Tiruchelvam Associates > Colombo, Sri Lanka > Firm Profile
Tiruchelvam Associates Offices
116/10 ROSMEAD PLACE
COLOMBO 7
Sri Lanka
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Tiruchelvam Associates > The Legal 500 Rankings
Sri Lanka > Corporate and M&A Tier 1
The ‘precise and professional’ corporate and M&A team at Tiruchelvam Associates is well known for its strength in handling prominent, high-value commercial agreements, often multi-jurisdictional in nature. The group is also well versed in advising on joint venture agreements, restructurings and investments, large-scale project development matters, and share sales and purchases. At the practice’s helm are corporate and real estate specialist Asanka Abeysekera, Laila Nasry, a key contact for commercial transactions, and Nirosha Peiris.Practice head(s):
Asanka Abeysekera; Laila Nasry; Nirosha Peiris
Other key lawyers:
Adheeba Ilyas
Testimonials
‘The team from Tiruchelvam Associates have always conducted themselves in a very professional manner.’
‘Nirosha Peiris has been available for any advice we may need. Her professionalism has been excellent.’
‘The team has shown their extensive knowledge in company law and regulations and ability to deliver quality services.’
‘Professional, timely and attentive.’
‘Asanka Abeyasekera has had excellent knowledge of our organization from its inception. Laila Nasry is highly professional.’
‘The team is extremely knowledgeable but they will still do their research and release the most accurate information only.’
‘Tiruchelvam Associates provides high-quality legal services at reasonable fees.’
‘The team were very knowledgeable and explained the process and timeline we needed to follow very articulately. Overall, it is a very professional practice who we were at ease working with from the other side of the world.’
Key clients
Galadari Hotels (Lanka) PLC
Labpath Solutions (Private) Limited
Tourism Industry Skills Council
Helios Ventures
Sarvodaya Group
Global Payments Asia-Pacific Limited/ Global Payments Inc.
Novo Nordisk A/S
Galadari Brothers LLC
Heineken Lanka Limited
Cisco Systems Management B.V.
Booking.com
Applexus Technologies Inc.
Dahnay Logistics Private Limited
Fujiwara Co. Ltd
Fujisun (Pvt) Ltd
Bloomberg
Japan Gateway (Private) Limited
Liaison office of Mitsui & Co., Ltd.|in Colombo
Medecins Sans Frontieres (Msf)|South Asia (Guarantee) Limited
RWB Chartered Accountants, UK
Care Station
A H International Lanka (Pvt) Ltd
Thirugnanam Mohan
Business Enterprise and Employment Support for Women in South Asia Network Limited
Work highlights
- Assisted Labpath Solutions (Private) Limited with the importation and distribution of a medical device, including the drafting of the distribution and sub-distribution agreements.
- Advised the Tourism Industry Skills Council on the Sri Lanka Skills Expo 2023.
- Advised Galadari Hotels (Lanka) PLC on all corporate legal and governance matters regarding a proposed project with a multinational hospitality entity.
Sri Lanka > Labour and employment Tier 1
Tiruchelvam Associates‘ practice is jointly led by Ramani Muttettuwegama and senior associate Michael Paiva, who brings his expertise in visas and immigration matters to bear in the context of employment law. The team is well versed in advising on the scope of employment-related issues, such as compliance, drafting of employment agreements and registrations, and remote working. The client base includes hospitality, pharmaceutical, corporate and not-for-profit entities, of which the latter is a particular area of focus for the team. Regulatory specialist associate Ovini Nanayakkara joined the team in March 2023.Practice head(s):
Ramani Muttettuwegama; Michael Paiva
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is very well-versed on labour and employment regulations in Sri Lanka and delivers exceptional legal research work.’
‘People are the strength of this team – they have different expertise to call upon when necessary.’
‘They ensure they deliver the given deliverables in the best possible way.’
‘Expertise and the collaborative way of working are the standouts of the team.’
‘The involvement with the issue and personalised service provided are appreciated by clients.’
Key clients
Hoist Support S L (Private) Limited
Eutech Cybernetic Lanka (Pvt) Ltd,
Himal South Asian
Women’s Fund Asia
Microchannel (Private) Limited
PWC Sri Lanka
Deloitte Sri Lanka
Fragomen Worldwide
Novo Nordisk Lanka (Private) Limited
Envoy Ortis
V I C M Consultants (Pvt) Ltd
Applexus Technologies (Pvt) Ltd
Work highlights
- Assisted Deloitte with preparing a compliance checklist as part of a larger project.
- Provided a detailed legal opinion on engaging Sri Lankans on a remote working arrangement.
- Advising clients via a global network partner on all aspects of the immigration landscape in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka > Private client, wills and probate Tier 1
The 'very helpful and friendly' team at Tiruchelvam Associates has particular strength in acting for high-net-worth private clients domiciled abroad, and is well versed in handling probate matters, as well as the drafting and execution of wills and deeds. Intestate succession matters are another key driver of work for the group. The practice is jointly led by Asanka Abeysekera and Ayendra Wickremesekera; Laila Nasry stands out as 'a knowledgeable partner'.Practice head(s):
Asanka Abeysekera; Ayendra Wickremesekera
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team came across as well informed in the practice of wills and probate registration and its sealing in the district courts of Sri Lanka.’
‘Laila Nasry is very helpful and attentive to the issues at hand.’
‘The team at TA is very dedicated.’
Work highlights
- Assisting a client with a resealing application, concerning a foreign probate issued in the client’s name as named executor of a will.
- Advising a client on intestate testamentary proceedings in order to obtain letters of administration, in order for the client to administer the estate of a person who died three decades ago.
Sri Lanka > Projects and energy Tier 1
Energy specialist Laila Nasry is at the helm of Tiruchelvam Associates’ projects and energy practice. The team has significant experience in assisting clients with the regulatory and developmental aspects of a broad array of projects, for example wind power, combined cycle power, and solar electricity. It also has strength in advising on related trade deals. The group’s workload often has cross-jurisdictional elements, such as advising on the feasibility of interconnecting grids between countries. Nirosha Peiris, who made partner in 2022, is a noteworthy practitioner.Practice head(s):
Laila Nasry
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
World Bank and World Trade Organisation
Galadari Brothers Co. LLC
Work highlights
- Advising Sri Lanka’s energy regulator, the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka, on reviewing and revising the contractual structure of rooftop solar electricity generation to facilitate third-party investment.
- Assisted the World Trade Organization and the World Bank Group with reviewing and advising on the legal and regulatory barriers to service trade and investment across 33 service sectors in Sri Lanka.
- Assisted Galadari Brothers Co. LLC with its subsidiary Galadari Hotels (Lanka) PLC’s entry into a series of agreements with a multinational hospitality giant for the development of Galadari Hotel Lanka and the operation and management thereafter.
Sri Lanka > Real estate and construction Tier 2
With particular expertise advising prominent clients in the banking and finance sector on the spectrum of real estate and construction matters, Asanka Abeysekera leads the team at Tiruchelvam Associates. The group's strengths include advising on the sale, rental aspects, and due diligence of significant real estate projects, as well as the gifting of property via a trust. At associate level, the ‘thorough and competent’ Ayomi Wickramasuriya and Navoda Wanniarachchi, who joined from private practice in early 2023, are key names.Practice head(s):
Asanka Abeysekera
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Highly reputed firm with good legal knowledge; they are responsive and diverse as a team.’
‘Always conduct themselves with a high standard of professionalism. They are thorough and always prepared. In all instances of working with the firm, it has inspired confidence and trust.’
‘Ayomi Wickramasuriya has a keen sense of urgency. Goes above and beyond.’
‘Asanka Abeysekera is quick to assist and has built a strong relationship with us. Good leadership.’
‘The team maintained a level of professionalism that was simply exemplary throughout the entire process, not only with me, but all parties involved in my property purchase deal.
They not only had all the subject matter expertise on areas within their purview, but even guided me very carefully on aspects I needed to manage on my own.’
‘Tiruchelvam Associates have built their brand for having a team that clients want to and look forward to working with.’
‘The team are able to work together to bring their specialist expertise to give you the best service possible.’
Work highlights
- Advised on sub-leasing of a property that was leased to the lessor from a government organisation.
- Advised a client on setting up a trust involving property.
- Assisted a client with conducting due diligence on a property and its subsequent purchase.
Sri Lanka > Tax Tier 2
The practice at Tiruchelvam Associates is particularly experienced in advising on Sri Lankan employment tax regulations, tax clearance issues, and the tax aspects of customs, import and export matters. Ramani Muttettuwegama leads the team, which was strengthened in March 2023 by the arrival of associate Navoda Wanniarachchi from private practice.Practice head(s):
Ramani Muttettuwegama
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Himal Southasian
Work highlights
- Assisted a global literacy promotion group with a tax surcharge matter.
- Advised Himal Southasian on the applicability of APIT to the payment of a temporary allowance.
- Advised several importers on the tax aspects of import bans and customs regulations.
Sri Lanka > Banking and finance Tier 3
Ramani Muttettuwegama is at the helm of Tiruchelvam Associates‘ banking and finance practice, which advises a list of reputable domestic clients on securities transactions, project financing matters, and mergers and acquisitions. Its clients span the governmental, tech, retail and manufacturing sectors and it has experience handling matters that are cross-jurisdictional in nature.Practice head(s):
Ramani Muttettuwegama
Work highlights
- Advised the client in the implementation of the Employee Share Option Plans by conducting feasibility studies and reviewing subscription documents.
- Advised a fintech company in the operation of a platform intended to offer payment solutions through a mobile/web interface by collaborating with banking partners who hold the relevant banking license in the jurisdiction.
Sri Lanka > Dispute resolution Tier 3
The practice at Tiruchelvam Associates predominantly defends clients in a variety of disputes. The team's workload includes cases involving allegations of defamation, contentious leasing matters, and a range of employment-related litigation. The practice has counsel Ayendra Wickremesekera at its helm, who is vastly experienced representing clients in both the High Court of the Provinces and the Appeal Court. Laila Nasry is a prominent name in the department.Practice head(s):
Ayendra Wickremesekera
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very professional legal team, well-versed in the practice area and very approachable. The team are very well aware of current situations and all legal aspects to cover therein.’
‘Professional, easy to approach and well-mannered. They are also very prompt in communicating.’
‘Each attorney brings their expertise to the table, and their collective knowledge ensures their capability to handle a wide range of cases.’
‘The firm provides prompt and clear communication which is vital in any team setting, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and can work together efficiently.’
‘Ayendra Wickremesekera is an excellent counsel. He is confident and can present arguments persuasively and handle unexpected situations effectively.’
‘The team at Tiruchelvam Associates were very prompt.’
‘Ayendra Wickremesekara has always been responsive to our questions, offering timely advice and keeping up-to-date with correspondence sent to us.’
Key clients
Galadari Hotel (Lanka) PLC
E.M.K.B Ambanpola
China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd
Work highlights
- Acted for a landlord in the first case brought under the Recovery of Possession of Premises Given on Lease Act, which was made law in 2023.
- Represented China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd in an inquiry heard before the Commissioner General of Labour, initiated under the provisions of the Termination of Employment of Workmen (Special Provisions) Act, No.45 1971.
- Acted for the client in litigation arising from content published in an online magazine.
Sri Lanka > Intellectual property Tier 3
The IP team at Tiruchelvam Associates is experienced in handling trade mark and patent design filings, and assists with managing IP portfolios. The group is also strong in contentious IP matters, often appearing before the NIPO in enforcement cases. Managing partner Ramani Muttettuwegama, senior associate Michael Paiva and associate Adheeba Ilyas are at the practice’s helm. Associate Thuwaraka Ganeshan left for an in-house role in December 2022.Practice head(s):
Ramani Muttettuwegama; Michael Paiva; Adheeba Ilyas
Testimonials
‘Usually when we choose to cooperate with an IP company, we will consider the price, responsiveness and professionalism. They are positive in all three areas.’
‘The team responds quickly to our queries.’
Key clients
Unitalen Attorneys at Law
Shailendra Thatte & Associates
SCG Legal Counsel Ltd
FarmaPatent IP
Withers KhattarWong LLP
Remfry & Sagar
Guangzhou ZhuanLi IP Law Firm
Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, LLP
C. S. TANG & CO. Advocates & Solicitors
JK Marcam LLP
Mohamed Idris & Bros
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius
Studio Bonini srl
APIA Proprietate Industriala
Anuation Research and Consulting LLP
Anakamus Manufacturing
BARNES & THORNBURG LLP
ATMD Bird & Bird LLP
Nanaviti Associates
Maha Chemicals (Asia) Pte Ltd
AnovIP
Saint Gobain
Shanghai Zenorr
IP ANTS
Sarvodaya Seeds Limited
CDM International (Private) Limited
Sarvasaara Agro Research and Technology Center Limited
EMIRATES PATENT & Trade Mark Attorneys & Legal Consultants
D.S.Associates
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
Jin Wang Cheng International Intellectual Property (Beijing) Co., Ltd.
MEGA TREND LANKA
BERENGUER & POMARES Abogados
Dhairya Shah & Associates (DSA)
Tiruchelvam Associates > Firm Profile
The firm: Tiruchelvam Associates was established in 1982, by Dr Neelan Tiruchelvam PC and Sithie Tiruchelvam. It developed from the chambers of former senator, minister and solicitor-general of Sri Lanka, M Tiruchelvam KC. Dr Neelan Tiruchelvam was a scholar, an internationally recognised constitutional lawyer, a member of parliament and a visiting professor at Harvard Law. Dr Tiruchelvam’s constitution making skills were renowned, and he assisted in the drafting of several constitutions of Central Asian countries and also post-conflict Ethiopia.
Since 1999, Sithie Tiruchelvam has led the firm as precedent partner. Her expertise includes representing foreign and domestic multinationals in corporate and commercial transactions. She served on the board of John Keels Holdings, one of three blue chip companies in Sri Lanka as a non-executive director and has played a pivotal role in some of Sri Lanka’s most ground-breaking investment ventures. Sithie was renowned for her contributions to the field of human rights and has served on the boards of several non-profit organisations.
The firm is now led by three partners, Asanka Abeyesekera, Ramani Muttettuwegama and Laila Nasry.
Asanka heads the corporate affairs and real estate divisions of the firm. Her expertise in investment law stems from her initial work with Sri Lanka’s first investment regulator (the Greater Colombo Economic Commission, the Board of Investment’s predecessor). Coupled with her experience as vice president – legal for the Vanik group, at that time Sri Lanka’s premier investment banking group.
Ramani is the managing partner of the firm. Specialising in IT and telecom law, she also supervises the employment, immigration and intellectual property divisions of the firm. Her extensive background in human rights makes her a skilled negotiator and she is TA’s key representative with regulators.
Laila leads the litigation and arbitration practice of the firm and also manages much of the mergers and acquisition work of the firm including commercial contracts. She joined the firm after managing a considerable portfolio at the Attorney General’s department of Sri Lanka and is an expert on laws and regulations on energy and natural resources, often requested for expert legal advice by Sri Lanka’s leading energy experts. Laila’s work with the AG’s department has given her much expertise on infrastructure and development related projects and she advises on multi faceted projects. Laila, also advises many of the firm’s clients engaged in the global healthcare and pharmaceutical industry.
Areas of practice: The firm provides a broad spectrum of services which range from corporate and commercial practice encompassing advisory services, intellectual property, real estate and conveyancing, litigation and alternative dispute resolution. The firm’s corporate secretarial arm, Central Corporate and Consultancy Services (Private) Limited, provides services to corporate clients in all stages of their business life, from incorporation to liquidation. The firm frequently counsels multinational investors and corporate clients both local and foreign in a variety of industries and businesses, including but not limited to, the banking and finance sector, power and energy, telecommunications, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, information technology, tourism, immigration, intellectual property, taxation and infrastructure development.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Corporate/M&A | Ramani Muttettuwegama | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Corporate/M&A | Laila Nasry | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Corporate Finance & Banking | Ramani Muttettuwegama | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Corporate Finance & Banking | Asanka Abeysekera | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Power & Energy | Laila Nasry | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Telecommunications & ICT | Ramani Muttettuwegama | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Corporate Secreterial | Asanka Abeysekera | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Corporate Secreterial | Nirosha Peiris | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Corporate Secreterial | Heshika Rupasinghe | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Real Estate & Conveyancing | Asanka Abeysekera | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Real Estate & Conveyancing | Volya Siriwardana | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Litigation and ADR | Laila Nasry | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Litigation and ADR | Ayendra Wickremesekera | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Litigation and ADR | Abirami Nithiananthan | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Intellectual Property | Michael Paiva | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Intellectual Property | Thuwaraka Ganeshan | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Immigration | Ramani Muttettuwegama | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Immigration | Michael Paiva | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Taxation | Ramani Muttettuwegama | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Taxation | Abirami Nithiananthan | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Employment& Labour | Ramani Muttettuwegama | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Employment & Labour | Thuwaraka Ganeshan | [email protected] | +94-11-2690037, 2698110, 2686019 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Ms Ramani Muttettuwegama | Managing Partner | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 12Languages
English Sinhala TamilMemberships
IPBA BASL TRACE International American Chamber of Commerce in Sri LankaOther
Managing Partner : Ramani Muttettuwegama Partner : Laila Nasry Partner : Asanka Abeysekera- Corporate and M&A
- Labour and employment
- Private client, wills and probate
- Projects and energy
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Real estate and construction
- Tax