Filip & Company > Bucharest, Romania > Firm Profile
Filip & Company Offices
EQULIBRIUM BUILDING, 2 GARA HERASTRAU
2ND DISTRICT
020334
Romania
Filip & Company > The Legal 500 Rankings
Romania > Banking and finance Tier 1
Filip & Company is a highly regarded firm in the financial space in Romania, and is recognised for its solid track record in representing major domestic banks and investment companies. Multijurisdictional matters are a core area of strength for the team. Practice head Alina Stancu Bîrsan has extensive experience handling transactions, refinancing matters, and regulatory issues for banks. Founding partner Alexandru Bîrsan focuses on capital markets-related matters. Alexandra Manciulea stands out as 'one of the foremost structured finance professionals on the market'. Rebecca Marina and Camelia Iantuc are key names in the group.Practice head(s):
Alina Stancu Birsan
Other key lawyers:
Alexandru Birsan; Alexandra Manciulea; Camelia Ianțuc; Rebecca Marina
Testimonials
‘Substantial and consistent partner time allocation. High availability, excellent service level and timely deliverables.’
‘Alexandra Manciulea is one of the foremost structured finance professionals on the market, with exemplary reputation within the lending environment. She has impeccable technical skillset, also doubled by strong negotiation capabilities.’
‘A very well skilled professional team with a wide exposure to different transactions. Plus a lot of flexibility to customer’s needs.’
‘Alina Stancu Birsan and Rebecca Marina – very good theoretical preparation doubled by an excellent practical exposure to different cases. A remarkable understanding of the customer’s needs and an ongoing readiness to ever changing demands from customers. Also, an incredible anticipation of the expectations from customers and, thus, there are always available well tailored contingency scenarios.’
‘Filip & Company is one of the best-known consulting teams in the Romanian banking and finance consulting market. They have always proven to be an honest, experienced and results-oriented partner, regardless of which side of the table they are.’
‘Alina Stancu, Rebecca Marina, Alexandra Manciulea and Camelia Iantuc consistently demonstrated to us that a lawyer is more than a consultant, they are a deal maker, if you choose your lawyers wisely.’
‘Very knowledgeable of the banking sector.’
‘A team of professionals always prepared with the best counsel.’
Key clients
RCS&RDS S.A./ DIGI Communications N.V.
Romanian Ministry of Public Finance
One United Properties
Banca Transilvania S.A.
Banca Comerciala Romana
Raiffeisen Bank S.A.
Raiffeisen Digital Bank AG
Raiffeisen Bank International AG
Holde Agri Invest
UniCredit Bank S.A.
Oresa Limited
Magnet Developments
Alpha Bank
Credit Europe Bank S.A.
Abris Capital Partners
eMAG/ Dante International
Romanian Business Consult
Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A.
Piraeus Bank SA
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB
ING Bank NV Amsterdam, Bucharest Branch
Victoriabank S.A.
Work highlights
- Assisted Digi Group with four international financings.
- Advised Holde Agri Invest on a club loan granted by Banca Transilvania and OTP Bank worth over €33m.
Romania > Capital markets Tier 1
The ‘incredibly smart and commercial‘ capital markets team at Filip & Company is very highly regarded in the Romanian market. The group has an excellent track record in acting on a number of the most complex, high-value domestic and international transactions in the space. Led by Alexandru Bîrsan, who stands out as ‘a legend of Romanian capital markets', the practice's offering includes IPOs, bond issuances and share capital increases. Olga Niță is 'very hard working and intelligent'. Roxana Diaconu and Anca Badescu are key names to note.Practice head(s):
Alexandru Bîrsan
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Their practice is unique in the market due to the capabilities of the partners and their approach to both topics and clients. They tend to take an integrated view of the issues, not only legal, but also business-related perspective, understand the context and suggest innovative solutions. I would say innovation in their case comes from the way they approach the topics, they structure their advice, as well as in testing the limits of regulation and interpreting norms in the client advantage.’
‘The individuals I work with really stand out – Alexandru Birsan, especially. I can undeniably say that his approach is different: solution-oriented, effective, thorough, with attention to details and the business context of the client. He takes time to really understand issues and comes up with tailor-made solutions which prove his knowledge, but also his very intelligent and empathic way of looking at different cases and/or company situations.’
‘The best capital markets team for entrepreneurial companies – quick, precise, innovative, with many years of experience across different sectors and many transactions. Always eager to assist in unique and new transactions. Always looking out for the best interest of the client, proactive when needed but never pushy. Very professional and always pleasure to engage.’
‘Alex Birsan who is an exceptional lawyer and capital markets expert managed to build a remarkable team of lawyers in his capital markets practice, team that truly reflects on the values he promises to clients and always delivers. Together with Olga Nita and Anca Badescu are the go-to team for any company that wants to go public or is already listed but is willing to step up its legal game.’
‘They are quite simply the best team in town. Incredibly smart and commercial, always “on”, super fast delivery and great fun to work with. The team is super strong across the board, which is rare among law firms. Their advice is both technically perfect and commercially astute and they always see the big picture.’
‘Alex Birsan is the main partner and, even though relatively young, is a legend of Romanian capital markets. He has seen it all before, is unflappable and has a great sense of humour. He is very creative, a true problem solver and is always very involved.’
‘Olga Nita is a young up and coming partner, very hard working, intelligent and technically sophisticated.’
‘Very large and well resourced practice. Extremely professional, Highly dependable.’
Key clients
RCS&RDS S.A./ DIGI Communications N.V.
Fondul Proprietatea S.A.
Banca Transilvania
Romanian Ministry of Finance
One United Properties
Roca Investments
Impetum Group
Austriacard Holdings AG
2Performant
Holde Agri Invest
Abris Capital Partners
Electrica S.A.
eMAG
Piraeus Bank SA
ADREM Corporate S.R.L.
Work highlights
- Advising Banca Translivania on the issuance of €600m preferred non-eligible bonds and €200m Tier 2 bonds issued under the bank’s EMTN programme in 2023.
- Assisting One United Properties with a share capital increase operation and subsequent admission to trading on the Bucharest Stock Exchange.
Romania > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Filip & Company is ‘the ideal partner for any M&A transaction in the Romanian market and beyond’. The practice has an excellent track record in acting for major investors and companies with operations in Romania, and is equally strong in assisting investment funds with major transactions. Practice head Alexandru Bîrsan is well versed in advising on landmark transactions. Other key practitioners to note include Monica Statescu, who has experience in advising on privatisations; Alina Stancu Bîrsan, who advises on M&A deals pertaining to projects; and Cristina Filip, who is singled out her expertise in the energy sector. Eliza Baias, Olga Niță, Roxana Diaconu and Andreea Bănică are other names to note.Practice head(s):
Alexandru Bîrsan
Other key lawyers:
Cristina Filip; Alina Stancu Bîrsan; Monica Stătescu; Olga Niță; Eliza Baias; Roxana Diaconu; Andreea Bănică; Simona Ungureanu; Anca Badescu
Testimonials
‘Monica Statescu is extremely well prepared and is able to stand her ground in difficult negotiations. Great understanding of all concepts, mechanics and their real impact on the transaction and business.’
‘Filip &Co. has exceptional M&A lawyers who are going beyond legal technicalities; they are strategic thinkers. They have a keen ability to identify opportunities and risks within a deal, offering clients valuable insights on how to maximize value and mitigate potential challenges.’
‘The Filip & Company team is the ideal partner for any M&A transaction in the Romanian market and beyond. Their practice in this area is prodigious and they have always managed to use this asset to turn a potential deal into a successful transaction. Their ability to understand the legal and commercial specifics of each transaction and to offer fair solutions in any situation has brought us the best value that money can buy in the long history of our collaboration. Deal makers, that’s what they are!’
‘We have found Filip&Co to be an experienced team of professionals with great knowledge of the energy sector. A dynamic company always ready to react and answer in a very active market that tests each day the capabilities of its actors. Committed to every request, no matter the importance, Filip & Co always acted as a partner one can count on.’
‘Filip and Company has great teams of lawyers which have always assisted us with high commitment. Cristina Filip is the one I would single out as a lawyer with good knowledge of the energy sector, highly experienced and very good discipline.’
‘They are without a doubt my go-to counsel for M&A and big-ticket corporate work. They are smart, commercial, responsive, inventive, good negotiators and good people. They always deliver and will pull us out of the toughest situations. Importantly, they are excellent across the board in their team. Also, even though they are not cheap, they are excellent value for money. I very much enjoy working with them and I think they are head and shoulders above their competition in M&A.’
‘Alexandru Birsan is, simply put, the smartest lawyer in the country. He is extremely knowledgeable, has razor-sharp brains, tough negotiator but always takes care of his clients and wants to push the deal across the line. Incredibly hands on for a partner of his seniority and reputation, very approachable and funny.’
‘Andreea Banica is smart, focused, very hard working, always willing to go the extra mile for the client and pleasant to work with. She always has a great command of both the file and the law.’
Key clients
Digi Communications N.V. and its Romanian subsidiary, RCS & RDS S.A.
TIRIAC Group
Puma Foundation
Tiriac International Foundation
Banca Transilvania S.A.
One United Properties S.A.
Fondul Proprietatea S.A.
Gedeon Richter plc
Alpha Bank S.A.
Promateris S.A.
Mozaik Investment GmbH
Dante International S.A. (eMAG)
Holde Agri Invest S.A. and its founders
Adrem Group
Teilor Holding S.A. and its subsidiaries
Total Soft S.A.
CEE Equity Partners
Holcim Romania S.A.
Magnet Developments
2Performant Network S.A.
Farmavet S.A. and Pasteur Filiala Filipesti S.A.
Auchan Romania S.A.
Alsendo Holdings S.À R.L.
Strauss Romania S.R.L.
BCR Fleet Management S.R.L.
EVERGENT INVESTMENTS S.A.
Kone Corporation
Renault Group
Medicover Group (ABC Medicover Holdings BV)
Smartree Romania SRL
Amber Studio S.A.
Pandora Jewelry S.R.L.
High Tech Engineering Center doo Beograd
Fullscreen Digital SRL
Vicentiu Zorzolan
Octavian Radu (TCE Group)
Zentiva S.A.
Aston Group
Sterling Global
Synergy
Copenhagen Infrastructure Fund
BayWa r.e.
Smyk All for Kids
Aggranda Solutions
Gheorghe Peltecu and Peltecu Medical S.R.L.
Credit Europe Bank
Work highlights
- Acting for Renault Group on the carve-out and sale of its combustion and hybrid engines, together with preliminary restructuring operations and subsequent reorganisation.
- Assisting RCS-RDS with the establishment by its subsidiary of a joint venture in Spain with Abrdn.
- Assisting Fondul Proprietatea with the sale of its minority shareholding in the Enel Romania Group.
Romania > Employment Tier 1
The employment team at Filip & Company takes a ‘holistic approach‘, addressing both the matter at hand and clients’ ‘long-term business objectives.’ It handles work for a range of multinational companies, taking on highly challenging projects involving employee negotiation, reorganisations, collective labour agreements, and labour disputes. The team is headed ‘with calm and dedication’ by Ioan Dumitrascu, a specialist in sensitive projects involving regulatory challenges. Cristina Tudoran, who made partner in January 2023, is a specialist in the employment impact of transfers. Razvan Ionescu and Bianca Chera are also recommended, specifically for their litigation work.Practice head(s):
Ioan Dumitraşcu
Other key lawyers:
Cristina Tudoran; Razvan Ionescu; Bianca Chera; Alexandru Moraru
Testimonials
‘We work with Ioan Dumitrascu and Razvan Ionescu. They are really great as a team, understanding client’s needs and pooling their knowledge and experience to provide comprehensive legal solutions.’
‘ The practice has a unique understanding and anticipation of its client’s needs and challenges.’
‘Cristina Tudoran is a very professional and dedicated lawyer. She easily understood the needs of our company and identified the most effective solutions obtaining the desired results.’
‘Ioan Dumitrascu leads his team with calm and dedication. His experience is visible while proposing different solutions. Bianca Chera is a very dedicated lawyer.’
‘ The practice has in-depth knowledge of the law and great ethics!’
‘Ioan Dumitrascu is a resourceful trusted advisor.’
‘They have a keen ability to see the bigger picture in complex employment cases, anticipating potential challenges and providing proactive guidance. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also supports clients’ long-term business objectives.’
‘The individuals from Filip & Company bring fresh perspectives and unwavering enthusiasm to every case. Their dedication to continuously staying updated with evolving legal trends ensures that their clients receive the most cutting-edge legal counsel.’
Key clients
PANDORA
TOTAL SOFT
L’OREAL
Zentiva
ARCTIC
KEYSIGHT (former IXIA)
The Versapak Group
British American Tobacco Trading Romania
Bristol Logistics S.A.
The Romanian Financial Supervisory Authority (ASF)
Hidroelectrica S.A.
British American Shared Services (Europe) S.R.L.
Work highlights
- Assisting British American Shared Services (Europe) S.R.L. on various employment-related aspects, including reviewing internal policies and providing specific advice during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Assisting Atos IT Solutions and Services SRL in various employment law matters, including managing the relationship with the relevant trade union, and providing assistance with collective negotiations.
- Advising MAGNAPHARM MARKETING&SALES ROMANIA SRL on complex labour law matters, including employment termination structures.
Romania > EU and competition Tier 1
Filip & Company‘s ‘very dynamic and innovative’ competition team has a solid track record in acting in major investigations in the Romanian market, and is regularly instructed by major domestic and multinational companies on day-to-day competition compliance matters, as well as handling merger control filings for large-scale M&A deals. The practice is led by Cătălin Suliman, who fields expertise in advising on competition matters within the telecoms sector, as well as handling unfair competition and state aid issues. Silviu Vasile garners praise for his ‘excellent analytical and research skills‘. Roxana Rosca and Tudor Dobinda are key names to note at associate level.Practice head(s):
Cătălin Suliman
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Unique understanding and anticipation of client’s needs and challenges, highest level of professionalism, proactive approach, excellent adapted solutions, swift and clear response, excellent/the best knowledge of the market and market trends.’
‘Filip & Company is one of our closest and most trusted partners. With exceptionally strong ability to offer well documented arguments and draw reasonable and logical assumptions from limited information, time and resource management skills, they make every client feel like a priority. Due to their outstanding work ethics and knowledgeable partners and associates, they stand out as a reliable and professional law firm.’
‘Silviu Vasile stood out. Throughout our collaboration, Silviu has showed excellent understanding of our business model, as well as excellent analytical and research skills. He is able to process large volumes of information quickly and formulate effective strategies. Silviu also has exceptional writing skills and is a gifted public speaker. Moreover, we highly appreciate his effectiveness in task management and his persuasive communication skills.’
‘Very dynamic, innovative, very well understanding the business and come with proactive and well explained solutions. Also the approach of the team members is unique – positive and constructive, good rate of availability.’
‘Filip & Company’s team is a very well prepared one, business oriented, proactive, open-minded. All the projects that were done with their support was a success due to the lawyers that work in this firm.’
‘All the lawyers that were involved in our projects proved to have extensive knowledge and are both a business partner and a guardian for our company.’
‘We have always appreciated the way they respond to our requests, the efficiency, the quality of legal assistance services, the proactivity, the trust that has been built and consolidated throughout this period.’
‘The lawyers are extremely rigorous, attentive to detail, analytical and have a full understanding of the specifics of our business and our goals.’
Key clients
Banca Comercială Română S.A.
BT Leasing
VIG Group (Omniasig, Asirom)
RCS & RDS
CIT One S.A.
Autonom Services SA
Zentiva (part of Sanofi Aventis Group)
Adidas
Tiriac Leasing
Banca Transilvania
Strauss Romania
One United Properties
Erste Group (and Erste Group entities BCR, BCR Leasing, BCR Fleet Management
Dataware consulting
Romania > TMT Tier 1
Filip & Company‘s TMT practice is praised for its ability to ‘simplify complex aspects and to propose easy to understand solutions‘, and regularly acts on behalf of major domestic and international telecoms companies. Its experience acting as longstanding advisor to lead Romanian telecoms provider RCS & RDS exemplifies the team's ability to combine telecoms and corporate expertise, providing a full-service offering across M&A, disputes and financing. Team head and founding partner Alexandru Bîrsan has crossover capital markets and IP experience; competition partner Cătălin Suliman often assists TMT clients and is recommended for his 'innovative solutions.' Cătălin Alexandru is the go-to for dispute resolution matters. Monica Statescu is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Alexandru Bîrsan
Other key lawyers:
Olga Nita; Monica Statescu; Cătălin Suliman; Cătălin Alexandru
Testimonials
‘We have been working with Filip & Company on various media and technology matters, and we were very satisfied with their approach and solutions to our problems. One key element which makes this team unique is their ability to simplify complex aspects and to propose easy to understand solutions in a very short period of time. Also, their less formalistic approach is very appreciated by our organisation. ’
‘We are working with Cătălin Suliman on technology and media issues related to our core activity in Romania. Cătălin knows the market very well and is able to provide innovative solutions to our problems. Also, Cătălin is very reliable in delivering the advice.’
Key clients
RCS&RDS S.A.
Digi Communications N.V.
Total Soft
Romanian Business Consult
2Perfomant
Inform Lykos
Globe Monnaie SRL
eMAG
Amber Studio S.A.
Abris Capital Partners
Dante International
Evergent Investments
Work highlights
- Assisting RCS & RDS S.A in a project aiming to finance the deployment by its subsidiary incorporated and operating in Spain of its network in certain municipalities in Spain by entering a partnership with abrdn.
- Assisted Amber Studio S.A. in a USD 20,000,000 equity financing from Emona Capital. We have assisted the Client in the preparation and negotiation of the subscription agreement and the shareholders’ agreement.
- Assisted Alsendo, owned by Abris Capital Partners, in the acquisition of Ecolet, a B2X logistics platform and market leader in parcel services in Romania and Bulgaria.
Romania > Dispute resolution Tier 2
The dispute resolution practice at Filip & Company has an excellent track record in handling a range of contentious matters and complex international arbitration cases. The team is well known for representing a number of clients from major Romanian industries. Cătălin Alexandru ‘stands out for his intelligence and tenacity‘; he co-heads the department with George Trantea, who excels in tax, public procurement, regulatory and commercial law disputes, and Cristina Tudoran, who made partner in January 2023. Liliana Dranca is well versed in administrative litigation.Practice head(s):
Cătălin Alexandru; George Trantea; Cristina Tudoran
Other key lawyers:
Răzvan Ionescu; Liliana Dranca; Irina Suatean; Adrian Cristea; Alin Grapă
Testimonials
‘Filip & Company’s dispute resolution practice is unique through the prism of lawyers that are very involved and passionate about every case they handle.’
‘What sets Filip & Company’s dispute resolution practice apart is their unwavering commitment to excellence and their deep understanding of the complexities surrounding dispute resolution. They approach each case with a combination of legal acumen and a keen strategic mindset, ensuring that they provide tailored solutions that truly meet their clients’ needs.’
‘Filip & Company dispute resolution practice stands out for dedication, intelligence and rigor.’
‘Cătălin Alexandru heads the dispute resolution department of Filip & Company. He stands out for his intelligence and tenacity, interest in details and technical aspects and, very important to us, the knowledge of the insurance field.’
‘Adrian Cristea stands out for his intelligence and vast experience in litigation (especially administrative disputes). He support us, always, in a prompt manner, being receptive to take all possible steps to obtain a favorable court decision.’
‘Catalin Alexandru and Irina Suatean showed great organizational skills, a pragmatic approach and top legal advice. The case was multi-jurisdictional and highly complex on so many levels. They navigated the client through all adversities while keeping their cool and finding a fast and successful solution to all problems.’
‘What I really appreciated about the Filip team was the deep involvement they had in the aspects for which I requested their legal assistance. At the same time, what made the collaboration with them complete was the relationship. I did not feel the classic rigidity of a large law firm, to feel that you are only talking to some specialists. Here I felt that I was talking to specialists who, beyond their professional skills, can be humane and open to a close relationship.’
‘Excellent knowledge of Romanian law and ability to apply it to international disputes in practice.’
Key clients
The Supervisory Financial Authority
COCA COLA HBC ROMANIA
ING Bank N.V. – Bucharest Branch
Kinetics Technology Spa
Dataware Consulting
Kandia
City Insurance
Bergenbier (Molson Coors Group)
Bleu Pharma
Ministry of Finance
Omniasig
Bricostore (Kingfisher Group)
KONE Ascensorul SA
Zentiva Group (several entities: Zentiva International AS Hlohovec Sucursala Bucuresti; Zentiva SA and Solacium Pharma
Asirom
Bayer
Color Smart Distribution
Next Energy Partners
RCS&RDS
Bristol Logistics
PANDORA JEWELLERY ROMANIA S.R.L.
BT Transilvania Leasing (member of Banca Transilvania group)
Hidroelectrica
FM Logistics
Watermota
Araderbio
PepsiCo
ADN Group
Farmavet
Pasteur Filiala Filipesti
One United Properties
BLITZ Group
Delfingen Transilvania
Prodplast S.A.
VP Brands International S.A.
Romanian-American Foundation
Super Slam Limited
Electrica S.A. and Electrica Serv S.A.
Citibank Plc Dublin
British American Tobacco Trading Romania
Strauss Romania
Medusa Hotel International S.R.L.
Arctic
Comtel Focus S.A.
Work highlights
- Representing the Romanian Ministry of Finance in ICSID arbitration proceedings concerning the acquisition and operation of the RAFO Rafinery.
Romania > Energy and natural resources Tier 2
The energy and natural resources team at Filip & Company has an ‘unparalleled blend of legal acumen and industry-specific expertise’ and works in collaboration with the firm’s real estate, M&A, finance, dispute resolution and competition teams to support clients across conventional and renewable energy mandates, including nuclear projects. Alina Stancu Bîrsan, team head, is noted for her ‘profound understanding of the energy sector, particularly in the realm of M&A transactions‘. Founding partner Cristina Filip has longstanding expertise in the energy sector, and remains ‘deeply involved in client relationships’.Practice head(s):
Alina Stancu Bîrsan
Other key lawyers:
Alexandru Birsan; Cristina Filip
Testimonials
‘Filip and Co is among the top legal firms in Romania with extensive experience in energy projects, real Estate and M&A. The team has excellent knowledge of the Romanian legal framework and the market. ’
‘Alina Birsan has a deep knowledge of both the law and the market conditions and can explain complex concepts in the most simple and articulate manner. Furthermore, she has always been a trusted and reliable partner even working under extreme time pressure.’
‘Filip & Co distinguishes itself through an unparalleled blend of legal acumen and industry-specific expertise, particularly in complex corporate matters. The firm’s team is not only technically proficient but also exceptionally agile, adapting to the ever-evolving legal landscape.’
‘Potential clients will find the firm’s strengths in strategic thinking and meticulous execution to be invaluable assets.’
‘Filip & Co consistently delivers results that exceed expectations, thanks to their commitment to excellence and a client-centric approach. Their track record of successful outcomes speaks volumes about their capabilities, making them a top-tier choice for any discerning client.’
‘Cristina Filip’s leadership style is a blend of strategic vision and hands-on involvement, ensuring that the firm stays ahead of industry trends while maintaining a high standard of client service.’
‘Alina Stancu Birsan brings to the table a profound understanding of the energy sector, particularly in the realm of M&A transactions.’
‘Alexandru Birsan’s meticulous attention to detail is invaluable in simplifying complex transactions in M&A and capital markets, thereby making them more manageable and understandable for clients.’
Key clients
RCS & RDS
RWE Supply & Trading
Tiriac Group
Hidroelectrica
Next Energy Partners S.R.L.
E-Power Holding S.A.
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Continental Wind Partners
Eximprod Group
BayWa r.e.
Engie
Fondul Proprietatea
Synergy Construct S.R.L.
Promateris S.A.
Work highlights
- Assisted Fondul Proprietatea in the sale of its minority shareholdings in several companies associated with the Enel group in the context of Enel’s sale of its business in Romania.
- Frequently representing Hidroelectrica in various disputes.
- Assisting Next Energy Partners with several disputes against major market players arising out of power sale-purchase agreements (including EFET format contracts).
Romania > Restructuring and insolvency Tier 2
Filip & Company is perhaps best known for its extensive expertise in financial restructuring matters, often pertaining to multiple high-value transactions in the Romanian market. Cross-border mandates are also prominent in the team's workload. Ioan Dumitrascu heads up the practice, in which litigation expert Catalin Alexandru and the 'true professional' Razvan Ionescu are key contacts.Practice head(s):
Ioan Dumitrascu
Other key lawyers:
Alina Stancu Birsan; Catalin Alexandru; Razvan Ionescu; Camelia Iantuc; Rebecca Marina
Testimonials
‘We appreciate the speed and scope of the applied analyses. Rapid understanding of the client’s profile and its objectives and their reflection in the proposed solutions.’
‘Razvan Ionescu – Creativity and innovation, maximum seriousness, humanity.’
‘Collaboration with Filip & Company in matters related to insolvency is as good as possible. Their team is competent with a high level of professionalism in legal matters.’
‘Razvan Ionescu – true professional, efficient and focused.’
‘A highly respected, dynamic and professional team with excellent knowledge in the field, that offers solutions and understands the most complex legal issues.’
‘The firm offers an exceptional quality of work, with an admirable team of lawyers displaying in-depth knowledge in the specific field of insolvency.’
‘Team members are dedicated, efficient and respond very well to requests.’
‘We had and continue to have a very good collaboration with Razvan Ionescu during the last 11 years in complex legal situations.’
Key clients
Tiriac Group
Raiffeisen Bank S.A. and ING Bank N.V. Amsterdam, Bucharest Branch
Work highlights
- Assisting Tiriac Group with a group consolidation at the level of its local insurance and pension business.
- Assisting Raiffeisen Bank S.A. and ING Bank with the refinancing of the leveraged buyout of La Fantana S.R.L.
Romania > PPP and procurement Tier 3
Combining the firm’s strength in real estate, energy and dispute resolution, the projects team at Filip & Company has expertise spanning construction, transport, energy, automotives and pharmaceuticals. It regularly works with international law firms to support their Romania-based projects work, advising local and international companies, project developers and investment funds. Ioana Roman heads the projects offering, alongside heading the real estate department, and has particular experience in advising energy companies. Co-head of the offering George Trantea is particularly strong in dispute resolution.Practice head(s):
Ioana Roman; George Trantea
Other key lawyers:
Alina Stancu Birsan
Testimonials
‘The team is solution-oriented, providing clear and brief legal opinions and advice. ’
‘The team is formed of members who respond promptly, with empathy and find effective solutions in a short time’
Key clients
Porsche Romania S.R.L.
Synergy Construct S.R.L.
APPLUS Group
Synevo Romania S.R.L.
DANTE International (operator of EMAG marketplace)
DATAWARE Consulting
BayWa r.e.
Continental Wind Partners
Societatea Nationala Nuclearelectrica S.A.
RWE
WDP Romania
Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
Work highlights
- Advising APPLUS on a complex procurement procedure valued at EUR 230m initiated by an leader in the nuclear field.
- Advising DATAWARE on challenges against the Competition Council and its implications in the public procurement procedures in which the client participates.
- Advising the companies from the Medicover/Synevo Group, one of the largest medical services and laboratories in Romania with various public procurement issues.
Romania > Real estate and construction Tier 3
Filip & Company's real estate team provides a legal service that is described as ‘excellent’. The unit assists with land acquisitions, financing arrangements, development, and project management. It works collaboratively with the firm’s substantial corporate, finance, and regulatory lawyers to deliver an integrated service for clients, including high-profile, international companies, in their cross-border transactions. Ioana Roman, lauded as ‘by far the best professional in Romania in real estate legal issues‘, heads the team; she is equipped to handle regulatory matters connected with real estate development and renewable energy projects.Practice head(s):
Ioana Roman
Other key lawyers:
Mihaela Ispas; Alexandra Zastavnețchi
Testimonials
‘The team’s level of know-how, quality, professionalism and understanding of the clients’ need remains exceptional.’
‘Ioana Roman is both an exceptional lawyer and person. The way she involves herself in the client’s problems is outstanding. She provides very clear, profound, transparent and solution-orientated advice and she encourages her team to do likewise.’
‘The legal service provided by the Filip & Company real estate team is excellent both in terms of industry knowledge and responsiveness, their lawyers operate to the highest professional standards and are deeply committed to their projects. ’
‘In my opinion, Ioana Roman is one of the top real estate lawyers in Romania. She puts together an outstanding team of experienced and fully motivated lawyers who truly understand the industry.’
‘Filip and Co is among the top legal firms in Romania with extensive experience in energy projects, real estate and M&A. The team has excellent knowledge of the Romanian legal framework and the market.’
‘Ioana Roman has always been a trusted and reliable partner providing her legal advice practically and coherently.’
‘Ioana Roman is by far the best professional in Romania in real estate legal issues. She is not only a great technical expert but also an amazing negotiator and project manager.’
‘We love working with Mihaela Ispas, who stands out through her prompt, hands-on approach and spot-on answers.’
Key clients
RCS & RDS
BayWa r.e.
Holcim (Romania)
Alesonor/ Magnet Developments
Auchan Romania
Nestle Romania
PPLI Group/ Veranda Obor
Kingfisher PLC/ Bricostore Romania
Real Hyper Magazine/ Remarkt Magazine
Tiriac Group/ Tiriac Holdings
Securitas
Sof Medica Group / MedCity
Banca Transilvania
Dreistein Holding
Kameran Financial Limited (Vladimir Cohn)
Crucea Wind Farm (part of Hidroelectrica)
Coöperatieve Rabobank U.A.
Pandora Jewellery
Total Soft S.A.
Bookster Experience S.R.L.
Work highlights
- Advised Magnet Developments on the development of the Amber Forest residential project just outside Bucharest.
- Offered comprehensive legal assistance to Kingfisher PLC, the prominent British group and one of the largest European DIY chains.
- Assisting Auchan Romania S.A. with general real estate matters and specific leasing, regulatory and construction matters that result from the client’s day-to-day operations.
Filip & Company > Firm Profile
The firm: Filip & Company is a full-service business law firm, ranked in the first tier of top-quality legal services providers in Romania.
Filip & Company’s team of lawyers exercise commanding professional expertise in their areas of specialisation, blending deep knowledge and the understanding of Romanian law and jurisprudence with the wealth of experience accumulated in mandates covering the majority of innovative, complex and large transactions and projects in the Romanian market over more than 20 years.
Areas of practice: Filip & Company provides a comprehensive range of legal services. Its key practice areas are: mergers and acquisitions, general corporate, real estate, energy, projects, finance (which includes capital markets and banking), EU law and competition, commercial, labour, data protection, TMT and dispute resolution.
M&A/corporate: The M&A and corporate team unites lawyers who have had major roles in the majority of the top M&A transactions of the past ten years. The team’s experience includes: private and public M&A, private equity transactions, privatisations, restructurings, mergers, spin-offs, creating and implementing management structures, financial assistance, corporate governance matters, compliance by public companies with listing rules, disclosure obligations and special approvals, structuring of different classes of shares and specialist advice on other complex matters.
Real estate: The real estate practice specialises in highly complex projects where multi-sectorial experience, in-depth knowledge of the real estate specificities and the ability to manage multiple legal work-streams simultaneously are essential. The real estate team has the ability and experience to cover all legal services ancillary to real estate business, from land acquisitions, financing of real estate projects, development and project management, construction contracts and lease agreements to the most complex of exit transactions.
Energy: The energy team assembles a wealth of experience and a background in both Romanian and international work, which is very difficult to match in Romania, in areas such as: development of new projects, acquisitions of energy companies, privatisations of the major Romanian energy companies and financing schemes for the energy sector.
Competition: The competition team has wide-ranging experience in both antitrust and state aid matters, having assisted in some of the landmark competition cases in Romania.
Commercial: The commercial team regularly advises on complex commercial agreements, concessions and public procurement.
Capital markets: The capital markets team has extensive experience in complex capital markets transactions, both domestic and international, including domestic and international IPOs, high-yield bonds, convertible bonds, structured finance and complex derivatives advice.
Projects: The projects team is familiar with complex project financing structures and has been involved in a wide variety of projects from nuclear and renewables to motorways and mining.
Labour: The labour practice regularly advises on complex matters from reorganisations and collective lay-offs to management packages and employee incentivisation.
Dispute resolution: The dispute resolution team is skilled in complex litigation, international arbitration, tax, competition, labour, fraud and regulatory disputes, complex settlements and pre-dispute situations.
TMT: The TMT team advises the leading telecommunications, media and IT players on acquisitions and finance projects as well as in relation to interconnection, complex contracted structures and regulatory compliance matters.
Main Contacts
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Catalin Alexandru | Partner | View Profile | |
Alexandru Birsan | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Ioan Dumitrascu | Partner | View Profile | |
Cristina Filip | Managing partner | View Profile | |
Alexandra Manciulea | Partner | View Profile | |
Olga Nita | Partner | View Profile | |
Ioana Roman | Partner | View Profile | |
Alina Stancu Birsan | Partner | View Profile | |
Monica Statescu | Partner | View Profile | |
Catalin Suliman | Partner | View Profile | |
George Trantea | Partner | View Profile | |
Cristina Tudoran | Partner | View Profile | |
Silviu Vasile | Partner | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 80Interviews
Cristina Filip, Managing partner
Managing partner Cristina Filip explains how the firm is adapting to clients’ changing needs
1) What do you see as the main points that differentiate Filip & Company from your competitors?
We are focused on building long-lasting relationships with our clients, based on reliability, trust and expertise. We are committed to delivering result-oriented services, which are carefully tailored to the client’s objective in relation to each relevant project. We organize our teams and expertise around our clients’ needs in order to provide integrated solutions and facilitate collaboration and communication with the client. Moreover, we are a full-service law firm, meaning that we cover all legal areas of importance for businesses concerned with Romania. We combine exceptional legal expertise with deep industry knowledge and creative thinking, to help clients achieve their commercial goals.
Another strength that we have is the fact that all our senior partners have been active on the Romanian market for more than 20 years, working on complex transactions and files. We know the market, its evolution and its local conditions as well as the expectations of both domestic and multinational investors. Over the years, we have established a very strong international professional network. We know reliable colleagues and firms in every European country and all other significant economic areas in the world. Our clients can rely on our network contacts. Our clients tell us that working with Filip & Company is surprisingly straightforward and our approach to client relationships is different and refreshing.
2) Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?
In the next 12 months we expect to have the largest growth in Corporate and M&A and Commercial and Dispute Resolution practices.
This trend will continue the growth we experienced in the previous years, although we are cautious about the risks and uncertainties associated with the currently ongoing conflicts. However, Romania is a relevant sizeable market in the EU and a NATO member and continues to be perceived positively in terms of economic environment, growth opportunities and investor confidence.
3) What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?
We keep adapting to changes in the market – therefore, there is not one change we have experienced, but a series of regular improvements and calibrations to our services addressing the changing needs of our clients. One particular area of continuous investment and development is related to piloting and adopting relevant new technologies. We expect these technologies to be able to drive productivity gains that will benefit our clients. However, we are mindful of the necessary guardrails in relation to the use of new technology as we need to control the ecosystem where confidential information is held, analysed and processed.
4) Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?
Technology has effectively improved and rendered more efficient the way we interact with our clients and the level of responsiveness in our services. We expect to much expand the uses of technology in relation to our practice of law. We have also used technology to increase our presence in the market – the creation and distribution of digital content promotes our lawyers expertise to a larger audience and keep our clients informed and engaged.
5) Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?
Our team assisted a client to amend and restructure its contractual framework with a view to integrate recent relevant case law in various fields of law, from labour to contract, corporate, anti-trust and fiscal law. This contractual overhaul translated into a reduction in the number of breaches and contentious situations with counterparties in the usual course of business and the identification of more areas where the client could exercise more flexibility to negotiate better and secured commercial terms.
6) Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?
We see our firm involved in an ever-larger number of long-term relationships with our clients and developing more efficient processes for organizing, channelling, and sharing both professional know how and industry knowledge and client – specific knowledge in order to continue to generate up to date valuable services to our clients.
Spotlights
Filip & Company
Filip & Company is one of the leading law firms in Romania providing top quality assistance in all relevant areas of law for businesses operating in Romania or considering Romania.
Specialized in complex projects that require an innovative approach, Filip & Company lawyers have a wide experience in several domains, such as infrastructure and concession, mergers and acquisitions, energy, corporate, real estate, competition law, finance and capital markets but also labour law, data protection, consumer protection and environmental law. The law firm also provides legal assistance and representation in disputes and arbitrations with significant implications for the clients’ businesses. Please visit www.filipandcompany.com to find out more about Filip & Company’s expertise and team.