Rich in experience, the dispute resolution offering at Popescu & Asociatii has represented a host of the leading players in Romania’s key industries, both domestic heavy-hitters and notable multinationals. In arbitration, the team is well versed in complex international proceedings, including those relating to investment protection, joint ventures, and commercial disputes in the energy, construction and infrastructure spaces. Leadership of the group is shared between Octavian Popescu, an expert in corporate disputes before courts of all levels in Romania; Gheorghe Buta, whose workload includes representation of major clients in the pharmaceuticals, energy, oil and gas, investments, and transport sectors, in both litigations and arbitrations; and Dana Bivol, an environmental law expert with a broad commercial disputes offering. Litigator Andreea Mihalache is an additional key name.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Billing & efficiency
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • What sets this practice apart is its practical approach to resolving conflicts. They don't just think like lawyers; they think like business people who understand that litigation costs money and time. The team is really good at finding solutions that work for us commercially, not just legally. They know when to push hard and when to negotiate, which is really important in our industry. Compared to other firms we've worked with, they are more flexible and responsive. They actually pick up the phone and explain things in plain language instead of hiding behind legal terminology.
  • Octavian Popescu approaches disputes with a strategic vision, always considering multiple resolution pathways. Dana Bivol brings tenacity and thorough preparation to contentious matters. Together, they create a practice where clients feel genuinely represented and defended. What sets them apart is their ability to anticipate opposing arguments and prepare comprehensive responses. They understand that effective dispute resolution requires understanding not just the law but the business context, the individuals involved, and the practical constraints. Their responsiveness during critical litigation phases is exceptional.
  • Octavian Popescu provides strategic direction and sound judgment. Gheorghe Buta brings deep experience from his years on the bench, and his perspective is unmatched. Dana Bivol reacts quickly, understands the core issue immediately, and outlines workable routes. Andreea Mihalache is a strong litigator with sharp reasoning. Together, they form a balanced and dependable team.
  • I have known this team for many years. They work with seriousness and good order. They read the files with care and think before acting. Their preparation shows in the hearings. Clients receive clear answers, not long speeches. They stay focused on the problem and move quickly when needed. From what I see in the market, few teams maintain the same discipline and balance.
  • Octavian Popescu appeared before me in several complex commercial cases. His approach was always methodical and thorough. He understands that litigation is not just about legal arguments but also about timing, knowing when to push and when to negotiate. Dana Bivol, I remember her work in arbitration-related matters and commercial disputes. She has the ability to identify the core issues quickly and focus the argumentation there. Very efficient thinking. Prof. Dr. Gheorghe Buta, I have known him from the academic environment as well. His litigation experience is extensive, and he brings both theoretical knowledge and practical wisdom. When he argues a case, you can see the depth of his understanding of civil procedure. Dr. Nicoleta Țăndăreanu transitioned from the bench to practice, and she knows how to structure cases in a way that courts will find persuasive. This matters very much in complex civil litigation. Adina Vlaicu, I saw her in court several times. She has a good command of procedural law and strong advocacy skills. Bogdan Dobre is someone I also want to mention; he showed solid litigation capabilities when he appeared before me. After I left the bench, I consulted on some dispute-related matters, and I found that the team maintains high standards of legal work consistently.
  • The dispute resolution practice combines litigation excellence with strategic thinking. This team understands that disputes are rarely won in court alone but through a comprehensive strategy encompassing settlement possibilities, public relations considerations, and business continuity. Their strength lies in their analytical rigor and their understanding of how courts and tribunals operate. They are formidable advocates who prepare meticulously. Compared to other firms, they demonstrate greater creativity in dispute resolution strategies and a stronger commitment to understanding the client's ultimate objectives.

Key clients

  • ORION AUTO INVEST
  • HIDRO SALT B 92
  • ELAROM EXIM 94
  • ROTARY CONSTRUCTII
  • GRAND SMITHY WORKS INTERNATIONAL
  • FORZA ROSSA
  • ROMANIAN ACADEMY
  • VIORELO INTERNATIONAL SRL
  • ECO SUD SA
  • ROMAERO
  • BANCA TRANSILVANIA S.A.
  • KAUFLAND

Work highlights

Advising PREMIER ENERGY in connection with a mandate initiated against the control documents issued by the National Energy Regulatory Authority in connection with the regulation of the method of calculating prices in the case of exceeding reserved capacities.
Representing ROMAERO in a series of litigations regarding the protection of social rights in an executive procedure aimed at important assets/goods of the company.

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

Octavian Popescu; Gheorghe Buta; Dana Bivol

Other key lawyers

Andreea Mihalache