D. L. & F. De Saram's labour and employment practice is recognised for handling the full spectrum of advisory and contentious matters, with longstanding strength in representing both multinational corporations and domestic clients. The practice is jointly led by Jivan Goonetilleke, Manjula Sirimane and Hasanthie Manukulasooriya, whose combined expertise spans strategic advisory work, complex restructurings and contentious matters before tribunals and higher courts. Nadine Puvimanasinghe is another key team member.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The team is experienced in law and its practical applications. They are well-equipped to provide you with quick advice whenever there is an issue at hand.'
  • 'They have always been very proactive in preparing the clients for the issues which may arise as well as with the new legal reforms which will be introduced.'
  • 'The lawyers are very friendly and approachable, they can fully integrate with the client team seamlessly, making communication smooth.'

Key clients

  • Lululemon
  • HSBC Electronic Data Processing Lanka (Pvt) Limited
  • Amnesty International Limited
  • Ericsson
  • Virtusa (Private) Limited
  • Servier International Group
  • International Research & Exchange Board (IREX)
  • Allianz Group
  • Prima Ceylon (Private) Limited
  • Associated British Food Group (A B Mauri Lanka (Private) Limited)
  • Pernod Ricard
  • Siam City Cement (Lanka) Limited

Work highlights

Advised Lululemon Athletica Canada on compliance with local employment and labour laws for launching operations in Sri Lanka.
Advised HSBC Electronic Data Processing Lanka (Pvt) Limited on labour and employment disputes.
Advised Amnesty International Limited on navigating employment terminations in Sri Lanka due to redundancies following US-issued Stop Work Orders, ensuring compliance with local labour laws.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Jivan Goonetilleke

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Hasanthie Manukulasooriya

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Nadine Puvimanasinghe

Practice head

Jivan Goonetilleke; Manjula Sirimane; Hasanthie Manukulasooriya

Other key lawyers

Nadine Puvimanasinghe