Firm Profile > Clifford Chance > Paris, France
Clifford Chance Offices
1 RUE D'ASTORG
75008 PARIS
France
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Clifford Chance > The Legal 500 Rankings
Administrative and public law Tier 1
Clifford Chance is one of France's most renowned firms in the field of public law contracts. The ten-lawyer team is appointed by private operators and governmental entities to advise on the structuring of the country's largest concession and procurement contracts. The practice is currently advising on most of France's largest ongoing public greenfield infrastructure projects, especially in the transport area and in relation to the Grand Paris urban project initiatives. It is also the go-to firm to deal with strategic contract performance issues. The team is managing high-end contentious work in that area in relation to major airport and rail projects. Finally, the team also has strong regulatory and general public law expertise. It is advising the French government on a major privatisation project and also acts for operators involved in landmark offshore renewables projects, advising on a pipeline project and on nuclear energy matters. Star partner David Préat co-heads the team with the highly promising Gauthier Martin who recently made partner. Also involved is newly promoted counsel Jean-Baptiste Merigot de Treigny. Marion Roquette-Pfister joined Norton Rose Fulbright in early 2018.
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Testimonials
‘Clifford Chance’s advice is exceptional. The firm handles high-stake issues with outstanding efficiency thanks to its long experience in PPP and its capacity to call up collaborators in different countries.’
‘The team has very good technical skills, deep market experience and excellent legal knowledge.’
‘David Préat is really one of the most talented lawyers in the field of public private partnerships. He has managed to build a team of exceptional quality.’
‘Gauthier Martin has a high level of expertise.’
Key clients
French Ministry for Ecological and Inclusive Transition
EDF Renouvelables
Société du Grand Paris
Eiffage Concessions
Transdev
RATP
Antin Infrastructure Partners
Bolloré Energie
Mirova
Banking and finance: Bank regulatory Tier 1
Clifford Chance continues to secure a significant share of financial institution restructurings, including recent work for major global banks. Over the past year, the team also kept busy keeping clients up-to-date with Brexit-related issues, as well as advising on the rapidly evolving fintech regulatory environment. Frédérick Lacroix heads the financial services and asset management practice and advises on French and EU laws regarding the full range of banking and investment services, including fintech. Structured finance head Jonathan Lewis is noted for his involvement in advising on the resolution of the euro area sovereign debt crisis. Counsel Sébastien Praicheux recently left to join DLA Piper.
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Testimonials
‘Strong expertise and availability.’
Key clients
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Association of Morrocan asset managers and investment funds) (ASFIM)
Amundi AM
Samsung
European Investment Bank
Banking and finance: transactional work Tier 1
'Probably the best finance team in Paris for its exceptional technical skills, its business-oriented vision and its capability to cover a very wide range of sectors', says a client of Clifford Chance. The firm focuses mainly on large-cap and upper mid-cap transactions and has a strong focus on acquisition and leveraged finance, infrastructure finance, corporate lending, equity bridge financing and transactions involving high-yield bonds. It acts for lenders, borrowers and sponsors on transactions under English and French law. The key contacts are Thierry Arachtingi, who handles acquisition and real estate finance; Daniel Zerbib whose work focuses on the infrastructure and energy sectors; and Nikolaï Eatwell who has a broad practice in the energy sector.
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Testimonials
‘The firm has a complete, responsive and competent team that is capable of solving every problem with unique expertise in every aspect of a transaction – structuring, derivatives, credit agreements – and is able to defend its clients’ interests while finding solutions that are acceptable to all parties‘.
‘Daniel Zerbib has unique expertise in complex financings. Counsel Fabien Jacquemard, is the best derivatives expert in Paris. He is able to understand the subject, find solutions and call upon a broad knowledge of the market. He is the best expert in that area, with unrivalled expertise and technical ability, and an ability to find relevant solutions in a very technical domain.‘
‘The qualities of the team are strongly related to the individuals, in particular Daniel Zerbib who has a well-established reputation, and counsel Chloe Desreumaux, who is a rising star of the team and – beyond her excellent technical skills – has the ability to manage complex and difficult cases, and also has an excellent relationship with clients.‘
Key clients
Ardian Private Debt
Ares Capital
Barings
BlackRock
Capzanine
EQT Infrastructure III
LBPAM
SCOR Investment Partners SE
CDC (Caisse des dépôts et consignations)
EIB
Ministry of Transport of Finance
BPI France
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
FIA Europe
LCH Clearnet S.A.
World Bank
3i
Apax Partners
Apollo
Ardian
Bridgepoint
DIF Infrastructure
Carlyle Group
CDC I Capital
Cinven
Clayton Dublier & Rice
KKR
InfraVia
Macquarie
Meridiam
Permira
Wendel
Airbus
AXA
Bouygues
Carrefour
EDF
Eiffage
L’Oréal
Pierre & Vacances
Ramsay Santé
SANEF
TOTAL
Vinci
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Barclays
BTMU
Credit Suisse
Deutsche Bank
Goldman Sachs
HSBC
ING
IKB
JP Morgan
UniCredit
Rothschild
SMBC
BNP Paribas
Crédit Agricole
CACEIS
Natixis
Société Générale
Capital markets: debt capital markets Tier 1
Clifford Chance advises on an array of debt capital markets products and liability management transactions for French and multinational banks and issuers. The group’s adeptness in both French and English law, and its strong international capability generally, is a recurring theme among sources, and it acts on a steady stream of cross-border matters. Alex Bafi heads the US capital markets practice in France and has a strong record in advising investment banks and corporations on international securities offerings, including investment grade Rule 144A Yankee bond offerings. Cédric Burford, who advises on English and French law transactions, is also a key figure and has recently acted on debt and equity-linked bond issues and debt issuance programmes. Structured finance head Jonathan Lewis and counsel Auriane Bijon are also recommended. Andrew McCann was recently promoted to counsel.
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Testimonials
‘Clifford Chance Paris’ capital markets team can intervene on issues of English law, as well as French law. The team is perfectly bilingual, all partners and associates speak in French and English, including the English law side.’
‘Good communication between the lead attorney and his/her teams. A worldwide outlook and knowledge of the different specialities.’
‘Excellent reactivity and quality of legal advice.’
‘Clifford Chance, and specifically its CM team, has very deep experience in capital markets, which fully benefits its clients.’
‘A good understanding of the in-house practice within companies, which is often deficient in other firms.’
‘A talent for making legal terms accessible to people who are not familiar with legal subjects. Very high competence in the domain of intervention.’
‘We value its competence, client service, availability of partners and legal analysis followed by practical resolution of problems — particularly Cédric Burford and Alexander Tollast.’
‘Cédric Burford had great availability, as do members of his team.’
Key clients
BNP Paribas
Crédit Agricole CIB
Natixis
Société Générale
Goldman Sachs
Bank of China International Holdings Ltd
Citigroup
HSBC
J.P. Morgan
Morgan Stanley
National Bank of Abu Dhabi
Standard Chartered Bank
Accor Hotels
Carmila
Carrefour
Dassault Systèmes
Neopost
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
VINCI
Volvo
Thales
UMG Groupe VYV
Société du Grand Paris
The Government of Sultanate of Oman
CADES
Capital markets: equity capital markets Tier 1
Clifford Chance wins a significant share of European IPOs and its Paris team plays a central role in securing that work. The group also handles a steady stream of rights issues, share capital increases, convertible bonds, block trades and equity derivatives. In addition, the team has niche strength in employee share schemes, with the recent arrival of counsel Ekaterina Zaboussova-Celsa from Shearman & Sterling LLP boosting its offering in that area. Alex Bafi spearheads the US equity capital markets practice in France and routinely advises both issuers and underwriters on equity transactions. French-law qualified Aline Cardin specialises in advising French and European issuers on both French and international public offerings and private placements. Anne Lemercier, who focuses on compensation and benefits, is also recommended.
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Key clients
BNP Paribas
Société Générale
Natixis
Crédit Agricole CIB
Goldman Sachs
CItibank
Morgan Stanley
J.P. Morgan
Deutsche Bank
HSBC
UBS
Barclays
Credit Suisse
ING
Vallourec
Unibail-Rodamco
Ubisoft
Europcar Mobility Group
Sopra Steria
Jackpotjoy
Accor
Veolia
Carmila
Arkema
Scor
Apax
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec
PrimaryBid
Compliance Tier 1
Clifford Chance advises leading French and international corporations on the setting up of Sapin II anti-corruption and anti-bribery compliance programmes, and also offers guidance on risk assessment. The firm has been assisting many high-profile clients facing French Anti-corruption Agency (AFA)-led controls and assisted them with internal investigations regarding corruption and other accusations. The practice is playing a front part in the groundbreaking Airbus corruption domestic and international investigation case. EU and competition compliance and investigation expertise are further strengths of the team. Thomas Baudesson and Charles-Henri Boeringer are the key contacts. Associates Sophie Levy and Rachel Scott also deserve a mention.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Clifford Chance is recognised for its strong expertise in advising large companies in dealing with complex compliance issues. It is a state-of-the-art law firm able to provide different specialists with excellent skills and knowledge available at any time for their clients.’
‘The firm provides exceptional client service, is extremely professional, and always gives the impression of being calm in difficult situations, and unflustered.’
‘Thomas Baudesson has very extensive experience in French regulatory enforcement matters. His deep knowledge and excellent intuition make him very reassuring to work with.’
‘Charles-Henri Boeringer is a very dedicated and smart young partner, very familiar with AFA investigations. He is extremely knowledgeable, offers clear, straightforward and pragmatic advice. He is hard-working, prompt to respond, hands-on and reliable. He is able to think outside of the box.’
‘Associate Sophie Lévy demonstrates a positive can-do attitude and is a great team worker.’
‘Associate Rachel Scott is super efficient and produces excellent quality work.’
Key clients
Airbus
AB Electrolux
Rexel
Ingram Micro
Teva Pharmaceuticals
Derivatives and structured finance Tier 1
Clifford Chance’s comprehensive structured finance practice spans the full suite of securitisations, repackaging, derivatives and factoring, with growing activity in the use of structured finance techniques to access alternative market funding. Leveraging its ability to draw upon French, English and US lawyers, the group is also distinguished by its handling of a significant volume of transactions governed under foreign law. It also consistently works alongside other departments in the firm to advise on multi-disciplinary deals. Jonathan Lewis leads the structured finance team and counts financial institutions, supranational organisations, European institutions, corporates and private equity funds among his clients. Julien Rocherieux, noted as a ‘talented younger partner’, is also a key contact for transactional matters. Frédérick Lacroix heads the regulatory side of the practice.
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Testimonials
‘They provide high-quality advice thanks to a very professional and experienced team.’
‘They have a strong track record In this market so they can find solutions by making parallels with precedents.’
‘Talented younger partner Julien Rocherieux is diligent and pragmatic, being able to balance technical knowledge with the ability to explain it to somebody who does not yet have that knowledge.’
Key clients
Crédit Agricole
Natixis
My Money Bank
CIC
Credipar
EBRD
EIB
EIF
IFC/World Bank
Banco Santander
Deutsche Bank
Credit Suisse
Banque Internationale à Luxembourg
AXA
CNP Assurances
Carrefour
Constellium
Rexel
Elior
XPO
Ingram Micro
Ostrum Asset Management
Mirova
Kartesia
Montefiore
Meridiam
Primonial
Zencap Asset Management
Schroder
Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation Tier 1
Clifford Chance is particularly adept at dealing with highly sensitive commercial and consumer related litigation, with a 14-lawyer practice that also regularly advises leading investment funds, banks and corporates in M&A-related disputes. The practice represents leading French and international retailers in high-stake disputes with competitors and the French government, and is also well versed at handling mass-consumer disputes. The firm's caseload includes several sensitive product liability disputes, notably in the healthcare sector and it also takes on industrial litigation. Thomas Baudesson, Diego de Lammerville and Thibaud d’Alès are in charge of the practice, with Gaëlle Merlier promoted to counsel. Key former team member Jean-Pierre Grandjean left to set up Grandjean Avocats alongside former counsel Marguerite Aynès.
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Testimonials
‘Thibaud d’Alès is a great litigator. He is strategically very strong; commercially minded and solution-oriented. He has very strong pleading skills; is super responsive and resourceful and great in client management. He is a true pleasure to work with’.
Key clients
Carrefour
Airbus
Cinven
Apax
JP Morgan
SFR
Pfizer
Jacob Douwe Egberts (JDE)
Royal Bank of Scotland
Europcar
AXA IM
Ligue de Football Professionnel
The Kooples
Cessna
Europcar
Kingspan
General Electric
EU, competition and distribution Tier 1
Clifford Chance runs a very comprehensive practice. The 14-lawyer team shows high-level proficiency working on domestic and EU merger control filings pertaining to large-scale M&A transactions. The practice is also involved in several high-profile cases dealing with sensitive post-merger control issues. On the antitrust front, the practice is equally strong and advising on several headline domestic and EU cases. It is notably acting in a number of highly significant matters regarding IP and antitrust issues, and IT competition matters regarding the use of data. David Tayar and Katrin Schallenberg are in charge. Of counsel Michel Petite is another very experienced team member. Senior associate Emily Xueref-Poviac provides key support.
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Testimonials
‘The team is fully dedicated to its clients, business-oriented and open-minded. The lawyers have a real team spirit.’
‘Katrin Schallenberg and David Tayar are working as one team. They both are providing a high level of advice and support on competition law, are also creative and do not hesitate to propose an innovative approach.’
‘It is a state of the art law firm able to provide specialists with excellent skills and knowledge.’
‘David Tayar is extremely knowledgeable. He gives clear, straightforward and pragmatic advice. He is very hard-working, prompt to respond and very available. He is able to think outside the box and make connections with other areas of law. He has a pleasant personality to work with.’
Key clients
Agence des Participations de l’Etat (APE)
Airbus
Ariane Group
Arkema
BNP Paribas
Carrefour
Crédit Agricole/CACEIS
Crédit Mutuel
Engie
Europcar
Framatome
General Electric
Hearst
Ingram Micro
Ligue de Football Professionnel
Oracle
Plastic Omnium
Rexel
Shell
Tereos
Teva Pharmaceuticals Industries
Total
Industry focus: Energy Tier 1
Clifford Chance offers the full range of expertise and is thus able to advise all types of stakeholders, from corporations to international financial institutions, ECAs, French and international banks, as well as governmental entities. The stellar practice is as strong in domestic work as it is in cross-border mandates. In France, the team advises on several of the market's largest greenfield and brownfield renewable energy projects, M&A and financing transactions, and also impresses with its regulatory expertise. Internationally, the group has a very strong presence in francophone Africa where it advises on some of the largest traditional power and renewables energy projects. Other cross-border work involved key projects in Kosovo, Serbia and Armenia. Finally, the practice is also experienced in advising on highly strategic pipeline projects. The practice is co-headed by the highly regarded project and finance partners Anthony Giustini, Delphine Siino Courtin, Nikolaï Eatwell, Richard Tomlinson, Laurent Schoenstein and Daniel Zerbib, as well as public law experts David Préat and Gauthier Martin, and international arbitration specialists Jason Fry and Simon Greenberg.
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Key clients
Bahrain Steel
Africa50 Infrastructure Fund
Bouygues
CDC Group Plc
Eiffage
EDF
ENGIE
ENEL
Meridiam
TOTAL
Agence Française de Développment (AFD)
Africa Finance Corporation
African Development Bank (ADB)
Asian Development Bank
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
DEG
EBRD
EIB
FMO
IDA
IFC
Inter-American Development Bank
Inter-American Investment Corporation
MIGA
OeEB
OFID
OPIC
Proparco
The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF)
The Korean Development Bank
Bpifrance
Euler Hermes
K-sure
SACE
UK Export Finance
Auxifip
Barclays
CIC
HSBC
Macquarie
MUFG
Santander
Standard Chartered bank
Türkiye Garanti Bankasi A.Ş.
UniCredit
BNP Paribas
CACIB
Natixis
Société Générale
Media and entertainment: Sports Tier 1
Clifford Chance's managing partner and corporate law expert Yves Wehrli has extensive experience assisting leading names in the industry with their most strategic matters. He notably advises professional federations on the organisation of major sports events, regulatory issues and the sale of TV broadcastings rights. Wehrli recently advised the French Tennis Federation on the sale of the television broadcasting rights for the Roland Garros Grand Slam tournament from 2021 to 2023. The practice is also one of the French Professional Football League's main advisers and recently sought Wehrli's advice regarding the sale of TV rights. Dispute resolution partner Thibaud d’Alés also contributes.
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Testimonials
‘The Paris team quickly grasps cross-border legal issues. They provide excellent, timely advice and go above and beyond to get the right result.’
Key clients
Fédération Française de Football
Ligue de Football Professionnel
Fédération Française de Tennis
Paris Gay Games 2018
Private equity: Fund formation Tier 1
Clifford Chance specialises in French, Luxembourgish and pan-European funds, and has longstanding experience advising on a wide variety of funds, including LBO, mezzanine, infrastructure, real estate and secondary funds as well as funds of funds. Additionally, the team is very active in secondary transactions. Highly complex fund structurings are the group's mainstay, often involving large-cap target values. With the firm's wide geographical reach and full-service offering, the group is able to draw on other departments to offer its clients seamless service, both in France and abroad. Xavier Comaills heads the team, which also includes Marie Préat who made counsel in May 2019.Practice head(s):
Project finance Tier 1
Clifford Chance combines leading domestic and international project expertise. The firm advises all types of stakeholders, including French and international banks, international development banking institutions, private operators and sponsors, as well as government entities. In France, the practice advises on the development and financing of the country's largest energy, transport and other public infrastructure projects. Abroad, the team has a very strong presence on landmark renewables and power projects in Africa, but is also involved in several renewables projects in Eastern Europe. The firm also acts on on several port infrastructure and highly strategic pipeline project. The practice unites 28 Paris-based lawyers led by project finance partners Anthony Giustini, Nikolaï Eatwell, Delphine Siino Courtin, Richard Tomlinson and Daniel Zerbib, as well as public law experts David Préat and Gauthier Martin. Also recommended are counsels Milica Zatezalo-Falatar and Peter Cuthbert.
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Testimonials
‘The team provides high-quality advice to lenders. It has the depth of expertise and resources to effectively manage the expectations of large and diverse creditors and sponsors and complex inter-creditor discussions. It included a terrific set of lawyers who also happen to be an absolute pleasure to work with.’
‘A very experienced, solution-oriented and pragmatic team. Team members are always accessible, attentive, responsive, hard-working, and professional. They are always hands-on, fully involved in matters, and are with their clients every step of the way.’
‘Anthony Giustini is a real guru of international project finance. He is a great expert and also a person able to find a solution in every circumstance.’
‘Richard Tomlinson provides outstanding guidance to commercial lenders and has the ability to articulate complex concepts in terms that are readily understandable to his clients. He is solution-driven, creative and always displays strong commerciality in negotiations.’
‘Daniel Zerbib has unique expertise advising sponsors and lenders on project finance transactions.’
‘David Préat has remarkable expertise and an ability to come up with out-of-the-box solutions.’
‘Nikolai Eatwell and counsel Milica Zatezalo-Falatar provide remarkable and outstanding services. They are very commercially oriented and strong lawyers with good negotiation skills.’
‘Counsel Peter Cuthbert provides practical, focused and comprehensive advice. He displays highly effective communication skills, always listens to feedback and provides solid and well-balanced advice while always highlighting relevant risks to his clients.’
Key clients
African Development Bank (ADB)
Asian Development Bank
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
DEG
EBRD
EIB
FMO
IFC
Inter-American Development Bank
Inter-American Investment Corporation
MIGA
OeEB
OPIC
Proparco
The Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF)
The Korea Development Bank
Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
Africa Finance Corporation
Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund
FMO
OFID
Ethiopian Electric Power
French Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy
Ministry of Water Irrigation and Energy, Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
Bpifrance
Hermes
K-sure
SACE
UK Export Finance
BNP Paribas
CACIB
CDC
Natixis
Société Générale
Bouygues
EDF
Eiffage
ENGIE
Meridiam
Total
Vinci
Barclays
HSBC
Macquarie
Santander
Standard Chartered bank
Türkiye Garanti Bankasi A.Ş.
UniCredit
MUFG
Real estate Tier 1
Clifford Chance 's 11-lawyer team has high-end expertise assisting leading real estate investors and fund sponsors with the market's largest transactions. The outstanding practice recently stood out out by advising on many of France's most prominent office-tower transactions through its key involvement in the Tour Majunga, Tour Ariane, Tour Prisma, Tour Blanche and Tour Aurore deals in Paris-La Défense. The team also worked on large domestic and cross-border portfolio transactions and notably provided assistance on two major hotel asset deals. Finally, the practice completed work in the logistic and retail sectors and advised on the setting up of major property funds, including the establishment of the first two investment funds dedicated to Grand Paris urban development projects. François Bonteil and Alexandre Couturier are in charge. Also involved are counsels Anne-Sophie Plé and Karen Bortolotti. Leading complementary tax expertise is also available.
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Testimonials
‘A leading team on the real estate market.’
‘The team is customer-oriented.’
‘Excellent at all levels, from associate to partner.’
‘François Bonteil is one of the best lawyers – if not the best – and dealmakers on the French market. He has excellent knowledge of clients’ expectations and of the real estate industry.’
Key clients
AEW Ciloger
Allianz Real Estate
Amundi
Axa IM
Benson Elliott
Blackstone Real Estate
BNP Paribas REIM
CDC Investissement Immobilier
Colony NorthStar
Crédit Suisse Asset Management
DWS
Fortress
Gecina
GIC
HSBC REIM
Icade
Ivanhoé Cambridge
Klépierre
La Française REM
LaSalle Investment Management
Maple Knoll Capital
Partners Group
Patrizia
PGGM
Primonial REIM
Prologis
Scaprim
Schroders
Swiss Life REIM
Union Investment Real Estate
Westbrook
Aviation Tier 2
Clifford Chance has a strong, multi-disciplinary team able to act on a range of aviation-related matters, including acquisitions, joint ventures and cooperation, procurement, service agreements, and complex litigation. The practice has a strong focus on aerospace and defence industry clients, including a long-term and wide-ranging partnership with Airbus and subsidiaries, while the firm's global reach enables it to act on a number of cross-border and multijurisdictional matters. The practice is jointly led by Fabrice Cohen, Dessislava Savova and Yves Wehrli, who are particularly experienced in cross-border corporate and M&A transactions.
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Testimonials
‘Exceptional understanding of the aerospace business, which enables them to provide high-quality advice regarding our international cooperation activities in this sector, as well as contextualising it appropriately.’
Key clients
Airbus
ATR (Avions de Transport Régional G.I.E.)
Airbus Helicopters
Airbus Defence & Space
Cessna Citation European Service Center
ArianeGroup
Data privacy and data protection Tier 2
Clifford Chance assists with data protection and cybersecurity matters alike. The practice is part of the firm's wider commercial, tech and data team and specialises in matters requiring cross-border advice and a cross-practice approach, frequently assisting with clients' strategic projects. In combination with the group's wide sector range, including the automotive, financial services, insurance, energy and aerospace and defence sectors, the practice is able to take on high-stakes matters and provides a one-stop-shop for transactions, major compliance projects, complex commercial contracts and day-to-day data protection and cybersecurity advice. It also stands out for the firm's apps - 'Clifford Chance Cyber Assist' and 'Clifford Chance Dawn Raids' - which assist clients with cyber incidents and dawn raids. Dessislava Savova is the head of the practice. TMT expert Grégory Sroussi made counsel in May 2019.
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Key clients
Engie
Insmed
Plastic Omnium
SMCP
Samsung Electronics France
Dispute resolution: Stock market litigation Tier 2
Clifford Chance represents companies, banks and individuals in a range of stock-market litigation including market abuse cases and investigations. Recent mandates include successfully acting for Fountain Legend in a dispute relating to a public tender offer initiated for the shares of Baccarat, defending a credit rating agency in several sensitive cases and also handling the very first investigation and enforcement proceedings launched by ESMA, the new European regulator for credit rating agencies. Thomas Baudesson, Diego de Lammerville and Charles-Henri Boeringer co-head the practice.
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Key clients
Standard & Poor’s
Airbus
FXCM
Fortune Legend Ltd
Dispute resolution: White-collar crime Tier 2
Clifford Chance is at the front line in the market's groundbreaking Airbus case in which the firm is acting for the aerospace constructor in facing criminal investigations jointly conducted by French, UK and US authorities. The team is also defending several leading French, US and Chinese banks as well as private banks in a range of matters, including a high-profile tax fraud case and a French Ponzi scheme. The firm is also handling various fraud cases for companies and investment funds, and managing a long-running and high-profile drug product liability case. Thomas Baudesson and Charles-Henri Boeringer head the practice.
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Testimonials
‘An outstanding team that brings together top-notch specialists. The firm always leads the way and is at the forefront of shaping legal developments.’
‘Thomas Baudesson has outstanding professional skills and is very experienced.’
‘Charles-Henri Boeringer is a phenomenal lawyer, combining strategic thinking with care for all details. He is extremely knowledgeable. He is able to think outside the box and connects with other areas of laws. He is one of the most talented criminal law specialists and compliance lawyers on the French legal scene.’
Key clients
Airbus
Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences Tier 2
Clifford Chance's recent highlights include defending Pfizer before French courts in several high-profile product liability cases regarding the company's various vaccines and drug products, including a major vaccine class action. Dispute resolution partner Thomas Baudesson is recommended, along with counsel Gaëlle Merlier whose expertise encompasses regulatory and product liability work. Olivier Gaillard brings further regulatory expertise to the team, while competition law expert David Tayar is active in several sensitive patent-related antitrust cases for a major pharmaceutical company.
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Testimonials
‘A very experienced team in dealing with product liability and regulatory issues.’
‘The team has a very good understanding of the healthcare industry and of French regulations.’
‘A very reliable firm which provides regulatory and contract expertise in the life sciences sector.’
‘Counsel Gaëlle Merlier is a rising star who has proven experience in the field of life sciences. She is very proactive, efficient and reliable.’
‘Counsel Olivier Gaillard has unmatched healthcare industry knowledge. He listens carefully to clients’ needs and provides tailored responses. He mixes high-level expertise and pragmatism.’
Key clients
Pfizer
Zoetis
Teva
NovoNordisk
IPSEN
Ethics
Meda Pharma
Insmed
Sofinnova Partners
ArchiMed
Kurma Partners
Bpifrance Investissement
Intervascular
Abbott
Iscador
Klosterfrau Healthcare Group
BTG International Germany GmbH
Merck
Nicox
PTC Therapeutics
Dassault Systèmes
Stallergenes
Sandoz
Pyxus International
Ring Holding
LFB
Sanity Group
Innovative Surgery
Mergers and acquisitions Tier 2
Clifford Chance has a varied practice, with particular strengths in infrastructure M&A and cross-border transactions. The group is well versed in transactions in highly regulated sectors, including TMT, and is mainly visible in large-cap transactions, both in private and public M&A. It is frequently sought out to handle jumbo-cap matters and also acts on an impressive string of complex small-cap work. The real estate sector is another area of expertise. Fabrice Cohen, Gilles Lebreton, Marianne Pezant, Laurent Schoenstein, Thierry Schoen and Mathieu Rémy form the heart of the practice. Counsel Olivier Jouffroy is also noted. Benjamin de Blégiers joined Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in April 2019.
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Testimonials
‘The team is close to our business and to our teams. On top of the high quality of the services provided and the efficiency of the group, the team provides appropriate advice based on their real knowledge of the business and organisation of their clients.‘
‘Very professional practice. Ability to support fast-paced transactions with high-quality work.‘
‘It is a real pleasure to work with the dealmaker team of Fabrice Cohen. They always find solutions to make the deal happen while maintaining a high level of security for its client. Easy to work with.‘
‘Laurent Schoenstein: Extremely experienced and knowledgeable. Commercially minded. Easy to work with. Excellent negotiator.‘
‘Olivier Jouffroy is very talented and hands-on.‘
Key clients
Airbus Group
Axel Springer
Caisse des dépôts et consignations
Crédit Agricole
Eiffage
Engie
L’Oréal
Mondelēz
Plastic Omnium
Veolia
Private equity: LBO Tier 2
Clifford Chance impresses with its wide sectorial range; track record as adviser on large buy-out transactions in the French market; high volume of transactions; ancillary strengths in financing, fund formation, tax structuring and M&A; and cross-border strength. Core sectors include the consumer goods and retail sectors, the healthcare and telecoms sectors, the financial services sector as well as the aerospace and defence sectors. Fabrice Cohen and Marianne Pezant are the practice heads. Gilles Lebreton and Laurent Schoenstein are other key contacts. Infrastructure specialist Benjamin de Blégiers joined Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in April 2019.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘Very good knowledge of PE industry practices. Solid understanding of commercial matters. Ability to put themselves in lenders’ position to understand key potential issues.‘
‘General availability, professionalism, ability to put forward ideas to sort out difficult situations.‘
Key clients
3i
Apax Partners
Ardian
Bridgepoint
Capzanine
Cinven
Goldman Sachs
Permira
SCOR Investment Partners SE
Wendel
Tax Tier 2
Clifford Chance's practice has a strong focus on transactional tax. The team regularly advises on the structuring of the market's largest property and M&A transactions, together with its colleagues from the firm's corporate department. The practice was recently involved in many landmark deals, especially in the property sector, where it played a key part on many prime office tower and portfolio transactions. The team also has a strong expertise in advising on fund formation and fundraising, especially in relation to the property sector. In addition, it handles tax litigation, including a high-profile tax reassessment dispute with high financial stakes. Eric Davoudet and Alexandre Lagarrigue lead the team, of which counsel Jitka Susankova is also a key member.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team is available and business-oriented’
‘Eric Davoudet is an excellent adviser regarding international investments. He knows how to structure any acquisition efficiently and he knows the real estate investment sector perfectly’
‘Alexandre Lagarrigue is a well-recognised adviser. He is practical, has great technique and knows where to find the middle ground’
‘Counsel Jitka Sansukova is very dedicated’
Key clients
AEW
Wendel
Rexel
Carlyle European Real Estate
AXA
Orion
QIA
EDF
Amundi
Accor
Altaréa Cogedim
Primonial
Ipsen
Swiss Life REIM
L’Oréal
Engie
PAI
Spie
Dispute resolution: International arbitration Tier 3
Clifford Chance is handling a high volume of ICC cases, a good portion of which involve representing a leading aeronautic company. The practice, which is active in investment and commercial arbitration, is also representing the government of Taiwan in facing its first-ever investment treaty arbitration case. In addition, the team is managing a diverse caseload, dealing with the mining, finance and construction industries, involving various parts of the world, including Asia, Africa and the Middle-East. Jason Fry jointly heads the firm's global international arbitration practice. Simon Greenberg is another key name, while counsels Sandrine Colletier and Louis-Alexis Bret also provide strong support.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very solid, efficient and always reliable team, which gets the job done.’
‘The team shows excellent ability to take into account every business aspect impacting a case and has strong commercial arbitration expertise.’
‘Jason Fry impresses with his ability to develop a convincing and realistic case. His clear and persuasive advocacy skills are also highly impressive. His wisdom and expert knowledge is recommended for the most complex matters.’
‘Simon Greenberg is excellent. He has a lot of experience as counsel and arbitrator, and is very sharp and bright in terms of definition of case strategy. He has acute knowledge of ICC rules.’
‘Counsel Louis-Alexis Bret is combative and tenacious.’
Key clients
The Government of Taiwan
Crédit Agricole
Bahrain Steel
Employment Tier 3
Clifford Chance's seven-lawyer has deep expertise assisting French and international industrial companies with the implementation of large-scale restructuring, collective redundancy and site closure projects, especially in the automotive sector. François Farmine's team is handling several key matters in that area., including high-stake mass litigation. The practice also handles discrimination and other types of employment issues. Cécile Zorro joined the firm as counsel in 2018, arriving from her own practice to strengthen the team's senior ranks.
Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team is not only an expert in employment law, but is also a real adviser that helps clients to succeed in conducting complex reorganisation projects.’
‘An extremely knowledgeable, experienced, responsive and committed team.’
‘François Farmine provides accurate advice and has a strong ability to manage complex issues and conflicts. He is extremely smart, gives to-the-point advice, is committed, exceptionally well connected and responsive.’
Key clients
WANZL
Von Roll
PayPal
Schaeffler
Hanon Systems Charleville
Visteon Corporation
Trèves
Pfizer
ALLLIA (GEBERIT)
Visteon Electronics France
Beckman Coulter France
Fujifilm France
Insolvency Tier 4
Clifford Chance recently strengthened its practice through the hiring of the well-regarded Delphine Caramalli who arrived from insolvency boutique Bremond & Associés. She joins forces with Reinhard Dammann and counsel Gilles Podeur who regularly advise banks and judicial liquidators. The firm has notable expertise handling cross-border restructuring work or involving trustees and security-law issues. is another
Practice head(s):
Clifford Chance > Firm Profile
The firm: Clifford Chance is one of the world’s pre-eminent law firms, with significant depth and range of resources across five continents. As a single, fully integrated, global partnership, it prides itself on its approachable, collegial and team-based way of working. The firm always strives to exceed the expectations of its clients, which include corporates from all the commercial and industrial sectors, governments, regulators, trade bodies and not-for-profit organisations. It provides them with the highest quality advice and legal insight, which combines the firm’s global standards with in-depth local expertise.
Types of work undertaken:
Capital markets: the capital markets practice concentrates on securities transactions and other products sold into the capital markets. The practice is founded on a full-service US and UK securities law capability, complemented by local securities law expertise in each of the key financial centres. It provides practical, integrated legal advice covering the full spectrum of global capital raising activities including public and private domestic and international offerings of traditional debt and equity securities as well as convertible and other derivative and structured securities.
Corporate: the corporate practice handles some of the world’s largest and most complex M&A transactions. It combines global transaction capability with a full service of English, US and civil law expertise in the key financial centres across Europe, the Americas and Asia Pacific. In addition to mainstream M&A, the firm also encompasses leading specialist practices in: commercial contracts, competition and antitrust, communications, energy, healthcare, financial institutions, funds, investment banking, insurance, media and technology, and private equity.
Finance: Clifford Chance’s finance practice is the leading international finance practice of any law firm. The practice provides highly commercial and practical advice across the full spectrum of financial products including syndicated lending and leveraged and acquisition finance, asset finance, derivative products, project finance, financial regulatory, insolvency, restructuring and structured finance.
Litigation, dispute resolution and risk management: the firm has experience in virtually all segments of the business and financial markets across multiple jurisdictions. The lawyers work with clients to resolve disputes efficiently and effectively – whether through arbitration, litigation or other techniques.
Real estate: Clifford Chance’s leading real estate practice offers UK, European, Asian and US real estate capability. The practice advises the real estate industry’s leading players on the entire property ‘life-cycle’ from the initial acquisition, development, leasing, joint venturing and financing through to the final exit, as well as tax structuring, PFI/PPP, corporate outsourcing, planning, environment and litigation.
Tax, pensions, employment and incentives: Clifford Chance has one of the world’s largest international tax groups within a single law firm. The firm is uniquely placed to provide leading edge advice to clients, and the practice is structured on an integrated global basis. Local tax groups within the practice work closely with areas such as securitisation, securities, M&A, corporate restructuring, private equity, real estate and funds.
The pan-European VAT group advises on all areas of VAT and has particular strength advising on novel and complex issues in the structured finance, financial services, corporate finance and real estate sectors.
The team of experienced employment, employee benefits, ERISA, immigration and pensions specialists work with clients from a wide range of sectors to address local and cross-border issues.
International offices:Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Bangkok, Barcelona, Beijing, Brussels, Bucharest, Casablanca, Dubai, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Jakarta*, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Munich, New York, Paris, Perth, Prague, Rome, São Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, Warsaw, Washington, D.C., Riyadh**
*Linda Widyati & Partners in association with Clifford Chance
**Clifford Chance has a co-operation agreement with Abuhimed Alsheikh Alhagbani Law Firm in Riyadh
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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François Bonteil | François Bonteil specialises in all areas of real estate work: Real Estate… | View Profile |
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Reinhard Dammann | Reinhard Damman advises on insolvency law, with a particular emphasis on international… | View Profile |
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Anthony Giustini | Anthony Giustini specialises mainly on project development and finance transactions in the… | View Profile |
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Mathieu Rémy | Managing Partner, Avocat à la Cour | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of partners : 550 Number of other fee-earners : 3,300Advice From Women Lawyers
Advice To My Younger Self: Reflections of Successful Women Lawyers
Women lawyers open up about their careers and defining choices
Advice To My Younger Self: Reflections of Successful Women Lawyers is published by The Legal 500‘s GC Magazine in collaboration with Clifford Chance. Now in its second release, the book is a practical resource for anyone interested in charting a successful career path at a law firm or by moving in-house. It features interviews with 20 women partners, alumnae and in-house counsel, with additional contributions from members of Clifford Chance’s senior management and US-based recruiting team. Visit our website to learn more about practical tips for building your career.
http://www.legal500.com/clifford-chance/advice-to-my-younger-self
RISING LAWYERS open up about their priorities and strategies for success
Their Voices: Insights from Today’s Rising Lawyers by The Legal 500‘s GC Magazine in collaboration with Clifford Chance. Geared primarily for students and junior lawyers, the book is a practical resource for those considering law school or just beginning a legal career. Twenty junior lawyers offer diverse perspectives on what inspires them about the law, and the strategies that are helping them stay in touch with their priorities and define the future of their careers. Their Voices also provides insights for senior lawyers as they mentor the next generation of leaders.
Legal Briefings
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Competition for competition claims?
Until recently, the lion’s share of follow-on claims in relation to large EU-wide cartels were brought in the English courts. The claimant is the one who decides where to bring the claim (subject to the chosen courts having jurisdiction) and the availability of broad disclosure and other aspects of English procedure have made England an … -
Securities litigation gathers momentum in the UK
Clifford Chance’s Ian Moulding, Chris Yates, Jason Epstein and Ryan Byrne consider the rising tide of US-style ‘stock drop’ shareholder class actions in the UK, and offer practical tips for in-house counsel on managing the risk of shareholder litigation Shareholders can bring claims against listed companies to recover losses suffered as a result of a drop …
Comparative Guides
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United Kingdom: Insurance & Reinsurance
Published: May 2020
Authors: Katherine Coates Eiram Sharpe
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Insurance & Reinsurance laws and regulations that may occur in United Kingdom.
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United Kingdom: Merger Control
Published: December 2019
Authors: Alex Nourry Daniel Harrison
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Merger Control laws and regulations that may occur in United Kingdom.
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France: Real Estate
Published: November 2020
Authors: Anne-Sophie Plé Karen Bortolotti
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Real Estate laws and regulations that may occur in France.
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Germany: Real Estate
Published: November 2020
Authors: Dr. Christian Keilich
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Real Estate laws and regulations that may occur in Germany.
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Spain: Real Estate
Published: November 2020
Authors: Maria Pradillo Carme Briera Fernando Escribano Javier Olabarri Alexandra Borrallo
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Real Estate laws and regulations that may occur in Spain.
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The Netherlands: Real Estate
Published: November 2020
Authors: Liesbeth Buiter Thomas Heijerman Stern Flik Genia Baardman
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Real Estate laws and regulations that may occur in The Netherlands.
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United Kingdom: Real Estate
Published: November 2020
Authors: Matt Taylor
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Real Estate laws and regulations that may occur in United Kingdom.
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Australia: Private Equity
Published: January 2021
Authors: Andrew Crook Mark Currell Alice Bradshaw Tegan Kelly
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Private Equity laws and regulations that may occur in Australia.
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United States: Real Estate
Published: November 2020
Authors: Ness Cohen Eddie Frastai Jeanne Roig-Irwin
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview to Real Estate laws and regulations that may occur in United States.
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Administrative and public law
- Banking and finance: Bank regulatory
- Banking and finance: transactional work
- Capital markets: debt capital markets
- Capital markets: equity capital markets
- Compliance
- Derivatives and structured finance
- Dispute resolution: Commercial litigation
- EU, competition and distribution
- Industry focus: Energy
- Media and entertainment: Sports
- Private equity: Fund formation
- Project finance
- Real estate