Legance - Avvocati Associati, led by Vito Auricchio, advises on merger control proceedings before the Italian Competition Authority, the European Commission and the Italian FDI authority. The practice represents clients across sectors, including food, oil, energy, automotive, agriculture and the circular economy. Auricchio also handles cartel investigations, unfair commercial practices and antitrust damages litigation before courts in Milan. Pietro Merlino focuses on abuse of dominance investigations, merger notifications, and EU and Italian regulatory compliance. Guendalina Catti De Gasperi is also a key member of the group. Tommaso Olivieri is also noted.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Pietro Merlino is one of the most experienced competition lawyers in Italy. He has deep knowledge of the law, combined with a pragmatic, client-friendly approach. The go-to person for smart antitrust and FDI advice.’
- ‘The firm stands out for its excellent antitrust and FDI advisory work in Italy. Great legal expertise, but also a business-friendly approach to problem-solving.’
- ‘Pietro Merlino, Tommaso Olivieri - top experts.’
- ‘Legance is a great law firm! Very pragmatic and knowledgeable at the same time!’
- ‘The team is very competent; different seniorities are present so that the most effective feedback can be provided on every circumstance. Industry knowledge is extensive and the practice always delivers high-standard products.’
- ‘Vito Auricchio is always available and highly capable. His partner Pietro Merlino is a top-notch lawyer as well. We always refer to both of them for our antitrust issues in Italy.’
Key clients
- Esso Italiana Automobile Club d'Italia Renault IQ-EQ Fund Management Limited Zignago Vetro AbbVie F. Hoffmann – La Roche Italgas Lactalis Nextalia De’Longhi BPM Vita Poste
Work highlights
Provided assistance to Italgas in proceedings before the ICA, the FSR Authority (European Commission) and the Italian FDI Authority in relation to the acquisition of sole control over 2i Rete Gas.
Represented Automobile Club d'Italia, ACI, in the abuse of dominance investigation initiated by the ICA in October 2023 against ACI, ACI Sport and Club ACI Storico concerning an alleged complex exclusionary strategy.
Assisted Renault in the merger control aspects of its planned acquisition of majority stakes in two entities operating ASPI’s Free to X electric vehicle charging business in Italy, and a minority stake in a third entity.
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.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
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
Vito Auricchio
Other key lawyers
Guendalina Catti De Gasperi; Pietro Merlino; Tommaso Olivieri