Baker McKenzie remains a leader in international trade law, leveraging its sizeable team to act on some of the most high-profile and sensitive mandates in the market. The group handles a steady stream of instructions concerning sanctions tied to the Russia-Ukraine war. Jointly led by Sunny Mann and Tristan Grimmer, the firm’s full-service offering spans sanctions, export controls, customs, trade remedies, and WTO and FDI issues. Ben Smith advises clients on EU and UK sanctions, export controls, anti-bribery and corruption, competition, and broader corporate compliance laws. Jennifer Revis is highly active in matters concerning customs compliance. Sven Bates is adept at handling multi-jurisdictional compliance projects and investigations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The team are experienced in the technical application of sanction controls and export regulations. Their periodic updates are always succinct and precise and are often supported with tailored updates interpreting how regulatory trends and risks might impact the different aspects of our operations.'
- 'Ben Smith is very knowledgeable, and applies a very practical and often pragmatic approach to the advice he offers. This is extremely welcome in an industry when the answer to operational issues is not always clear or straightforward. Andrew Rose is highly experienced and knowledgeable. Andrew works very well with Ben and brings a wealth of knowledge on the sometimes mystifying world of international trade regulations, licensing and export controls.'
- 'The Baker McKenzie sanctions team excels in providing expert guidance and strategic advice, demonstrating deep industry knowledge and thorough understanding of complex regulatory frameworks such as sanctions against Russia. Their collaborative approach ensures tailored solutions for clients navigating sanctions challenges.'
- 'I work closely with Tristan Grimmer who stands out due to his in-depth expertise and strategic approach. He consistently provides valuable insights that differentiate our approach from competitors. His and his team's ability to anticipate challenges and offer innovative solutions add significant value to our business operations.'
- 'The trade practice under Sunny Mann has been a trusted partner for our business for over a decade. He completely understands our business, provides practical and useful advice in a world where there are more and more competing regimes that a company has to navigate.'
- 'Hands down the best trade (sanctions and expert control) team in London. Supremely led by Sunny Mann, the global chair of our International Trade Practice Group, the team are heads and shoulders above their competitors. The team has a good balance between senior trade lawyers and junior trade lawyers, meaning they can build a team to suit client needs.'
Key clients
- British Airways
- Carlsberg
- EDF
- Harley Davidson
- Take Two Interactive
- Michelin
Work highlights
Represents the UK Government in an arbitration under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (“TCA”) with the EU.
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
Sunny Mann; Tristan Grimmer
Other key lawyers
Ben Smith; Jennifer Revis; Sven Bates; Julian Godfray; Andrew Rose; Michael Amberg