execution of takeover projects involving distressed companies, as well as handling disputes related to bankruptcy proceedings. Led by Alexis Rapp, the team extends their support to a broad client base that includes banks, investment funds, corporates, managers, and shareholders, particularly within the context of bankruptcy proceedings.

Practice head(s):

Alexis Rapp


Testimonials

‘Alexis Rapp is an excellent lawyer in his field. An educator, responsive and very committed. It’s a pleasure to work with him.’

‘Alexis Rapp leads a technical, available, business-oriented and intelligent team. The team stands out through its keen listening and total attention to the customer, who is often disoriented in difficult situations.’

‘Alexis Rapp is precise, intelligent and caring with his clients, he has exceptional results in managing complex situations. Strategic and technical, Alexis Rapp is a high-quality lawyer.’

Key clients

CLUBFUNDING


AEW


F&A ASSET MANAGEMENT


C4 VENTURES


AUCHAN GROUP


GROUPE CRÉDIT MUTUEL-CIC


SCOR


NOE INDUSTRIES