Gianni & Origoni provides comprehensive legal support, from compliance and investigations to litigation, on data protection and cybersecurity matters across multiple jurisdictions. The firm assists with drafting privacy frameworks, supports DPO roles, provides legal assistance during regulatory audits and enforcement actions (notably by the Italian DPA), and advises national critical infrastructure entities. The practice is co-headed by Stefano Mele, who is an eminent specialist in cybersecurity and crisis management, alongside Daniele Vecchi, who focuses on privacy and data protection operations, and Melissa Marchese, who advises on day-to-day and project-based data protection management.
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.
- What I value the most about Gianni & Origoni’s data privacy and data protection team is their ability to combine deep legal knowledge with a very pragmatic, business-oriented approach. They are not only extremely competent on regulatory matters, but they also know how to turn complex rules into clear, actionable advice that works in practice. The team is highly responsive, collaborative, and has a strong international perspective, which makes them stand out compared to other firms. I have particularly appreciated their forward-looking vision on technology-driven topics such as AI, cybersecurity, and cross-border data flows. They are able to anticipate challenges and guide clients through them with clarity and confidence.
- The team provides highly specialized, proactive, and solution-oriented support in data protection and privacy matters. Its strengths lie in a collaborative and detail-oriented approach that safeguards the integrity of each commitment. Compared to other firms, the practice combines legal excellence with human insight and innovation.
- Proactivity, knowledge, availability, and soft skills like empathy, especially with regard to Melissa Marchese.
- Among the individuals, Stefano Mele stands out for his exceptional expertise in cybersecurity, data protection, and new technologies. He combines deep legal knowledge with a rare ability to understand technical and strategic dimensions, making his advice not only legally sound but also practical and future-proof. His strong leadership and ability to anticipate regulatory and geopolitical trends in data protection provide invaluable support to clients. Francesco Cerciello is equally remarkable for his attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and pragmatic approach to problem-solving. He is highly responsive, solution-driven, and able to manage complex issues with clarity and precision. Francesco has the ability to translate regulatory frameworks into clear, actionable guidance for business stakeholders, ensuring that compliance is achieved without unnecessary complexity. Together, Stefano and Francesco embody the strengths of the Gianni & Origoni team: professionalism, innovation, and a client-centric mindset that consistently delivers high-quality results.
- Attorney Melissa Marchese and her partner, Attorney Tommaso Chiericati, are highly regarded for their professionalism, promptness, and accuracy in responding to support requests, and their ability to consistently offer business-focused solutions.
- I wanted to highlight the exceptional professionalism and attentiveness demonstrated by the GOP individuals we collaborated with. From the outset, they focused on building a relationship centered on finding optimal solutions. They also ensured that all our efforts were fully compliant with legal regulations, minimizing any potential risks.
- Proactivity, knowledge, availability, and soft skills like empathy.
- An outstanding law firm with deep expertise in cybersecurity, offering top-level legal advice, regulatory compliance, and defense in complex cybercrime and data protection matters.
- Accuracy: Ensuring information is precise and factual. Competence: Demonstrating the necessary skills and knowledge. Capability to connect with diverse audiences: Being able to effectively communicate with attendees from various backgrounds. Reliability: Building trust through consistent and dependable interactions. I believe these elements will be crucial for effective engagement.
- What has truly distinguished the professionals I’ve worked with is their exceptional experience and technical mastery of data protection law. They combine analytical rigor with strategic thinking and stand out for their reliability, responsiveness, and ability to work collaboratively. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence consistently elevate the quality of their outcomes, resulting in strong client satisfaction. Lawyer Laura Camardelli has exemplified these qualities throughout our collaboration, consistently demonstrating professionalism, precision, and a thoughtful yet swift approach focused on effective solutions and risk minimization.
Key clients
- Arqit
- Associazione Bancaria Italiana (ABI)
- Azimut Investments
- BayWa.re
- Cysero
- Enav S.p.A.
- Saipem S.p.A.
- Techint S.p.A.
- UniCredit S.p.A.
Work highlights
Assisted Saipem on the full legal and regulatory architecture behind the design and implementation of a next-generation digital ecosystem for smart event management, community interaction, and real-time data integration, soon to be deployed on vessels operating in international waters.
Advised Edenred on the drafting of a complex data protection impact assessment regarding B2B fuel cards.
Advised Techint Compagnia Tecnica Internazionale on the evaluation and updating of its data protection measures to ensure an orderly global data protection structure for the whistleblowing systems.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Stefano Mele; Daniele Vecchi; Melissa Marchese
Other key lawyers
Flavia Bavetta; Laura Camardelli; Francesco Cerciello; Tommaso Chiericati Salvioni