CMS Francis Lefebvre is particularly well-versed in public contracts and and regulatory issues across a diverse range of sectors. The group regularly assists sponsors and lenders in relation to major infrastructure operations, as well as in high-stakes public law litigation, and has considerable expertise in foreign direct investment control. The practice is co-led by François Tenailleau, who advises on a variety of issues relating to public contracts and who is known for his proficiency in the infrastructure, aerospace and defence industries, and Claire Vannini, who is an expert in public business law in addition to being an EU law specialist, and frequently acts in litigation relating to complex public law issues. Kawthar Ben Khelil excels in litigation in the public business law and infrastructure space.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team proved to be highly competent, dynamic, and responsive. The involvement of the various stakeholders was very strong, and the coordination between the different members of the service delivery team was excellent. The organisation was very clear and adhered to.’
- ‘We dealt with highly qualified lawyers of exceptional quality and experience.'
- ‘The team provides comprehensive advice by being the entry point aggregating all the skills sought for our complex projects.’
- ‘I would like to highlight one lawyer in particular, Kawthar Ben Khelil, with whom it is both comfortable and reassuring to work.'
- 'François Tenailleau: This experienced lawyer is brilliant in his ideas, reflections, and strategies, a true source of knowledge. He inspires respect.'
Key clients
- La Banque Postale
- Engie
- Caisse des dépôts et consignations
- Interparking
- Corsica Linea
- Bruker France
- Société d’exploitation des ports du détroit
- Lexmark International
- NGE
- Meridiam
- Bouygues Construction
- Eiffage Construction Grands Projets
Work highlights
Advised Eiffage Construction Grands Projets, as leader of a consortium, in connection with the procurement procedure launched by the University of Paris for the award of a major global public performance contract for the design, construction and operation-maintenance of a new university hospital campus in Saint-Ouen.
Advised Corsica Linea during the awarding phase and the performance phase of service concessions for maritime routes between Corsica and the mainland and related litigation.
Advised D-Marin for the award of the marina concession of the City of Vallauris Golfe Juan, the fourth largest French Mediterranean marina in July 2024.
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
François Tenailleau; Claire Vannini
Other key lawyers
Kawthar Ben Khelil; Thomas Carenzi; Eleni Moraïtou