
BDV Law Firm LLP‘s team is known for advising banks, pension funds, and leading companies on banking, finance, and capital market matters. The team advises clients on regulatory and licensing requirements, and supports with due diligence and the drafting of security documents in financial transactions. Vladimir Batarelo leads the team, with experience representing international and domestic clients in mandates such as structured finance deals. Another important member of the team includes Laurenz Vuchetich, who has strong knowledge of project financing transactions in the energy sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘BDV stands out for its expertise and professionalism in banking and finance. With extensive experience, the team handles even the most complex matters with precision and efficiency. What sets BDV apart is the continuous support they provide throughout the legal process—working closely with clients and delivering tailored solutions. Their flexibility and ability to adapt quickly to clients’ specific needs make them a trusted partner.’
- ‘Our main contact at BDV for banking and finance is Vladimir Batarelo. He combines professionalism with exceptional responsiveness. Even in complex cases, Vladimir provides practical and cost-efficient advice that is clear and actionable. His collaborative approach and dedication make him a trusted partner, consistently focused on achieving the best results for clients.’
- ‘The team is highly skilled and responsive, managing complex financing matters with ease. They combine technical precision with a practical, business-oriented approach, and their cross-border experience, together with integrated tax and finance expertise adds real value.’
- ‘Vladimir Batarelo is an outstanding advisor in banking and finance. He brings deep knowledge of financing structures and combines it with sharp strategic thinking, always focused on getting deals across the line efficiently.’
- ‘The banking, finance, and tax team has been a trusted advisor to us on several complex matters. They supported us with both financing structures and tax planning, always providing clear and practical guidance. We value their responsiveness, their ability to anticipate potential issues, and the way they deliver solutions that work in practice, not just on paper. Working with them has given us confidence that even the most challenging matters will be handled smoothly and efficiently.’
- ‘We have always been impressed with the team’s sharp expertise and balanced, business-minded advice. Their ability to connect financial and tax perspectives makes even the most complex issues feel manageable, and their guidance is consistently clear, practical and reliable.’
Key clients
- Žito d.d.
- SMBC Bank International plc
- Chiba Bank London
- Star Energy Group Plc
- Biognost Ltd.
- Association of Pension Fund Management Companies and Pension Insurance Companies
- Acquinex GmbH
- DECup d.o.o.
- Calimero Limited
- Komba Technologies d.o.o.
- Kommunalkredit Austria AG
Work highlights
Advising Žito Group, one of Croatia’s most prominent and vertically integrated food processing and agribusiness companies, in connection with its initial public offering (IPO) and subsequent listing on the Zagreb Stock Exchange.
Advising SMBC Bank International plc, a UK lender lending to a borrower resident in Croatia under an existing loan.
Advised Star Energy Group Plc on negotiations with Erste Bank and OTP Bank regarding debt financing for the development of four geothermal power plants in Croatia.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head
Vladimir Batarelo
Other key lawyers
Laurenz Vuchetich
