UGGC Avocats assists numerous French and foreign SMEs while also advising several large corporations and investment funds. The team mainly works on small to mid-cap transactions but has also proven capabilities in handling larger deals, including complex matters involving cross-border components. The practice is headed by Jean-Jacques Uettwiller, Ali Bougrine and Charles-Emmanuel Prieur. Demonstrating proficiency in M&A, private equity and venture capital transactions, Laura Malach was promoted to partner in January 2026.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Highly skilled legal experts with a deep understanding of business and corporate issues.'
- ‘Excellent on multi-party deals: secure structuring, controlled schedule, smooth coordination with tax/social/finance.’
- ‘Ali Bougrine stands out for his availability and the clarity of the options presented to decision-makers.’
- ‘Exceptional team with valuable insight, support and good communication. ’
- ‘The team is outstanding, always responsive, proactive and efficient, ensuring that urgent matters are handled swiftly without compromising on quality. We particularly value the team’s responsiveness, agility, and client-first mindset. They are also exceptional negotiators.’
- ‘Ali Bougrine provides exceptional advice, demonstrating a high level of expertise, professionalism, responsiveness, and dedication in sophisticated transactions. Beyond his technical skills, he drives a clear strategic vision for his team and us: he is a trusted and invaluable lawyer. Muriel Bernardin is also a key member of this team. ’
Key clients
- AXA France
- Holcim Group
- Agrial / Natup
- Colas Group
- Accor Group
- MerMec
- Touax
- Stanwell Consulting
- Action Patrimoine Conseil (APC)
- RedTree Capital Group
- Olmix Group
- CNX Therapeutics
Work highlights
Assisting Holcim Group in its acquisition of Alkern Groupe.
Assisting Hivest Capital Partners on its acquisition of SPHERE Group.
Assisting Canadian company Utradea with the acquisition of the goodwill ("Fonds de Commerce") of Financial Modelling Prep (FMP).
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Jean-Jacques Uettwiller; Ali Bougrine; Charles-Emmanuel Prieur
Other key lawyers
Laura Malach; Muriel Bernadin