Leveraging ‘criminal law expertise with in-depth understanding of the business’, Mares & Mares continues to be a stable choice for multinational corporations, local establishments, and high-net-worth individuals requiring assistance with high-profile criminal proceedings. The professionals present standout proficiency in investigations, prosecution, and enforcement actions, and they handle a broad range of claims. Primary contacts include practice head Mihai Mares, a ’reputed’ corporate crime specialist, and dispute resolution expert Cristian Mareș. Other core members are Liana Iacob, who joined in January 2025 and focuses on litigation, along with Cipriana Fulgeanu and Traian Badescu, both with extensive criminal law experience.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- Mares & Mares is a boutique criminal practice handling complex, sophisticated matters. Their specialty is white-collar matters, and they represent many top businesses and executives. They have an understanding of business that facilitates their handling of these matters to achieve the best resolution for their clients. They also handle cross-border matters.
- I have dealt exclusively with Mihai Mares. Mihai has extensive experience and a deep understanding of criminal matters facing businesses and executives. He is dogged in fighting for his clients. His sophisticated understanding allows him to assist clients in all aspects of enforcement, from defending clients in court to obtaining restitution for victims. Mihai always operates with professionalism and has a positive disposition.
- Mihai Mares is one of the leading financial crime lawyers in Romania. He is incredibly responsive to any queries, and his work is always clear and thorough.
- ‘They combine the criminal law knowledge and practice with in-depth knowledge of the business in the sector their clients are acting in, and this is making them one step ahead of others in their field of action.’
- ‘The attorneys at Mares & Mares distinguish themselves through their exceptional responsiveness and hands-on approach. What sets them apart is their ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical, business-focused advice that considers both immediate legal concerns and long-term strategic implications. What I've most valued in working with the team is their proactive communication, thorough documentation preparation, and commitment to following through on all aspects of representation. They consistently monitor ongoing situations, provide timely updates, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to achieving optimal outcomes rather than simply completing assigned tasks. The associates supporting the partners demonstrate exceptional attention to detail while maintaining the same client-focused approach that characterises the firm's leadership.’
- ‘Mihai Mares is an excellent white-collar crime attorney, with a wealth of experience and great management of the team's resources for each project.’
Key clients
- COMCEREAL SA
- E-Infra SA
- ELECTROMAGNETICA SA
- Lion Capital
- Vrancart SA
- Libra Bank
- Allianz Trade
- Infinity Capital SA
- Infineon Technologies AG
Work highlights
Defending an individual in a trial for alleged abuse of office in connection with public procurement proceedings, with an associated loss of approximately €7m.
Defending an individual in an appeal lodged against a criminal decision that includes an order to pay damages and a confiscation order, totalling approx. €4m.
Assisting and representing Electromagnetica in a criminal investigation concerning fraudulent acts committed against the company by former top-level managers to the detriment of the corporate estate, with an associated estimated loss of over €1m.
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Traian Badescu
Practice head
Mihai Mares
Other key lawyers
Cristian Mareș; Liana Iacob; Cipriana Fulgeanu; Traian Badescu