Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is the go-to-firm for large French and international corporations, notably among publicly listed companies, for their large credit facilities needs (including senior and medium-term loans and RCF), or to finance large acquisitions. Valérie Lemaitre is the key name here, and is supported by counsel Laura Birène. Additionally, the firm is also retained by many African states and private entities to assist with Africa-related transactions, often dealing with infrastructure, energy and natural resources projects. In that area, Barthélemy Faye is highly sought after.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Efficiency, pragmatism.’
- ‘High availability, diligence and quality of services. Advice is always very relevant.’
Key clients
- Attestor
- Lagardère
Work highlights
Representing Groupe Canal + S.A., as borrower, and Vvendi S.E., as guarantor, in a €1.9 bn term facility agreement in connection with the acquisition by Groupe Canal + S.A. of MultiChoice Group Limited
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Practice head
Valérie Lemaitre; Barthélemy Faye
Other key lawyers
Laura Birène