Bird & Bird > Paris, France > Firm Profile
Bird & Bird Offices
2 rue de la Chaussée d'Antin
75009 Paris
France
Bird & Bird > The Legal 500 Rankings
France > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1
Bird & Bird‘s ‘responsive and dynamic team’ is well regarded for its ability to handle issues such as global compliance, international transfers of data and the data protection aspects of cloud computing services. The unit’s expertise is frequently sought out by clients from regulated sectors such as banking, insurance and life sciences. Ariane Mole heads up the team and counts digital compliance issues, such as cookies, cyber security and e-health, among her practice strengths. Willy Mikalef‘s expertise covers assistance with CNIL dawn raids, GDPR audits and data transfer tools. Oriane Zubcevic frequently handles GDPR compliance audits, while Julie Verdure has specialist expertise pertaining the use of processors, including cloud providers.Practice head(s):
Ariane Mole
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A responsive and dynamic team, with in-depth knowledge of regulations. In addition, there are few firms specializing in data protection capable of working in an international environment, which represents a strength of Bird & Bird.’
‘Willy Mikalef, Julie Verdure and Ariane Mole are all excellent!’
‘The team is unique in that it has in-depth, multidisciplinary, diversified, pragmatic, educational and international expertise. The quality of the work is therefore excellent. In particular, the team uses unique innovative technologies to provide its advice.’
‘Ariane Mole and Willy Mikalef stand out for their experience and way of advising clients – no time is wasted, owing to their immediate understanding of the problems.’
Key clients
Meta
Euronext
HubOne
Doctolib
Novocure
LEEM
IQVIA
Cityscoot
DPD Group – Geopost
Shoebox
Work highlights
- Advised Meta on data protection and privacy regulatory matters concerning personal data processed within the metaverse under the GDPR, taking into account the future state of regulations.
- Assisted Euronext on data protection issues and successfully represented the client in litigation before the Conseil d’État (France’s highest administrative court).
- Advised Doctolib, HubOne, Salesforce, Novocure, IQVIA, LEEM, Cityscoot, Equinix, Biosency, Shoebox, CWT (Carlson Wagonlit Travel), Huawei, and DPD Group (Geopost) on data protection matters.
France > Industry focus: IT and internet Tier 1
Bird & Bird fields a large multi-disciplimary team which works across several key sectors in the market. The group regularly advises blue-chip companies and guides clients through major outsourcing deals, as well as systems integration, cloud computing and data protection issues. Recent highlights for the firm include advising the European Commission on its landmark blockchain services infrastructure project. Stéphane Leriche leads the team and focuses on digital innovation and the data economy. Other key contacts include Ariane Mole, who co-leads the practice’s international privacy and data protection division; Cathie-Rosalie Joly, who focuses on regulatory matters in the financial services and gaming sectors; and Alexandre Vuchot, who takes the lead on business law within the TMT space. Géraldine Arbant and Willy Mikalef are also noted. Anne-Sophie Lampe was a new arrival in late 2023.Practice head(s):
Stéphane Leriche
Other key lawyers:
Ariane Mole; Cathie-Rosalie Joly; Alexandre Vuchot; Géraldine Arbant; Willy Mikalef; Anne-Sophie Lampe
Key clients
Mastercard
European Commission
Doctolib
Novocure
IQVIA
Cityscoot
Veolia Water
Gaia-X
Paysafe
Alentour
Meta
Euronext
Shoebox
HubOne
Faire
Whatnot
Itochu
Bumble
Insead
Wouter Kluwzrs
Work highlights
- Advising GAIA-X on the risks and responsibilities associated with the deployment or certification of automated compliance tools.
- Advising on the European Blockchain Services Infrastructure project, which sees 27 EU Member States, as well as Norway and Liechtenstein, working together to facilitate the delivery of public services across the EEA.
- Assisted HubOne with the in-depth assessment of data protection and broader regulatory compliance with the EU Data Governance Act in the context of provision of a data intermediary service.
France > Intellectual property: Copyright Tier 1
With a distinct focus on dynamic industries such as life sciences, technology and communications, media, entertainment, and sports, Bird & Bird provides comprehensive guidance on a wide spectrum of copyright issues, leveraging the international reach of its IP practice. Co-headed by Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan and Géraldine Arbant, the copyright practice not only assists companies with copyright registration, protection, and commercialisation but also excels in crafting copyright licenses and agreements. Moreover, the team actively engages in copyright infringement litigation and handles liability claims, representing clients in contentious proceedings before both French and European courts. The practice further benefits from the expertise of Edouard Treppoz, a copyright specialist, as well as Nathan Soulié, a key adviser in copyright matters related to software and SaaS contracts, and Frédérique Bocqueraz, a specialist in international copyright matters.Practice head(s):
Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan; Géraldine Arbant
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘During the negotiation, the team showed itself to be innovative by proposing solutions that corresponded to our business needs, while accommodating the contractor’s requests, allowing us to reach a rapid conclusion.’
‘Frédérique Bocqueraz has an exceptional sense of follow-up of files and an in-depth knowledge of case law.’
‘Géraldine Arbant has an excellent strategic vision.’
‘Excellent knowledge of negotiating publishing contracts in the music sector and a perfect understanding of our needs.’
‘A creative team.’
Key clients
Vitra
Petit Bateau
Salomon (Amer sports)
Groupe SEB
Take-two interactive software, inc, Rockstar Games
Maurice Lecoy
Work highlights
- Advised VITRA on litigations or pre-litigations for copyright infringement and/or unfair competition and free-riding.
- Advised Petit Bateau on pre-litigations for copyright infringement and/or unfair competition and free-riding.
France > Intellectual property: Patents Tier 1
The patents team at Bird & Bird is well versed in advising on a wide range of contentious and non-contentious matters. The group has a solid track record in handling domestic and multinational patent litigation, often for prominent blue-chip clients. Patent litigation expert Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan co-heads the practice with Géraldine Arbant. Yves Bizollon is well regarded for his expertise in acting for food, energy, defence, and automotive sector companies in complex litigation, and Laurent Labatte is very well known for handling litigation in technical fields. The practice was bolstered by the arrival of Thierry Lautier in July 2023.Practice head(s):
Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan; Géraldine Arbant
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Strong team with great depth of understanding in the technology, met billing estimates/expectations, great at communication.’
‘Great at communicating the case issues and strategy, especially between counsel in multiple countries.’
‘The team is well-organized, works quickly and efficiently, and meets deadlines, giving due attention and keeping to schedules.’
‘Thierry Lautier has an excellent ability to analyze large amounts of information and come to logical and well-reasoned conclusions, with good communication skills. Working on complex topics with accuracy and attention to detail.’
‘Thierry has broad expertise makes him a one-stop shop for IP/patent intensive matters, including commercial negotiations. Thierry is very accountable on any matters he is in charge of, and the team is innovative in its way of working.’
Key clients
Edwards Lifesciences
Honeywell
Nexans
Microsoft
Broadcom
Zodiac
Lesaffre
Minakem
Baxter
Allergan (Abbvie)
Keboda
Nestlé
Dexcom
Akwel
Leko Labs
Work highlights
- Representing Dexcom in a patent infringement action launched against Abbott.
- Representing Zodiac in a patent infringement procedure launched against its Chinese competitor Wybotics.
- Acting for Edwards Life Sciences in three patent infringement actions against Indian company Meril and its French distributor.
France > Intellectual property: Trade marks and designs Tier 1
Bird & Bird maintains its position as a prominent player in the field of IP litigation, where it represents major clients with a strong sector focus on innovative industries, including life sciences, healthcare, technology, media, entertainment, and sports. The team possesses both local and international expertise, excelling in both contentious and non-contentious matters, encompassing trade mark infringement, unfair competition cases, prosecution, and comprehensive brand management. At the helm of the practice is Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan, acknowledged for her proficiency in handling intricate technical issues, while soft IP litigation expert Géraldine Arbant collaborates closely. Notably, their capabilities are further enhanced by the contributions of Yves Bizollon, a standout member with a strong track record in complex patent litigation and significant experience in trade mark matters.Practice head(s):
Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan; Géraldine Arbant
Other key lawyers:
Yves Bizollon; Estelle Henry Mayer; Edouard Treppoz
Testimonials
‘The team listens to its customers, is very responsive and anticipates needs.’
Key clients
Philip Morris International
International Olympic Committee (IOC)
Group Seb
Procter & Gamble
Webedia
Crouzet
RTE Réseau de transport d’électricité
Consorzio Di Tutela Della Denominazione Di Origine Controllata Prosecco
SKF
Piasten & Lutti
CrossFit, Inc
Palladium
VF Corporation
Triumph International
Wavestone
Cooper Cooperation pharmaceutique française
Work highlights
- Assisting Triumph International in building an opposition case based on the Michael Jackson’s well-known overseas rights, against a French litigious filing before the French IP Office.
- Advising the US tobacco company, Philip Morris International, in the field of IP portfolio management in closed relationship with other Bird & Bird offices.
- Representing Piasten in a landmark trade mark litigation that opposes it to Mars, Inc. whereby Mars is attempting to revive its monopoly over the Treets sign that it has stopped using 30 years ago when it shifted to M&Ms.
France > The regions Tier 1
Boasting cross-sector expertise and a multidisciplinary group of practitioners, Bird & Bird provides the full range of business law services from local matters to international transactions. The team caters to both domestic companies and international clients active in the Rhone-Alps region and is particularly well known for advising startups and SMEs. David Malcoiffe stands at the helm of the practice and specialises in advising investment funds and startup companies in private equity and venture capital transactions. Géraldine Arbant leverages her experience in brand management, trade mark and copyright litigation, whereas Anne-Florence Raducaul focuses on commercial and corporate disputes. Lyon-based Nathalie Devernay and Benjamin Lichtlé are other key names to note.Practice head(s):
David Malcoiffe
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘This team is close with its customers, listens to their requests and responds perfectly.’
‘Excellent listening, pro activity, know-how.’
Key clients
Salesforce
Tata Consultancy Services
Cosmobilis
Plastipak
Baxter
Philip Morris International
Genetec
Crouzet
Cooper Cooperation pharmaceutique française
Cosmobilis / Ucar
Cosmobilis / Beezlink Lombardels
Vidi Capital
Work highlights
France > Aviation finance Tier 2
Bird & Bird established its aviation finance practice in Paris in December 2022 with the arrival of Laurence Hanley, former practice head at Stephenson Harwood, who focuses on advising borrowers in financings, complemented by expertise in regulatory matters, tax, and SPC vehicles. Embedded into the firm’s wider network, the practice also regularly handles cross-border matters and counts clients hailing from Indonesia and Japan amongst its portfolio.Practice head(s):
Laurence Hanley
Other key lawyers:
Maria Miller
Testimonials
‘The team are experts in French legal matters relating to aviation leasing, trading and finance. They have strong industry knowledge and work efficiently.’
‘A unique team of highly skilled professionals, obviously on pure legal matters, but also on commercial and technical fields, and with excellent market and industry knowledge.’
‘Maria Miller is an excellent lawyer who provides commercially driven strategic advice to clients in a manner that is concise, efficient and well-researched. She is a much trusted adviser on French corporate law and aviation matters.’
‘Their adaptability, versatility, and their ability and eagerness to work as a team with their client.’
‘Great team with a complete vision of the industry. They really try to understand the point of view of the person they represent to defend their interest in the best way. Diverse team regarding gender and ethnicity, which is a great strength. Easy to communicate with.’
‘Great professionals, knowledgeable and smart. Easy to communicate with.’
‘Good knowledge and excellent handling of matters.’
‘Maria Miller – efficient and responsive and reliable.’
Key clients
Société Air France
Transavia France
Air Côte d’Ivoire
Air France Hop
Work highlights
- Advised Société Air France in the sale and leaseback of eleven Airbus A220-300s, with Japanese investors, involved in all stages of the transaction from negotiating the lease agreements to the deliveries of the aircraft.
- Advised Société Air France on its refinancing via JOLCO and SLL, of one new Airbus A350-900 with Japanese investors and the Tokyo Branch of a major European bank as debt arranger.
- Advised Transavia France in the twelve years operating lease of eight new A320neo.
France > Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences Tier 2
The team at Bird & Bird handles a myriad of issues for its lucrative client base, which notably includes Novo Nordisk, Moon Surgical, and Dexcom. Practice co-head Emmanuelle Porte has deep knowledge spanning a broad range of corporate matters, advising numerous medtech, biotech, and healthcare clients. Co-head Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan is recognised for her longstanding specialism in IP, particularly in relation to patent litigation within the pharma industry. Alexandre Vuchot has a great deal of transactional expertise, often assisting medtech and pharma companies with clinical research, distribution contracts, and procurement arrangements.Practice head(s):
Emmanuelle Porte; Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan
Other key lawyers:
Ariane Mole; Alexandre Vuchot
Testimonials
‘Alexandre Vuchot is available and efficient, and able to provide us with relevant answers to our questions by surrounding himself with business experts if necessary. A pragmatic and operational approach adapted to the needs and resources of an SME client.’
‘Alexandre Vuchot is a dedicated partner. He is available, efficient and pragmatic.’
Key clients
NovAliX
Novo Nordisk
Corwave
Sparing Vision
Edwards Lifesciences
Dexcom
Moon Surgical
Implanet
LEEM
IQVIA
Doctolib
Novocure
Biosency
Shoebox
Work highlights
- Advised Novo Nordisk Region Europe, a Danish multinational pharmaceutical company, in connection with the acquisition of a controlling block trade in Biocorp, followed by a takeover bid and squeeze out on the remaining shares of the company.
- Representing Edwards Life Sciences in 3 patent infringement actions it has launched against Indian company Meril and its French distributor.
- Advised Dexcom, a California-based company that develops, manufactures, produces, and distributes continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems for diabetes management, in relation to a patent infringement case before the Paris local division of the UPC, filed in July 23, against 10 companies of the Abbott Group.
France > Industry focus: Telecoms Tier 2
At Bird & Bird, the team is well equipped to assist electronic communications operators and investors with regulatory and transactional matters, both in France and in emerging markets. Contentious telecoms issues are another key driver of work for the group, which has a solid track record in acting for clients before ARCEP. Stéphane Leriche and Willy Mikalef co-head the practice; Leriche fields expertise in telecoms-related commercial contracts and transactional matters, and Mikalef focuses on satellite work. Mélanie Bercot, Jean-Claude Vecchiatto and UK-based Frédérique Dupuis-Toubol are also key names to note.Practice head(s):
Stéphane Leriche; Willy Mikalef
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very dynamic and flexible team with perfect knowledge of the telecommunications market. The work was carried out with intelligence and finesse and obtained the full satisfaction of those involved.’
‘Willy Mikalef, a brilliant lawyer, with perfect knowledge of the telecommunications sector, listens to the needs of his clients down to the smallest detail and has a demonstrated capacity for adaptation, being able to work in Europe and in emerging countries. Mélanie Bercot has perfect knowledge of the sector and complements Willy Mikalef wonderfully. She is available and always provides tailor-made answers to customers.’
‘Very specialized team in telecoms; great responsiveness.’
‘Frédérique Dupuis-Toubol and Mélanie Bercot: a very complete and very experienced team.’
Key clients
Aircall Sas
Selafa Mja (Kosc And Kosc Infrastructures)
Dauphin Telecom
Saga Africa Holdind Limited (Free Senegal)
Gambia River Basin Development Organisation
Airbus Defence And Space
Work highlights
- Assisted Aircall with telecom regulatory matters, both in France and in over 20 countries, as part of its global expansion.
- Advised the Gambia River Basin Development Organisation (OMVG) on the commercialisation of fibre optic cables in accordance with the regulatory framework applicable in four member states.
France > Insolvency Tier 2
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.
France > Private equity: venture/growth capital Tier 2
Bird & Bird's team is equipped to provide comprehensive venture capital advice covering development, fundraising, and exit through M&A or IPO, among other elements. The group has particular strength assisting clients in the biotech and digital health tech segment. The practice is co-led by corporate team head Emmanuelle Porte, who focuses in venture capital, M&A and corporate finance transactions; and Gildas Louvel. Carole Bodin focuses on assisting corporate venture funds, investment funds and startups with venture capital transactions. Xavier Leroux left the firm in July 2023.Practice head(s):
Emmanuelle Porte; Gildas Louvel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is very available. They know how to identify problems to make them clear/understandable and always provide legally reassuring solutions. Fast invoicing, within budget.’
‘One of Carole Bodin’s great qualities is that she always has the right tone with the other parties during negotiations and knows how to get her client’s points accepted.’
Key clients
ARM
Sparing Vision
Infravia Growth
Caisse des dépôts et consignations
Vidi Capital
Enterome
Corwave
Efeso Consulting Group
Bpifrance Investissement
Engie New Ventures
Work highlights
- Advised Sparing Vision on its Series B financing round of €75m, by existing investors UPMC Enterprises and Jeito, together with Ysios Capital, 4Bio, Bpifrance and RD Fund.
- Advised Vidi Capital, a radiologist platform of about 300 radiologists, on its €115m fund raising.
- Advised Infravia Growth, lead investor in the $42m Series C financing of DataDome, a leading online fraud & bot management platform.
France > Industry focus: Energy Tier 3
Practice head(s):
Sibylle Weiler; Boris Martor
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team possesses rich and varied experience.’
‘Boris Martor is very attentive to our needs – it is highly appreciated.’
Key clients
HY24 and Clean H2 Infra Fund
DS Smith Paper Rouen SAS
Envitec Biogas Ag
Interxion France SAS
Minister of Energy of Cameroon
Alstom Transport
Canadian Solar
Amea Power
OFAS
Total Energies
Google France
Tikehau Capital
Renault
SolarX
Work highlights
- Advising HY24 and Clean H2 Infra Fund on the framework of a minority investment in a Germany-based company setting up a network of hydrogen refuelling stations.
- Advising AMEA Power, a Dubai-based operator specialised in renewable energy, regarding a desalination complex and plant in Togo.
- Advising Tikehau Capital on the implementation of a financing and partnership with Carbon for a maximum amount of €25m towards the development and the financing of energy efficiency solutions in buildings.
France > Banking and finance: transactional work Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Boris Martor
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘High availability and strong advice.’
‘Jessica Derocque: efficiency, availability and commitment.’
Key clients
Ecobank Niger
Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
Norddeutsche Landesbank – Girozentrale
Tikehau Capital
Société Air France
Amea Power
Banque Palatine
Caisse d’Epargne et de Prevoyance Ile De France
Bred Banque Populaire
BNP Paribas
Caisse Régionale du Crédit Agricole Mutuel du Finistère
Banque Populaire Grand Ouest
Barclays Bank Plc
Work highlights
- Advising Amea Power on the financing phase 2 and phase 3 of the largest solar park in West Africa located in Blitta, Togo having a total capacity of 70MW.
- Advising Tikehau Capital on the implementation of a financing and partnership with Carb0n for a maximum amount of €25m.
- Advising Société Air France in the context of JOLCO financing with a sustainability linked loan of one new Airbus A350-900.
France > Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Nicolas Morelli
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Extremely involved, responsive and professional team. Always very relevant advice.’
‘Djazia Tiourtite is always involved, very professional and particularly relevant.’
‘Very responsive and attentive team that understands exactly the needs of its customers.’
‘Responsiveness and a very pleasant working atmosphere.’
‘Djazia Tiourtite is fantastic and innovative. ’
Key clients
Renault
Car Sharing Mobility Services France
Alp Cars / LP Management
SunPower Energy Solutions France SAS
Photosol
Plastipak
Via Transport
AST GROUPE
Airbus Helicopter
Centrale de Traitement des Titres Restaurants
Trustpilot
BorgWarner
SunPower Energy Solutions France
Work highlights
- Representing “CRT – Centrale de Titre Restaurants” before French courts initiated by unions and restaurant franchises further to a decision of the French competition authority which sentenced the CRT and the issuers of meal vouchers.
France > Employment Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Benjamine Fiedler; Nathalie Devernay
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Nathalie’s team is always pleasant and able to answer questions asked in a professional manner. ’
‘Sofia Merlet understands her clients’ questions well and provides precise and appropriate responses. She ensures good follow-up of files and offers good recommendations ’
‘I work with Benjamine Fiedler and her team in social law; mainly Camille Champetier de Ribes. They stand out for their responsiveness, their technical mastery of the law and their pragmatic proposals. ’
‘The team has taken the care to understand the business in which we operate and to provide us with cost effective, practical and workable solutions to our employment matters.’
‘They cut to the core of the issue and give us workable solutions which are uniquely tailored to our business needs, which to date have always been sound and timely.’
‘Chris Ivey has taken the time to understand our business imperatives and work through solutions with us which are commercially sound and I’ve never had cause to doubt either his judgement or his advice. He is responsive, considers all eventualities – which he explains clearly and logically – and is unfailingly patient and good humoured.’
‘Employment team is strong, responsive, efficient, strong partners overall.’
Key clients
Salesforce
PPG
Crédit Immobilier de France
ServiceNow
UiPath
Teva France
Tata Consultancy Services
ADP (Aeroports de Paris)
Tech Mahindra
Meridiam
Ricoh Group
Inmarsat
Omnicell
Automation Anywhere
Novalix
Zoom
Work highlights
- Assisting NovAliX, in relation to transfer of assets and employees in the pharmaceutical contract research organisation.
- Advising Semtech on the acquisition of the Sierra Wireless business and related employment matters.
- Advised Salesforce throughout the negotiation and implementation of a collective mutual departure plan (RCC) in 2023 in the midst of the global tech crisis.
France > Mergers and acquisitions Tier 4
Practice head(s):
Emmanuelle Porte; Gildas Louvel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very competent and very pleasant team. Fruitful exchanges, both on a personal and professional level.’
‘Gildas Louvel: available, competent and pleasant. ’
‘Carole Bodin : very pragmatic and a good technician.’
‘Committed, professional, experienced and responsive.’
‘Bertrand Levy: very sharp on corporate and M&A subjects, very committed and responsive.’
‘Partners are very involved and available. Facilitate discussions. Top value for money.’
‘Carole Bodin is very involved and “hands on” on our files. Flexible and pragmatic, she always finds compromises acceptable to both parties.’
Key clients
Molgas Energy Holding
EnPro Industries, Inc
Abiolab
Novalix
Cosmobilis
Feu Vert
Fosun
Stellantis
Renault
Infravia Partners
Novo Nordisk
Tipo Entertainment Inc.
Investec Bank Plc
Work highlights
- Advising Stellantis on the acquisition of 33.33% of the share capital of Symbio, a Michelin and Faurecia joint venture.
- Advised Novo Nordisk Region Europe on the acquisition of a controlling block trade in Biocorp, a French medtech, followed by a takeover bid and squeeze out on the remaining shares of the company.
- Advising Cosmobilis on the acquisition of Bee2link.
France > Administrative and public law Tier 5
Practice head(s):
Boris Martor; Jean-Claude Vecchiatto
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great availability, listening skills and a desire to find solutions. ’
‘Boris Martor: available, attentive and always takes the time to analyze things well.’
‘Responsiveness, creativity and availability.’
‘Good listening skills; deep understanding of underlying issues; good awareness of the client’s financial and commercial issues; reactivity and anticipation; good mastery of administrative procedure; fluidity within the team.’
‘Boris Martor: excellent understanding of legal and commercial issues.’
Key clients
Expertise France and State of Ethiopia PPP Unit
Eiffage Energies Systèmes
Government of Cameroon
PPG
Sealants Europe SAS
BayWa r.e. France
GetLink Eurotunnel
SOGETREL
CMN et RMN GP
TERMA
Work highlights
- Advising Conseil des Musées Nationaux and Reunion des Musées Nationaux Grand Palais on the management contract for Musée Jaquemart André.
- Advising Clear Channel on all aspects connected to the transfer of Clear Channel France to fund Equinox.
- Assisting Dijon Congrexpo on its bid and on termination of management agreements for Exhibition and trade fair park in Dijon.
France > EU, competition and distribution Tier 5
Strong in the TMT sector, Bird & Bird's competition practice is particularly active in antitrust proceedings before the FCA and the French courts. The team, which counts a number of large multinationals among its clients, also advises on merger control, competition compliance and distribution law. Thomas Oster heads the practice.Practice head(s):
Thomas Oster
Testimonials
‘The team in Paris is great. We have worked with them on a number of behavioural and contentious issues. They are very strong.’
‘Thomas Oster is excellent. We have full confidence in his advice. He is very professional and thorough.’
‘Responsive team with highly motivated and skilled people and advanced digital solutions to support clients.’
‘Thomas Oster stands out from others because I can give him a ring and have a ten-minute discussion with him to get his view as a sparring partner right away and off the clock.’
‘Thomas Oster’s team of lawyers is very competent and professional. It stands out for its expertise, rigour, responsiveness and commitment to its clients. More generally, the entire Bird & Bird Paris office also stands out for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, which is reflected in the composition of the teams.’
‘I am a regular client of the team and am very satisfied with their services. Thomas Oster is an exceptional lawyer. He is very competent in his field and has in-depth knowledge of the laws and regulations. Thomas is always attentive and very quickly understands the legal issues that our company specifically faces. This is particularly appreciated and reassuring on the client side, because we are assured that the advice provided by Thomas and his team will be of a high quality.’
‘Navigating the TMT sector is like navigating a maze of complex contractual terms and ever-changing regulations. This is where Bird & Bird really shines. The team’s deep understanding of the TMT sector in France and ability to communicate complex legal issues in a clear and concise manner is truly remarkable.’
‘What sets the individuals working at Bird & Bird apart is their extraordinary commitment, expertise and an innate ability to exceed expectations.’
Key clients
Réseau Gaz de Strasbourg
Conserves France
Groupe Caisse des Dépôts
Limagrain
SOMFY
Groupe SEB
Samsonite
L’Oréal
Manitowoc
Karl Lagerfeld
Exotec
Cosmobilis
AXA Xl
Beckman Coulter
Work highlights
- Representing Conserves France in an appeal before the Supreme Court of the decision of the Court of Appeal of Paris to reduce the amount of the fine imposed on the parties in the compote cartel.
- Assisted Groupe Caisse des dépôts in relation to a merger control analysis and filing for the creation of a joint venture in the telecoms infrastructure sector.
France > Banking and finance: Bank regulatory
Bird & Bird > Firm Profile
The firm: Bird & Bird is an international law firm, with a long-established reputation for having a rare and invaluable grasp of strategic commercial issues. The firm combines exceptional legal expertise with deep industry knowledge and refreshingly creative thinking, to help clients operating at the forefront of their industries to achieve their commercial goals.
Bird & Bird has over 1,600 lawyers and legal practitioners with broad advisory transactional and contentious capability, with a particular focus on key industry sectors. The firm has an extensive international reach with 32 offices in 22 countries across Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, offering a seamless, cross-border service between locations and sector and practice groups
Bird & Bird France has offices in Paris and Lyon. It has a leading position in: communications, information technology, digital transformation, privacy and data protection, media, aviation, intellectual property (trade marks, domain names, copyrights and patents) and life sciences.
Along with its sector-based approach, the firm provides a full range of legal services including: corporate, tax, commercial, dispute resolution, restructuring and insolvency, employment, competition and EU, public procurement, real estate and regulatory.
The French offices, headed by Emmanuelle Porte and Alexandre Vuchot, comprise over 135 lawyers, including 30 partners.
Areas of practice: Underpinned by deep client and industry knowledge, the firm’s key sectors include:
Automotive: advising on all stages of a life cycle of a motor vehicle, from initial design, to sales and distribution, through to disposals.
Aviation, aerospace, defence and security: advising on asset management and financing, civil aviation matters, including airlines, regulatory and competition issues, and aerospace and defence, including PPP/PFI and product liability.
Electronics: advising clients operating in or serving the electronics industry, from R&D and component manufacturing, to technology licensing agreements.
Energy and utilities: advising large multinationals, investors, project companies and large energy consumers on electricity generation, energy trading, renewable energy, cleantech and climate change, and upstream oil and gas.
Financial services: advising global clients in the financial services sector, such as global retail and investment banks, investors and hedge funds, on transactions, regulatory issues, commercial contracts and dispute resolution.
Food and beverage: advising on a full range of areas, including branding, labelling, health claims, fair trade and patents on novel foods.
Life sciences and healthcare: advising clients in biotechnology, bioinformatics and pharmaceutical companies on licensing and drug development agreements, R&D collaboration, IP acquisitions and joint ventures.
Media and entertainment: advising clients from across the media spectrum on a wide range of issues, including exploitation across all forms of digital media and emerging areas, such as user-generated content exploitation.
Sports: advising clients such as national and international sports governing bodies, event organisers and sponsors on issues including exploitation of commercial rights, brand management, regulatory and disciplinary issues.
Technology and communications: advising on matters ranging from smaller innovative projects to some of the largest, most complex and ground-breaking transactions and disputes of recent years. Its team includes lawyers with a particular focus on communications, devices and components, digital tech and eCommerce, and software and services as well as a number of more specialist industries including data centres, postal and satellites.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Commercial | Alexandre Vuchot | [email protected] | 01 42 68 60 00 |
Corporate | Emmanuelle Porte | [email protected] | 01 42 68 60 00 |
Marketing, BD and Communications Manager | Sylvain Deleuze | [email protected] | 01 42 68 67 61 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Ms Geraldine Arbant | Geraldine’s practice encompasses the full spectrum of transactional and advisory IP work,… | View Profile | |
Mr Yves Bizollon | Yves is renowned for his extensive experience in patent litigation. Yves is… | View Profile | |
Mrs Carole Bodin | Carole is a partner in the Corporate group in Paris, where she… | View Profile | |
Mr Romain De Ménonville | Romain is a partner in the Restructuring & Insolvency department in Paris.… | View Profile | |
Ms Jessica Derocque | Jessica is a partner in the Banking and Finance department in Paris.… | View Profile | |
Mr Jalal El Ahdab | Jil’s practice covers international business law, notably related to the Arab world… | View Profile | |
Ms Benjamine Fiedler | Benjamine is a reputed employment specialist with particular focus on M&A transactions,… | View Profile | |
Ms Anne-Cécile Hansson | Anne-Cécile has built a unique practice advising French, Swedish and Nordic clients… | View Profile | |
Ms Cathie-Rosalie Joly | Cathie-Rosalie provides both legal advice and acts in regulatory litigation. She has… | View Profile | |
Mr Thierry Lautier | I am a partner in the Paris IP team. I am a… | View Profile | |
Ms Anne-Charlotte Le-Bihan | Anne-Charlotte has significant experience in both contentious and non-contentious intellectual property matters, developed… | View Profile | |
Mr Stéphane Leriche | Stéphane provides cutting edge, business-oriented advice on all aspects of technology transactions… | View Profile | |
Mr Bertrand Levy | Bertrand is specialized in M&A transactions and more particularly in LBO transactions.… | View Profile | |
Mr Gildas Louvel | With vast experience in a wide range of transactions, Gildas specialises in… | View Profile | |
Mr Boris Martor | Boris is the partner in charge of the Banking and Finance department… | View Profile | |
Mme Ariane Mole | Ariane is renowned for her in-depth knowledge of data protection matters and… | View Profile | |
Mr Nicolas Morelli | Nicolas advises on all stages of financial and industrial restructurings, from consensual… | View Profile | |
Mr Thomas Oster | Thomas specialises in competition law, having significant experience in helping clients to… | View Profile | |
Ms Emmanuelle Porte | Emmanuelle is co-managing partner of Bird & Bird France. Emmanuelle advises companies… | View Profile | |
Ms Djazia Tiourtite | Djazia is a partner in our Dispute Resolution Group in Paris, taking… | View Profile | |
Mr Jean-Claude Vecchiatto | Jean-Claude is a partner in the Banking and Finance department and is… | View Profile | |
Mr Alexandre Vuchot | Alexandre’s breadth of experience enables him to provide his clients with strategic… | View Profile | |
Ms Sibylle Weiler | Sibylle is an experienced renewable energy specialist with a deep knowledge of… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers : 1,600 in this country : 135Languages
English FrenchOther
Other offices : Abu Dhabi Other offices : Amsterdam Other offices : Beijing Other offices : Bratislava Other offices : Brussels Other offices : Budapest Other offices : Casablanca Other offices : Copenhagen Other offices : Dubai Other offices : Dublin Other offices : Dusseldorf Other offices : Frankfurt Other offices : The Hague Other offices : Hamburg Other offices : Helsinki Other offices : Hong Kong Other offices : London Other offices : Luxembourg Other offices : Lyon Other offices : Madrid Other offices : Milan Other offices : Munich Other offices : Paris Other offices : Prague Other offices : Rome Other offices : San Francisco Other offices : Shanghai Other offices : Shenzhen Other offices : Singapore Other offices : Stockholm Other offices : Sydney Other offices : WarsawDiversity
Bird & Bird: Our commitment
At Bird & Bird, we know that employing a diverse group of people from different backgrounds is the key to our future development and continued success. The firm has a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Numerous actions are carried out at Bird & Bird
Bird & Bird & Commitment to gender equality
For the past 20 years, the gender balance among partners has never ceased to be equal (56.5% of women partners in France) and this parity is also reflected in the firm’s management, since the Executive Committee of Bird & Bird France is composed of three women and three men.
Equal pay is ensured by the establishment of a pay scale based on objective criteria.
The reconciliation of personal and professional life and equality in career development are key values. The “Women’s Development Program” brings together high-potential female employees for a three-day seminar in London each year. Under the guidance of a coach, they identify the obstacles to women’s careers, meet inspiring and caring women who are role models and create a network within the firm.
Many other initiatives are carried out by the firm, such as Lady@bird or Together® and in partnership with associations such as PWN (Professional Women Network), or the Club XXIe siècle (Revel@Her mentoring programme).
The firm received the Simone Veil “Coup de Coeur du Jury” award from the Paris Bar Association on 11 March 2019, at the end of the First Conference on Equality. This prize rewards and values the positive actions implemented by Bird & Bird on daily basis to promote gender equality, diversity, and Equality “by design”.
Bird & Bird was also awarded the Ethics and Diversity Law Trophy at the 20th edition of the Law Trophies organised by the magazine Décideurs Leaders League. This trophy rewards all the measures put in place to promote equality and social diversity.
Bird & Bird & equal opportunities & the fight against prejudice
The firm also carries out several actions in favour of equal opportunities and the fight against discrimination.
Four of our partners are active members of Club XXIe siècle, including one member of the Board of Directors.
In addition to promoting the Viens Voir Mon Taf, action and welcoming students from secondary located in REP (French Republic) using the ViensVoirMonTaf platform, Bird & Bird provides legal assistance to this young association whose mission is to help 3rd grade students “without a network” to access professional places that are usually inaccessible to them.
Bird & Bird is a signatory to the Diversity Charter, which guides organisations to implement concrete actions and innovative practices, as well as to l’Autre Cercle’s LGBT Commitment Charter, which commits the firm to ensuring that its practices do not discriminate against Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Transgender people. These commitments complement the actions of Bird & Bird’s international networks STANDOUT Standout and Embrace.
Bird & Bird & digital social responsibility
Our sectoral expertise is used to support the Urgence Identité Afrique Fund which aims to remedy the lack of civil identity on the African continent, where 95 million children under the age of 5 have not been registered at birth. We also assist the Marseille Association for the prevention of cyber-bullying in schools.
Comparative Guides
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Germany: Franchise & Licensing
Published: October 2023
Authors: Dr. Jiri Jaeger Jie Zhang Michael Brooks-Zavodsky
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Franchise & Licensing laws and regulations applicable in Germany.
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United Kingdom: Pharmaceutical Advertising
Published: December 2023
Authors: Sally ShorthosePieter ErasmusMax Gross
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Pharmaceutical Advertising laws and regulations applicable in United Kingdom.
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United Kingdom: Venture Capital
Published: March 2024
Authors: Struan PenwardenBenjamin Simon
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Venture Capital laws and regulations applicable in United Kingdom.
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United Kingdom: Employment and Labour Law
Published: March 2024
Authors: Alison DixonAnish PathakOlivia Baxendale
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Employment and Labour laws and regulations applicable in United Kingdom.
- Data privacy and data protection
- Industry focus: IT and internet
- Intellectual property: Copyright
- Intellectual property: Patents
- Intellectual property: Trade marks and designs
- The regions
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Aviation finance
- Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences
- Industry focus: Telecoms
- Insolvency
- Private equity: venture/growth capital