VLM and Partners covers a wide range of practice areas, including corporate, litigation and competition law. The firm has a strong practice focus on energy and project matters. Managing partner Vugar Mammadov is noted as an ‘exceptional advisor whose strategic thinking and leadership have been incredibly valuable’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The individuals we work with stand out for their professionalism, deep expertise, and client-focused approach. They take the time to understand our business and priorities, which allows them to provide advice that is not only legally accurate but also practical and aligned with our goals. In particular, Vugar Mammadov has been an exceptional advisor whose strategic thinking and leadership have been incredibly valuable. Vugar brings a rare combination of legal precision, commercial awareness, and strategic thinking.
  • ‘VLM Legal is different from the usual law firm. What really makes the team stand out is how personal and practical their approach is — they don’t just give legal answers, they focus on what works best for each client’s real-life goals.
  • ‘This firm stands out because they truly understand both local and international laws and always give practical, legal-focused advice. They don’t just solve problems when they happen – they help prevent them by identifying risks early and offering clear, easy-to-understand guidance. The team is very responsive, reliable, and experienced, especially in corporate law, compliance, and cross-border matters. They are great at explaining complex issues in simple terms and are always ready to help, even with urgent requests. Compared to other firms, their service feels more personal and proactive, as they think ahead and provide solutions tailored to our industry and needs.
  • ‘What distinguishes VLM and Partners team is not just their legal expertise, which is consistently of the highest standard, but their ability to align legal advice with broader commercial strategy. In working with VLM and Partners, I’ve appreciated their deep understanding of the business context behind each matter, which sets them apart from many other firms I’ve encountered.
  • ‘VLM and Partners stand out from other firms by not limiting their advice to purely technical legal aspects but also considering the commercial dimension of every matter. The team’s key strengths are deep sectoral knowledge, a solution-oriented mindset, and constant communication with the client. In particular, their ability to combine fintech regulations with practical solutions makes them unique in the market.
  • ‘The team at VLM and Partners stands out for their high professionalism, attention to detail, and strict adherence to deadlines. They thoroughly review documents, assess legal risks, and provide practical, business-oriented solutions. All tasks are completed quickly and efficiently, with modern digital tools ensuring smooth and effective workflow for clients.’

Key clients

  • Asian Development Bank
  • Kirkland & Ellis International LLP
  • Azerbaijan Green Energy Company
  • Khamsa Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers
  • International SOS Hospital in Baku
  • Layher Scaffolding Systems
  • Yelo Bank
  • Baltech Group
  • Momentick LTD
  • Deva Holding A.S.
  • Universal Energy Co., Ltd
  • Ecovis Azerbaijan

Work highlights

Advised the Asian Development Bank and Government of the Solomon Islands on legal reforms to modernize the national electricity framework and support investment in clean energy.
Advised Azerbaijan Clean Energy Azerbaijan on the development and regulatory structuring of a 50 MW solar power plant in Jabrayil.
Advised and secured antitrust clearance for Kirkland & Ellis International LLP in its representation of Helmerich & Payne’s $1.97bn acquisition of KCA Deutag.
Practice head

Vugar Mammadov