Karanovic & Partners o.a.d. advises on a wide range of employment matters, from routine HR queries to major restructuring and investigation mandates. Milena Jakšić Papac heads the practice, regularly counselling on dismissals, collective procedures and compensation arrangements. Supporting the team, Milijana Tomić assists with employee engagement, termination processes and employment issues arising from corporate transactions. Jelena Ašanin departed the team in November 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The practice stands out due to its in-depth understanding of both local and international legal frameworks, combined with a highly client-focused approach. Unlike many firms that rely on rigid procedures, this team tailors strategies to each client’s unique situation, fostering a sense of trust and efficiency.'
- 'Jelena Asanin is highly recommended as a trusted expert in local labor law, employment practices, and benefits-related issues. Her expertise, judgment, and client-centered approach make her an ideal point of contact for addressing employment challenges in Serbia.’
- ‘What makes this team unique is the way they mix deep expertise with a very practical, down to earth approach. Instead of giving generic advice, they take the time to really get to know each client, their business and what they are trying to achieve.’
- ‘Jelena Asanin that I often cooperate with stands out because she is not just good at what she does, she genuinely cares. She combines strong expertise with a really approachable style, so it never feels intimidating to ask questions or bounce ideas around. Jelena explains things clearly and always looks for solutions that actually work in practice, not just on paper.’
- ‘Exceptional knowledge in all legal topics, a positive attitude, and innovative thinking. Extensive practical experience.’
- ‘What makes this practice unique is the combination of deep legal expertise and a truly human approach to working with clients.'
Key clients
- Bechtel
- L’Oréal
- Inditex Group (Zara)
- Johnson Electric International AG
- Ericsson
- Stellantis
- Remote
- Volvo
- Gorenje||(Hisense|)
- Sika Group
- Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)
- Kone
Work highlights
Providing continued support to Stellantis and its local subsidiary FCA Serbia following a transformation project involving more than 1,500 employees.
Advised AMD on its entry into the Serbian market, culminating in the successful closing of a deal in September 2024 to establish a new engineering design centre with offices in Belgrade and Niš.
Supported Playstudios through a restructuring process involving a mass downsizing initiative.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Milena Jakšić Papac
Other key lawyers
Milijana Tomić