Bredin Prat demonstrates proficiency across the full range of financial restructurings, asset sales and insolvency proceedings, with the team working together seamlessly with experts from departments such as M&A, litigation or employment. Advising both creditors and debtors as well as investors, the team covers various sectors, including construction, financial services, energy and leisure. Nicolas Laurent is well regarded for his expertise in financial restructurings and distressed M&A deals and leads the department alongside Olivier Puech, whose specialisms extend to judicial proceedings and related litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The team distinguishes itself through its leading technical expertise in complex restructurings and insolvency proceedings. It is undoubtedly among the best in the field, both for the quality of its analyses and its ability to develop pragmatic and operational solutions for its clients. Its strengths lie in its complete mastery of legal and financial issues, a nuanced understanding of companies' operational constraints, and a strong capacity for negotiation with various stakeholders (creditors, shareholders, public authorities).’
- ‘Solid, diligent, pragmatic.’
- ‘A very efficient, responsive, pragmatic and available team.’
- ‘Nicolas Laurent is an excellent lawyer with a very strong strategic vision.’
- ‘Within the team, Nicolas Laurent is a star lawyer. A true dealmaker, he particularly excels in handling amicable settlements. His strong strategic acumen, composure, and ability to build trust make him an exceptional negotiator, capable of finding creative and effective solutions even in the most tense situations. Alongside him, Olivier Puech stands out for his tenacity and in-depth expertise in litigation and legal proceedings. His determination and technical rigor translate into remarkable results for clients, who recognise him as a hands-on, tenacious, and results-oriented lawyer.’
Key clients
- The consortium formed by Fortress Investment Group and Davidson Kempner Capital Management
- Arkema
- Gifi
- Potel & Chabot
- Kem One
- Unisys
- GTT Eramet
- Macquarie
- Jaccar
- TwentyTwo Real Estate
- Technicolor Group
Work highlights
Advised the consortium formed by Fortress Investment Group and Davidson Kempner Capital Management, on the financial and corporate restructuring of Société Phocéenne de Participation (SPP), the holding company of the BOURBON group and its relevant subsidiaries.
Advised Gifi on the restructuring of approximately €1bn of its financial debt.
Advised Arkema on the judicial receivership proceedings initiated against Vencorex, one of its key suppliers of salt used in the production of hexachlorocyclopentadiene, an essential intermediate in Arkema’s fluorochemicals and advanced materials operations.
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.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Olivier Puech; Nicolas Laurent