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Global Law Experts Practice Awards 2014
Global Law Experts Practice Awards
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Sector Panel
End of Year 2013 / Jan 2014 Corporate INTL
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GLOBAL LAW EXPERTS PRACTICE AWARDS 2014 WELCOME
TO THE GLOBAL LAW EXPERTS (GLE) PRACTICE AWARDS 2014 PUBLICATION In order to select our winners, we undertook research in all practice areas, creating a shortlist of firms that are deemed experts within their chosen specialisms. During an initial recommendation stage, we received responses from business directors, in-house counsel, independent firms, high-net-worth individuals, bar associations, visitors to the GLE website, and LinkedIn users. These recommendations were combined with our independent research to create the finished shortlist for each country and practice area. The shortlisted firms were then judged on client testimonials, case studies, legal ranking and published material, as well as the performance and standing of the teams’ individual attorneys. We have broken down the winners by region, country and practice area. Many of the firms selected can offer a multitude of services to clients and have provided a firm summary to this effect; meanwhile, some have chosen to profile their expertise concerning their winning category – providing details of their case work and some up-to-date industry commentary. Congratulations to each of the recipients of the GLE Practice Awards 2014.
CONTENTS: 4. EUROPE WINNERS 38. THE AMERICAS WINNERS 65. ASIA & OCEANIA WINNERS 84. AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST WINNERS 93. A-Z INDEX
Editor: John Martin awards-editor@globallawexperts.com www.globallawexperts.com Reprints & Permissions: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any manner or by any means without the prior permission of the publisher. Disclaimer: While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the contents, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors and claims made by third parties. GLE Practice Awards 2014
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2012 brought challenges to the European Union in the form of sovereign debt risks and the attempts made by governments to tackle them. In the last several years, Greece, Ireland and Portugal have received EU and IMF backed bailouts which, in partnership with strict state-encouraged austerity measures, are designed to help the member states get back on track. In late 2012, The Economist attributed recent strife in Europe to self-defeating austerity and myopic deficit targets. For Europe, there has recently been turmoil in markets, lack of consumer confidence and a drop in the euro currency value. Yet, Europe’s unique influence is unparalleled, as the European Union is comprised of 27 nations with a total population of some 500 million, accounting for approximately 30% of the value of global GDP. Europe’s bankers rank analysing big data on customers among top priorities In November 2012, FICO, the leading provider of analytics and decision management technology, and Efma, announced the results of the sixth European Credit Risk Survey, which indicated retail bankers’ risk management priorities for 2013. In the survey, which queried credit risk professionals from 27 countries in September and October, 61% of respondents said cross-selling products to existing customers would be a priority during 2013, and 54% said they will analyse big data to better understand customers’ needs and risk. In information technology, big data is a collection of data sets so large and complex that it becomes difficult to process using on-hand database management tools. The challenges include capture, curation, storage, search, sharing, analysis and visualisation. “In this risk-averse period, banks are looking for credit growth primarily from existing customers, on whom they have more data,” said Frans Labuschagne, gen4
GLE Practice Awards 2014
eral manager for FICO in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. “But customers are risk-averse too, so banks need to really dig into customer needs to identify offers that might work. That’s where big data comes in – it’s a new resource that, if used wisely, can guide much more customer-centric offers and services.” In the survey, 71% of respondents said demonstrating a higher return on capital was a top priority, and final figures for 2013 show that this was achieved widely. The other highest priorities identified were using mobile channels (49%) and increasing capital to meet Basel requirements (just 40%, but 21% put it as a top priority). On the risk front, at least 40% of respondents saw delinquencies rising within six months (from November 2012) on mortgages, auto loans, credit cards, small business loans and overdrafts. “This represents an improvement on the prior survey, released in July, when these numbers were above 50%,” said Mr Labuschagne. “For example, 44% of respondents forecast an increase in mortgage delinquencies, compared to 55% in the last survey.” The biggest change in the credit demand and supply picture occurred in the so-called ‘credit gap’ between the percentages of respondents forecasting a rise in demand for credit vs a rise in supply. The credit gap forecast for small businesses fell sharply in this survey,
EUROPE WINNERS
to the lowest point in 2012, just nine points. The respondents forecasting an increase in volume of credit requested by small businesses fell from 37 to 35%, while those forecasting an increase in credit granted rose from 16 to 26%. However, the credit gap forecast for consumer lending rose to a full 20 points. In the November survey, 35% of respondents predicted a rise in the amount of credit requested by consumer, compared with just 15% who predict the amount granted will rise. “Governments continue to pressure lenders to expand credit to businesses, and recent programmes like the UK small business lending scheme announced by the Bank of England should help,” added Patrick Desmarès, secretary general of Efma. “However, FICO and Efma believe lenders can and should do more to make capital available to small- and medium-sized businesses, which can fuel economic growth and which continue to struggle to get credit.” 2013 brought an unprecedented level of insurance tax changes in Europe Insurers faced an unprecedented level of indirect tax changes in Europe during the course of 2013, intensifying the challenge of maintaining tax compliance, according to insurance tax specialists FiscalReps. Speaking in November 2012 to an audience of more than 100 insurance professionals at FiscalReps’ annual Indirect Tax Forum in London, founder and chief executive Mike Stalley predicted: “Since the start of the financial crisis we have been warning insurers that European governments would increase their focus on indirect taxation to fund budget shortfalls. Now the
promised changes are upon us and in the coming year we will see significant insurance premium tax and parafiscal tax changes right across the continent. “From January 1st onwards, a swathe of countries will raise indirect tax rates, introduce new taxes or revise laws to increase the size of the tax base. And with these changes comes clear evidence of a tightening up of tax revenue collection measures,” he added. “It is imperative for insurance businesses to keep pace with these developments to maintain tax compliance.” Joseph Finbow, client manager at FiscalReps, brought delegates up to date with some of the changes that were to take effect during 2013: “The Netherlands and Finland will be first to push up IPT (insurance premium tax) rates in the New Year. Meanwhile, Greece is increasing the rate of its Motor Guarantee Fund. Anticipated new taxes in 2013 include Denmark’s introduction of IPT in January to replace stamp duty on premiums, a possible flood levy in the UK and the potential introduction by Hungary of IPT to replace its Fire Brigade Tax. In addition, we are seeing countries like Germany, Spain and Iceland rewriting their tax legislation. This is a lot of change for insurers to contend with.” “However, these developments are not the end of the story – even more tax changes are likely in the months and years ahead, as cash-strapped governments go in search of fresh revenue sources,” Mr Finbow continued. “Looking at Eastern Europe, for example, we have seen Slovenia, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic introduce IPT; it therefore seems very probable that countries like Poland and the Baltic States may opt to launch similar measures.” GLE Practice Awards 2014
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Contents:
10.
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP International - Arbitration Law Firm of the Year in Austria
11.
Olswang Belgium LLP
Individual - Media Lawyer of the Year in Belgium
12.
VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS
International Tax Law Firm of the Year in Belgium
12.
A.I.Kitsios LLC
Boutique - International Private Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus
13.
Ikaros Typographos & Co Lawyers
Cross Border - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus
13.
Symeou & Konnaris LLC
Editor’s Choice - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus
14.
Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates LLC
Editor’s Choice - Full Service Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus
14.
Christos Patsalides L.L.C.
International Tax Planning Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus
15.
Advokatfirmaet Rödstenen
Agricultural Law Firm of the Year in Denmark
15.
Wollen Michelmore
Client Choice - Licensing Law Firm of the Year in England
16.
Lewis Nedas Law
Corporate Fraud Law Firm of the Year in England
16.
Bray & Krais
Editor’s Choice - Music Law Firm of the Year in England
17.
Debello Law
Music Law Firm of the Year in England
17.
Hunters
Specialist - International Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year in England
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EUROPE WINNERS
18.
Woodfines Solicitors
Specialist - Regulatory Law Firm of the Year in England
18.
Gilbey Legal
Individual - Industrial Property Lawyer of the Year in France
19.
ARAGO
Editor’s Choice - Tax Litigation Law Firm of the Year in France
20.
MEDIASTIC-MARTINEAU ASSOCIES AARPI
International IT Law Firm of the Year in France
21.
Courtois Lebel
Individual - Outsourcing Lawyer of the Year in France
21.
IP SPHERE
Wine Law Firm of the Year in France
22.
Jacob Associates
Client Choice - Cross Border Law Firm of the Year in Germany
22.
Rechtsanwälte Haver & Mailänder
Client Choice - Employee Benefits Law Firm of the Year in Germany
23. Salans FMC SNR Denton Europe LLP
Individual - Life Sciences Lawyer of the Year in Germany
23.
Boehmert & Boehmert
Individual - IP Rights Enforcement Lawyer(s) of the Year in Germany / Large Tier - IP Patents Law Firm of the Year in Germany
24.
ameleo. law LLP
National - Corporate Restructuring Law Firm of the Year in Germany
24.
df-mp
IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Germany / Peer Choice - Patent Law Firm of the Year in Germany / Pharmaceutical Law Firm of the Year in Germany
GLE Practice Awards 2014
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25.
Fleuchaus & Gallo Partnerschaft mbB Intellectual Property and Litigation Attorneys
National - IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Germany
25.
LW TAX Lemaitre Wittkowski GmbH
Niche - Tax Law Firm of the Year in Germany
26.
Karatzas & Partners Law Firm
Individual Finance Lawyer of the Year in Greece
26.
Kovács Réti Szegheő Attorneys at Law
Enforcement Law Firm of the Year in Hungary
27.
MUNARI GIUDICI MANIGLIO PANFILI E ASSOCIATI
Client Choice - Maritime Law Firm of the Year in Italy
27.
Studio Legale Sutti
Commercial Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Italy
28.
BVR & Partners
Corporate Tax Law Firm of the Year in Italy
28.
Giambrone Law Studio Legale Internazionale
Mid-Market - Cross Border Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Italy
29.
Grimaldi Studio Legale
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Italy
30.
Studio dell’Avvocato Antich
SME - Alternative Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year in Italy
30.
Belluzzo&Partners
Trust & Estates Law Firm of the Year in Italy
31.
Boga & Associates
Trade Law Firm of the Year in Kosovo
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GLE Practice Awards 2014
EUROPE WINNERS
31.
NautaDutilh Avocats Luxembourg
Large Tier - Banking & Finance Law Firm of the Year in Luxembourg
32.
CSB Advocates
Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Malta
32.
Mamo TCV Advocates
Peer Choice - Commercial Law Firm of the Year in Malta
33.
Holland Van Gijzen Attorneys at Law and Civil Law Notaries
Individual - Energy Lawyer of the Year in the Netherlands
33.
Deloitte Advokatfirma AS
Large Tier - Commercial Law Firm of the Year in Norway
34.
KKG Kubas Kos Gaertner
Mid-Market - Bankruptcy Law Firm of the Year in Poland
34.
ZBM
Partnership IP Law Firm of the Year in Spain
35.
Cabinet M Oproiu
Patent Law Firm of the Year in Romania
35.
Cabinet M Oproiu
Pharmaceutical Law Firm of the Year in Romania
36.
Afschrift
Boutique - Tax Law Firm of the Year in Switzerland
36.
Monfrini Crettol & Associes
Fraud Law Firm of the Year in Switzerland
37.
meyerlustenberger | lachenal Rechtsanwälte – Attorneys at Law
Individual - Real Estate Lawyer of the Year in Switzerland
GLE Practice Awards 2014
9
International - Arbitration Law Firm of the Year in Austria
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP Günther J Horvath Partner Tel: +43 1 515 15 205 guenther.horvath@freshfields.com www.freshfields.com
The international arbitration team in Vienna works on complex dispute resolution matters. We represent clients and act as arbitrators in international arbitrations before institutions such as the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris (ICC), the Vienna International Arbitral Centre (VIAC), and the Arbitration Institute of the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce (SCC), as well as in ad hoc arbitrations. Our dedicated team of lawyers has been at the forefront of international arbitration for over 30 years and has an in-depth knowledge of the process, the institutions and the arbitrators. We act as part of the firm-wide international arbitration group to cover all major arbitration jurisdictions and whenever appropriate co-operate closely with our colleagues in Paris, London, Frankfurt, Moscow, and New York. Today, we work according to industry sectors, which allows us to share the benefits of the widest possible knowledge and experience. We have an unrivalled track record of conducting arbitrations globally, whatever the governing law of the dispute, the language of arbitration, or the rules under which the dispute is to be resolved. Our Vienna office has a total of 80 lawyers, 14 of whom are partners. Many of our team members are admitted in several European jurisdictions and the United States. 10 GLE Practice Awards 2014
We can offer advice in German, English, French, Russian, Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian and can, if need be, rely on the specialist skills of our colleagues in other practice groups such as competition, M&A, intellectual property, information technology, tax and finance. The group includes some of the world’s leading practitioners, who hold high-profile positions in the major arbitration and professional associations. Guenther Horvath comes “highly recommended for dispute resolution” (Practical Law Company), Thomas Kustor is “praised as a strategic, level-headed litigator” (Chambers and Partners) and Jenny Power is “recommended for arbitration” (Practical Law Company). Senior members of the group regularly accept appointments as arbitrators. Our recent arbitration work includes: An Austrian energy and environmental services company in ICSID and ICC arbitration proceedings against a Southeast European state in a dispute arising out of a number of government and state-entity measures which affected the investor’s investment following the privatization of the electricity distribution sector; A European gas import and distribution company in two ICC arbitration proceedings against a major European gas exporter regarding contract and competition law issues and flexibility of suppliers;
A Swiss electricity company in arbitration proceedings concerning a dispute in connection with electricity supply contracts against a state-owned agency; A German energy group in a gas price review arbitration against two European suppliers; A Southern European energy group in a price review arbitration against a European supplier; An international provider of technology, engineering and construction of bioprocess plants, in ICC arbitration proceedings against a German company with regard to a dispute resulting out of the provision of engineering and supply services for a bioethanol plant; A Romanian energy trader in UNCITRAL arbitration proceedings against an entity in Albania; A Central European energy group in a price review arbitration against a European supplier; An international investment bank in ad hoc arbitration proceedings against a Southeast European state and state owned entities for the payment of the investment bank’s services in connection with a telecommunications privatisation in the region; A leading European bank in post-acquisition arbitration proceedings regarding purchase price adjustment claims; A European energy group in two separate ICC arbitration proceedings concerning a long-term, large-volume natural-gas supply contract; and A global leader in the industrial engineering industry in a multi-party arbitration in Brazil.
Individual - Media Lawyer of the Year in Belgium
Olswang Belgium LLP Christine De Keersmaeker Partner Tel: +32 2 235 0307 c.dekeersmaeker@olswang.com www.olswang.com
Olswang is insightful, influential and innovative and dedicated to helping clients in a way that no other firm does. We help our clients network with influencers in their industries. Bringing new ideas and challenging the conventional approach when it is required. Supporting our clients to make strategic decisions with confidence and investing in client relationships beyond legal advice. Founded in 1981 and headquartered in London, our firm has grown to a team of almost 800 people, including 120 partners across eight international offices, including Brussels. We are proud of our pioneering approach to business law, our client relationships, our empowering culture and our people. Our expertise in Technology, Media and Telecoms is unmatched. Media expertise has shaped the firm from day one and our experience extends across the entire industry in the film, TV, publishing, music and multi-media sectors. At Olswang, we know there is more to law than legislation. It is about having a point of view. We shape opinions and deliver insight.
Our commitment is shown through events/seminars/contributions involving a mix of canvassing consumer demand and examining issues faced by industry such as: 1. Data debates-Tomorrow’s Media International Research & debates with media executives 2. Content meets the cloud International research & reporting 3. FRAPA report/seminar TV Formats-Dispelling the myths about protection Christine is a member of the Brussels Bar and a former member of the Brussels Bar Council and has been a recognised specialist in intellectual property and media on the Brussels legal scene for many years. She joined Olswang in 2008 to head the IP/MCT team in Brussels. She is best known for her broad and longstanding expertise acting for Film, TV, Music and Multi-media producers as well as for other creative industries and in particular for the fashion sector. Driven by a real passion for creativity and convinced of the growing importance of IP value for all businesses,
she specialised in IP due diligence, strategic advice, IP management and exploitation through distribution and licensing, including dealing with the ever evolving digital environment. Since she joined Olswang, Christine and her team have been shortlisted every year for the Belgian Legal Awards for IP and Media in Band 2 for Chambers and for Legal 500 and received several awards. Christine has moreover been recognised as an IP expert through her appointment as an expert member of the Council for Intellectual Property since 2007 and also holds a position as Third-party-decider with Cepina for domain name disputes. Christine can be reached by email at c.dekeersmaeker@ olswang.com. She and her colleagues will be happy to help you and your clients. Olswang is an international firm with integrated unified offering. This offering is a platform that showcases Olswang’s collaborative cross-border and cross-departmental approach aiming at serving our clients’ needs the best we can in a globalised environment. GLE Practice Awards 2014 11
International Tax Law Firm of the Year in Belgium VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS Patrick Vanhaute Senior Partner Tel: +32 32938846 pv@advanhaute.be www.advanhaute.be
VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS is an independent law office specialized in numerous branches of corporate law, with an emphasis on tax law. Our practice also deals with all branches of company, civil, commercial and economic, financial and criminal law. The office was established in the year 2000 by the attorney-at-law Patrick Vanhaute, former partner of “Loyens & Volkmaars & Vanhaute” (now “Loyens & Loeff”). VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS resides in the centre of Antwerp (Belgium) and in addition, as a member of the Bar of Luxembourg, Patrick Vanhaute also holds office in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS is part of several international networks, which guarantees the accessibility to specialized foreign correspondents. As founder and member of the “European Tax Intelligence Group” (ETIG: www.etig.eu) and the “International Tax Specialist Group” (ITSG: www.itsgnetwork.com), the office is active in taxes both at European and international levels. VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS strives to advise its clients based on a broad experience in all aspects of tax law and is acknowledged for
its in-depth experience in international tax planning. TAX LAW VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS offers advice to its clients regarding Belgian and international tax law, with an emphasis on national and international fiscal planning. We also advise our clients on disputes concerning Belgian and foreign fiscal public authorities on both an administrative and judicial level (fiscal courts). Our tax practice contains, next to private and corporate tax, all aspects of indirect taxes: principally VAT, local, regional and environmental tax as well as customs duties and excise duty. Regarding more specific transactions, we provide “Tax Opinions” and we guarantee providing fiscal agreements in Belgium and abroad beforehand. Moreover, our office executes “Due Diligence” research regarding takeovers and reorganizations of companies. Private clients often appeal to our services for their succession and estate planning.
Boutique - International Private Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus A.I.Kitsios LLC Andreas I. Kitsios Managing Director Tel: +357 25361080 a.kitsios@aiklaw.com www.aiklaw.com
Andreas I. Kitsios is the founder of A.I.Kitsios LLC and member of the Cyprus Bar Association since 1983. He handles cases in various areas including International Private Law. Regarding International Private Law, Andreas advises on jurisdiction issues and represents clients before Cyprus courts to enforce or oppose a foreign award (i.e. EU and Non-EU judgments, EU enforcement orders, arbitral awards and EU-mediated outcomes). He has successfully handled a case regarding opposition to the recognition and enforcement of a foreign arbitral award of more than €15 million in Cyprus.
interests as if they were our own.
A.I.Kitsios LLC is a full service law firm founded in 1985. Our lawyers have extensive expertise within a broad range of areas and particularly in International Private Law. Our practice includes among others recognition and enforcement of foreign awards in Cyprus (i.e. EU and Non-EU judgments, EU enforcement orders, arbitral awards and EU-mediated outcomes), jurisdiction issues, applicable law and choice of law in international contracts.
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Experienced lawyers to take on your case;
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Genuine relationship with clients;
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Regular updates for your case;
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Trust and accountability;
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The firm answers clients’ requests and queries promptly;
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Its advisers are accessible (appointments available on short notice).
Our law firm’s policy and strategy was and will always be to satisfy our clients’ ambitions and let them know whether they have a case worth pursuing it or not. Our approach is to provide legal advice in a timely manner, with sincere integrity and with the highest quality services and our paramount concern is to help our clients overcome any legal issue and preserve their
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A.I.Kitsios LLC is comprised of experienced and skilful lawyers acting for clients ranging from large multinational corporations to small companies and individuals. So far this year, the firm has already successfully opposed the recognition and enforcement of an arbitral award of more than €15 million before a Cyprus court. Why A.I.Kitsios LLC?:
Cross Border - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus Ikaros Typographos & Co Lawyers Martinos Typographos Senior Partner Tel: +357 22 755 648 martinost@typographos.com www.typographos.com
Ikaros Typographos & Co Lawyers is a business-minded law firm based in Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, from where we have been providing legal and consulting services both in Cyprus and at an international level to clients ranging from public companies to owner-managed companies, successful individuals and families for over 40 years. During these years we have held fast to the values and characteristics – such as quality, commitment, integrity, loyalty, approachability, innovation – that have distinguished our firm. These attributes remain solidly embedded in our culture and our ways of working. Our Firm is built around the needs of our clients. An entrepreneurial spirit – where candour and involvement are key – characterises our ability to develop and execute the strategies required to achieve our clients’ goals. We understand the commercial challenges faced by them and we are committed to delivering exceptional quality coupled with outstanding value for money. No matter whether you are a big client or a small client. No matter whether you wish to make use of our full spectrum of services or only some of our abilities. Whether you are local or international. You will always receive personal, prompt and reliable advice from us. Our vibrant corporate team advises clients domestically and internationally across the whole spectrum of corporate issues in an ever increasingly complex business environment. We advise corporate clients (be it multi-national corporations or family-run businesses) as well as private companies and individuals on their Cyprus structuring requirements and how to use the jurisdiction for tax mitigation, asset protection and wealth management.
The firm offers the full range of corporate services and advice from start-up to the completion of incorporation, the annual operation, restructures and dissolutions. We also conduct, on a regular basis, legal due diligence exercises on companies, either in the context of acquisitions, reorganisations or secured financing, or independently, and issue opinions on corporate capacity and legal standing. We handle commercial contracts across a wide range of business models and industry sectors to ensure that our clients always get what they want. We are here to help our clients prepare, negotiate and enforce all types of commercial agreement. Whether dealing with straightforward terms and conditions of sale, complex bespoke supply or outsourcing and partnership agreements, we can advise on a wide range of contractual requirements. Our goal is to deliver secure, commercially focussed agreements that protect our clients and their business. Mr. Martinos Typographos, a qualified Barrister with Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn, is an active networker and currently a member of the following organisations: International Bar Association (Corporate and M&A Law Committee), International Association of Young Lawyers, IUSFUL European Legal Network, International Referral, Cyprus Bar Association, Nicosia Bar Association, Bar Council of England, Cyprus - Russian Business Association, Cyprus - Ukraine Business Association, Cyprus Czech Republic Business Association. In this capacity he regularly attends seminars and conferences in all parts of the world.
Editor’s Choice - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Symeou & Konnaris LLC is a pioneering prominent law firm rapidly expanding over the past years, offering legal services under Cyprus jurisdiction law across a range of practice areas. The firm has a strong reputation in the management of regional and
Mr Panikos Symeou
international companies and trust structures. Hence, it established close non-
Tel: +35725818400 symeou.panikos@sklaw-firm.com
exclusive relationships with preeminent banks and firms worldwide providing audit, advisory, legal and tax services to provide clients’ firms with complete legal and tax assistance services, wherever and whenever needed. Guided by ethics and values, Symeou & Konnaris LLC operates through confidentiality, experience, professionalism, commitment and complete dedication to all clients. The success of the firm, its rapid expansion and the awards achieved are the direct result of the personal attention, quick response and high standards of
Mr Christakis Konnaris
excellence reflected in the service carried out.
Symeou & Konnaris LLC
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Tel: +35725818400 konnaris.christos@sklaw-firm.com www.sklaw-firm.com
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61 Spyrou Kyprianou Street, SK HOUSE, 4003 Limassol, Cyprus GLE Practice Awards 2014 13
Editor’s Choice - Full Service Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates LLC Nicos Papaefstathiou CEO and Managing Partner Tel: (+357) 22 889 999 npapaefstathiou@tplaw.com.cy www.tplaw.com.cy
Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates LLC is one of the leading Law Firms in Cyprus that provides a full range of legal services. The Firm is comprised of a platform of talented professionals committed to providing high quality legal services, a fact which is reflected through its valued clientele. Mr Gabadou was co-chair of the Outsourcing Committee of the ItechLaw Having originally been founded in 1971 by the late former President of the Republic of Cyprus, President Tassos Papadopoulos, the firm Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates LLC was established in 2007 by the majority of the partners and associates of the former Tassos Papadopoulos Law Firm. It is thus one of the oldest law firms, deeply rooted in the Cypriot legal world. Our Firm continues to honor the tradition of excellence that draws from its wealth of experience, philosophy and professionalism. OUR PEOPLE The Firm enjoys a reputation for the high quality level of services offered, and its ability to provide its local and international clients with legal services against the entrepreneurial backdrop of today’s demanding business world. It is operated by a select group of advocates and legal advisors with a wide range of expertise and educated in various legal backgrounds. We are a member of major international networks of independent law firms such as TagLaw and the Association of European Lawyers with well-connected lawyers in over 90 countries. SERVICES Litigation In the litigation field, the Firm boasts a strong team of highly experienced litigation lawyers in every major field of Civil Litigation and Arbitration including Banking, Finance,
Competition, Corporate and Commercial, Construction, Insurance, and Contracts. Transactional – Non-contentious Business In transactional and non-contentious business, the focus of the Firm’s work is in Banking and Finance, Energy Law, Corporate law, Financial services law, Acquisitions of companies and property, Public Tenders, Mergers and Joint Ventures, the Financing of major capital projects, IPOs and Public Listings. Corporate Law, Tax, Company Administration The Firm also has substantial corporate activity with a keen practice in the field of company formation, administration and tax planning not only in respect to companies registered in Cyprus but also in foreign jurisdictions. Migration and Property Department The Firm has a dedicated Migration and Property Department due to the increased demand of our international clients for the Cypriot Citizenship Programme and the Permanent Residency Programme. Our legal team has the local know-how and is in full co-operation with all Governmental Authorities, advising clients from the outset right up to the granting of Citizenship or Residency and the completion of their investment transactions. The clientele of the Firm includes local and international Banking Institutions, semi-governmental organizations including the Cyprus Stock Exchange, the Cyprus Port Authority, Municipalities, local and international building and engineering contractors, pharmaceutical companies, shipping enterprises, local and international information technology companies, publicly listed companies, investment firms, insurance companies, large business concerns in commerce, tourism, hotels, oil and other fields.
International Tax Planning Law Firm of the Year in Cyprus
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Our team of tax experts advise clients on complex issues in the area of taxation, focusing on optimal tax structures, while serving the clients’ operating needs. Christos Patsalides L.L.C. Advocates & Legal Consultants 31 Evagoras Avenue , Evagoras Building Suites 41 - 43, 1066 Nicosia , Cyprus P.O. Box 25617 , 1311 Nicosia , Cyprus Tel: +357 22677677 • Fax: +357 22674422 • info@patsalides.com.cy • www.patsalides.com.cy 14 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Agricultural Law Firm of the Year in Denmark Advokatfi rmaet Rödstenen Thomas Schioldan Sørensen Partner, Attorney-at-Law, Arbitrator Tel: +45 4242 2600 ts@rodstenen.dk www.rodstenen.dk
Thomas Schioldan Sørensen is recommended and highly rated within agricultural legal matters. He renders advice to large and small businesses in the agricultural sector, such as cooperative societies, advisory centres, manufacturers and wholesale and retail businesses. He is often selected to conduct large and complex litigation in agricultural law, tort law and construction law, where he is known for his thoroughness and valuable advice. Some lawsuits have been crucial for agriculture in Denmark and exposed in the Danish media. Moreover, he also serves as arbitrator. He is highly experienced in representing and advising foreign farmers in legal matters in Denmark, including establishment of business and litigation in Denmark. His expertise also includes: • Conditions of sale and delivery • Contract drafting, including development and supplier contracts • Regulatory matters • Interpretation of EU regulations and correspondence with the
European Commission Correspondence with public authorities, for instance in connection with food control • Purchase and sale of agricultural properties • Environmental matters Professional understanding of the requirements of the individual client, impartiality, accountability and an open and informal dialogue are important keywords to Thomas. •
Thomas speaks Scandinavian languages, German and English. References can be obtained by e-mail or phone. Associations and Memberships: •
National Agriculture Lawyers
Certifications: • •
Graduate Certificate in Business Administration (part 1) Certified arbitrator, Association of Danish Law Firms
Client Choice - Licensing Law Firm of the Year in England Wollen Michelmore Chris Hart Chief Executive Tel: +44 (0)1803 213251 chris.hart@wollenmichelmore.co.uk www.wollenmichelmore.co.uk
Wollen Michelmore was established in 2011 from two of the leading South Devon Law Firms, Hooper & Wollen and Harold Michelmore. With over 300 years of combined experience, Wollen Michelmore is leading the way in providing legal services to its clients in the South Devon area. Wollen Michelmore has offices in Torquay, Newton Abbot, Paignton and Dartmouth. We are a large extremely well respected practice, with 15 partners and over 100 staff. When choosing someone to represent you it is important that you choose the right lawyer for your needs, but the right lawyer is so much more than someone who understands the complexities of the law. The right lawyer is someone who also
understands you and what you want to achieve. Wollen Michelmore not only offers the most highly skilled advice based on excellent local knowledge, but clear pricing, quick appointments and face to face contact. We give easy to understand, straightforward and honest advice taking the stress out of tough situations. Our client care and service has been recognised by the Law Society’s Lexcel quality mark for excellence in management practice. Wollen Michelmore - The South Devon Law Firm.
GLE Practice Awards 2014 15
Corporate Fraud Law Firm of the Year in England Lewis Nedas Law Siobhain Egan Lawyer Tel: +44 20 7387 2032 segan@lewisnedas.co.uk www.lewisnedas.co.uk
Lewis Nedas Law is an award-winning, modern London based law firm, highly rated and ranked in Chambers UK, the Legal 500, and Super Lawyers UK.
Lewis Nedas are Lawyers for Business
Our London law firm has many niche departments with lawyers for your business. We deal with company/commercial issues, business dispute resolution, and employment, providing pragmatic and cost-effective legal advice for first class results.
Business Investigations
We have been successfully advising and representing companies faced with regulatory and/or corporate criminal matters for over 30 years. Our team of experts includes specialists dealing with the following areas: tax, regulatory, criminal, including fraud, money laundering, bribery and corruption, (FCPA and UKBA), cartels, sanctions, civil recovery, Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and compliance issues. We are highly recommended by the Legal 500 2013 in the areas of corporate and white collar crime. We have been involved in many of the leading cases in these areas and can provide the exacting standards demanded of any City firm at much reduced rates.
Civil Asset Recovery & Forfeiture
We advise and represent clients (including companies and third parties), affected by proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act. If your assets have been frozen or your property seized, our civil asset recovery & forfeiture lawyers can help.
Civil Litigation Lawyers
Our City trained lawyers deal with a very wide range of issues for both the individual and businesses.
Criminal Defence & Fraud Lawyers for Individuals & Companies
Our criminal defence lawyers are specialists in many areas of criminal defence across the UK and our fraud, serious crime, money laundering, and motoring offence departments have genuinely high acquittal and overall success rates. Our highly regarded asset confiscation and restraint unit has a sub-department which focuses on the interests of third parties affected by the restraint and confiscation of assets/monies and accounts.
Editor’s Choice - Music Law Firm of the Year in England Bray & Krais Richard Bray / Mark Krais Founding Partners Tel: +44 (0)20 7384 3050 bandk@brayandkrais.com www.brayandkrais.com
Bray & Krais Solicitors is a leading specialised legal practice who advise a large variety of clients operating within the music and entertainment industry. Founded in 1996 by Richard Bray and Mark Krais, the media law firm is acknowledged within its field as having an outstanding reputation. Chambers UK recognises Bray & Krais as a foremost media and entertainment law firm. The firm is particularly well known for its non-contentious music practice and for its work on high-profile live events and tours. Bray & Krais has strong expertise in working with brands wishing to engage with music properties, whether by way of licensing content, entering into commercial sponsorship arrangements or through a more rounded talent partnership agreement. The firm also undertakes recording, publishing and management agreements as well as merchandising agreements. Chambers UK has praised the firm’s strengths in their technical abilities as well as for their knowledge of the music industry. Clients of Bray & Krais praise the firm for its ability to handle matters sensitively and to deliver an ‘experienced, pragmatic service’. Prominent clients include the Rolling Stones™, F1 Rocks, Universal Music and Sony/ ATV Music Publishing. Founding partners Richard Bray and Mark Krais are both ranked in Band 1 by Chambers UK for their non-contentious work in London and nationwide.
16 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Richard has over 20 years’ experience in private practice, throughout which he has represented many high profile artists, performers, managers, labels, publishers and senior executives, as well as professional sportsmen and women. Richard is described in Legal 500 as being ‘at the top of his game’ in terms of the representation of performers and is recognised as a leading individual for his music work. He also wins commendation for his ‘amazing attention to detail coupled with incisive commercial nous’ and is praised for his ‘sound, sensible and well-reasoned commercial advice’. Mark also has over 20 years of experience. Mark has particular expertise in international branded live events having worked on a number of experiential projects for brands, agencies, charities and promoters in different territories across the world. Such live events include the Live 8 concerts and Rolling Stones™ touring since 1996. Other branded projects include Live Earth, Nokia New Year’s Eve™, Hennessy Experience, Buchanan’s Forever branded concerts in South America, the Bacardi and Groove Armada ground–breaking partnership, the worldwide Smirnoff Nightlife Exchange Programme, and Arthurs Day 2009 - 2013 for Diageo and a series of music events for F1 known as F1 Rocks. Mark wins praise for his in-depth music expertise, and represents a number of established artists, managers, publishers, labels, actors and professional sports men and women.
Music Law Firm of the Year in England Debello Law Dean Dunham Senior Partner, Solicitor-Advocate Tel: +44 (0)20 3 137 7126 dean@dunhamgroup.co.uk www.debellolaw.co.uk
Debello Law, led by renowned lawyer Dean Dunham, is a big hitting litigation and media law firm based in the heart of Central London. The firm has a first class reputation in music, complex litigation (including in particular defamation and banking disputes) civil and criminal fraud and corporate transactions. We also provide extensive family law and commercial property advice. For our high profile clients we are recognised as leaders in the field at protecting valuable reputations and managing what is broadcast and published about them. A unique selling point of Debello Law is that we are solicitor-advo-
cates, meaning that we can cover all aspects of our clients litigation needs, including court advocacy. Services - Music Our Music team acts for a wide range of artists from wellknown brands and solo artists to theatre and other performing arts organisations. We represent some of the biggest names in music industry. In 2013 we won the Corporate INTL ‘Music Law Firm of the Year’ award.
Specialist - International Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year in England Hunters Gregor Kleinknecht Partner Tel: +44 (0)20 7412 0050 gjk@hunters-solicitors.co.uk www.hunters-solicitors.co.uk
Founded in 1715, Hunters is a leading law firm based in Central London, valued for giving constructive, intelligent and timely advice to clients. The firm offers a full legal service to private individuals, businesses, trusts, charities and other organisations both in the UK and internationally. We understand our clients’ needs and tailor our work to each set of circumstances; we work collaboratively as a multi-disciplinary practice to provide the individual personal service and high level of expertise for which we are known. A designated partner is personally responsible for every client: the special relationship which develops from this approach – very often built up over many years – is the bedrock of our practice. DISPUTE RESOLUTION In an imperfect world disputes, whether private or commercial, are a fact of life. We provide an efficient, solu-
tion-focused service to match our clients’ dispute resolution needs. Our experience covers work in the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, High Court and the lower courts, as well as arbitration proceedings and alternative dispute resolution techniques. The firm’s proximity to the Law Courts means we can respond rapidly to matters requiring urgent attention. Through our established co-operation with law firms in a wide range of countries around the world, we are able to co-ordinate and manage complex international and multi-jurisdictional litigation cases. We act for those bringing or defending claims and offer various funding arrangements (including where appropriate conditional fees). Litigation is a destructive and time consuming process and prevention is better than cure. We are delighted if we can assist in resolving a dispute before the battle lines are fully drawn. We advise on alternative approaches to dispute resolution, and we have experienced mediators available to help those in contention settle their disputes.
GLE Practice Awards 2014 17
Specialist - Regulatory Law Firm of the Year in England Woodfi nes Solicitors Carolyn Evans Partner Tel: +44 (0)1908 202150 cevans@woodfines.co.uk www.woodfines.co.uk
Woodfines Solicitors is a full service law firm based in Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Cambridgeshire, offering specialist services for both businesses and individuals. The firm is particularly well known for its abilities in a wide range of regulatory-based areas, including Road Transport and Logistics, Health and Safety and Licensing, amongst others. Our regulatory team is based in our offices in Milton Keynes and Cambridge, although they work with clients from all over the UK. Our aim is to provide proactive advice on commercial practices to ensure compliance, and as such we work closely with our Commercial teams to provide a rounded and highly knowledgeable service to business clients. When enforcement takes place, the team provides immediate engagement in order to maximise the benefits of early intervention and divert clients away from prosecution wherever possible. The team has again this year acted on a wide range of cases, including those against corporate entities and individuals. This includes acting in Health and Safety (fatalities), Trading Standards, Vehicles Crimes Act, Copyright, Food Hygiene, Waste Management, Environmental Pollution matters, as well as a high profile corporate gross negligence manslaughter case involving the CPS, HSE, HMRC and DVSA. The department also has experience in dealing with Proceeds of Crime Act asset recovery and international arrest warrants. The team consists of a number of highly experienced lawyers and support
staff. Our advocates are skilled in representing individuals and businesses in the Lower and Higher Criminal Courts, Licensing Committees and Public Inquiries (Traffic Commissioner and Upper Tribunals). All cases are led by Partners, Tim Ridyard, Carolyn Evans and Mike Hayward, with consultation provided by Chris Hallsworth. A core aspect of our work involves attending business premises and seeing first-hand the operations, workings and approaches adopted by organisations. We seek to understand the underlying rationales and practical considerations of the legal framework in practice, and pride ourselves in developing this knowledge and trusted client relationships, which is in turn highly valued by our clients, especially when considering the steps needing to be taken in the course of an investigation or potential prosecution for regulatory offences. We are members of the Freight Transport Association and the FTA’s Van Excellence scheme, the Institute of Licensing, the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK, the CESG Listed Advisor Scheme, and Tim Ridyard is a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics. Our position in these professional organisations assists us in expanding our knowledge and providing information and trusted advice to our clients. Woodfines is proud to be recognised as the Regulatory Law Firm of the Year in England by Global Law Experts.
Individual - Industrial Property Lawyer of the Year in France Gilbey Legal Richard Gilbey Founding Partner Tel: +33 (0)1 56 02 62 00 r.gilbey@gdhlegal.com www.gdhlegal.com
Richard Gilbey is a founding partner of the Paris law firm Gilbey Legal. The firm is specialized in intellectual and industrial property law. It offers full services in those fields, from preliminary advice and clearance searches for trade marks, through filing and prosecution of trade marks and designs internationally, to enforcement, litigation and licensing aspects of trade marks, designs and copyright, including customs enforcement. Richard is assisted by three lawyers, all Avocats at the Paris Bar, Jehan-Philippe Jacquey, Joanne Quirin and Richard Metzger, as well as by a team of Paralegals, headed by Cécile Chabane. The practice includes representing French and foreign clients before the Community trade marks and designs registry, and representation up to the EU Courts of Justice EU, regulatory, labelling and advertising issues, and domain names registration and disputes. Richard Gilbey is fully bilingual. He graduated in law from the Queen’s College Oxford. After studying comparative law in France, he qualified as a Solicitor in the
18 GLE Practice Awards 2014
UK where he practised for three years. He then obtained post graduate degrees in European Community law and Industrial Property law from Strasbourg University. He was for two years a researcher and teacher at the University of Strasbourg Intellectual Property Centre (CEIPI), where he continues to lecture. After one year in private practice in Paris, he entered industry and successively headed, for seven years, the trade marks and designs departments of Synthelabo, and Sanofi, life sciences companies. He set up Gilbey Legal in December 1992. Richard Gilbey is a frequent speaker at French and International trade mark conferences (APRAM, INTA, PTMG, ECTA), and is a member of the Advisory Board of the Intellectual Property Department of Akron University, Ohio. He also gives seminars for AIPPI Japan and has had articles published in the AIPPI Japan review. He was one of the 25 professionals selected worldwide in his field in the Legal Media Group Best of the Best 2009 publication.
Editor’s Choice - Tax Litigation Law Firm of the Year in France
ARAGO Laurent Moury Partner Tel: +33 (0)1 45 05 15 65 lmoury@arago.fr www.arago.fr
Arago is an independent law firm which operates in the key areas of business law.
develop the best strategies.
Rigorous, dynamic, creative and responsive, we help you achieve your goals, to find effective legal solutions and solve your disputes.
The special relationship we have with all of our partners provides a benefit to you in the treatment of your cases.
OUR COMMITMENTS Involvement Being a client of the Arago law firm, means that you are receiving the commitment of a dedicated, available team. When you entrust us with your case, your problem becomes ours. Your success is our success. Tailor-made solutions Determined, pragmatic and bold, we are most eager to find personalized solutions tailored to your requirements. Centred on listening We focus on knowing you well enough to understand all the issues of your project. Confidence We want to support our customers in the long run and create trusting relationships. In case of conflicts and litigation, this trust is particularly valuable because it allows us to quickly identify and
A network at your disposal
Tax
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We assist companies and French and international corporations to manage and optimize their taxes. On national and international levels, we help to structure their organization, their investments and cash flow. In coordination with M&A department, we deal with the tax aspects of mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and group restructuring. We also have extensive experience in assisting companies in all contexts of tax litigation.
•
With these distinctive practices, from international taxation (France and bilateral and multi-lateral agreements) to the taxation of transactions and tax litigation, our firm offers a full range of assistance in tax matters.
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Business and Corporate Company Tax International Tax M&A Tax Tax Litigation
Laurent Moury Career
2006 Partner at Arago 2005 Creation of an independant law firm 1996/2004 European Counsel at Donovan Leisure Newton & Irvine, and after a merger Partner at Leboeuf Lamb Greene & MacRae 1993/1995 Georges Kiejman 1989/1993 Goldsmith & Associés 1989 Touche Ross
Education • • • •
CAPA barrister’s vocational training certificate (French School of the Bar, Paris) IDPA (Institut of Public Business Law, University of Sceaux /Paris Bar) IEP Paris (Paris Institute of Political Studies) Master’s degree in International Business Law (University Paris I Panthéon Sorbonne) Master’s degree in Tax Law (University Paris I Panthéon Sorbonne)
Languages • • • •
French English Spanish German
Arago has experts in all disciplines of business law to advise companies, corporations and French and international investment funds. GLE Practice Awards 2014 19
International IT Law Firm of the Year in France
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
MEDIASTIC-MARTINEAU ASSOCIES AARPI
49, rue de Richelieu 75001 Paris France
Tel: +33 1 77 15 09 96 www.medias-tic.com MEDIASTIC-MARTINEAU ASSOCIES AARPI focuses on Information Technology and Media, Intellectual Property, Entertainment, Telecommunications as well as Insurances and Distribution Law. The firm’s creation arose from the desire to provide personalised counsel to corporations, foundations, endowment funds and independent entrepreneurs. MEDIASTIC-MARTINEAU ASSOCIES AARPI supports foreign businesses both in setting up in France and in litigation, resolving high-value and multi-jurisdictional disputes. The firm also assists French companies to achieve their international projects through a wide network of local correspondents. Our partners and lawyers are engaged in the production of creative and innovative legal solutions.
« Our creativity enhances your business, competitiveness and passions »
Anne-Katel MARTINEAU
Bertrand PAVLIK
Jean-François MENIER
Individual - Outsourcing Lawyer of the Year in France Courtois Lebel Hervé Gabadou Managing Partner Tel: +33 1 58 44 92 92 hgabadou@courtois-lebel.com www.courtois-lebel.com/en
Courtois Lebel was founded in 1969. Managing partner Hervé Gabadou has more than 20 years’ experience in the legal IT area of expertise. He founded the IT practice of Courtois Lebel in 2002. He is considered an expert in complex IT projects and outsourcing transactions, be it for transactional work or litigation assistance. He also assists clients that are confronted to e-commerce and Internet legal issues. His expertise includes assisting, drafting, negotiating and advising on: complex IT projects; commercial licensing and pan-European VAR agreements; cloud services; outsourcing transactions; dematerialization; and, more generally, all sorts of IT and Internet contracts or issues, including personal data protection regulation in a national and international context.
Moreover, each lawyer in the department has gained years of experience in IT consulting and services companies or legal expertise firms that are among the leaders in the market. The presence of bilingual and trilingual lawyers in the department is an undeniable asset that enables the team to represent and assist its clients both in France and abroad on international projects or disputes.
Mr Gabadou was co-chair of the Outsourcing Committee of the ItechLaw Association in 2012/2013. He is co-founder and member of the Outsourcing Law Group (OLG), a group of like-minded law firms that have substantial outsourcing practices and are recognized market leaders.
The firm’s successful transactions of 2014 have so far included assisting a major US online data hosting company before the French tribunal in summary proceedings, improving Courtois Lebel’s market position in the Internet legal market.
Courtois Lebel is renowned within the industry for being technically and internationally business-minded and sector-orientated. The Digital & Innovation department’s application delivery network (AND) enables the team to comprehend and legally qualify an often complex technical and operational reality. To this effect, the team has dedicated tools and methods that it applies in the service of its clients.
The firm’s plans for the coming 12 months include exceeding 10 lawyers within its Digital & Innovation department, as well as becoming recognized as one of the main leaders in big data and cloud computing projects. Today, the firm excels at carving out complex operations and related transition service agreements for a predominantly multinational clientele.
Courtois Lebel’s core strengths include assisting large companies – French or multinational – to exit outsourcing situations, even when there is no initial exit strategy in place. This was recently put into practice for a client that had been confronted with an abusive retention of data from the incumbent provider.
Wine Law Firm of the Year in France IP SPHERE Philippe Rodhain Partner Tel: +33 (0) 5 56 96 50 11 philippe.rodhain@ipsphere.fr www.ipsphere.fr
IP SPHERE is an Industrial Property Law Firm registered with the National Industrial Property Institute (INPI), the Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market (OHIM) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). IP SPHERE assists and represents companies and project leaders, from both the private and public sectors, in obtaining, maintaining and defending intellectual property rights (patents, trademarks, drawings and models, copyrights, software, domain names, databases) in France and abroad. Competence, creativity, responsiveness and close cooperation are the key features of our firm; while we are active in all sectors of economic life, we have special expertise in the agribusiness, winegrowing and information and communications technology (ICT) domains. Renowned for its major involvement in the field of intellectual property law, IP SPHERE also lends its expertise to the educational domain, particularly at Montesquieu Bordeaux IV University (Masters II courses in Vine and Wine Law – Masters II courses in Economic Intelligence and the Management of Organizations), vocational training (European Business and Industrial Property Institute) and legal communication in the regional and national press (Sud-Ouest, L’Union Girondine, APS, Objectif Aquitaine, La Vie Economique, La Revue des Marques, etc.). IP SPHERE is a member of the National Society of Industrial Property Attorneys (CNCPI), a mark of professionalism, independence and high ethical standards. IP WINE Department Vine and wine law is a legal corpus of unusual complexity. Whether in terms of product protections (from indications of origin to unique features of wine sector brand law), consumer protections (from advertising regulations to fraud prevention), or the legal and economic issues involved in distribution, there is a veritable labyrinth of French and European Community regulations, and it is growing constantly. Conscious of the specific nature of the wine market, IP SPHERE has developed unique expertise,
which is recognized among professionals and academics. Consultants from the IP WINE department offer a wide range of legal services in the domain of winery law. These services include: Legal risk analysis • Consultations regarding the lawfulness of wine trademarks • Wine sector brand availability search • Wine sector trademarks liberalization strategy • Assistance and consultation regarding compliance with standards for labeling and traceability • Analysis regarding fraud and related offenses Acquisition and Maintenance of Rights • Worldwide registration of wine sector trademarks • Management of review and release procedures (notifications of irregularities, commentary from INAO and other French and foreign authorities, opposition proceedings, title issuance) • Expiration and renewal monitoring Development and Leveraging of Rights • Negotiation, drafting and validation of contracts • Evaluation and development of wine sector brand portfolios • Security for communication projects in France (Evin Law) • Registration of wine sector brands with national registries, European and international • Audits during the acquisition or alienation of vineyard properties Rights Monitoring and Advocacy • Monitoring of trademarks, trade names and domain names • Customs surveillance • Competitive intelligence • Oppositions, litigation and pre-litigation negotiations • Legal actions in cooperation with lawyers highly specialized in wine sector law
GLE Practice Awards 2014 21
Client Choice - Cross Border Law Firm of the Year in Germany Jacob Associates Sylvia Jacob Hohenzollernstrasse 84 80801 Munich, Germany Tel: +49 89 33040707 / +49 89 33040706 (Fax) sj@jacoblaw.com www.jacoblaw.com
Our focus is client service. Our business works globally ranging from businesses, private clients and global players in Europe, especially the UK and Germany, to our North American clients who want to expand their business to Germany and Europe. We also consult foreign law firms and provide opinions to foreign courts. We have been chosen by the GLE as the Best Cross Border Law Firm of the Year in Germany for 2014 and we are one of the very few legal offices with native Canadian and German lawyers working together, specializing in many fields of law of importance to both countries. Moving forward, we are planning to expand our activities within Canada for companies and persons doing business with Germany and the EU. Since the economic ties between both regions are intensifying, the need for competent legal guidance and service is also growing.
Our firm’s many years of experience on both sides of the Atlantic definitely give us an advantage over other firms. The added value of having a good balance of bilingual and native speakers, both from Canada and Germany, enables us to effectively communicate and understand many issues – and this greatly benefits our clients. Admissions: B.A., LL.B. Rechtsanwalt (Germany) Barrister & Solicitor (Ontario, Canada) Notary (Ontario, Canada) Solicitor (England & Wales)
Client Choice - Employee Benefits Law Firm of the Year in Germany Rechtsanwälte Haver & Mailänder Dr Ulrich Schnelle, LL.M. Partner Tel: +49-(0)711-22744-27 us@haver-mailaender.de www.haver-mailaender.de
Haver & Mailänder is a medium-sized independent German law firm with a strong international background and a considerable number of international clients. In the field of employment benefits, the firm offers services for international and German clients. For international clients, the focus is on making certain programmes, in particular, Stock Option Programmes or related programmes compatible and compliant with German law. Moreover, the firm can advise on all aspects of German law that are typically entwined with such programmes. These may include tax law issues, corporate and employment law matters, as well as matters of the applicable law and the enforcement. For German clients, Haver & Mailänder regularly develops and drafts various employment benefit plans. The firm is able to advise on these matters (including employment law issues) and will provide full assistance in following necessary corporate steps. Dr Ulrich Schnelle is an equity partner within Haver & Mailänder. He was admitted to the German bar in 1992. Besides advising on issues of competition law, international contract law and corporate law, he also provides advice pertaining to employment benefits law. He has been a member of various networks related to quite a number of organisations promoting employment benefit programmes on an international level, including: Monidée, Solius, The Law Firm Network and GRP, among others. Dr Schnelle said: “An essential benefit that Haver & Mailänder can offer its clients is its close coordination in handling the various aspects of employment benefit issues. Haver & Mailänder has, as its objective, an overall approach to all aspects of employment benefit programmes. Key legal issues for employment benefit
22 GLE Practice Awards 2014
programmes are tax issues, both for the employer and for the employee. This can encompass questions such as: What are the tax triggering events? Is there a need for the employer to withhold taxes on behalf of the employee?” Dr Schnelle noted that further considerations may include: the requirement to file a prospectus with the relevant securities regulators; and/or, whether it is necessary to inform the Works Council of the German employer, in particular, if the programme is issued by the foreign parent company of a multinational group. Finally, more technical issues are related to the validity of the choice of law (if German law is not chosen). He said: “Some of the issues, such as the prospectus requirement or the participation of the Works Council, can be overcome by issuing a complete description of the programme and the principles of selection of employees entitled to participate in the German language.” Today, Haver & Mailänder’s typical clients consist of international corporations rolling out employment benefit plans in more than one jurisdiction, one of them being Germany. The firm is normally retained by organisations working for such multinational groups of companies, and sometimes also involving other areas of compliance, such as competition law. On the German side, the typical clients are smaller corporations with the need to improve or revisit their employment benefit plans. In 2014, Haver & Mailänder has improved its market position, especially the turnover in the field of employment law. Further, the firm has already been granted two awards for the year thus far.
Individual - Life Sciences Lawyer of the Year in Germany Salans FMC SNR Denton Europe LLP Peter Homberg Partner Tel: +49 69 45 00 123 11 peter.homberg@dentons.com www.dentons.com
Dentons is a global law firm driven to provide you with the competitive edge in an increasingly complex and interconnected marketplace. Dentons is built on the solid foundations of three highly regarded law firms: Salans LLP, Fraser Milner Casgrain (FMC) LLP and SNR Denton. Its approximately 2,600 lawyers and professionals in more than 75 locations across 50-plus countries are dedicated to providing you with consistent high-quality service wherever you do business. In Germany, via Dentons’ offices in Berlin and Frankfurt/Main, the firm provides advice in all key areas of business and commercial law.
Deutschland e.V.
Dentons` Life Sciences experts in Germany advise on project-related transactions, or alternatively as an ‘outsourced legal department’, with deep industry-specific knowledge, creativity and years of expertise to ensure their clients` success. Whether licensing deals or regulatory issues relating to the drug advertising law – as part of a team of over 80 lawyers and tax consultants in Germany, Dentons provides companies in the areas of pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, biotechnology and medical devices with a future-orientated and interdisciplinary legal advice.
Mr Homberg noted: “The strongly regulated Life Sciences Industry is facing significant issues relating to technology transfer, regulatory hurdles regarding obtaining marketing authorisation for pharmaceuticals, diagnostics and medical devices, and in the field of reimbursement for products and services. Dentons’ multi-disciplinary group of Life Sciences lawyers, with significant industry experience, is very well positioned to provide respective legal advice – in order to assist clients to overcome these hurdles and to be successful in the market place.”
Peter Homberg is a partner in Dentons’ Frankfurt office, and heads the German Life Sciences Practice. He specialises in IP and corporate law. Mr Homberg is a member of the Licensing Executive Society (LES), the German Association for Intellectual Property and Copyright (GRUR), the German Institution for Arbitration (DIS), as well as Pharma-Lizenz-Club
With 75 locations across 50 plus countries, Dentons has a significant network of Life Sciences lawyers in various jurisdictions to provide their clients with the quick and efficient assistance needed in their respective jurisdiction. In this respect, Dentons is much better positioned than a lot of other law firms active in this industry area.
Further, Mr Homberg regularly holds lectures at seminars and conferences, among others, at the Management Circle (e.g. ‘IP-Stipulations in cooperation agreements’) or the Marketing Conference of Medical Technology (e.g. ‘Update on Therapeutic Products Advertising - Latest Law on Marketing of Medical Technology and Medical Devices on the Basis of Case Studies’). He is also author of numerous professional articles and other publications regarding corporate or IP law in the field of life sciences.
Individual - IP Rights Enforcement Lawyer(s) of the Year in Germany / Large Tier - IP Patents Law Firm of the Year in Germany
intellectual property – our award winners
Dipl.-Phys.
m unich
b re me n
prof. dr. heinz goddar
dr. ludwig kouker
Patent Attorney, Munich goddar@boehmert.de
Attorney at Law, Bremen kouker@boehmert.de
be rl i n
du e sse l dor f
frank f urt
b iel ef el d
Dipl.-Phys.
christian w. appelt Patent Attorney, Munich appelt@boehmert.de
p ots d am
k iel
al ic ant e
par is
s h a n gha i
Hollerallee 32, d-28209 Bremen, telephone +49 (421) 340 90, telefax +49 (421) 349 17 68 postmaster@boehmert.de, www.boehmert.de
GLE Practice Awards 2014 23
National - Corporate Restructuring Law Firm of the Year in Germany ameleo. law LLP Philipp M. v. Groll Partner Tel: +49 (0) 211 542004-60 philipp.groll@ameleo-law.com www.ameleo.com
ameleo business is to provide legal advice in commercial and corporate law, in the event of restructuring or insolvency proceeding. We are experts in these areas of law, both in local laws and international laws, especially in relation to Singapore, China and the United States.
international multi-stage processes for corporate entities and their subsidiaries in Europe, Singapore, China and the United States. In addition, the collaboration between ameleo, consulting and international tax experts has led to the design and implementation of well-established handling concepts for bankruptcy proceedings.
ameleo´s business law advice focuses on the following areas:
The comprehensive legal support that ameleo provide for local and international investors with business dealings in Germany, Singapore, China, Hong Kong and the United States is at the forefront of its international activities.
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Commercial and corporate contracts Incorporation of legal entities for new businesses Partnership agreements and statutes Legal support for various types of transactions Legal advice on the introduction of products into new and emerging markets Product protection and enforcement Management of companies
ameleo´s partners and lawyers have fifteen years of experience in the handling of bankruptcy proceedings, including managing major
Having managed national and international transactions for various businesses, real estate portfolios and large commercial real estate, particularly in major insolvency procedures, coupled with many years of successful law practice, puts ameleo in an optimal position to advise international investors. ameleo offer Mandarin, Cantonese, Malay, English and German speaking partners to interact with our international clients.
IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Germany / Peer Choice - Patent Law Firm of the Year in Germany / Pharmaceutical Law Firm of the Year in Germany
Patent Law Firm of the Year in Germany
df-mp
Dörries Frank-Molnia & Pohlman df-mp
Patentanwälte Rechtsanwälte PartG mbB Fünf Höfe Theatinerstraße 16 80333 Munich, Germany Tel: +49 89 2102960 Fax: +49 89 21029633 info@df-mp.com www.df-mp.com
df-mp - Global Expertise for Your Innovations and Trademarks
df-mp is one of the top fi rms in intellectual property law with an internationdf-mp is one of the top firms in intellectual property law with an interal orientation and a broad scope of specialized expertise. Global companational outlook and a broad scope of specialized expertise. Globallynies in such practice areas as biotechnology, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, oriented companies in such practice areas as biotechnology, chemistry, physics, medical devices and mechanical and electrical engineering trust physics, medical devices, mechanical and electrical engineering and the competent advice offered by our highly-rated team. pharmaceuticals trust the competent advice offered by our highly-rated Our patent lawyers have considerable experience in obtaining and deteam. fending our client’s key patents in proceedings before the European and Our patent lawyers have considerable experience in obtaining and German Patent Offi ces, the German Federal Patent Court and the German defending our client’s key patents in proceedings before the European Federal Supreme Court, as well as challenging the patents of third parties Patent Office and the German patent office, as well as challenging the in such proceedings. Notable success has been achieved by the fi rm in patents of third parties in such proceedings. Notable success has been numerous nullity actions before the German Courts. achieved by the firm in nullity actions before the German courts. Other recognized specialties of the fi Another recognized speciality of rm include providing freedom-to-operthe firm is client counselling on all ate and patent validity opinions, and advising on supplementary protection other aspects of intellectual property certifi cates. such as freedom-to-operate and patent validity opinions.
IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Germany / Peer Choice - Patent Law Firm Patent Law/ Pharmaceutical Firm of theLaw Year Germany of the Year in Germany Firmin of the Year in Germany 24 GLE Practice Awards 2014
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
National - IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Germany Fleuchaus & Gallo Partnerschaft mbB Intellectual Property and Litigation Attorneys Dipl.-Phys. Michael Fleuchaus Partner Tel: +49 89 79078690 office@fleuchaus-gallo.com www.fleuchaus-gallo.com
F LEUCHAUS & GALLO Partnerschaft mbB • Patent und Rechtsanwälte
Fleuchaus & Gallo is an established full service patent law firm in Germany. Looking back on more than 40 years’ experience we offer a comprehensive range of legal services in all IP matters.
Wolfgang Gallo earned a degree in electrical and precision mechanical engineering. He has over 30 years’ experience in all fields of intellectual property, particularly in complex litigation.
Fleuchaus & Gallo stands for high professional expertise in all aspects related to patents, trademarks and designs. One of our core competencies lies in litigation: The committed team of Patent Attorneys and lawyers not only has considerable experience in obtaining IP rights before the German and European Patent Office, but also in settling IP disputes, pursuing claims and enforcing our clients’ rights before the respective German Patent courts.
Dr. Andrea Fleuchaus gained a PhD in vaccine technology and her experience covers the fields of virology, molecular biology, biochemistry, immuno oncology, microbiology, immunology and genetics. She’s also an expert in portfolio advising and Life-Cycle-Management as well as in opposition proceedings.
At Fleuchaus & Gallo legal expertise meets applied technical know-how: Not only do our Patent Attorneys call upon their academic education from within their field but also several years of professional experience in a variety of technological areas. Michael Fleuchaus has a university degree in technical physics and computer sciences. Among others, he’s specialized in handling litigation matters and in creating and designing IP portfolios, with emphasis in the field of optical, mechanical and electrical engineering, IT as well as medical- and bio-technology. Dr. Ernst-Ulrich Wittmann studied process engineering and gained rich experience in the field of mechanical, process and chemical engineering, with a special focus on paper-, board- and print-technology. His main areas of practice include representation in infringement, cancellation and nullity proceedings as well as advising on and drafting of license agreements.
The firm’s lawyers support all types of commercial clients, from SMEs up to listed companies, based in all parts of the world. Clients across industries trust the competent, proven advice offered by Fleuchaus & Gallo – e.g. in the sectors IT, electronics, electrical and mechanical engineering, process and food technologies, biotechnology and life sciences, medical technologies and optical systems. Fleuchaus & Gallo takes pride in providing excellent legal services and best client care, using a combination of in-depth knowledge, experienced administrative staff, cutting-edge equipment and sophisticated technical support. A global network of renowned associates is an additional asset that we utilise where necessary. Our philosophy: Working with Fleuchaus & Gallo, our clients ensure that IP will become an asset for their business instead of merely an expense.
Niche - Tax Law Firm of the Year in Germany LW TAX Lemaitre Wittkowski GmbH Claus Lemaitre / Ansas Wittkowski Partners Tel: +49 (0) 89 386678990 claus.lemaitre@lwtax.de / ansas.wittkowski@lwtax.de www.lwtax.de
LW TAX Lemaitre Wittkowski GmbH is a dynamic, nationally- and internationally-operating tax boutique firm based in the centre of Munich / Germany. The firm is a specialist in providing one-stop-shop services for foreign groups and investors starting or expanding their business in Germany.
ate, and subsequently offers active support in implementing the decisions made. Moreover, the firm provides current services such as accounting, preparation of tax returns and financial statements pursuant to German and international GAAP and German tax law.
High service, efficiency and direct lines of communication are indispensable to LW TAX’s mission, but LW TAX offers more. Its advice is comprehensive, providing clients with direction as well as constructive follow-up support during the implementation process. In addition, LW TAX provides tax compliance and accounting services at a fair price / performance ratio. This full-tax-service approach is the logical consequence of its advisory concept, which is based on the notion that a tax project is not completed until: it is successfully implemented; has been put into practice by the client; and the final tax audit of the client has been successfully completed.
Frequently, the team focuses in particular on complex, often cross-border, special tax issues. These include mergers and acquisitions, recapitalisation, restructuring as well as numerous special topics of international tax law. The firm serves medium-sized businesses and private equity investors alongside publicly traded company groups and wealthy individuals and their family offices.
LW TAX does not distinguish itself solely through its service-orientated and proactive approach, but also stands out as a firm that actively helps its clients to make best decisions. Therefore, LW TAX does not merely provide a list of opportunities that are available under the law, but explains which option appears to be the most opportune from a tax and a commercial point of view. This means that LW TAX actively participates in decision-making processes where appropri-
LW TAX is a member of Tax Planet, and maintains a large personal network consisting of cooperation partners, both nationally and abroad. The firm also has a solid reputation in the German markets, where its partners have Big Four or Big Four-equivalent top-level experience. LW TAX was selected as the winner for the category Tax Law Firm of the Year in Germany in the Global Law Experts (GLE) Practice Awards for 2014; meanwhile, the law journal International Tax Review has ranked the firm among the top 40 tax firms, and among the top 20 niche tax firms in Germany. Claus Lemaitre of LW TAX was recently selected by his peers for inclusion in the newspaper Handelsblatt and ‘Best Lawyer’ 2014. He is one of 137 advisers recommended in the field of tax law in Germany.
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Individual - Finance Lawyer of the Year in Greece Karatzas & Partners Law Firm Catherine-Marie Karatzas Managing Partner Tel: +30 210 3713 630 c.karatza@karatza-partners.gr www.karatza-partners.gr
Karatzas & Partners has been in existence since 1963, as Karatzas Law Offices. From its establishment it has been active in the fields of civil, company, commercial and financial law, with its clientele being both Greek and international. We specialise in banking and finance law, capital markets law, corporate and commercial law, competition law, energy law, mergers and acquisitions, privatisation, project finance, real estate law and telecommunications law. We also specialise in litigation, both before courts and arbitral tribunals, in the above fields. Our firm currently consists of 7 partners, 23 associates, 5 trainee lawyers and supporting staff of 13 employees (secretaries, accounting department etc.). The firm has its operating location in Athens, 8 Omirou Street, 10564, Tel: +30 210 3713 600, Fax: +30 210 323 4363, mail@karatza-partners.gr. Our firm has developed extensive expertise in the area of the law governing banking and finance transactions. We advise on all aspects of banking and finance, ranging from day-to-day straightforward loans to secured and syndicated loan transactions, securitisations, covered bonds, derivatives and other OTC and listed financial products. In view of our leading position in the Greek legal market, we are routinely rated by such legal directories as Chambers Global, Legal 500 and IFLR1000 as a first-tier firm, and our partners are rated among the top lawyers in Greece.
Our firm has received the International Financial Law Review award for best Greek law firm in 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2013, the International Financial Law Review Europe Women in Business Law award for best Greek law firm in 2011, 2012 and 2013, as well as the Greek Law Firm of the Year award by Chambers Europe in 2011. Most recently we were awarded in the American Lawyer Global Legal Awards the Global Finance Deal of the Year for Greece’s Debt Restructuring as well as the Grand Prize 2013 for Global Finance and the International Financial Law Review award for debt and equity-linked deal of the year in 2013. Our managing partner Catherine Karatzas has been shortlisted in the Euromoney LMG Europe Women in Business Law Awards 2014 for Best in Financial Regulation. We pride ourselves for always having been at the cutting edge of financing through innovative financial instruments, including the first securitisation and covered bonds transactions in Greece. We combine innovative legal thinking with sound and detailed knowledge of traditional and innovative financial products to deliver accurate and business-oriented opinions and advice. We have been at the forefront of this area of law ever since the liberalisation of markets in Greece. In April 2014, we worked on Greece’s comeback to the markets when the Hellenic Republic issued 5 year bonds.
Enforcement Law Firm of the Year in Hungary Kovács Réti Szegheő Attorneys at Law Dr Attila Kovács Managing Partner Tel: +361/275-27-85 kovacs.attila@krs.hu www.krs.hu
Kovács Réti Szegheő Attorneys at Law, established in 1992, was among the first law firms in Hungary which specialises particularly in the legal representation of business organisations and the application of the so-called business law. It has been steadily growing and expanding ever since to become one of the largest Hungarian-owned law offices by this time. ˝ noted: Dr Attila Kovács, managing partner at Kovács Réti Szegheo, “We believe that thanks to our widespread international network, our intensive industrial know-how and expertise, our flexible and efficient office structure and our high-qualified, dedicated and creative staff, we are able to provide first-class legal and tax advice even in the most complex cases.”
The partners and associates of Kovács Réti Szegheo˝ Attorneys-at-Law meet their clients’ highest expectations with advanced technical facilities and background, up-to-date legal and tax counselling, quick and precise administration of matters in Hungarian, English, German and French languages – including the multilingual construction of instruments, letters, memos and legal opinions – and the organisation of conciliatory negotiations and discussions primarily
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in the following particular areas of law. Dr Kovács added: “In today’s globalised business world, all of our clients need a competent, reliable and trustworthy legal counsel who can think globally but acts locally by providing its clients with personalised advice and business-orientated, effective solutions. We enhance our international expertise for the benefits of our clients; therefore, in order to pursue this goal we are the exclusive Hungarian member of several international organisations of independent law, accounting, audit and consulting firms. In the framework of the largest one, we lead the global Debt Collection, Restructuring & Insolvency Practice Group.” Dr Kovács also added: “We believe that in order to be able to provide the best service for our expanding clientele, our firm shall also draw up with the growing professional challenges. The year 2014 is a pleasant caesura in our development, since on the actual level of our enlargement we have outgrown our present organisational limits. This summer, we are moving to our new office, which creates the possibility to implement the most up-to-date and highest quality technical backgrounds – for the benefits of our clients.”
Client Choice - Maritime Law Firm of the Year in Italy MUNARI GIUDICI MANIGLIO PANFILI E ASSOCIATI Prof. Francesco Munari Senior partner. Professor and lawyer, expert in law of ports, transport law, maritime and air navigation law Tel: +39 010 565529 - 010 5957726 segreteria@mgmp-avvocati.com www.mgmp-avvocati.com
We are specialist in business, commercial and shipping law. Our firm is probably the Italian leader in logistics, transport and port regulation. Prof. Francesco Munari, our main expert in port regulation, transport law, maritime and air navigation law, is head of a team of highly skilled lawyers constantly facing the widest range of maritime issues, throughout Italy and abroad: typical maritime matters (maritime contracts and claims, collisions, etc.), port services, port and intermodal terminal management, public concessions, relations with port and maritime authorities. Among the most recent and relevant cases followed by our firm, the trans-loading of Syrian chemicals in the port of Gioia Tauro and the accident occurred to m/v Jolly Nero in the Port of Genoa, are probably also the best known to the general public. The team’s wide and long-term experience allows us to assist and represent any kind of client, from SMEs to large groups, from private to public entities, in any kind of business and regulatory scenario, providing them with a complete range of legal assistance both in consulting, litigation and arbitration activities. Prof. Munari himself is often appointed as arbitrator in many maritime cases and has extensive experience in both national
and international arbitrations. Prof. Munari himself is speaker at national and international conferences (such as, lately, the one held in October 2013 in Piraeus when he was Guest of honour at the 8th International Conference on Maritime Law “Operation of maritime institutions in the context of economic crisis (Ship-financing, contract’s performance, enforcement)”, organized by the Piraeus Bar Association). He is also author of many publications. You can find them on the law-firm link (http://www.mgmp-avvocati.com/en/avvocati/profavv-francesco-munari-en.html) We have a strong international background and assist Italian firms working in foreign countries as well as international firms operating in Italy; we handle a wide array of disputes in national and international arbitrations and before national and EU courts and administrative bodies or agencies. Our firm has also experts in the areas of corporation law, antitrust, M&A, commercial and labour law and provides support in human rights law, family law and child protection, at national and European levels.
Commercial Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Italy Studio Legale Sutti Stefano Sutti Partner Tel: +39 02 762041 maildesk@sutti.com www.sutti.com
Studio Legale Sutti, established in 1953 by Dr Angelo Sutti, KIR, a leading commercial litigator of his generation, is today one of the largest full-service business law firms in Italy, with a strong emphasis on excellence in contentious and para-contentious work throughout the Italian and Balkanian jurisdictions. As a consequence, the firm is routinely instructed by its clients, their in-house counsel and their solicitors, to assist in all kinds of litigation, arbitration and mediation, namely in civil, commercial and criminal courts; in appeals; before tax, antitrust and trade authorities; before administrative, regulatory and disciplinary tribunals; and in mock trials for demonstrative or educational purpose. The typical matters concerned include complex corporate disputes, commercial litigation and arbitrations, ADR, administrative proceedings, procedures before local and European patent and trademark offices, tax disputes, competition issues, white-collar criminal defence and prosecution, international investigations, anti-counterfeiting, debt recovery, creditors’ rights in insolven-
cy-related matters, local discovery and deposition of witnesses and, last but not least, recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments. Several of Studio Legal Sutti’s members are admitted in multiple jurisdictions, are heard before local Supreme Courts, and are recognised scholars and authors in the fields of advocacy, civil procedure, litigation strategy, law of evidence, etc., and/or generally recommended by specialised international media and directories, besides undergoing strict internal training and continuing education programmes on subjects ranging from advocacy to theory of games to presentation techniques, from Harvard risk-tree analysis to rhetorics to neuro-linguistic programming. Studio Legale Sutti’s services in this area are rendered under flexible and negotiable terms, in strict cooperation with final clients and their personnel and consultants. The firm is able to communicate with them in most European languages, and profits from its contemporary nature of a multidisciplinary practice that includes, in its human resources, forensic accountants, patent attorneys, ITC specialists, investigators and tax advisors.
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Corporate Tax Law Firm of the Year in Italy BVR & Partners Paolo Omodeo Salè Tax Partner Tel: +39 06 8537201 paolo.omodeosale@bvr-partners.com www.bvr-partners.com
BVR & Partners is a specialized Law Firm operating in Rome, Milan and London. Paolo Omodeo Salé is known as a premiere Tax and Corporate law senior advisor with an important professional career in some of the most prestigious Italian and international law firms operating in Italy. BVR & Partners assists domestic and international clients in connection with Corporate M&A, tax matters and projects in the field of corporate governance structures and reorganizations. Before joining BVR & Partners, Paolo Omodeo Salè was partner in CBA Studio Legale e Tributario, managing partner of Deloitte Studio Legale Associato, managing partner of Andersen Legal in Italy, and managing partner of PosLex in italy. This long and important experience in leading international law firms and professional structures represents the backbone of a structured model of client assistance, and provides the firm with a concrete comprehension of clients’ needs and a strong attitude in integrating services with an international perspective, on the basis of the specific client’s business model. Competencies During the course of his professional career, Paolo Omodeo Salè has assisted both international and domestic clients on inbound and outbound investments. Further, he has dealt with economic and tax analysis of transfer pricing arrangements, corporate tax advice and legal representation before the tax courts and representation
of clients with Italian Institutions such as the Bank of Italy, the Banks Association and the Industrial Associations. Clients value the firm as a leading tax advisor in Italy. Its complete spectrum of services includes domestic and international tax consultancy and assistance on income tax, VAT and other direct and indirect taxes. Within the scope of national and international corporate reorganizations, M&A transactions and LBOs, BVR & Partners provides consulting and assistance in defining tax-efficient corporate structures, with a strong problem-solving approach, carrying out due diligences prior to acquisitions and negotiating and drafting tax representations and warranties in M&A and other similar agreements. Paolo Omodeo Salè has developed thorough knowledge in analyzing and interpreting double tax treaties, defining transfer pricing policies and handling cross-border licenses, cost-sharing agreements, dividend flows, royalties and interest. The firm adopts an efficient, comprehensive and tailor-made approach to M&A transactions and assists clients in the financing structures, handling the corporate, tax and regulatory aspects and successfully integrating the unique legal and tax features distinct to the private equity sector. The organizational structure of the Firm is expressly lean and flexible in order to be cost efficient for the benefits of the clients. Thanks to the extensive business relationships developed over the years by Paolo Omodeo Salè, the Firm is professionally related to some of the most reputable Italian and international practitioners to combine with, according to the specific needs and competences required.
Mid-Market - Cross Border Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Italy Giambrone Law Studio Legale Internazionale Alessandro Gravante Senior Partner / Head of Litigation & Dispute Resolution Tel: +39 091 7434 778 Ext. 224 alessandro.gravante@giambronelaw.com www.giambronelaw.com
Giambrone Law is a leading Italian law firm providing full service and comprehensive legal advice on almost every aspect of business. It currently operates in six jurisdictions across three continents and is staffed with 40 internationally and domestically qualified lawyers with English, Italian, French, Arabic and more language capabilities. Alessandro Gravante practises across a broad range of commercial law, litigation and international commercial arbitration. He is widely recognised in Italy for his litigation skills, which contributed to Giambrone Law being award-
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ed ‘Litigation Law Firm of the Year 2013’ by ACQ Legal. His scope of expertise encompasses breaches of warranty, commercial contracts, insolvency, employment, fraud, professional negligence claims and technical disputes in divorce and separation proceedings between Italian and foreign nationals. Mr Gravante’s specialisation is in the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgements in Italy under EU Regulations and international private law. He is often called upon for witness statements as an expert in Italian law for UK and US courts.
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Italy
Grimaldi Studio Legale Davide Contini Partner Tel: +39 02 30309330 dcontini@grimaldilex.com www.grimaldilex.com
Grimaldi Studio Legale is highly specialised in the most complex business matters in all industry and financial sectors. Notably, the Firm assists clients in a number of pre-litigation and litigation matters requiring a thorough examination and knowledge of specialised subjects, such as financial, banking and insurance law. The Firm is also a preeminent player in pre-litigation and litigation matters related to construction law, specifically in the international and Italian transportation sector. Its clients are predominantly Italian and international institutional investors, banks and companies operating in diverse sectors. Grimaldi Studio Legale’s primary practice areas include: Banking & Finance Law, Insurance Law, Construction Law, Corporate Law, Real Estate Law, Company International Trade Law, Private Equity, M&A, IP, IT & Sports, Energy, Labour Law, Tax Law, Public-Administrative Law. Moreover, the Firm has a broad and well-established reputation defending banks and financial intermediaries, specifically concerning liabilities involving the sales of financial products, services and derivatives. The Firm is also renowned for insurance matters, thanks also for having advised Assicurazioni Generali S.p.A. with managing
the Viareggio accident, which is considered the largest insurance accident in Italian history. Another source of pride is the role the Firm has within the scope of disputes (pre-litigation and litigation) in construction law and, specifically, in the Italian and international transportation (railway, etc.) contract works by advising preeminent clients in some of the most important lawsuits in both Italy and abroad. The Studio distinguishes itself from other firms due to the following factors: • •
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Excellent quality of work; Considerable understanding of the matters handled thanks to the presence of specialised professionals and teams; Experience and familiarity with managing international relationships with foreign professionals and clients; Seniority and well-established experience of the Firm’s team members; Strong and well-established approach of the Firm’s professionals to working as part of a team; Strong and well-established approach of the Firm’s professionals with collaborating with outside consultants and attorneys from other firms.
Meanwhile, the Firm usually advises its clients when there is the opportunity, as a result of a
dispute, to make adjustments to contract forms used by the bank with its customers. This approach is a distinctive characteristic of the Firm’s litigation department, which does not isolate itself from the other practices of the Firm, but rather works in close collaboration with its other departments (specifically, as examples, regulatory, corporate, tax). Recently, the Firm has successfully concluded a transaction between two of its clients, Finmeccanica S.p.A. and AnsaldoBreda S.p.A., with the Belgian railway transportation management company – Nationale Maatschappij Der Belgische Spoorwegen N.V., and the Dutch companies N.V. Nederlandse Spoorwegen and NS Financial Services Company, in relation to very large work contracts concerning the construction of two high speed trains fleets. The Firm recently opened its own office in London, Grimaldi SL LLP, with the scope of directly introducing itself to international clients and law firms, as a direct contact, in order to manage (from abroad) some of the most complex legal issues related to both Italian and international law. Furthermore, the Firm is planning to open an office in Lugano (Switzerland) by the end of 2014. This will make Grimaldi Studio Legale the first of the large Italian law firms to have a base of operations in Switzerland. GLE Practice Awards 2014 29
SME - Alternative Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year in Italy Studio dell’Avvocato Antich Federico Antich Avvocato Tel: +39.055.45.65.641 faa@dada.it / avvfa@icloud.com www.avvocatoantich.it
A graduate of the University of Firenze, School of Law, Class of 1992, with focus on Private Comparative Law, Avvocato Federico Antich pursued post-graduate legal studies in the U.S.A. (UC Davis, UC Berkeley, Harvard Law School) and the U.K. (King’s College). He holds an LLM in US and Global Business Law from Suffolk University. He is admitted to practice in Italy and currently manages his own Firm in Firenze where he represents both domestic and foreign clients in civil and commercial disputes in court and arbitral proceedings.
Studio dell’Avvocato Antich
LCIA, Cal Bar – Intl. Sect., ACIArb. In 2008 and in 2013 he won a three-year term contract with the Regional Council of Tuscany (The Regional Parliament) to provide support and administer mediation proceedings in the field of Telecommunication disputes.
Mr Antich is also a Certified Court Translator for English and Court Appointed Attorney, in charge of recovering credits abroad.
Mr Antich currently holds accreditation as Mediator by several organizations, including: The Chamber of Commerce of Firenze, the National Association of Chambers of Commerce in Italy (Unioncamere), the Italy-China Business Mediation Centre (ICBMC) Milan, Italy and the Centre for Effective Dispute Resolution (CEDR) London, England.
As a Professional Mediator, registered in Firenze since 1999, he is involved in ADR on a daily basis, having so far administered more than 4,000 mediations. He also promotes the sound understanding of effective dispute resolution tools alternative to litigation in Court, through regular appointments as speaker in Seminars and Courses provided by Public and Private Institutions throughout Italy and abroad.
Mr Antich currently serves as President of the Italian Delegation of the Center of Mediation of Europe, the Mediterranean and the Middle East, a non-profit private association of professionals devoted to sharing knowledge relating to mediation. The Delegation is also a Registered Mediation Provider and Training Organization associated with Italy’s Ministry of Justice.
Moreover, Mr Antich is author of several articles, in English and Italian, on Civil, Commercial, Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution issues.
Further, he is a Member of the Center for International Legal Studies (CILS), the International Bar Association (IBA) and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb-Associate). His Law Office is a Member of the International Business Law Consortium (IBLC).
He is a Member of the following professional bodies: IBLC-CILS, IBA,
Trust & Estates Law Firm of the Year in Italy Belluzzo&Partners Tel: +39 02 36569657 Fax: +39 02 36569829 Email: luigi.belluzzo@belluzzo.net Belluzzo & Partners - Via Cordusio 2 - 37123 MILANO (Italy)
Senior partner Luigi Belluzzo joined the firm in 1994 after prior experience in the UK. His expertise includes planning for high-net-worth individuals, trusts and family office, with strong experience in both domestic and international tax planning, corporate governance and inheritance issues. Corporate taxation and reorganization, tax litigation, structured finance and M&A completes his background as a Commercialista and Estate Planner. He is a member of STEP and IFA. He has published a large number of works on these subjects, and works at SDA Bocconi University in Milan, teaching tax for Masters students in Corporate Finance and Banking and Estate Planning, as well as tailor-made Wealth Management and Architecture sessions. He is also a regular speaker at Il Sole 24
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PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Ore Master in Tax, and in other major training seminars such as Euroconference and IpsoaWKJ. He published the Italian Guide on Estate Planning for Il Sole 24 Ore Publisher. Belluzzo&Partners We are a dedicated team of commercialisti and solicitors in Italy and in the UK, with experience of Tax & Legal, Private & Family and Business & Finance. We are at your side for opening a company in Italy, purchasing a going concern or a real estate business, structuring a complex corporate finance opportunity or giving the right structure to your Italian wealth. We understand your needs and speak your language with a pragmatic approach, tailored to your needs everywhere: in Italy, Europe and worldwide.
Trade Law Firm of the Year in Kosovo Boga & Associates Mr Sokol Elmazaj Partner and Country Manager for Kosovo Tel: +381 38 223 152 selmazi@bogalaw.com www.bogalaw.com
Boga & Associates, established in 1994, has emerged as one of the premier law firms in Albania, earning a reputation for providing the highest quality legal, tax and accounting services. Boga & Associates also operates in Kosovo (Pristina), offering a full range of advice. Until May 2007, the firm was a member firm of KPMG International, and senior partner Mr Genc Boga was also managing partner of KPMG Albania. Mr Sokol Elmazaj, partner and country manager for Kosovo, noted: “Our firm’s particularity is linked to the multidisciplinary services we provide to clients. Apart from a wide, consolidated legal practice, the firm offers significant expertise in tax and accounting services – with a keen sensitivity to the rapid changes in the Albanian and Kosovo business environment.” Boga & Associates maintains its commitment to quality through the skills and determination of a team of attorneys and other professionals with a wide range of skills and experience. The extensive foreign language capabilities of the team help to ensure its international clientele have easy access to the expanding Albanian and Kosovan business environment. Boga & Associates is the sole Albanian law firm member of the World Services Group (WSG), an exclusive global association of renowned providers of professional business services; and the Islamic Finance Lawyers (iSfin), the world’s leading network of Islamic Finance Law specialists. Mr Elmazaj said: “We believe that our strong desire and willingness to serve the client, and our unrivalled experience in Albania in the
field of legal and tax services, differentiate our firm from the competition, creating real value and tangible benefits for our clients. “In particular we offer: an experienced team with adequate integrated professional staff; experience gained with legal and tax services; a culture that continually measures and demands improvements in the quality of service we offer; a structure that is market-facing, self reliant, independent and performance accountable; a pragmatic, constructive and proactive attitude; an integrated service, ensuring we listen to clients’ needs and act accordingly; as well as continuous communication with client management.” The firm’s client base includes foreign companies that have invested in Kosovo and are seeking legal assistance and support in this area. Clients receive: dedicated expertise in handling high-profile and sensitive matters, in-depth and wide-reaching sector focus, years of advisory experience, as well as extensive practical and commercial know-how. Mr Elmazaj added: “We are proud that our comprehensive service offering has been recognised by external industry bodies. Boga & Associates is recognised as a top tier firm in Corporate/ Commercial, Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property, Projects and Real Estate by Chambers & Partners Europe (2014); General Business Law by Chambers & Partners Global (2014); and in Financial and Corporate Law by IFLR1000 - The Guide to the World’s Leading Financial Law Firms (2014). Moreover, the firm is praised by clients for its ‘excellent responsiveness and availability’.”
Large Tier - Banking & Finance Law Firm of the Year in Luxembourg NautaDutilh Avocats Luxembourg Josée Weydert Managing Partner and Banking & Finance Partner Tel: +352 26 12 29 97 josee.weydert@nautadutilh.com www.nautadutilh.com
NautaDutilh is an international law firm practising Dutch, Belgian, Luxembourg and Dutch Caribbean law. The firm was founded in 1724 and is one of the largest in the Benelux region with over 400 lawyers, notaries and tax advisers, spread across 6 offices in Amsterdam, Brussels, London, Luxembourg, New York and Rotterdam. The Luxembourg office of NautaDutilh is a recognised player on the Luxembourg legal market providing high quality advice notably in the banking & finance, corporate, investment funds, IP/ICT and tax areas. The Banking & Finance practice has in-depth expertise in various fields combining domestic and international know-how covering the full range of banking and finance work including inter alia capital markets, credit structures, structured finance, derivatives, securitisation, listings and all type of investment vehicles (soparfis, securitisation companies, debt issuing vehicles, regulated funds). The team has a strong basis of loyal clients advising a number of prestigious financial institutions including major banks, financial services, large corporations, insurance companies and asset managers on diverse, complex and strategic mandates. Among its new client gains, the team counts internationally renowned investment banks such as Goldman Sachs, Natixis and Morgan Stanley.
Josée Weydert is the managing partner of NautaDutilh Avocats Luxembourg, and leads the banking and finance practice. She has extensive experience in finance and corporate law, in particular in capital markets, securitisation, financial products, securities laws, international finance structures, insolvency and restructuring. She also deals with the setting up of debt and real estate funds. With 20 years of experience in the banking and legal sector, Ms. Weydert enjoys recognition among both market players and clients. Chambers highlights her as having ‘profound knowledge of the products and services marketed in Luxembourg’s financial market and excellent working relationships with the government and regulators’. Clients value her ‘depth of expertise and long-standing experience in the banking industry’. The success of NautaDutilh Avocats Luxembourg can be attributed to its close collaboration with the other NautaDutilh offices and its well established and continuously strengthened relationships with other independent foreign law firms. Offering a full-service joined approach, the Benelux finance team of NautaDutilh is often retained in major international transactions.
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Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Malta CSB Advocates Andrew Zammit Managing Partner Tel: (+356) 2557 2557 ajz@csb-advocates.com www.csb-advocates.com
CSB Advocates provides a world-class Corporate & M&A practice in Malta, acting for a predominantly international client base in cross-border transactions. The firm has acted as Maltese counsel for several Fortune 500 companies, advising on international merger and acquisition transactions, tender offers, corporate restructurings, transfers of business, spin-offs and leveraged buy-out transactions, and capital market transactions. The firm is geared to assist buyers, sellers, investors, investment banks, commercial banks, private equity and venture capital funds, institutional lenders, and management groups. CSB Advocates’ corporate law expertise spans the following services: • Corporate and tax structuring; • Corporate finance transactions; • Mergers and acquisitions; • Legal due diligence reports;
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Share transfers agreements; Pledging of shares; Protection of minority interests; Joint-venture agreements; Share option agreements and share incentive schemes; Shareholders’ agreements; Company searches in public records in Malta; Listings of securities on the Malta Stock Exchange; Material changes in shareholding of listed companies; Corporate governance practices and procedures; Research and analysis of technical aspects of corporate matters; Incorporation of Maltese Commercial Partnerships; Re-domiciliation of companies into and out of Malta.
For further information about how CSB Advocates can help with your corporate law requirements, contact the firm’s experts on corporate@csb-advocates.com
Peer Choice - Commercial Law Firm of the Year in Malta
Dr. David Tonna Partner & CEO
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
MAMO TCV Advocates is widely regarded as one of Malta’s premier commercial legal practices, providing in-depth advice to clients on all aspects of corporate and commercial law. The services offered comprise, inter alia, the setting up of companies and other commercial partnerships, trust formation and administration, preparation of corporate documents, advice in relation to corporate structures and transactions, corporate tax, mergers and acquisitions, public offerings of securities, dissolution and winding up, company reconstruction, re-domiciliation and insolvency procedures.
Mamo TCV Advocates Palazzo Pietro Stiges 103, Strait Street Valletta VLT1436 Malta
Telephone: Fax:
(+356) 21232271 (+356) 21231345 (+356) 21244291 (+356) 21231298
Email: info@mamotcv.com
www.mamotcv.com
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Individual - Energy Lawyer of the Year in the Netherlands Holland Van Gijzen Attorneys at Law and Civil Law Notaries Dick Weiffenbach Partner / Attorney at Law Tel: +31 88 407 0443 dick.weiffenbach@hvglaw.nl www.hvglaw.nl
THE FIRM Holland Van Gijzen Attorneys at Law and Civil Law Notaries (HVG) combines high-quality legal services with a focus on practical solutions and sector-specific knowledge. Ranking among the top Dutch law firms measured by its scope and size of services, HVG employs 142 lawyers who are active in all of the legal areas relevant to businesses. With offices in Amsterdam, The Hague, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Brussels and a Dutch legal desk in New York, HVG provides legal services on both a national and international scale. The firm represents national and international companies, government entities and not-for-profit organisations. Clients include listed and non-listed companies, financial institutions, institutional investors, public utilities, healthcare and government bodies, property developers and contractors. HVG has a deep commitment to excellent advice with a focus on high quality, speed of service and meeting clients’ needs. The firm values open communication and is always willing to go the extra mile to help clients achieve their objectives. The combination of legal expertise, sector-specific knowledge and enterprising spirit clearly sets the firm apart in the market. An important element in this respect is the firm’s alliance with EY Tax, which makes it possible to form multidisciplinary teams whenever necessary and/or demanded. Each
team includes various groups of specialists and is able to reach beyond physical office boundaries. To liaise with these teams, clients are provided with a designated contact. Because of its strategic alliance with the Tax advisors of EY, HVG forms part of the international EY Law network which brings together more than 1000 lawyers advising in 50 jurisdictions across the globe. The EY Law network allows the firm to offer legal solutions on a truly integrated international basis. Areas of practice HVG offers legal services in the following practice areas: corporate law, commercial transactions, insolvency law, mergers and acquisitions, employment law, pension law, IP/ICT law, financial services and real estate. In addition, the firm focuses on a number of specific sectors: oil and gas, power and utilities, healthcare, technology and telecommunications, private equity, financial services, government and public sector and real estate. Dick Weiffenbach Dick Weiffenbach, HVG partner and attorney at law, is an expert in the area of corporate and energy law. He specialises in international transactions, corporate governance advice, international contract law and energy law. He has advised on many large transactions in the power and utilities sector in a multidisciplinary context. Furthermore, he has ample experience in advising international energy companies in the field of contract law, corporate law, regulatory law and energy law.
Large Tier - Commercial Law Firm of the Year in Norway
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Commercial Law Firm of the year in Norway 2014 Deloitte Legal - Representing tomorrow Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee, and its network of member firms, each of which is a legally separate and independent entity. Please see www.deloitte.no for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited and its member firms. © 2014 Deloitte Advokatfirma AS
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Mid-Market - Bankruptcy Law Firm of the Year in Poland KKG Kubas Kos Gaertner Dominik Gałkowski / Rafał Kos Partners Tel: +48 22 206 8300 dominik.galkowski@kkg.pl / rafal.kos@kkg.pl www.kkg.pl
KKG Kubas Kos Gaertner is one of the leading law firms in Poland specialising in the following areas: court and arbitration proceedings, real estate law, banking and finance, companies law and commercial law, contract law, M&A transactions as well as bankruptcy law and enterprise restructuring. Our market position is well supported by numerous awards and sector recognitions, as well as the leading positions held in business and law reviews and rankings. KKG clients are large and medium enterprises, both domestic and foreign. KKG possesses extensive experience in this scope, backed by the close academic connections of our associates, including those of our Senior Partner, with the leading Polish university – Jagiellonian University. Thus we combine practical experience with in-depth theoretical academic analysis – and “there’s nothing more practical than a good theory”. And this really works in practice! Although KKG is a Polish firm, we work closely with reputable foreign law firms, which also enables us to construct trans-border structures in various jurisdictions. We would also like to highlight that we offer assistance to our clients not only on EU territory but also on the more difficult markets of Eastern Europe and the Middle East, where we also cooperate on a regular basis with leading law firms due to the growing interest of our clients in these expansion areas or obtainment of investors.
We are able to provide comprehensive solutions to any company on current corporate problems or complicated procedures related to companies’ entrance into or exit from the stock market or the squeezeout procedure used on minority shareholders which is rarely applied in Poland. On the sidelines of corporate matters, due to its substantial experience the law firm successfully and effectively represents companies or shareholders entangled in disputes with other companies or shareholders. We support business owners in negotiations, the preparation of documentation on restructuring agreements, bankruptcy proceedings with their participation (as debtor or creditor) as well as at stages prior to the declaration of bankruptcy – ensuring that our clients take the right steps. We possess a wealth of experience in the preparation and execution of restructuring processes, which we have gained by effectively advising entrepreneurs in difficult financial situations – usually brought about not through their own fault. This enables us to help our clients fulfill their plans while providing the management with maximum security. KKG Partners, attorney Rafał Kos and attorney Dominik Gałkowski, participated in the Works of the Minster of Justice Team for the amendment of the Bankruptcy and Rehabilitation Law. The team drafted specific recommendations in the area of changes to the Bankruptcy and Rehabilitation Law – the recommendations include legislative, IT, and institutional solutions.
Partnership IP Law Firm of the Year in Spain ZBM Bernabé Zea Partner Tel: +34 934 034 526 bzea@zbm-patents.eu www.zbm-patents.eu/eng/socios8.htm
ZBM was founded in 2003 with the clear goal of changing the patent landscape in Spain. As ZBM is celebrating its 10-year existence, ZBM is proud that it has achieved that goal and is widely considered to set the new standard for patent practice in Spain. Along the way, it has dramatically increased IP awareness in Spain. The firm has grown considerably in a short time and now has 25 patent experts in its team, including European and Spanish patent attorneys, and an in-house US patent attorney. Quality and integrity ZBM’s patent experts have an in-depth understanding of clients’ technologies and their business needs, and the firm is committed to providing services that create value for its clients. ZBM distinguishes itself from other patent firms by a relentless commitment to quality. All work products are crosschecked to ensure that they are of consistent quality. At ZBM the attorneys believe that something is not worth doing if it is not done well. ZBM’s outstanding quality work has been recognized both nationally and internationally from the very beginning: • In 2013 and 2014, ZBM has won the award for “Partnership IP Law Firm of the Year” in Spain from Acquisition International in the ACQ Law Awards, from Global Law Experts in the Global Law Experts International Awards and from Corporate INTL magazine.
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In all three issues of the IAM Patent 1000 – The World’s Leading Patent Practitioners, Intellectual Asset Management magazine has listed ZBM in the highly recommended category for patent prosecution. ZBM’s Bernabé Zea and Mathieu de Rooij were included as recommended experts in the Patent 1000 ranking of 2014. ZBM is the only Spanish firm that has been consistently listed in the top tier of Managing Intellectual Property magazine’s ranking every year since 2007 to 2014.
SMEs, multinationals, patent firms and lawyers from the US, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East increasingly find their way to ZBM, particularly for European patent prosecution. Areas of expertise ZBM’s patent attorneys are trained and experienced in a wide range of technical areas, such as pharmacy, chemistry, biotechnology, mechanics, electronics, and computer technology. Its patent services include patentability and freedom-to-operate studies, patent drafting in both English and Spanish, (European) patent prosecution, and European Oppositions and appeals. In addition to patents, ZBM provides a full range of services for other IP titles, such as trademarks, design protection and domain names.
Patent Law Firm of the Year in Romania Cabinet M Oproiu
Margareta Oproiu Senior Partner Tel: +(4021) 260 28 33; (4021) 260 28 34 Fax: +(4021) 260 28 35; (4021) 260 28 36 office@oproiu.ro www.oproiu.ro
Margareta Oproiu is the senior partner and a patent and trademark attorney with Cabinet M Oproiu. Mrs. Oproiu, (PhD in Physics) graduated from the University of Bucharest. She worked until 1990 as a researcher in a research institute for technologies using plasma physics. At that time she held patents in Romania and abroad. In 1990, Mrs. Oproiu started her career at an industrial property firm as a patent agent and, from 1992 to 1995, was general manager. She became a registered patent attorney in 1992 in the first examination session organized by the Romanian Patent and Trademark Office. In April 1995, Mrs. Oproiu founded Cabinet M Oproiu as a private partnership of patent attorneys. Today Cabinet M Oproiu is one of the leading firms in Romania having clients from all over the world, with more than 45% from Europe and 40% from North America. Mrs. Oproiu is experienced in all aspects of domestic and
foreign intellectual property counseling. She has a particular strong competitive in litigation cases concerning patent and trademark matters. In recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of patent and trademark litigation actions in the Romanian courts, Cabinet Oproiu representing clients in a large number of cases. Consequently, the jurisprudence on patent and trademark matters has been enriched. The competitive advantage Mrs. Oproiu holds stems from an in-depth knowledge of both, the patent matters including legal aspects of patent infringement and unfair competition, and trademark legal aspects, being involved in cancellation actions and in infringing IP rights. Mrs. Oproiu is member of the National Chamber of Romanian Industrial Property Attorneys Association, FICPI, AIPPI, INTA, EPI, ECTA.
Pharmaceutical Law Firm of the Year in Romania Cabinet M Oproiu
Margareta Oproiu Senior Partner Tel: +(4021) 260 28 33; (4021) 260 28 34 Fax: +(4021) 260 28 35; (4021) 260 28 36 office@oproiu.ro www.oproiu.ro
Margareta Oproiu is the senior partner and a patent and trademark attorney with Cabinet M Oproiu. Mrs. Oproiu, (PhD in Physics) graduated from the University of Bucharest. She worked until 1990 as a researcher in a research institute for technologies using plasma physics. At that time she held patents in Romania and abroad. In 1990, Mrs. Oproiu started her career at an industrial property firm as a patent agent and, from 1992 to 1995, was general manager. She became a registered patent attorney in 1992 in the first examination session organized by the Romanian Patent and Trademark Office. In April 1995, Mrs. Oproiu founded Cabinet M Oproiu as a private partnership of patent attorneys. Today Cabinet M Oproiu is one of the leading firms in Romania having clients from all over the world, with more than 45% from Europe and 40% from North America. Mrs. Oproiu is experienced in all aspects of domestic and
foreign intellectual property counseling. She has a particular strong competitive in litigation cases concerning patent and trademark matters. In recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of patent and trademark litigation actions in the Romanian courts, Cabinet Oproiu representing clients in a large number of cases. Consequently, the jurisprudence on patent and trademark matters has been enriched. The competitive advantage Mrs. Oproiu holds stems from an in-depth knowledge of both, the patent matters including legal aspects of patent infringement and unfair competition, and trademark legal aspects, being involved in cancellation actions and in infringing IP rights. Mrs. Oproiu is member of the National Chamber of Romanian Industrial Property Attorneys Association, FICPI, AIPPI, INTA, EPI, ECTA.
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Boutique - Tax Law Firm of the Year in Switzerland Afschrift Thierry Afschrift Partner Tel: +41 79 544 80 78 avocats@afschrift.ch
“A partnership of specialised legal advisers working to defend clients in matters of tax law, criminal financial law, business law, inheritance planning, organisation and management of assets, and inheritance law.” Afschrift (Listed 3 times in www.worldfinance100.com and rated as Best Belgian Tax Law firm by the Belgian Legal Awards) is a 24-lawyer boutique law firm established in Brussels, with locations in Antwerp, Geneva, Luxembourg, Madrid, Tel Aviv and Hong Kong. AFSCHRIFT engages in all matters of Swiss and international tax law, mergers and acquisitions, financial instruments and, especially, tax planning. The Geneva office is, almost exclusively, active in Swiss and international tax law, especially tax optimisation procedures and structures, as Switzerland is one of the most interesting European financial places for investors, besides the fact its tax regime is much more reasonable and business-friendly compared to its neighbours’. Managing partner and founder Thierry Afschrift, professor to the Free University of Brussels and deputy judge to the court of appeal, referred as Best Tax Lawyer – Belgium 2009, 10, 11 and 12 (World Finance Magazine), is the human cornerstone of the firm. The major specificity of the office is that Afschrift is a niche tax boutique.
That means two things: • on one hand, Afschrift’s lawyers (almost) exclusively handle tax cases as tax practice is a tax specialist’s sole activity; furthermore, the firm also participates in Switzerland to conferences on Swiss and international taxation. • on the other hand, Afschrift’s services are highly personalised; this results in a better client-attorney relationship, and an increase of the capacity of confidence. The firm advises individuals, industrial and commercial companies, banks and estate companies on reducing taxable income; this patrimonial restructuring activity, founded on the above mentioned principle, may implicate the legal use of Swiss or foreign structures in order to achieve the target assigned by the client and usually concerns not only direct taxes, but also indirect ones, primarily inheritance and gift taxes. Thus, the Swiss office may use Swiss tax law in order to assist foreign companies and individuals to establish their residence or transfer their activities in Switzerland, in the most efficient way. Furthermore, the firm takes advantage of its expertise on European tax law, and specific knowledge and practice of Belgian, Luxembourgian, Spanish, Israeli and Hong Kong tax law, in order to help Swiss and Switzerland-established foreign companies, as well as individuals, find a solution to certain problems which appeared lately following the signature by Switzerland of numerous Tax cooperation treaties and the European guideline on savings.
Fraud Law Firm of the Year in Switzerland Monfrini Crettol & Associes Enrico Monfrini Partner Tel: +41 22 310 22 66 emonfrini@mcswisslaw.com www.mcswisslaw.com
Monfrini Crettol & Associes, Geneva The firm which is now named Monfrini Crettol & Associes was founded in Geneva in 1945 by the late Alexandre Hauchmann. Over the years, it gained renown in international trade and maritime law. Enrico Monfrini joined the firm as a partner in 1978 and developed the firm’s practice in complex litigation, arbitration, international banking and finance law. After Alexandre Hauchmann passed away, Gilles Crettol and Albert Rey-Mermet, a former cantonal judge, joined as partners, and Yves Klein was made partner. The firm now is composed of eleven attorneys. Fraud profile Partners Enrico Monfrini and Yves Klein have developed the fraud practice of the firm since the end of the 1990s. They have received instructions from foreign governments in the most prominent corruption cases, shareholders involved in class actions regarding market fraud cases, trans-national companies defrauded by their counterparts or employees, bankruptcy estates, clients defrauded by their portfolio managers, etc. The amounts involved range between a few thousand US dollars to several billion US dollars. They have developed legal strategies combining criminal proceedings, mutual assistance in penal matters proceedings, civil proceedings and bankruptcy proceedings in multi-jurisdiction cases, and have gained the trust of magistrates and law enforcement authorities in numerous jurisdictions. Enrico Monfrini and Yves Klein are the representatives in Switzerland of ICC FraudNet (www. icc-fraudnet.org), an international network of lawyers created by the International Chamber of Commerce, grouping the best specialists of asset recovery in more than 60 jurisdictions. Enrico Monfrini Enrico Monfrini holds a Law Degree of the University of Lausanne and was admitted to the bar of Geneva in 1970. He joined the firm in 1978 as a partner. Enrico Monfrini is acknowledged worldwide as the foremost specialist in asset recovery, in particular the recovery of corruption proceeds on behalf of foreign governments (Nigeria vs. Abacha, Haiti vs. Duvalier, Tunisia vs. Ben Ali among others) for which he has recovered more than USD 1.3 billion since 1999.
36 GLE Practice Awards 2014
As such, Enrico Monfrini is the only private attorney to have been invited by the World Bank to join Friends of StAR, a group of experts supporting the World Bank and UNODC Stolen Assets Recovery Initiative. He was also one of the few private attorneys invited in 2006 by UNODC to join the group of experts to draft the Technical Guide to Promote the Implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). Enrico Monfrini is regularly invited to speak at international conferences on asset recovery issues, including the Lausanne Seminar on Asset Recovery, organized by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs for foreign law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies. Enrico Monfrini has published papers and chapters on the international recovery of corruption proceeds. Enrico Monfrini is also active in recovery proceedings on behalf of individuals and companies victim of transnational fraud and economic crime, and has been retained in several fraud cases exceeding USD 100 million. Yves Klein Yves Klein holds a Law Degree of the University of Geneva and a Diploma of Higher Studies in International of Graduate Institute of International Studies, Geneva. He is admitted to the Geneva bar since 1995 and is a partner at Monfrini Crettol & Associés, which he joined in 1999. His main activity is litigating and coordinating transnational asset recovery proceedings before civil, criminal and bankruptcy courts on behalf of victims of economic crimes. Together with his partner Enrico Monfrini, Yves Klein has conducted the ground-breaking corruption recovery proceedings in the Nigeria vs. Abacha case, where more than USD 1.2 billion have been recovered in ten jurisdictions since 1999, as well as the Haiti vs. Duvalier, Tunisia vs. Ben Ali. He has also been individually retained as Swiss counsel in several other corruption recovery cases. Yves Klein is also active in transnational fraud recovery proceedings on behalf of companies, individuals and bankruptcy estates. He has published on tracing and recovery of assets issues since 1996 and regularly speaks at international conferences on these matters.
Individual - Real Estate Lawyer of the Year in Switzerland
As a leading Swiss business law firm with 85 lawyers we are present in the business centers of Zurich, Geneva, Zug, Lausanne and Brussels.
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Our dedicated Real Estate team comprising 8 partners and 9 associates provides full legal services along the life cycle of real estate in the German speaking as well as in the French speaking part of Switzerland.
Real Estate Lawyer of the Year in Switzerland
“Please challenge us”, says Wolfgang Müller, co-head of the Zurich Real Estate team.
Our Real Estate practice group offers comprehensive legal services in the areas of – structuring of real estate transactions and developing tax efficient structures by combining our real estate, corporate and tax expertise – advising on acquisition of real estate or real estate portfolios, sale and lease back transactions, real estate financing, real estate development projects or general contractor and construction agreements – M&A as well as capital market transactions of listed real estate companies – representing of clients before various authorities and courts, for example to obtain land register registrations, Lex Koller approvals, building and planning permits or tax rulings – advising on lease, construction and environmental law issues
Wolfgang Müller - Partner
wolfgang.muller@mll-legal.com www.mll-legal.com
T +41 44 396 91 91
www.mll-legal.com
GLE Practice Awards 2014 37
The US has the largest and most technologically developed economy in the world; meanwhile, business firms in the US enjoy a greater degree of flexibility compared to businesses in other regions regarding innovation and expansion. While the strategy for most companies in 2011 was about getting back to basics and weathering the storm of unemployment and recession, 2012 and 2013 did not see a significant amount of economic success for North America. In 2011, the democrats and the republicans fought for the definitive say on a Senate proposal to raise the US debt ceiling. The offices of Standard and Poor’s were working to finalise a report which would soon strip the US of its prized AAA credit rating and, according to S&P, the rating downgrade reflected the belief that the soon-to-be-finalised plan to stabilise the country’s medium and short term debt problems was likely to fall short. Credit rating agency Fitch then reaffirmed the US’ triple-A sovereign rating, stating that: “The key pillars of the US’ exceptional creditworthiness remain intact.” The country – and its currency, which modern economies have set their very existence to for the past 70 years – has now revealed a large weakness in its armour. The US House of Congress and House of 38 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Representatives has been recently gearing up to cut its deficit and make hard decisions regarding budget cuts and public spending reform, keeping in mind the Republican Party has already voiced a refusal to entertain any suggestions of new taxes. Since 2008, the US’ debt has increased by US$6 trillion. Canada is equipped with a high tech industrial economy, and resembles the US in its market-orientated economic system, production pattern and high living standards. Canada’s economy, which has outperformed that of the US since the beginning of the financial crisis, is showing signs of slowing down. The housing market boom, which helped drive the country’s recovery from recession, is starting to stall. Yet, the housing market is being replaced by other
THE AMERICAS WINNERS
drivers, such as business investment in machinery and equipment. Canada is expected to lead the G7 nations in economic growth for another year at least. This can be attributed to several factors, including the country’s sound banking system, its abundance of resources and its lower levels of government debt. Moreover, while the Caribbean did not escape the global financial crisis, the region withstood the difficulties more successfully than in past downturns, thanks to better macroeconomic management, more efficient structural policies and a vigorous business sector. The majority of the Caribbean’s import-export business is with the US; further, the majority of the region’s tourists are US citizens. This means that the US economy has a great deal of influence on the Caribbean – particularly as tourism is the primary industry of the region. Central America is the central geographic region of the Americas. Historically, Central American trade has been very dependent on two products: coffee and
bananas. Most of these exports went to the US, which created a strong trade link between the US and Central America. In recent decades, Central America has seen success in diversifying its exports and diversifying its trading partners. South America’s economy is heavily reliant on the export of goods. On an exchange rate basis, Brazil, the seventh largest economy in the world and the second largest in the Americas, leads the way in total amount of exports at $137.8 billion, followed by Chile at $58.12 billion and Argentina with $46.46 billion. Brazil continues to be a most attractive emerging market country for private equity investors, according to a survey by the Emerging Markets Private Equity Association (EMPEA). A white paper from Siguler Guff, Private Equity Opportunities in the BRICs and Beyond, notes that investment opportunities in Brazil, Russia, India and China are likely to dominate EMPEA fundraising. The BRIC countries already rank in the top 12 global economies and are projected to be in the top six by 2018, the report said. GLE Practice Awards 2014 39
Contents: 43.
ParrisWhittaker
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in the Bahamas
43.
WFaria Advogados
Boutique - Tax Strategy Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
44.
Basilio Advogados
Commercial Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
44.
V,M&L ADVOGADOS
Cross Border Transactions Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
45.
Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados
Editor’s Choice - Dynamic Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
46.
Licks Attorneys
Peer Choice - IP Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
47.
DANIEL ADVOGADOS
Technology Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
47.
Klein Lyons Barristers & Solicitors
Appellate Law Firm of the Year in Canada
48.
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
Individual - International Trade Lawyer of the Year in Canada
48.
MARTHA McCARTHY & COMPANY LLP
Specialist - Family Law Firm of the Year in Canada
49. Travers Thorp Alberga
Alternative Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year in the Cayman Islands
49.
Cross Border Tax Law Firm of the Year in Chile
Ocampo Hurtado Orellana Abogados
40 GLE Practice Awards 2014
THE AMERICAS WINNERS
50.
Horvitz & Horvitz
Family Law Firm of the Year in Chile
51.
MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS
Arbitration Law Firm of the Year in Colombia / Public Contracts Law Firm of the Year in Colombia
52.
Lozano Blanco & Asociados
Class Action Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Colombia
52.
Almeida Guzmán & Asociados
Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Ecuador
53.
Cardinal, Abogados y Consultore
Public Law Firm of the Year in Ecuador
53.
Díaz-Durán & Asociados | Central Law
International Law Firm of the Year in Guatemala
54.
Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C.
Bankruptcy Law Firm of the Year in Mexico
54.
Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C.
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Mexico
55.
IBAÑEZ, QUINTANA, SAAVEDRA & HOFFMANN
Boutique - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Mexico
55.
Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C.
Corporate Tax Law Firm of the Year in Mexico
56.
Ortega Abogados Asociados S.C
Family Law Firm of the Year in Mexico
57.
Todd y Asociados, SC
Industry Choice - Natural Resources & Mining Law Firm of the Year in Mexico GLE Practice Awards 2014 41
THE AMERICAS WINNERS
57.
Casseli Law Firm
Full Service IP Law Firm of the Year in Paraguay
58.
HALTOM & DOAN
Individual - IP Attorney of the Year in Arkansas, US
58.
Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino, LLP
Individual - Construction Lawyer of the Year in California, US
59. Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP
Industry Choice - IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Delaware, US
59.
Insolvency Law Firm of the Year in Florida, US
Tabas, Freedman & Soloff, P.A.
60. Fox, Swibel, Levin & Carroll, LLP
Client Choice - Business Transactions Law Firm of the Year in Illinois, US
60.
Savitz Law Offices, P.C
Business Immigration Law Firm of the Year in Massachusetts, US
61.
MOLO LAMKEN LLP
Cross Border - White Collar Crime Law Firm of the Year in New York, US / Supreme Court Law Firm of the Year in Washington DC, US
62.
Schindler Cohen & Hochman LLP
Individual - Art Lawyer of the Year in New York, US
62. DeBee Gilchrist, a Professional Corporation
Editor’s Choice - Aviation Law Firm of the Year in Oklahoma, US
63. Pierce & O’Neill, LLP
Energy & Natural Resources Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Texas, US
64.
Industry Choice - Patent Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Washington DC, US
Williams & Connolly LLP
42 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in the Bahamas ParrisWhittaker A Kenra Parris-Whittaker Partner Tel: +242 352 6110 kw@parriswhittaker.com www.parriswhittaker.com
ParrisWhittaker is one of the most respected law firms in the Bahamas, with a wide-ranging legal practice, from maritime and shipping to litigation, corporate law and commercial real estate. The firm’s clients range from multinational corporations to individual litigants. Its lawyers take pride in providing expert, intuitive and incisive legal advice, whatever the case and whoever the client. Partner A Kenra Parris-Whittaker was trained at the University of Buckingham in the UK, before going on to the Inns of Court School of Law. Mrs Parris-Whittaker was subsequently senior associate at Callenders and Co, litigating commercial, probate and maritime cases, before joining the award-winning ParrisWhittaker firm. Mrs Parris-Whittaker noted: “One of my most thriving areas of practice is that of maritime and shipping law – for which our firm has received awards. I frequently represent maritime lien holders, and also represent shipyard and vessel owners and vessel repair shops, and often appeared before the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal. I also have strong expertise in probate practice, acting as attorney for executors, including on very large and high asset estates.” According to Mrs Parris-Whittaker, the firm’s key strength is combining a strong commitment to the rights of all individuals to access justice, with an emphasis on developing close working relationships with clients. ParrisWhittaker focuses on working in partnership with corporate clients, functioning primarily as an in-house legal department. This ensures that the firm maintains a strong understanding of its clients’ overall business objectives – so that its legal advice can be tailored to their specific needs. “In addition, we are proud of our record in acting both for individuals seeking redress and for large, multinational corporations,” added Mrs Parris-Whittaker. “We under-
stand that clients often need swift and effective resolution to their legal problems, and an efficient, cost-effective solution. Cutting long waiting times in hearings is a key priority to help our clients secure the outcome they deserve.” As a major financial and shipping centre, some of the most pressing legal issues surrounding the Bahamas relate to legislation regarding off-shore investment and the management of new and long-established corporations. Setting up business in the Bahamas can be a complex process, and there are numerous legislative and regulatory requirements to negotiate – new laws and regulations are frequently passed. ParrisWhittaker helps clients ensure they do not fall foul of legislative demands by keeping ahead of the curve, ensuring they are able to grow their business confidently. When asked about the firm’s successes of 2014 so far, Ms Parris-Whittaker said: “One of my most important successes has been successfully appealing a Supreme Court Judgement. At the Court of Appeal, we argued our client’s entitlement to limit its liability in relation to damages caused as a result of a vessel colliding with an oil refinery’s jetty. The case rested on the correct application of maritime law, and has affirmed our position as leading experts in shipping and maritime legislation. “One of the defining features of ParrisWhittaker is our ability to combine a deep understanding of the Bahamas, including strong relationships with important bodies such as the Grand Bahama Port Authority, with a great deal of experience in dealing with clients from other jurisdictions. We take great pride in being able to serve as a bridge between the needs of international clients, and the particular legal context of Bahamas – as it continues to develop its status as a major player in the world financial markets.”
Boutique - Tax Strategy Law Firm of the Year in Brazil WFaria Advogados Wilson De Faria Senior Partner Tel: +55 11 3018-7878 wfaria@wfaria.com.br www.wfaria.com.br
WFaria Advogados is a law firm specializing in corporate law, headquartered in São Paulo, with operations in the main states of Brazil. Our reputation and recognition gained in the market has been fundamental in building a broad portfolio of large and medium size clients. WFaria Advogados has a unique business view focusing on decision making, pointing to the best path of how to proceed through in-depth knowledge of its clients’ activities. Technical excellence, tailored service and efficiency make up the mission of the practice and are intrinsic values of WFaria Advogados. Focusing mainly on legal assistance to major companies in the domestic and international markets from different economic sectors, WFaria Advogados brings together a senior high performance team, good technical quality and timely service, contributing to building a close relationship of trust with the client. This is how WFaria Advogados reinforces its position as an opinion maker and a firm that sets trends, which stands out through its commitment to the client and excellent tailored services. Business-oriented qualifications and technical excellence are the main characteristics of our team of professionals.
Wilson de Faria - Senior Partner Law degree from USP; Business Administration degree from FGV/SP; Post-Graduate in Tax Law – CEU/SP; Master’s degree from INSEAD/France. Mr. Faria has extensive experience in working with international clients and in the financial and capital markets. He practices domestic and international tax consultancy, with emphasis on mergers and acquisitions, cross border operations and on compliance for financial and non-financial institutions. He is the founding partner of WFaria Advogados. Mr. Faria holds the following positions: Member of the Instituto dos Advogados de São Paulo – IASP (Institute of Lawyers of São Paulo); tax director of the board of Associação Brasileira de Bancos – ABBC (Brazilian Banks Association); speaker of the US Commercial Service – Department of Commerce USA in Brazil; Brazilian member of the International Taxation Specialist Group (ITSG); former head of Tax Planning of Citibank S.A. He was a Law professor at Pontifícia Universidade Católica (PUC/GO). Speaker, lecturer and writer of articles for the local and international press. Languages: English and French.
GLE Practice Awards 2014 43
Commercial Litigation law Firm of the Year in Brazil Basilio Advogados Ana Tereza Basilio Partner Tel: +55 (21) 2277 4200 abasilio@basilioadvogados.com.br www.basilioadvogados.com.br
Ana Tereza Basilio, Basilio Advogados partner, is a specialist in civil and commercial litigation as well as in arbitration. She has accumulated experience in the prestigious law offices of Brazil. Among them is Sergio Bermudes’ firm, where Ms Basilio worked for 11 years. She was also a partner of Trench, Rossi e Watanabe Firm (Baker & McKenzie), being responsible in Brazil for the civil and commercial litigation area, from July 2002 to December 2005. From 2004 to 2006, Ms Basilio was the president of the Mediation and Arbitration Chamber of the Brazilian Bar Association, where she also acted as president of the Lawyer’s Association Committee, from October 2003 to December 2006. She was vice-president of the Arbitration Committee during the same period, as well as being elected chief counsellor of the Brazilian Bar Association during the three-year periods from 2000 to 2003 and 2003 to 2006. Further, she was appointed as a member of the Committee to Fight Piracy and Unfair Competition of the Federal Committee of the Brazilian Bar Association during the period of July 2005 to December 2006, and of the Special Committee to Fight Piracy and Unfair Competition of the Federal Committee of the Brazilian Lawyers Association, which she is still a member of. She is also a member of the Editorial Committee of the Arbitration and Mediation Magazine, and member of the Corporate law Committee from the Escola da Magistratura (Judge’s School) of the High Court of the State of Rio de Janeiro. Ms Basilio taught civil law in the post graduation course of the Escola Superior de Advo-
cacia (Lawyer’s Superior School), from 1993 to 2001, and has authored several books on corporate law. She is also a professor in Fundação Getúlio Vargas, in the Arbitration post graduation course. In December 2010, she was elected a member of the TRE – Tribunal Regional Eleitoral. Ms Basilio noted: “For the past few years, Brazil’s economic scenario has consistently risen and nowadays is seen as a secure choice for foreign investments. The economy’s fortification will surely increase the need for legal assistance in diverse areas, ranging from commercial to fiscal law. The Brazilian judicial system is aware that the upcoming years will surely come with a significant increase in litigation and parties will seek to have their problems solved with agility. Due to the overall swiftness of the procedures involved in its development, arbitration arises as an efficient method for conflict resolution during the promising years to come. “This is because there are several advantages in the use of arbitration – as well as being rapid, sensitive and invoking the judicial economy, it allows parties greater freedom and flexibility in setting rules that will govern the process, as well as the choice of arbitrators for the case. “Based on these existing benefits of arbitration, our company is aware of the increase of this procedure brought by positive current statuses of countries and, due to a team that specialises in this subject, fully trusts that it will meet the expectations of our current customers.”
Cross Border Transactions Law Firm of the Year in Brazil V,M&L ADVOGADOS Alexandre Leite Ribeiro do Valle Partner Tel: +(55 11) 5051-3550 alexandre.valle@vml.com.br www.vml.com.br
V,M&L Advogados is a full service law firm incorporated in 2008 by former partners of International Law firms and former in-house consuls from companies, with huge experience in providing legal advice and support to multinational companies in the different legal areas. V,M&L is characterized as a dynamic law firm, providing services with transparency, high level of ethical standards, flexibility and with ability to perform work with creativity and full knowledge of the laws. One of the primary areas of V,M&L relating to International business is the corporate and cross-border transaction department. Such department is formed by professionals qualified in Brazilian and foreign Laws and is responsible to assist national and foreign clients, individuals, as well as small, medium and large-scale companies in structuring new investments and incorporation of companies in Brazil and also in corporate reorganization and tax planning in transactions involving spin-offs, mergers and acquisitions of companies. Traditionally, this department distinguishes itself in advising clients in selecting the best legal structure to accommodate their needs and in preparing the respective corporate documents, including articles of association, by-laws, shareholders’ agreements, consortium contract, minutes of meetings of shareholders and quotaholders, amendments to articles of association and joint-ventures in general, as well as providing legal assistance in the registration of foreign investments before the Brazilian Central Bank.
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The department is also responsible for operations of merger and acquisition, including tax planning, due diligence and Antitrust issues. In addition, VM&L provides assistance to clients in project finance, including advice on IPO and securities in Brazil and abroad, through the Sao Paulo, London and New York Stock Exchanges. Alexandre Leite Ribeiro do Valle is the partner responsible for the department. With 20 years’ professional experience Alexandre is specialized in corporate law and holds a LL.M. degree in mergers and acquisitions from the University of California. He worked as legal assistant of the Attorney’s Office of the State of Rio de Janeiro, at the Board of Trade of that State and later as a partner of an international law firm in São Paulo where he assisted as legal consultant for various Brazilian and foreign companies in doing business in Brazil and abroad. As a member of the American Bar Association, Alexandre participates as a speaker in several international events related to corporate law, corporate governance, assets planning, corporate restructurings and tax related issues. Alexandre is the co-author of the books “Doing Business in Brazil” and “Reinvenção da Empresa” and has published various articles for specialized publications. Alexandre speaks Portuguese, English and French.
Editor’s Choice - Dynamic Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados Guilherme J. Dantas Partner Tel: +55 11 2159 5423 guilherme.dantas@dlbca.com.br www.dlbca.com.br
Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados is able to serve its clients in all their legal needs via its multidisciplinary office. Our experience is not limited to law – it also covers the realities of our clients, and the markets they serve. We are proud to have attracted top talent, coming from the best law schools. Many of our attorneys have deep experience in business. Most of them speak more than one language and possess an excellent academic background. Our credentials are based on feedback from clients and the business community about our services. We are honored with this position and will spare no effort to maintain and further develop the credibility that we have built. Business Vision In the highly competitive and globalized markets of today, it is critical to a company’s success that it can rely on legal advice that has been geared towards its business, efficiently and competently. Strategic decisions are, after all, complex and must be made with full support. Legal care should be left up to professionals with the expertise, vision and ability to fully comprehend the larger legal context surrounding each issue. Given this framework, Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados has
developed a holistic approach to understand the complete picture of the client´s reality. Instead of treating functional problems separately, we seek an understanding of the main variables that are part of an integrated whole. Side by side with the client, Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados values access to information, and provides permanently open channels of communication with the professionals responsible for cases. We understand that in our service delivery, mutual trust is a necessity in order to achieve success. Moreover, Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados is composed of professionals with a high technical standard, with deep respect for the law, the legal doctrine, ethics and business practices. We hope to establish long-term cooperative relations, collaborating extensively to deliver solutions with greater value and lower cost to our customers. Commitment to Customers I. Results Our professionals are committed to the best outcomes for clients seeking solutions that exceed your expectations. II. Loyalty Dedicated, above all, loyalty to
client interests, to promote mutual trust. III. Integrity We adopt ethical and moral practices and firmly respect the commitments made with customers. Areas of Expertise • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Civil and Commercial Litigation Tax Law Advertising Sector Energy Administrative Law and Bids Family and Inheritance Customs Law and Customs Foreign Investment and International Trade Aviation Law Korean Desk Environmental Law Banking, Financial and Capital Market Supplementary Pension Commercial Law Intellectual Property Transport Law Credit Recovery Economic and Competitive Law Consumer Relations Real Estate Law Labour Relations and Social Security Corporate Criminal Law Information Technology E-Commerce Corporate Law Contract Law Telecommunications GLE Practice Awards 2014 45
Peer Choice - IP Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
Licks Attorneys Otto Banho Licks Partner Tel: +55 21 3550-3700 otto.licks@lickslegal.com www.lickslegal.com
Licks Attorneys is a Brazilian law firm providing global companies with complex litigation, strategic counseling, policy-making, IP prosecution and food and drug services. With offices in both Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo, and a motivated team, we have the background, experience and technological capabilities to serve companies of all sizes. Our legal team spans generations, offering decades of combined experience within the full range of our areas of practice, and with the collaboration of some of the most acclaimed lawyers in Brazil (with several national and international awards and recognitions, such as, for example, the most admired Brazilian IP Lawyer in 2011 and two partners recognized by Chambers). A group of professionals that have the skills and the knowledge to offer our clients a fresh outlook on every case. We are also proud, as a team, of our contribution to Brazilian intellectual property laws. With dedication and hard work, we were able to present challenges that made significant changes in the way those laws were interpreted. Changes that, by helping one client at a certain time, generated good repercussions for countless others. Work ethics Our policy on procurement of translations Licks Attorneys believes that the language of technology is universal and that our focus must be on providing the best possible service to our clients when it comes to counseling, filing, prosecuting and so on. Our experience, as one of the most acclaimed teams of IP and Food and Drug litigators in Brazil, guides our prosecution work – based on the capacity to see ahead, anticipate problems and maximize the availability of strong and enforceable rights. Also, our partners have academic and practical experience in the US and Europe, and they understand the similarities and differences of claim drafting in different countries. That being said, we should mention that we do recognize the importance of translation of
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priority documents into Portuguese (Brazilian national language), as well as drafting claims in accordance with Brazilian legislation. Furthermore, translation is key to the enablement, written description, doctrine of equivalents and many other relevant issues.
Our goal is to always seek the broadest patent protection possible for our clients – taking IP rights to a higher level in the country. We can see ahead, anticipate problems and maximize the availability of strong and enforceable patent rights.
Nevertheless, we acknowledge the developments in the international patent system, such as those arising from the London Protocol of 2000, and we agree that overestimating the importance of translations can be counterproductive and excessively expensive. So our goal is to work with our clients to find the best cost-effective ways to deal with translation requirements.
Experienced both academically and practically in the US and Europe, our partners understand the similarities and differences of claim drafting and interpretation in different countries. Our technical team also handles matters in areas such as chemistry, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, mechanics, electronics and telecommunications.
That is why our services are competitively priced and organized in a way that our clients know beforehand the exact amount that will be charged for each filing. Accordingly the amount of work to be spent in each application is determined by client’s instructions, according to the following categories: Standard applications: demanding a regular amount of work. Important applications: requiring a closer analysis to increase the chances of strong protection in Brazil or to deal with specific issues identified by the client. Strategic applications: covering sensitive products, blockbusters or complex matters, which require specific procedures. As said before, our priority is our clients’ protection in Brazilian territory. And we know it goes way beyond language. Patents Licks Attorneys stands out in this area. Our team of patent litigators, known as one of the most acclaimed in Brazil, provides high-quality client services. From first filing an application, to the last appeal and post-grant opposition, we make sure we offer the best legal support and strategic counseling according to each client’s need.
When it comes to foreign clients, we offer cost-effective translation of documents into Portuguese (Brazil’s national language). Also, our prosecution team is fully integrated with our licensing and litigation areas, Licks Attorneys is able to offer a complete range of services concerning acquisition, enforcement and licensing of patent rights in Brazil. Trademarks, trade dress & publicity rights The Brazilian economy is booming and becoming increasingly more attractive to companies from all over the world. In this highly competitive market it is of the utmost importance to understand our clients’ businesses and the relevance of a strong trademark protection to preserve the reputation and distinctiveness of their products and services. Licks Attorneys’ team counts on some of the most experienced trademark lawyers in the country and offers a full range of services from search to appeals, including the protection of domain names, trade names and defense of every aspect of our client’s marks before BPTO and courts. Also, our client-driven approach allows us to think strategically in every issue and to develop sound enforcement strategies. We assist our clients in matters ranging from sending and responding to cease and desist letters to licensing the trademark or litigating up to the higher courts.
Technology Law Firm of the Year in Brazil
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Appellate Law Firm of the Year in Canada Klein Lyons Barristers & Solicitors David Klein Managing Partner Tel: +1 604 874 7171 dklein@kleinlyons.com www.kleinlyons.com
Klein Lyons is one of the leading providers of legal expertise in Canadian class action law. With offices in Vancouver and Toronto, Klein Lyons focuses solely on plaintiff class actions, mass tort and personal injury claims. As one of the first class action firms in Canada, the firm has experience in a wide range of landmark class action cases including Dow Corning Breast Implants, Hepatitis C Tainted Blood, Woodlands Residential School, Air Canada Retiree Benefits, Securities Class Actions, and more. Current cases include metal-on-metal hip implants and various drug class actions such as Champix, Propecia and Hormone Replacement Therapy. The national class action practice is led by David Klein, who is recognised by Lexpert and Benchmark Canada as one of the most frequently recommended lawyers in class action litigation, and by Best Lawyers in Canada as leading counsel in class action litigation. Mr Klein has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for thousands of victims in a wide range of landmark lawsuits. Mr Klein was plaintiffs´ counsel in the first class actions certified in three provinces in Canada as well as the first prospectus misrepresentation class action and the first tobacco class action certified in Canada. A member of the Bars of Ontario, British Columbia and Washington State, he has represented plaintiffs in actions in
the Superior and Appellate courts across Canada in a host of cases involving defective products, environmental accidents, securities misrepresentations, pension benefits, deceptive marketing, food poisoning outbreaks, and institutional abuse. Mr Klein has held several positions with the Trial Lawyers Association of British Columbia including president in 1998-1999. He is periodically consulted by the Ministry of the Attorney-General on matters relating to the Class Proceedings Act, by the Rules Committee of the BC Supreme Court on rules amendments related to class proceedings and by the BC Public Guardian and Trustee on the protection of persons with legal disabilities in class proceedings. Mr Klein is a prolific writer and speaker on legal issues, and has given more than 100 papers and presentations to various organisations, law schools, bar and trial lawyers associations across North America. Mr Klein is frequently sought out by the media to comment on current issues related to class action law in Canada. The firm believes in helping individuals who may not have the resources to sue government agencies and large corporations. Millions of dollars have been won and distributed to clients. The firm has donated a portion of settlements to the Sauder School of Business at UBC and the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association.
GLE Practice Awards 2014 47
Individual - International Trade Lawyer of the Year in Canada Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP Greg Kanargelidis Partner Tel: +1 416-863-4306 greg.kanargelidis@blakes.com www.blakes.com
Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes) is a leading Canadian law firm in the area of International Trade. Senior partner Greg Kanargelidis has more than 24 years of experience practising in the areas of international trade, customs and commodity tax law. He leads the International Trade and Investment Law Group at Blakes, and is recognised as one of the leading international trade and customs lawyers in Canada.
Greg represents Canadian and foreign clients on global trade and investment matters advising them on multilateral and bilateral free trade agreements, bilateral investment agreements, foreign corrupt practices, economic sanctions, export and import controls, and government procurement disputes. He also assists clients with respect to planning, compliance and appeals involving value-added, excise and other commodity taxes such as the GST/HST.
Blakes serves a diverse national and international client base with 11 offices worldwide. In addition to International Trade, Blakes provides clients with access to the Firm’s full spectrum of capabilities in virtually every area of business law.
Greg is very active in legal organizations. He is a member of the CITT Bench and Bar Committee, a vice chair and in-coming co-chair of the Customs Law Committee of the ABA Section of International Law, and past chair of the Ontario Bar Association International Law Section, among others. He is also a frequent author and speaker on customs, international trade and commodity tax topics.
Thanks to our clients, Blakes is the only Canadian firm to be named “Canada Law Firm of the Year” for six consecutive years in the Who’s Who Legal Awards 2014 and “Law Firm of the Year: Canada” for the fourth time in the Chambers Global Awards 2013. In addition, Blakes consistently ranks as one of the top Canadian firms on the Bloomberg, Thomson Reuters and mergermarket M&A league tables. Greg Kanargelidis is a noted expert in all areas of customs law. He regularly appears before the Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) as well as other courts in customs and dumping-related proceedings. He frequently assists clients with trade remedy matters, with a particular emphasis on anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations and appeals.
Greg’s expertise has been recognised in numerous publications, including Chambers Global: the World’s Leading Lawyers for Business 2014; The 2014 Lexpert/American Lawyer Guide to the Leading 500 Lawyers in Canada; The 2014 Lexpert Guide to the Leading US/Canada Cross-border Corporate Lawyers in Canada; The Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory 2014; The Best Lawyers in Canada 2014; Who’s Who Legal: Business 2013; Who’s Who Legal: Trade & Customs 2013 and Who’s Who Legal: Canada 2013. In 2013, Greg received the Client Choice Award in the Trade & Customs category for Ontario from the International Law Office, in recognition of the excellent client care he provides and the quality of his service.
Specialist - Family Law Firm of the Year in Canada
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
MARTHA McCARTHY & COMPANY LLP is a Toronto-based family law and Charter litigation boutique practising in all areas of family law, at all levels of court. For more than a decade the fi rm has been counsel in cases that have set national and international precedents promoting an inclusive, functional vision of family.
We are Family.® Martha McCarthy is the winner of the Ontario Bar Association 2007 Award of Excellence in Family Law. Martha was called to the Bar in Ontario in 1991, winning the Silver Medal and the Family Law and Advocacy Prizes. Martha has practised family law since her call, fi rst in a large Bay Street fi rm, then the largest family law specialist boutique in Canada, and now with her own fi rm. Martha is a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and she is a board member of The Advocates’ Society. Martha was awarded the Law Society Medal in 2013 for outstanding service within the legal profession. Martha is a frequent advocate, author and commentator on issues of gay and lesbian equality, and our evolving concept of family.
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Martha can be reached at: martha@mccarthyco.ca +1 416-862-6226 www.mccarthyco.ca
Alternative Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year in the Cayman Islands Travers Thorp Alberga Anna Peccarino / Ian Huskisson Partners Tel: +1 345 949 0699 apeccarino@traversthorpalberga.com / ihuskisson@traversthorpalberga.com www.traversthorpalberga.com
Travers Thorp Alberga (TTA) is a full service offshore law firm with offices in the Cayman Islands and Hong Kong. Its strengths include funds, banking, corporate, private client, regulatory and dispute resolution. Languages spoken by the firm include English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Mandarin. Lawyers in the firm’s Hong Kong office are vastly experienced in the Asian market. Anna Peccarino is an experienced litigation and alternative dispute resolution partner with more than 15 years of post-qualification experience. Ian Huskisson, also a partner at TTA, is a commercial litigator with more than 15 years of experience. TTA operates a unique ‘partner-heavy’ model where clients are guaranteed the close involvement of, and direct contact with, an experienced partner at all times. It can also offer competitive and, where possible, flexible alternative fee arrangements that many other firms cannot. Very rarely is it actually in a client’s interests to take a case to trial. When parties are in the midst of fully contested proceedings, it can be difficult for them to have a sensible dialogue about settlement. The various options for ADR can be deployed to overcome this issue, but it takes experience and an understanding of the personalities involved to select the right approach and the right time to make the approach.
The firm’s dispute resolution group has acted in numerous high-profile international disputes, the vast majority of which have been settled out of court prior to trial. Recent settlements include a long running set of disputes involving the financing of a flagship development project in the Caribbean and of a complex multinational quasi-partnership dispute. On the ADR side, the group has acted in more than 100 mediations, both as mediator and as representative of the parties. It also advises on other formal forms of ADR, such as early neutral evaluation, and regularly takes the lead on informal settlement negotiations. TTA regularly acts for investors, funds, directors, shareholders, banks, high-networth individuals and others from all over the world. Several of the firm’s lawyers have valuable industry experience, particularly the funds industry, which helps them better understand the sorts of issues their clients face day-to-day. In the past 12 months, the firm has concluded a number of successful settlements using formal and informal ADR. It is prevented from disclosing details because of confidentiality obligations, but can say that very significant sums of money and also court time have been saved as a result of settlements it has achieved for its clients. TTA’s dispute resolution group has expanded significantly over the past year, and may grow further in 2014 – although not to the expense of its core principle of partner contact with clients.
Cross Border Tax Law Firm of the Year in Chile Ocampo Hurtado Orellana Abogados Juan Pablo Orellana Senior Partner Tel: +56 2 2611 9898 jporellana@oho.cl www.oho.cl
Ocampo Hurtado Orellana Abogados is one of the leading law firms in Chile. The main offices are located in Santiago, even though the firm’s services cover the entire territory of Chile. Ocampo Hurtado Orellana Abogados has developed an extensive network of contacts and relationships with leading law firms in the United States of America, Canada, Europe and Latin America. The firm’s primary mission is to fully satisfy, in any area of law, the legal needs of our clients through comprehensive and time-efficient counseling. To this end, the firm offers simple, accurate and bespoke legal solutions. Mutual trust developed from a close working relationship has allowed us to generate long-term professional relationships. This networking and knowledge of our clients allows us to anticipate problems and legal needs and develop prevention strategies regarding recent application standards, as well as new projects or legal authority decisions that could potentially affect the interests of our customers. Professionals Ocampo Hurtado Orellana Abogados’ partners have outstanding reputations in the professional field, and are also academics at the most prestigious universities in the country. The firm’s lawyers go through a thorough and rigorous selection process. The company also maintains a program of continuous updating of their lawyers through internal discussions on relevant legal issues, cases, legislation and
recent case law, and offers courses in handling software and command of foreign languages. Specialization and international practice among lawyers is also encouraged. Tax The Tax Group offers advice to a wide array of owners and executives. The professionals that make up this area are devoted exclusively to tax issues and have solid legal and technical training, enabling them to offer creative solutions to the many tax situations they encounter when doing business. Publications such as Chambers & Partners, International Tax Review, and Latin Lawyer highlight and recommend the professionals who make up this practice area of our study. The tax advice provided to our clients covers a wide range of services, both in terms of recurring issues of national and international groups, as in the analysis and impact of tax issues that arise in corporate restructuring transactions and mergers and acquisitions; operations and financial products; operations in capital markets; in the structuring and operation of investment funds; in project financing; in compensation plans for executives and business managers; in the design and implementation of tax efficient structures for transmission of family wealth and family business. Our Tax Group also has extensive experience in advising and defending clients in tax revision procedures, transfer pricing and other litigation. This combines extensive knowledge in tax, litigation and administrative law – in order to better defend the interests of taxpayers in all proceedings, appeals and litigation.
GLE Practice Awards 2014 49
Family Law Firm of the Year in Chile Horvitz & Horvitz Abogados Daniela Horvitz Lennon Director Partner Tel: +56 2 26712791 dhorvitz@horvitz.cl www.horvitz.cl
Profile: Graduate of the Law School of Universidad de Chile. Also in Chile: “Recurso de proteccion” (Constitutional Appeal); US Legal System; Modern Theories in Civil Law and Family Law. In US: California Western School of Law. Other: Harvard University (ISL). Expertise: National and international litigation, on family, civil and commercial law. Teaching experience: At Universidad de Chile and Universidad Internacional SEK. Memberships: Chilean Bar Association member; Chilean Family Lawyers Association, and past President; International Union of Lawyers (UIA); Female Lawyers Chilean Association. Also is in permanent collaborator of www.familylawclip.co.uk. Speaker in Seminar on “Family Matters”, of the Chilean Bar Association; Seminar on “Insolvency in the Current Economic Crisis” UIA, Spain; Seminar on “Damages on Family Relationships”, of the UIA and the FACA, Argentina. Also, organiser and presenter at the “First International Conference on Family Law,” Chile. Founder and coordinator of a “cooperative program between NYC Bar Association and the Chilean judiciary”.
50 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Languages Spoken: Spanish, English & French. Practice Areas: Appeals, Arbitration, Child Care/Public Law, Child Custody/Residence/Visitation/Contact, Child Support, Cohabitation, Collaborative Law, Divorce, Domestic Abuse/Violence/Protection Orders, Emergency Procedures/Injunctions, Enforcement: Child Custody, Enforcement: Child Support, Enforcement: Property Division, Enforcement: Spousal Support, Finance: Capital Provision, Finance: Insolvency, Finance: Pensions/Superannuation/Retirement and Employment Benefits, Finance: Property Issues, Finance: Trusts, Hague Convention/Child Abduction, Mediation, Modification/Variation: Child Custody, Modification/Variation: Child Support, Modification/Variation: Property Division, Modification/Variation: Spousal Support, Parentage/Paternity, Pre-nuptial/Post-nuptial Agreements, Relocation/Removal from Jurisdiction, Spousal Support/Maintenance/Alimony.
Arbitration Law Firm of the Year in Colombia / Public Contracts Law Firm of the Year in Colombia MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS Marcela Monroy Torres Senior Partner Tel: (+571) 321 3640 / (+57) 313 3952367 marcelamonroy@monroylegal.com www.monroytorresabogados.com
MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS was founded more than 15 years ago, and has since remained at the forefront of efficient, rapid, effective and comprehensive legal solutions, which are required in any business sector today. The bureau is best known for its experience in domestic arbitration concerning concession agreements and public works contracts. The firm is also active in diverse areas, including government contracts, litigation, public and private processes, complex transportation contracts, regulated markets (energy and telecommunications), among other areas. MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS has extensive bargaining, litigation and arbitration experience in issues related to wholesale energy markets as well as oil and gas. The firm is fully conversant with regulatory developments as well as judicial processes that affect its work in this area. On the bargaining side, the firm has advised several companies producing, transporting and marketing gas and energy in the different contracts that regulate business activities – from building a new gas compressor station, through the expansion of loops, to complex supply contracts. The firm’s attorneys have not only developed legal knowledge pertaining to regulatory issues, but also have a broad understanding of guild bargaining dynamics concerning oil and gas, enabling them to advise companies such as TGI and GENSA, among others. All business and trade is based on one thing: the fulfilment of contractual agreements between parties. MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS not only has a comprehensive and transversal knowledge of various sectors and trade unions, but fully understand the background of contracts and how they relate to bargaining and the will of the parties.
Today, the firm provides comprehensive advice to large companies in pivotal industries, including pharmaceuticals and guild insurance. Marcela Monroy Torres is a founder and senior partner of MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS, and is a specialist within the areas of arbitration, administrative law, commercial litigation and infrastructure projects. Ms Monroy has acted as arbitrator in several arbitration tribunals, including: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
MAECO vs NATIONAL SAVINGS FUND (Chief Justice) INURBE vs TRUST-LIVESTOCK-FIDUGAN (Chief Justice) COVIANDES vs INVIAS CONSORTIUM COFFEE vs HIGHWAYS. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CONCECIONES CONCONCRETO vs INVIAS. (Chief Justice) SANTA MARTA vs CONCESIONARIA Paraguachón. INVIAS (Chief Justice) CONSORTIUM ODEBRETECH-Conciviles vs FERROVÍAS (Chief Justice) HIGHWAYS COFFEE SA vs INVIAS (Chief Justice) ELECTRIFICADORA Tolima SA E.S.P. IN LIQUIDATION vs MELGAR ENERGY COMPANY SA E.S.P. (Chief Justice) INTERNATIONAL OF GAS TRANSPORT SA TGI SA ESP- E.S.P. vs COLOMBIAN GAS COMPANY – ECOGAS (Chief Justice) CONSTRUCCIONES EL CONDOR vs METROPLUS (Chief Justice) COLOMBIAN NATURAL RESOURCES vs MINING CONSORTIUM DEL CESAR (Chief Justice) CONSTRUCTORA EMINDUMAR vs PETROMINERALES (Chief Justice)
Arbitration Law Firm of the Year in Colombia / Public Contracts Law Firm of the Year in Colombia
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Monroy & Torres Abogados is a Boutique law firm that offers specialized legal assessment in diverse present and transversal issues regarding current businesses, where the client receives a 360-degree attention. Practice Areas: Construction Works and Infrastructure Oil & Gas Representation before State Entities Public Services Advisory to Public Bodies Environmental Law Commercial Business MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS
Calle 67 No. 7 - 35 Oficina 501 Edificio Caracol Bogotá D.C. - Colombia | (+571) 321 3640 | info@monroytorres.com www.monroytorresabogados.com
GLE Practice Awards 2014 51
Class Action Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Colombia We are the leading legal firm in cross-border class action trials Nathalie Lozano Blanco Founding partner
Nathalie Lozano Blanco is a Colombian lawyer with more than 20 years experience in telecommunications, class actions, commercial law and advising the public sector in organizational strategies. Nathalie has a law degree from Universidad del Rosario in Colombia, a masters degree in International Economic Law from Paris I University- Pantheon Sorbonne and was a doctoral candidate in Banking Law. Before founding Lozano Blanco & Asociados, Nathalie also held management positions in legal, financial and administrative areas of the public sector and telecommunication companies.
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
www.lozanoblanco.com - nlozano@lozanoblanco.com - (57 1) 796 86 33
Lozano Blanco & Asociados, founded by Nathalie Lozano Blanco in 2009, offers innovative legal solutions through a semi-massive approach. We guarantee our clients the best service available in an effective cost scheme. This approach has allowed us to be pioneers in class action litigation in Latin America, offering solutions to consumers in cross-border trials. PIP BREAST IMPLANTS LEGAL ACTION:
the negligence of TÜV in fulfilling its obligations as certifier of the safety and quality of PIP implants. On the 14th of November the Tribunal de Commerce de Toulon declared TÜV’s negligence and sentenced the company to pay 3400 euros to each women.
A new area of practice for lawyers
Lozano Blanco & Asociados consolidated itself as a world leading firm in class action litigation with the historic PIP implant cross-border trial. The firm represented 2112 women from Colombia, Australia, New Zealand, England, United States and Spain, more than half of the plaintiffs, in the French legal actions against TÜV and the PIP factory directives. In the commercial trial, Lozano Blanco & Asociados argued
Many international trials concerning consumer protection and environmental damages are waiting for bold, aggressive and innovative lawyers to start creating a new approach to class actions. Traditional legal practices may not produce the results expected by clients from their lawyers . The firm’s experience in the PIP implants trial has con stituted a new know-how and area of practice for lawyers.
Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Ecuador
Almeida Guzmán & Asociados is a law firm established in 1981 specializing in legal-corporate counseling and assessment. The firm’s professional practice includes the following fields:
We also retain professionals in the fields of Economics and Accounting.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
The firm’s experience is comprised of consultation on legal, tax and economic undertakings, as well as project finance, mergers, splitoffs, take-overs, acquisitions, and general business restructuring. The client base of the firm includes companies engaged in industry, commerce, tourism, real estate, agriculture, construction, oil, energy, telecommunication, services, banking, finance and securities.
Corporate, Commercial and Mercantile Law Tax Law Finance, Bank and Securities Law Energy Legislation: oil, Electricity and Alternative Energy Legislation on Telecommunication and E-commerce Economic Integration and Foreign Investment Legislation, International Trade Labor and Immigration Law Intellectual Property Law Legislation on Consumer Rights, Anti-trust and Competitiveness Environmental Law Real Estate, Property, Construction and Public Works Legislation Customs Legislation, Free Trade Zones and Cross-border Manufacturing Legislation on Government Contracts Legislation on Tourism Mining Law Arbitration and Mediation.
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Almeida Guzmán & Asociados, Amazonas N39-61 y Pereira, Edificio Centro Financiero, Of. 501 Phone: +(593-2) 298-1578 / 1579 Fax: +(593-2) 298-1584 www.almeidaguzman.com daa@almeidaguzman.com PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Public Law Firm of the Year in Ecuador
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
International Law Firm of the Year in Guatemala Díaz-Durán & Asociados | Central Law Juan Pablo Carrasco de Groote Partner Tel: +502 2383 6000 jpcarrasco@central-law.com www.central-law.com
Founded in 1990 in the city of Guatemala, Díaz-Durán & Asociados | Central Law provides since then professional service on legal matters, consultancy, as well as a wide range of related services. The Firm has positioned itself as one of the most prestigious and successful, and has been recognized by international ranking companies such as Chambers & Partners, which in the last publication stated: “It is a well established firm, with an excellent corporate practice”. It also highlights Partners Juan Pablo Carrasco de Groote and Mario Adolfo Búcaro Flores for their skills in different legal practice areas such as mining, petroleum and natural resources fields, corporate and foreign investment, and whom also have a profile on the mentioned directory. OUR INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE CENTRAL er of our
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Central Law was founded in 2002 after a 3-year period of meticulous market and investment analysis of the Central American Region, Panamá and Dominican Republic. Prestigious and well-known Central American and Caribbean law firms, anticipating the international needs of their clients and in response to modern globalization trends, decided to unify efforts, services and professional expertise to create the first Central American Law Firm. Central Law provides regional legal counsel to those domestic and foreign companies that have identified Central America, Panamá and the Dominican Republic as their target market and want to do business in the region. Working under the philosophy of Seven Countries: One Contact Point, allows us to efficiently manage our firm’s resources and expertise, which implies cost effective oriented services for our clients and a simplification of the overall process of doing business in the region.
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Bankruptcy Law Firm of the Year in Mexico Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C. Alonso Rivera Gaxiola Founding and Senior Partner Tel: +52 55 1084 1230 arivera@rgcyb.com www.rgcyb.com
Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C. is a law firm specialized mainly in litigation, specifically in areas of Bankruptcies, Financial Restructurings, Shareholders’ Controversies, Commercial, Civil and Administrative Litigation. We are known for being an uncompromising firm, with strict coordination between paralegals at court and associates at the office to enhance a greater control of our cases. Moreover, we emphasize the importance of the client-lawyer relationship at all times, in order to ensure greater understanding of procedure and strategy throughout any given case’s duration. The law firm was founded on December 2, 2002. Our headquarters are located in Mexico City, with an office in Nuevo León, Monterrey. We have practiced all over the country, through our own staff or through strategic alliances and associations with top local firms. Nowadays, we are one of the most prestigious and well known firms in Mexico. Areas of Expertise:
• • • • • • • • • •
Civil, Commercial and Administrative Litigation International and Domestic Arbitration Bankruptcies Financial Restructurings Shareholders’ Controversies and Disputes Telecommunications Aviation Law Bonds and Bails Insurance Energy
Partner Profile Alonso Rivera Gaxiola, Founding and Senior Partner of Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C., is an Attorney by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. He has extensive experience in civil, commercial, corporate and administrative litigation throughout the country, as well as in national and international arbitration, bankruptcies and financial restructurings.
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Mexico Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C. Alonso Rivera Gaxiola Founding and Senior Partner Tel: +52 55 1084 1230 arivera@rgcyb.com www.rgcyb.com
Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C. is a law firm specialized mainly in litigation, specifically in areas of Bankruptcies, Financial Restructurings, Shareholders’ Controversies, Commercial, Civil and Administrative Litigation. We are known for being an uncompromising firm, with strict coordination between paralegals at court and associates at the office to enhance a greater control of our cases. Moreover, we emphasize the importance of the client-lawyer relationship at all times, in order to ensure greater understanding of procedure and strategy throughout any given case’s duration. The law firm was founded on December 2, 2002. Our headquarters are located in Mexico City, with an office in Nuevo León, Monterrey. We have practiced all over the country, through our own staff or through strategic alliances and associations with top local firms. Nowadays, we are one of the most prestigious and well known firms in Mexico. Areas of Expertise:
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• • • • • • • • • •
Civil, Commercial and Administrative Litigation International and Domestic Arbitration Bankruptcies Financial Restructurings Shareholders’ Controversies and Disputes Telecommunications Aviation Law Bonds and Bails Insurance Energy
Partner Profile Alonso Rivera Gaxiola, Founding and Senior Partner of Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C., is an Attorney by the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México. He has extensive experience in civil, commercial, corporate and administrative litigation throughout the country, as well as in national and international arbitration, bankruptcies and financial restructurings.
Boutique - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Mexico IBAÑEZ, QUINTANA, SAAVEDRA & HOFFMANN Mauricio Ibanez Partner Tel: +52 (55) 5292-6191 mibanez@iqsh.com.mx www.iqsh.com.mx/english
IBAÑEZ, QUINTANA, SAAVEDRA & HOFFMANN is the result of a merger between two law firms with long and outstanding trajectories. Our aim is to provide comprehensive services of the highest quality for our national and international clients. We offer a high level of personal attention in all matters that are entrusted to us, which clearly distinguishes us from other law firms. The academic and professional background of the partners and legal staff of IBAÑEZ, QUINTANA, SAAVEDRA & HOFFMANN allow us to achieve a full understanding of our clients’ needs. Our experience in international operations, have satisfied the need for excellence and timely response from those who have had the highest expectations of us. Our firm’s main objective is to actively participate in the affairs of our clients by providing practical and reliable advice. We adapt to the demands of a dynamic and globalized world, while always maintaining the highest degree of quality in our services. AREAS OF PRACTICE All members of our law firm are specialized in one or more of the following areas of practice: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Strategic Alliances Joint Ventures Antitrust Labor Consulting Corporate Energy Project Finance Finance Mergers and Acquisitions Hotels and Hospitality Film Industry Infrastructure Real Estate Equity Investments Administrative Litigation Labor Litigation Maritime Immigration
• • • • • • • •
Intellectual Property Financial Restructuring Health Social Security Insurance Telecommunications Transportation and Aviation Environmental
Mauricio Ibanez Admitted: Mexico, 1994 Languages: English and Spanish Areas of Practice: Corporate Law, Mergers and Acquisitions, Project Finance, Private Equity, Workouts, Real Estate, Telecommunications, Transportation, Energy. Professional Experience: Baker & McKenzie, S.C. (1990-1994) White & Case, S.C. (1995-1997, 1999-2001) White & Case, LLP, New York (1997-1998) Jáuregui, Navarrete, Nader y Rojas, S.C. (International Associated Practice with Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw 2001-2004) Affiliations: Colegio Mexicano de Abogados, The Americas Society, Mexican Bar Association, Colegio de Abogados, American Bar Association. Education: Universidad Iberoamericana (JD) Columbia University (LLM)
Corporate Tax Law Firm of the Year in Mexico Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C. Miguel Jáuregui Rojas, O.B.E. Founding Member Tel: +(52 55) 5267-4503 mjauregui@jaureguiydelvalle.com www.jaureguiydelvalle.com
Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C. was founded in 1975. It is the result of the merger between Jáuregui y Navarrete, S.C. and Del Valle Torres, S.C and one of Mexico’s foremost multidisciplinary law firms specialized in international business transactions. Mr. Jáuregui is the Chairman of the Management Board of the Law Firm of Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C. His main areas of legal practice include mergers & acquisitions, telecommunications, energy, infrastructure, real estate, corporate law, commercial law and as a specialty, private client services, international trusts and estate planning. Mr. Jáuregui is a Member of the Advisory Boards of companies such as, Servicio Panamericano de Protección, S.A. de C.V., SSA México, S.A. de C.V. and Grupo Marhnos, S.A. de C.V. The Firm represents domestic and foreign clients involved in a wide range of joint ventures, investments and economic activities, including industry, trade and services. The Firm has consistently implemented innovative transactions and is a market leader in advising highly-regulated entities and in structuring foreign equity investments in those companies. The Firm is also a major provider of legal services in all kinds of financings, privatizations of government-owned companies of all types and of public services, and in advising and assisting clients in all steps of qualifications for public bid processes and negotiations of procurement, services, infrastructure and other kinds of agreements with government entities. The Firm has also advised foreign governmental entities, including the US Department of Commerce in connection
with the negotiation of various Chapters of NAFTA, the US Department of the Treasury in the USD$20 billion emergency financial package for Mexico in 1995 and the Securities and Exchange Commission of the United States of America, and represented the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health of Mexico in the design and launch of two of the initial three public private partnerships programs in Mexico. Clients’ needs have required the Firm to establish working relationships with a number of law firms in the majority of the most relevant markets around the world. It is currently advising a number of clients exploring acquisitions, mergers, private investments and financings in areas where traditionally no private investment had been permitted, such as telecommunications, oil and gas, energy and power generation, natural gas distribution and transportation projects. TAX ADVICE • • • • • • • •
Employee Benefits Private Clients Executive Compensation Fund Structuring Litigation Non-For-Profit and Exempt Organizations Transfer Pricing Transportation
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Family Law Firm of the Year in Mexico
Ortega Abogados Asociados S.C Isabel Margarita Ortiz Aja Lawyer Tel: +52-55 5566-0199 myo@ortegaabogados.com www.ortegaabogados.com
Ortega Abogados Asociados S.C’s traditions have helped it to become one of the most prestigious litigation law firms in the country. Since its founding in 1973, several generations of professionals have established a tradition of excellence within the broad range of legal services that the firm offers to its domestic and multinational clients. Members of the firm bring a diversity of personal experiences to their professional practice. Some of them have held important positions in politics, the judiciary, education and in the business sector; still others are continually called to give seminars in international and Mexican forums. The prestige earned by the members of the firm has allowed it to maintain excellent working relationships with the financial and industrial sectors, as well as with the judicial and administrative authorities of the Mexican government. Ortega Abogados’ practice is focused on litigation – criminal, civil, commercial, banking, bankruptcy and family. It pro56 GLE Practice Awards 2014
vides services in all areas of family law, including the drafting of prenuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements and separation agreements. The firm is skilled in addressing childcare issues including custody and access disputes, adoption as well as spousal and child support issues. It has considerable experience in the complexities surrounding asset division, including corporations and family trusts. In regards to divorce matters, the firm’s focus is on bringing creative solutions to bear on the unique issues faced by families in transition. Ortega Abogados believes that each of its clients has different needs and different objectives, and strives to tailor its work to address those concerns. In order to meet its clients’ needs, the firm carefully uses such tools as negotiation, mediation and, if necessary, litigation. The family law practice also includes legal advice to clients that desire to draft a will. The firm also handles the formalities that need to be performed in
order for the heirs to receive the assets, as well as making and defending claims against the will or persons entitled to participate in the estate. Ortega Abogados seeks to provide clients with practical and creative dispute resolution strategies, and to implement them on a timely and cost-effective basis. Its lawyers are experienced in negotiation, mediation, arbitration and litigation, and can assist clients in resolving disputes using a combination of those tools. Isabel Margarita Ortiz Aja practises civil, commercial, family and bankruptcy litigation. She is the author of several essays on civil and commercial law, and a lecturer of civil and family law. She was admitted to the Mexico Bar in 1971. She also speaks English and Spanish. With lawyers experienced in the firm’s various areas of practice, and fluent in English and Spanish, Ortega Abogados is prepared to expeditiously attend to the complex needs of its clients.
Industry Choice - Natural Resources & Mining Law Firm of the Year in Mexico Todd y Asociados, SC Schiller 316, Polanco Mexico City, Mexico
t. +52 55 52036333 www.todd.com.mx
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
TyA is a Boutique Law Firm specialized in rendering top quality legal advice to all sort of Mexican Companies, Foreign Companies, Mexican Companies with Foreign Investment, Mexican and International Financial Institutions, Authorities and Individuals in areas such as: • • • • • • • • • • •
TODD Y ASOCIADOS, S.C.
What makes us different from others is the added value combination of years of experience led by lawyers with more than 30 years advising top level clients, Public and Private Companies, leaders of the Mexican and International economy, mixed with a young team of lawyers with fresh, innovative and efficient knowledge, ideas and experience, which allows TyA to have a new approach with its Clients, approach given always in a personal and direct way, creating a direct contact Partner - Client.
Corporate Law Natural Resources, Energy & Mining Shareholders-Corporate Disputes Transactional (M&A – Finance) Foreign Investments Corporate Governance Aviation Securities and Banking Litigation Tax Administrative
Fernando Todd Dip ftodd@todd.com.mx Fernando Todd Dip is a partner at Todd y Asociados and a member of the Rocky Mountain Mineral Law Foundation, National Association of Corporate Counsels and American Bar Association. Mr Todd has acted in complex corporate matters for domestic and foreign companies, including worldwide leader companies in the natural resources industry. This includes mergers and acquisitions, spin-offs, and corporate reorganizations.
TyA represents National and Foreign clients, who participate in a wide variety of transactions, strategic alliances, financial investments and business activities, such as infrastructure, industry, commerce and services. Throughout the years, TyA has represented in a consistent and efficient way a great number of companies world-wide recognized, branch leaders, not only with aneffective and constant legal advice, but by supporting their Boards of Directors or Committees in taking strategic decisions. The different needs of our clients, have taken us to establish long lasting relationships with several law firms in the main cities around the world.
He also acts as independent director of publicly traded and private companies in Mexico. He advises natural resources companies with participations in Mexico and abroad on their daily corporate, reorganizations, M&A including due diligence and acquisitions/sales of projects through the purchase of assets or companies. He also assists with the financing of companies for the development of new projects. He earned his Juris Doctor from Universidad Iberoamericana Mexico City, Mexico; his LLM on Corporations Law at Universidad Panamericana, Mexico City, obtaining the Summa Cum Laude distinction; and completed the Management Program for Lawyers at Yale School of Management, Yale University.
TyA members add around 45 years of experience in providing legal advice and legal services to Mexican and International Clients in a variety of legal services covering from the implementation and planning of a new business or venture, the advice in day to day operations, the legal compliance of obligations before authorities, the solving of internal or external conflicts, the expansion of the business or the implementation of highly complex transactions.
He speaks Spanish and English.
Full Service IP Law Firm of the Year in Paraguay Casseli Law Firm Caroline Casseli Partner Tel: +595 21 455 053 / 455 052 ccasseli@casselilawfirm.com www.casselilawfirm.com
With six and a half years of professional and recognized national and international prestige career, Casseli Law Firm is today one of the most prestigious law firms in Paraguay. Headquartered in Asuncion, with strong ties in almost every country in the world, Casseli Law Firm currently represents clients from all industries and from all five continents. The firm is one of the main agencies of patent and trademark law in Paraguay. Through a dedicated team of lawyers and other professionals, Casseli Law Firm combines creativity, personalized and comprehensive analysis of the problems – offering a multidisciplinary approach that enables its customers to achieve their objectives in a complex environment with increasingly complex professional, legal and trade relations requirements. Members of Casseli Law Firm are actively involved in some of the most important professional associations and national and international organizations related to the legal world and intellectual property. Moreover, members of the firm do, on numerous occasions, assume important positions participating as speakers at conferences and seminars, among other activities. Areas of Practice As part of its civil, commercial and corporate practice, Casseli Law Firm
offers various professional services designed to meet the varied needs of its customers. The firm advises on the most suitable vehicles for undertaking projects, also providing experience in the drafting and negotiation of all types of contracts and corporate tax structures. Similarly, the firm offers assistance with the various forms pertaining to: joint ventures; sale of business shares and goodwill; shareholder agreements; corporate governance and management; licensing agreements, technology transfer and know-how, franchise, distribution, agency and representation; leasing and trusts, among other modern and sophisticated forms of procurement. Casseli Law Firm has advised clients on transactions and issues of higher specialty and complexity. Its client base is comprised of world-leaders from sectors including automotive, chemical, cosmetic, entertainment, media and advertising, banking, finance and private equity, oil and energy, pharmaceutical, telecommunications and satellite, textile, tobacco, hotel and tourism, among others. As regards the foreign investment, the firm advises investors with interests in Paraguay and projection to other countries in Latin America – in structuring and coordinating multi-jurisdictional transactions that enable its customers to establish or increase their market presence.
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Individual - IP Attorney of the Year in Arkansas, US HALTOM & DOAN Jennifer Doan Partner Tel: +1 903-255-1000 jdoan@haltomdoan.com www.haltomdoan.com
HALTOM & DOAN TRIAL & APPELLATE COUNSEL
Jennifer Doan is a partner with HALTOM & DOAN, located in Texarkana, TX-AR, and practices throughout Arkansas and Texas. She leads her chapter of the prestigious American Board of Trial Advocates and is board certified in both Civil Trial Law and Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Her client roster includes: Yahoo!, Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Disney, Alcoa, Southern Wine & Spirits, Word Press, Rent-A-Center and Altec, Inc., just to name a few. With over twenty years of experience as a trial lawyer, Ms. Doan has handled a diverse array of complex litigation involving product liability, intellectual property, environmental and toxic tort claims, pharmaceutical litigation, personal injury, class actions, and business controversies. In the past few years, she has led Yahoo! and Amazon to multiple defense verdicts in patent infringement cases, obtained the largest plaintiff verdict for Southern Wine & Spirits against an Arkansas bottled water company, and defended numerous product matters in multi-district litigation. In addition, she donates her time on various civil rights matters. Ms. Doan’s vast trial experience allows her to connect with the members of the jury and portray the facts of a case in a way that is compelling to the jury. Regardless of the type of case, she demands their attention and invokes their interest in the case so that they want to help resolve the dispute at hand. “The skills involved in trying large, complex matters – including being able to communicate well with juries – can be transferred to
multiple subject matters,” notes Doan. Doan’s notable recognitions include: Top 250 Women in Litigation (U.S.) - Benchmark Litigation (since 2012), IP Attorney of the Year (Arkansas) - Global Law Experts (2013-2014), selected for Best Lawyers in America© - Woodward/White Inc. (since 2007), Texas Super Lawyer - Thomson Reuters (since 2005), and Best Attorney (Texarkana) - Four States Living Magazine (2005-2006). She has also been recognized in Forbes magazine 2014 and in Fortune magazine as a Go-To Lawyer for 2013 and 2014. Ms. Doan teaches trial skills and jury selection for ABOTA and was recently selected to lead the Plaintiff’s team at the Trial Academy at Stanford University for the International Association of Defense Counsel. She has also served on the Board of Directors for the Arkansas Bar Foundation, where she remains a Life Fellow, and on the Arkansas Supreme Court Committee on Model Civil Jury Instructions. She also serves as a Life Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation and on the Grievance Committee for the State Bar of Texas. Ms. Doan currently serves on the Litigation Council, which leads the Litigation Section of the State Bar of Texas. Ms. Doan graduated from Abilene Christian University and formerly served on the Board of Directors for her beloved alma mater. She received her Juris Doctor degree, with honors, from the University of Texas School of Law.
Individual - Construction Lawyer of the Year in California, US Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino, LLP Bennett J. Lee Founding Partner Tel: +1 415 623 7000 blee@vlmglaw.com www.vlmglaw.com
Bennett J. Lee is a founding partner of Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino, LLP (“VLMG”) and manages the law firm’s San Francisco office. He is a nationally recognized construction lawyer representing general contractors, design engineering firms, construction managers, and owners on a wide variety of issues arising from civil, industrial, transportation and commercial construction projects. He counsels and advises clients on some of California’s largest infrastructure projects on issues ranging from contract preparation and administration to claim prosecution and dispute resolution. Bennett is also a recognized expert in federal government contracting on issues ranging from compliance, bid protests, to claim preparation, pricing, and dispute resolution. He has significant litigation experience before both federal and state courts, and domestic arbitration associations, on a wide variety of suretyship and construction law issues. Bennett has also arbitrated cases internationally, including before the ICC, DIAC, DIFC, and ad
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hoc arbitrations in Dubai, U.A.E. VLMG proudly serves the specialized needs of clients in the construction and engineering industry. The construction law firm features offices in Tysons Corner, VA and San Francisco, CA with 19 attorneys, each of whom has deep experience serving clients in this unique legal field. VLMG’s lawyers have represented clients on an impressive array of civil, industrial, commercial, and government construction projects across the United States and around the world. The firm’s attorneys offer a particularly in-depth understanding of heavy civil, energy and infrastructure projects, including power plants, petrochemical facilities, pipelines, highways and bridges, tunnels, mass transit systems, water/wastewater plants, airports, ports, and sports stadiums. Handling matters across this spectrum of project types has enabled the attorneys at VLMG to develop substantial expertise regarding federal, state, and local government contracts and procurement.
Industry Choice - IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Delaware, US Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP Adam W. Poff / James M. Lennon / Anne Shea Gaza Partners Tel: +1 302.571.6642 / +1 302.571.5009 / +1 302.571.6727 apoff@ycst.com / jlennon@ycst.com / agaza@ycst.com www.youngconaway.com
Young Conaway has many years of experience actively litigating intellectual property disputes in Delaware’s federal and state courts, in both jury and bench trials. In these cases we represent national and international corporate clients in patent infringement, trade secret misappropriation, unfair competition, copyright infringement, trademark infringement, and licensing and indemnity disputes. Our attorneys strive to identify decisive issues early in any litigation, and from that foundation we execute a strategy to win in the courtroom and to meet our clients’ expectation. Our knowledge of the intellectual property issues, combined with our trial experience in all Delaware courts, gives us an edge over our competitors. The many types of technology which we have addressed in our cases include telecommunications, biotechnology, medical devices, computer chips and hardware, software, chemical compounds, and pharmaceuticals. Partner Adam W. Poff is Chair of the Intellectual Property Litigation Team. His practice includes lead counsel patent infringement matters involving geographical mapping software, back-up and restore software, direct I/O device communication software and related hardware, automated music selection software, electron tunneling in rewritable hard drives, and various life sciences technologies. He also handles lead counsel trade secret matters including a recent dispute over automated tax preparation software, which resulted in a trial
victory on misappropriation claims for his client. Mr. Poff has been recognized by Chambers USA as a “leader in the field” and co-authored “The Delaware Court of Chancery: Forum for Enforcement of Trade Secret Rights,” which appeared in BNA’s Patent, Trademark & Copyright Journal, 87 PTCJ 478 in 2014. Other members of the Intellectual Property Litigation Team include Partners James M. Lennon and Anne Shea Gaza. Mr. Lennon’s practice addresses infringement and validity disputes and counseling on patent licensing matters. He also handles deal negotiations and litigation / dispute resolutions in a variety of commercial settings, and secures IP rights, particularly patents, in the first instance by preparing, filing and prosecuting applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Ms. Gaza focuses on representation of local and national clients in Delaware’s state and federal courts with an emphasis on various areas of civil litigation including intellectual property litigation and commercial law matters. With an active ADR practice, she has extensive experience arbitrating and mediating commercial disputes and serves as a Neutral through the American Arbitration Association. The attorneys of Young Conaway’s Intellectual Property Litigation Team are active in speaking at many national seminars concerning intellectual property litigation, and act as officers and leaders in intellectual property focused organizations such as the Delaware Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, the American Intellectual Property Law Association, the Delaware State Bar Association, the Richard K. Herrmann Technology Inn of Court, and the American Bar Association.
Insolvency Law Firm of the Year in Florida, US Tabas, Freedman & Soloff, P.A. Gary M. Freedman Partner Tel: +1 305-375-8171 gfreedman@tabasfreedman.com www.tabasfreedman.com
Since 1989, Tabas Freedman has served its loyal client base with focus, efficiency and a client‐centered strategy found only in an exceptional boutique firm—with the resources typically found at far larger firms. Gary M. Freedman is the exclusive International Referral member for Insolvency.
Florida Ponzi scheme bankruptcy case.
Gary M. Freedman is the managing partner of Tabas, Freedman & Soloff, P.A. Focusing on the areas of bankruptcy and restructuring, complex business litigation, creditors’ rights, collection defense for judgment debtors, commercial foreclosure, director, officer, manager and member liability litigation, and fraud litigation, Tabas Freedman has built its reputation on a robust foundation of client service.
It’s also a key reason many of our clients have stayed with the firm for the long term. Tabas Freedman earns client loyalty through dedication and service—and by obtaining favorable results.
Throughout the State of Florida and beyond, the firm serves a variety of clients, including debtors, creditors, businesses, financial services companies and loan/mortgage servicers. Mr. Freedman served as the Liquidating Trustee in the world’s fifth largest cruise line’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy case in the Southern District of Florida. Mr. Freedman has been lead counsel in numerous director, officer and third-party breach of fiduciary duty matters. In addition, he directed the investigation and recovery efforts in the Capitol Investments, USA, Inc., a major South
The firm’s combination of dynamic, highly experienced attorneys and innovative technology gives us a critical edge, which often makes a tangible difference in achieving satisfying results for our clients.
Though the firm’s experience and knowledge is wide-ranging, our strategy for each matter is completely tailored to a client’s individual needs and goals. Whether it’s creditor valuation, an out-of-court workout, a mortgage servicing case or another type of commercial dispute, Tabas Freedman consistently leverages its expertise in a client-centric way. By helping clients achieve their goals and protect their interests, our influence has grown as well. Tabas Freedman has earned the vast majority of its business through client referrals, a fact that stands as a point of pride and a strong testament to our work. We are proud to serve our clients with outstanding commercial legal services.
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Client Choice - Business Transactions Law Firm of the Year in Illinois, US Fox, Swibel, Levin & Carroll, LLP Lawrence B. Swibel Managing Partner Tel: +1(312) 224-1214 lswibel@fslc.com www.fslc.com
We distinguish ourselves by combining the quality and sophistication of a big firm with the more personalized, lower-cost setting of a small-to-mid-size firm. All of our lawyers come from major national and international firms, and are attracted to our entrepreneurial culture that focuses on client service. For example, (i) we staff our matters with highly-experienced lawyers whose billing rates are comparable to much less-experienced lawyers at larger firms; (ii) we allow our lawyers to offer flexible fee arrangements suited to a particular client’s needs; (iii) we impose no billable hour requirements on our lawyers – rather than incentivizing our lawyers to increase time spent on a matter, we reward efficiency; and (iv) we foster internal cooperation by de-emphasizing “billing credit” in our compensation structure. We believe these and other factors distinguish us from competitors and greatly benefit our clients. Our firm represents a wide range of clients, ranging from entrepreneurs, to middle-market companies to global institutions. The firm’s principal practice areas relate to commercial transactions and litigation. This includes representation in corporate and securities transactions, corporate finance, real estate, income tax, employment, bankruptcy and insolvency and related matters. Our biggest successes in the last year were our being selected for
several large projects of the type typically awarded to much larger firms. Examples include representing (i) a major foreign airline in its dispute against one of the largest U.S. airlines, (ii) an investment fund in its acquisition of hotels and other commercial properties in Brazil and Uruguay; (iii) a prominent local family in potentially precedent-setting trust litigation against a major trust company; (iv) a consortium of predominantly European banks in the workout of a $650 million defaulted commercial loan; and (v) a world-renowned chef in restaurant management deals in various U.S. locations, as well as Bermuda and the U.K. High-profile matters of this nature add to the firm’s stature, and we expect our success in these engagements will improve our market position. Another unique feature results from my position as the President of Interlex, one of only eight international legal networks receiving Chambers’ highest “Band 1 – Elite” ranking. Our leadership role in Interlex affords us close relationships with leading law firms in 59 countries worldwide, and we frequently use it as a valuable resource for our clients doing business outside the U.S. This allows us to compete favorably with global law firms. In fact, Interlex policies are very flexible, and members are free to refer business to whomever will best serve clients’ needs (even if that means referring the client to a non-Interlex firm). In contrast, global law firms are tied to using their own branch offices everywhere.
Business Immigration Law Firm of the Year in Massachusetts, US Savitz Law Offi ces, P.C. Bennett Savitz Partner Tel: +1 (617) 723-7111 bsavitz@immigrationoptions.com www.immigrationoptions. com
Savitz Law Offices, P.C. (ImmigrationOptions.com) provides legal services and expertise in all areas of immigration and nationality law both for corporate clients and individuals. In addition to obtaining temporary visas and permanent resident (Green Card) status for foreign nationals, we help clients to file to become naturalized U.S. Citizens, and to solve specific problems with the Immigration Service or other government agencies. We have extensive experience working with the myriad of government entities involved in immigration matters, including the U.S. Immigration Service, the Department of Labor, and the State Department (including U.S. Consulates and Embassies abroad). We have developed a worldwide network of contacts and other resources in order to assist our clients on any matter, from the routine to the extraordinary. We tailor our representation to meet the unique needs of each client. Bennett Savitz has practiced exclusively in the area of immigration law and has been an active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) since 1994, serving on numerous local and national AILA committees, helping shape policies and procedures for the entire Immigration Bar. He has also served as the Chapter Chair of the New England Chapter of AILA. He is currently teaching a Graduate School course on Immigration Law at Lesley University. Since 2008, Bennett Savitz has been selected as one of Boston’s Best Lawyers in Immigration Law by Best Lawyers of America, a trademarked publication described as “the leading referral list in the legal profession.” Please go to www.best-
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lawyers.com for the most recent listing. Best Lawyers selects attorneys for listings based upon nominations by and voting by attorneys in the field: “They must earn a spot through exemplary legal work that attracts the notice of their colleagues.” Bennett Savitz speaks frequently and writes numerous articles on various aspects of Immigration Law. He has also authored articles in AILA’s Immigration & Nationality Law, a nationally distributed handbook published annually at the national convention, where he is frequently a speaker. He was also the Chairman for a series of Immigration Law seminars sponsored by Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education. Additionally, he was the editor of their two-volume reference set entitled, Immigration Law Primer. Bennett Savitz also presents immigration information annually to thousands of attendees at the BIO international biotechnology conferences, the Pacific Rim international biotechnology conferences, and the INTERPHEX international pharmaceutical conferences. He also presented immigration information to thousands of Human Resource professionals at the SHRM Global Forum and SHRM World Congress. Bennett Savitz graduated cum laude from the University of California at San Diego in 1990 with a degree in Political Science. He received both his M.A. in International Relations and his J.D. from Boston University in 1993, where he graduated as an Edward F. Hennessey Scholar.
Cross Border - White Collar Crime Law Firm of the Year in New York, US / Supreme Court Law Firm of the Year in Washington DC, US
GLOBAL LAW EXPERTS WINNER:
Cross-Border White Collar Crime Law Firm of the Year – New York Supreme Court Law Firm of the Year – Washington, D.C. “All-Star Litigation Shop.” —LAW360
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER NEW YORK 540 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10022 T: 212.607.8160
WASHINGTON, D.C. 600 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20037 T: 202.556.2000
www.mololamken.com
CHICAGO 300 North LaSalle Street Chicago, IL 60654 T: 312.450.6700
Individual - Art Lawyer of the Year in New York, US Schindler Cohen & Hochman LLP Steven R Schindler Partner Tel: +1-212-277-6310 sschindler@schlaw.com www.schlaw.com
Schindler Cohen & Hochman LLP (SC&H) is a premier litigation and art law boutique. As chair of the firm’s Art Law Group, Mr Schindler has litigated cases involving the authenticity, title, provenance, and appraisals of fine art and jeweled objects. In addition, the firm has advised galleries, art organizations, appraisers, collectors, family offices and artists on the consignment, sale and acquisition of art, and regularly advises on and negotiates consignments and financing agreements with auction houses. On behalf of international art galleries, Mr Schindler has litigated the rights to major contemporary paintings and challenges to numerous appraisals. In one highly publicized case involving contested rights to a Paul Gauguin painting, he won a dismissal that was affirmed in a leading New York Court of Appeals decision. In addition, he represents the leading materials and analysis firm in connection with their work analysing alleged forgeries of the works of major contemporary artists. Mr Schindler is on the faculty of the Sotheby’s Institute of Art, where he
lectures on art law, and serves on the Art Law Committee of The Bar Association of the City of New York. He also sits on the board of Artists Space, an organization of renowned artists, gallerists, collectors and intellectuals who are dedicated to diversity and experimentation in the arts and to provide an exhibition space for new art and artists. Mr Schindler was recently featured and quoted in an article on the practice of art law in the Fordham Lawyer Magazine. As an active participant in the sectors he serves, Mr Schindler is often at the vanguard of new developments in the law and the art business and has an insider’s perspective on how the changes affect his various constituencies. SC&H’s lawyers all graduated from top colleges and law schools and trained at leading law firms. Many of its lawyers have served on law journals or as federal clerks, and currently serve on or chair bar association committees. The high-level qualifications of its legal staff ensure that the firm’s work is consistently of the highest calibre. In addition to its litigation and transactional art law practice, SC&H have litigated cases in numerous forums involving diverse areas of the law.
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Editor’s Choice - Aviation Law Firm of the Year in Oklahoma, US
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DeBee Gilchrist, a Professional Corporation Jack P. Gilchrist Partner Tel: +(1) 405-232-7777 jgilchrist@debeegilchrist.com www.debeegilchrist.com
Jack Gilchrist is a founding director and shareholder of DeBee Gilchrist, P.C., and heads the firm’s aviation group as special counsel with respect to transactions involving aircraft, engines, propellers and spare parts. Mr. Gilchrist has focused his career on aviation transactions, representing clients from all areas of the aviation industry with regard to every current structure of aircraft and aircraft engine transactions. He has counseled clients around the world in aircraft transactions, including most of the major air carriers, aircraft and engine leasing companies, air cargo companies, corporations, banks and other lending institutions, as well as aircraft brokers, dealers and manufacturers. These transactions include the sale, purchase, lease and financing of large transport aircraft as well as business aircraft. He also counsels clients in connection with establishing and operating aircraft fractional ownership programs as well as business clients participating as fractional owners. Mr. Gilchrist regularly assists clients in structuring transactions and working with pertinent instruments with respect to their recordability with the Federal Aviation Administration, Aircraft Records Branch, in Oklahoma City, and the registration of International Interests under the Cape Town Convention, Aviation protocol. He often serves as special FAA and International Registry counsel to other law firms and companies in aviation matters. Mr. Gilchrist was selected to be included in the 2010 edition of The Best Lawyers in America, and listed in the ‘International Who’s Who of Aviation
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Lawyers’. He was also recognized as the Aviation Law Firm of the year in Oklahoma for 2013. Mr. Gilchrist is also a lecturer and author in the areas of aircraft financing, registration and title law. Among other articles, he is the author of Implementation of the International Registry for Interests in Aircraft under the Cape Town Convention. He has served as a lecturer for organizations such as the American Bar Association, the Transportation Lawyers Association, International Bar Association and the Federal Bar Association. Mr. Gilchrist served as co-chair of the Federal Bar Association Aviation Law, the Cape Town Convention and How it Works with the FAA in 2006, and is a frequent speaker before the ABA Business Law Section, Aircraft Finance Subcommittee, among others. Mr. Gilchrist serves on the Legal Advisory Panel to the Aircraft Working Group under Unidroit, the driving force behind the Cape Town Convention, Aviation Protocol. He is a member of the Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, Federal, American and International Bar Associations. He is a member of the Business Law Section, the Aircraft Financing Subcommittee and the Forum on Air and Space Law of the American Bar Association. He is a member of the Association of Aircraft Title Lawyers and the American Transportation Lawyers Association. He currently serves on the executive committee of the Federal Bar Association, Oklahoma City Chapter, and is a member of the FBA Transportation Law Section.
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US - Energy & Natural Resources Law Firm of the Year in Texas
Complex Business and Energy Litigation Throughout the U.S. Complex Business and Energy Litigation Throughout the U.S. PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Pierce Pierce & & O'Neill O'Neill is is Honored Honored to to be be Chosen Chosen as as the the Energy Energy & & Natural Natural Resources Resources Law Firm of the Year in Texas. Oil Oil & & Gas Gas Law Law || Commercial Commercial Litigation Litigation Litigation-Eminent Litigation-Eminent Domain Domain & & Condemnation Condemnation Pierce & O’Neill, LLP is a civil litigation firm that handles the
Pierce & O’Neill, LLP is a civil litigation firm that handles the
trial and appeal of complex civil litigation and arbitration matters.
trial and appeal of complex civil litigation and arbitration matters.
» Oil & Gas Litigation
»» Oil & Gas Litigation Bankruptcy Litigation »» Bankruptcy CommercialLitigation & Contract Litigation » Commercial & Contract Environmental LitigationLitigation » Toxic Tort Litigation Environmental Litigation Trade Tort Secrets & Non-Compete Litigation »» Toxic Litigation
» Trade Secrets & Non-Compete Litigation
pierce & o’neill, llp 4203 montrose boulevard houston, tx 77006 pierce & o’neill, llp (713) 634-3600 Practice Awards 2014 www.pierceoneill.com 4203 montroseGLEboulevard info@pierceoneill.com houston, tx 77006
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Industry Choice - Patent Litigation Law Firm of the Year in Washington DC, US Williams & Connolly LLP 725 Twelfth Street, NW Washington, DC 20005 Tel: +1 (202) 434-5000 Fax: +1 (202) 434-5029 www.wc.com
Patent Litigation Williams & Connolly LLP has been practicing complex, high-stakes patent litigation for more than 20 years. Major corporations place their trust in Williams & Connolly litigators to handle important intellectual property matters, particularly in patent litigation and related licensing disputes. The firm has represented both patentees and alleged infringers in cases spanning a wide range of different technologies, from pharmaceuticals to medical devices, from biotechnology to electronics and software, among others. The firm’s patent experience is also brought to bear in other contexts including Inter Partes Review (IPR) proceedings before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Several dozen Williams & Connolly attorneys devote a substantial portion of their practice to patent cases, including nine former clerks of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Many of our lawyers practicing in this area have science degrees and thirteen have been admitted to practice before the patent office.
Biotechnology: The firm also handles significant patent, licensing, and trade secret disputes in biotechnology in courts and arbitral forums throughout the world, including before the United States Supreme Court in the landmark MedImmune case, which addressed a licensee’s ability to challenge a patent while still paying royalties. Electronics and Software: The firm handles major patent and licensing matters in the electronics and software fields. In addition to handling the landmark CLS Bank International v. Alice Corp. matter before the en banc Federal Circuit, the firm serves as counsel in trial courts and the International Trade Commission, and in international arbitrations on behalf of major technology firms.
Representative areas of concentration include:
Inter Partes Review/Patent Office Disputes: The firm has handled Inter Partes Review (IPR) proceedings before the patent office, and our lawyers currently serve as lead counsel in a number of IPRs. Many of the IPRs handled by the firm involve parallel district court litigation. The firm serves as counsel in other patent office proceedings of strategic importance to the firm’s clients.
Pharmaceuticals: A major part of Williams & Connolly’s patent litigation practice is representing brand-name pharmaceutical companies in Hatch-Waxman pharmaceutical patent litigation against generic competitors seeking to sell generic versions of the brand companies’ drugs. Over the years, the firm achieved significant successes for many companies involving a diverse array of highly successful drugs, prevailing numerous times at trial and in the Federal Circuit.
Other Proceedings: The firm’s patent experience is also brought to bear in other contexts. For instance, the firm is defending a major pharmaceutical company in the Nexium Antitrust Litigation, a multidisciplinary class action involving allegations of unlawful settlements of Hatch-Waxman patent litigation. The firm has been retained on numerous occasions by major law firms accused of malpractice resulting from patent litigation or prosecution.
64 GLE Practice Awards 2014
ASIA & OCEANIA WINNERS
Located entirely in the eastern hemisphere, Asia is the largest continent in the world, east of Europe and northeast of Africa. Oceania encompasses Australia, New Zealand, and a host of island nations, stretching from Asia’s east coast to parts of the South Pacific in the western hemisphere. Australia escaped recession in 2010-2011, helped by a strong government stimulus as well as robust trade links with Asia. The country’s economy is backed by diverse, natural resources that have in the past attracted high levels of foreign investment and include extensive reserves of coal, iron ore, copper, gold, natural gas, uranium and renewable energy sources. Australia’s economic growth rate slowed during 2012 amid a drop in global demand for its resources and lacklustre domestic consumption.
Overall, New Zealand’s strong investment in the first half of 2012 offset weaker consumer confidence and deteriorating exports. Further, investment remained the key growth driver for the remainder of 2012, with household spending improving in 2013’s final figures. China’s manufacturing sector remains in a slump, renewing concerns that the world’s second-largest economy is in the midst of a sharp slowdown sparked by Europe’s debt crisis. China’s economy is still growing at a faster rate than the economies of the United GLE Practice Awards 2014 65
States, Europe and Japan. However, there are worries that the pace is slowing due to the problems in Europe as well as sluggishness in the US. Both Europe and the US are key export markets for China. China’s central bank lowered interest rates at least twice in 2012 in an attempt to accelerate growth.
Taiwan’s closer economic links with mainland China in 2012 brought greater opportunities for the Taiwan economy, but now Taiwan poses new challenges. For example, FDI in China has resulted in Chinese import substitution away from Taiwan’s exports and a restriction of potential job creation in Taiwan.
Regional giant India faces a deteriorating global growth outlook with diminished willingness or capacity to respond, with domestic policy loosening compared with 2009. Ongoing concerns over government economic and investment policy are a possible weight on business confidence. The authorities’ ability to respond with looser policy is constrained by India’s high inflation, fiscal deficit and public debt.
In recent years, the Indonesian government has faced an ongoing challenge of improving the country’s infrastructure to remove impediments to growth, while addressing climate change concerns, particularly with regard to conserving Indonesia’s forests and peatlands. However, the OECD expects economic growth, led by robust domestic demand, to slow further.
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ASIA & OCEANIA WINNERS
Contents: 69.
Dominic Stamfords
Anti-Money Laundering Law Firm of the Year in Australia
70.
Sciacca’s Lawyers Pty Ltd
Compensation Claims Law Firm of the Year in Australia
73.
Pointon Partners
SME - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Australia
73.
Shanghai Kai-Rong Law Firm
Client Choice - Logistics Law Firm of the Year in China
74.
Troutman Sanders
Corporate Law Firm of the Year in China GLE Practice Awards 2014 67
ASIA & OCEANIA WINNERS
75.
Fangda Partners
Individual - Dispute Resolution Lawyer of the Year in China
75.
RNClegal / Rajinder Narain & Co.
Aviation Law Firm of the Year in India
76.
Chadha & Co.
Boutique - Employment Law Firm of the Year in India
76.
Mehta & Mehta Associates
Boutique - Patents Law Firm of the Year in India
77.
Tuli & Co
Client Choice - Arbitration Law Firm of the Year in India
77.
KARANJAWALA & COMPANY
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in India
78.
New Delhi Law Offi ces
Corporate Regulatory Law Firm of the Year in India
79.
Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo
Individual - Commercial Litigation Lawyer of the Year in Indonesia
79.
Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo
Project Finance Law Firm of the Year in Indonesia
80.
MarQonsult
IP Law Firm of the Year in Malaysia
80.
Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & De Los Angeles
Mid-Market - IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in the Philippines
81.
Gurbani & Co
Industry Choice - Maritime Law Firm of the Year in Singapore
81.
Darae Law & IP Firm
Boutique - IP Law Firm of the Year in South Korea
82.
Y.P. Lee, Mock & Partners
Mid-Market - Patents Law Firm of the Year in South Korea
82.
Messrs. Julius & Creasy
Maritime Law Firm of the Year in Sri Lanka
83.
Deep & Far
IP Law Firm of the Year in Taiwan
83.
DESTEK PATENT, INC.
Intellectual Property Law Firm of the Year in Turkey
68 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Anti-Money Laundering Law Firm of the Year in Australia
Dominic Stamfords
Dominic Stamfords
Paul Dominic Managing Partner Tel: +612 9871 7245 pauld@dominic.com.au www.dominic.com.au
As of 2013, Dominic Stamfords has entered into a strategic alliance with Woods & Day allowing our respective firms to consolidate resources, expand our areas of expertise and offer a significantly improved range of services to clients. Dominic Stamfords is a cutting edge commercial legal and tax firm situated in the heart of Sydney’s CBD and in addition to our strategic alliance with Woods & Day, we are part of a world wide legal group dedicated to excellence and high quality client service. We are comprised of a number of professionals and administrative staff with a wide variety of experience and interests and believe that we are capable of delivering a tailored product to all needs of every client. The firm is a niche firm headed by Dr. Paul Dominic and prides itself in providing cost effective and client specific commercial
and practical solutions.
Associations & Affiliations
Paul Dominic
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Dr Paul Dominic is the principal of Dominic Stamfords who have as of 2013 entered into a strategic alliance with Woods & Day. Dr Dominic has more than 40 years’ experience including in the areas of Banking and Finance, Australian and International Tax, Infrastructure Projects, Commercial Law and International Investment. Education •
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Doctorate in Law (International Taxation) - University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands Doctorandus in Law - University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands Postgraduate Diploma in European Business and Tax Law - Europa Institute, The Netherlands Bachelor of Laws - University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
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Admitted as a Lawyer of the Supreme Court of New South Wales Admitted as a Lawyer and Member of the Singapore Law Society Admitted as a Lawyer and Member of the Sri Lanka Law Society Admitted as a Lawyer and Member of the UK Law Society Member of NSW Law Society
The firm is a niche firm headed by Dr. Paul Dominic and prides itself in providing cost effective and client specific commercial and practical solutions.
GLE Practice Awards 2014 69
Compensation Claims Law Firm of the Year in Australia
Sciacca’s Lawyers Pty Ltd Vince Kartelo Head of Department Tel: +61 07 3867 8808 v.kartelo@sciaccas.com.au www.sciaccas.com.au
Sciacca’s Lawyers was founded by the Honourable Con Sciacca AO some 44 years ago. We are proud of our tradition of providing access to affordable, high-quality legal services to our many clients and maintaining the firm’s principles of social justice. At Sciacca’s we find the best solutions for our clients within the boundaries of fairness and equity. Sciacca’s Lawyers has built long-standing business relationships with our clients and we have watched with satisfaction as their businesses have gone from strength to strength. At Sciacca’s Lawyers, our work ethic involves more than just a commitment to finding the best way to practise our chosen fields of law. Our reputation has been forged by a team of lawyers, many of whom have worked together for the better part of their careers. This dedication is why we can offer you a depth of experience recognised as second to none, and service at affordable rates. Today, with approximately 50 professional and support staff, and an extensive regional network of visiting offices, as well as our Brisbane CBD head office, Sciacca’s Lawyers is a high-profile, mid-tier legal practice working with new- and long-standing clients on a wide range of legal matters. OUR VALUES We are committed to the pursuit of social justice. This has been our mission from inception. In all areas of law, we are dedicated to finding the best solution for our clients within the 70 GLE Practice Awards 2014
boundaries of fairness and equity.
OUR CULTURE
Our Community Involvement
Sciacca’s Lawyers promotes a culture where our partners, solicitors and support staff take great pride in their legal skills and where all of our solicitors are expected to remain at the forefront of their chosen practice areas.
In keeping with our firm’s values, staff at Sciacca’s Lawyers are heavily involved in community activities. Mr Sciacca, now outside the Federal Parliament continues to be involved with many community and veterans’ organisations. The firm also acts as honorary solicitors for many sporting, community and charitable associations. Some of the community groups that benefit from Sciacca’s Lawyers’ Honorary Solicitor Program or patronage at various honorary and membership levels include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
The Bayside Community Care Association The Schizophrenia Fellowship of South Queensland Inc. Returned and Services Leagues of Australia Naval Association of Australia RAAF Association of Australia Tattersals Club (Brisbane) Redland Sporting Club Baycare Association The Bayside Community Legal Service The Queensland Law Society Brisbane Racing Club The Industrial Relations Society of Queensland The Australian Institute of Company Directors Patron of Ex-POW Association of Queensland British Commonwealth Occupation Forces Association Italian Chamber of Commerce & Industry QLD Branch
We pride ourselves in delivering legal services efficiently, in a timely manner whilst remaining affordable in our fees and personal in our dealings, assigning solicitors and support staff that are appropriate to the task, matter or project, not to the bottom line. Sciacca’s Lawyers’ reputation for high-quality, affordable legal services and integrity are our most precious assets. We adhere to the highest ethical standards and, at all levels of our firm, we maintain an approach that enhances our ability to identify ethical issues and issues of conflict as they arise. We always do what is right, not what is convenient or expedient at the time. Our firm’s history, spanning almost four decades, has allowed us to develop and cement a reputation that is second to none for providing excellent legal services; moreover, we have represented our clients on some of the country’s most interesting and challenging issues at all levels of the justice system, including a number of High Court challenges. Our reputation has allowed us to forge long-term strategic alliances with our clients based on mutual benefit, respect and loyalty. This heritage, forged through the leadership of our founding and managing
partner, the Honourable Con Sciacca AO, provides a sense of mission for all staff, ensuring that all matters undertaken are conducted in such a way as to consider their impact on the firm’s legacy and reputation, past, present and future. At Sciacca’s Lawyers, professional staff are encouraged to be actively involved in their communities. We encourage our lawyers to be actively involved in pro bono matters and champion charitable and other community activities, ensuring that the principles of social justice that we firmly believe in are practically applied. This ensures our staff stay grounded, helps their personal development and because we believe that access to legal services and the justice system should be available to people regardless of their economic circumstances. At Sciacca’s Lawyers, our culture is unlike that of many other legal firms – we enjoy working together, assisting each other and practising law together. Our attitude to the law is both pragmatic and hardnosed, whilst retaining ideals of fairness and social justice. This ethos is reflected in the quality of our work, the retention and high morale of our staff and in the longstanding, mutually beneficial relationships we maintain with our clients. Sciacca’s Lawyers has been obtaining favourable outcomes for workers regarding all matters concerning workers’ compensation since the firm’s inception in 1970. Through its affiliations with the unions and their members, Sciacca’s has developed a reputation which is second to none in terms of acting for and protecting the rights of injured workers. Our experienced team handle all aspects of workers’ compensation claims including common law claims (work place injuries) and statutory workers’ compensation claims. Sciacca’s is also renowned for providing assistance to employees and employers when it comes to protecting rights in the workplace. We have been at the forefront of employment law in Australia for 40 years – ensuring that no matter who you are, your rights are
protected at work. EXPERTISE WORKPLACE ACCIDENTS Sciacca’s personal injury lawyers in Brisbane, Queensland have been representing injured parties for more than 40 years. We act for some of the largest unions in Queensland providing superior legal services to their members ensuring their rights are protected at all stages throughout the claims process whilst keeping our fees at a level significantly less than our competitors. This ensures that the injured worker receives the maximum level of compensation. We possess unequalled experience in catering for not only the needs of union members but any injured person. Our strength is in our experienced team of professional personal injury lawyers and support staff, all of whom are long-standing employees. You can be assured that the same senior solicitor will commence, prosecute and finalise your claim in a timely fashion. The person you speak to will: (a) be a lawyer; (b) be able to handle all aspects of your claim. At some other personal injury law firms in Brisbane, you may not get to meet your lawyer until the very end of your claim. As a large stakeholder in this area of law we are regularly consulted to provide input and make comment on any government proposed changes to the law. Our client care and file management processes are second to none. To find out why we’re trusted by more peak unions and injured individual workers, contact us to schedule an appointment. MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENTS
Our experienced team of injury compensation lawyers acts on behalf of injured parties in compensation claims arising out of motor vehicle accidents. The area of law which applies to these claims is constantly under review. Through our active involvement in the Queensland Law Society “Accident Compensation Committee” and our ongoing commitment to continuing legal education, Sciacca’s is at the forefront of knowledge in up-to-date case law and regulatory change which affect the rights and entitlements of claimants who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents. As there are strict time limitations that must be complied with if you have had a motor vehicle accident and have been injured, it is vital that you call us to obtain early and accurate advice regarding your rights and entitlements. WORKERS’ COMPENSATION WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWYERS IN BRISBANE, QLD Sciacca’s has been obtaining favourable outcomes for injured workers regarding all matters concerning workers’ compensation since the firm’s inception in 1970. Through its affiliations with the unions and their members, Sciacca’s has developed a reputation, as Queensland compensation lawyers, which is second to none in terms of acting for and protecting the rights of injured workers. Our experienced team handle all aspects of workers’ compensation claims including, but not limited to common law claims (workplace injuries); and statutory workers’ compensation claims including: • • • •
Application for WorkCover Review; Industrial WorkCover appeals; Medical Assessment Tribunals; All matters involving Industrial Relations Commission and Industrial Magistrates Court.
The workers’ compensation system exists to compensate injured workers. The system is extremely beneficial for GLE Practice Awards 2014 71
injured workers; however, it can be a minefield if a worker is not legally represented or if the worker: (a) doesn’t act in a timely fashion; (b) acts without obtaining legal advice. Our experienced team of WorkCover lawyers and general compensation lawyers are able to answer any questions that you have which relate to workers’ compensation matters and can at an early stage identify all of your rights and entitlements. If you are injured at work you should contact us for obligation-free advice at nil cost to you. PUBLIC LIABILITY If you have been injured in a public place and the injury has arisen as a result of an act or omission of a third party you may be entitled to bring a common law claim for personal injuries. These types of “public liability” claims can be complex and have been the subject of significant legislative and judicial review and attention over recent years. There are very strict rules and regulations which apply in order to entitle the claimant to bring a claim for this type of injury. We at Sciacca’s have a team with the experience, knowledge and a proven track record which are able to identify and pursue these types of claims on your behalf and to provide you with an early and obligation-free advice as to your prospects of success. VINCE KARTELO Sciacca’s consultants have forged a reputation second to none as the best workplace injury lawyers in Queensland. Vince Kartelo is the senior partner leading the injury compensation team. With over 20 years’ experience in personal injuries litigation working with a team of dedicated professionals, Vince has represented workers from many unions in Queensland, includ72 GLE Practice Awards 2014
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Australian Workers Union; National Union of Workers; Shop Distributive and Allied Employees Association; Queensland Public Sector Union; and Queensland Police Union. He also acts for private individuals who have suffered personal injuries in car accidents.
Vince regularly acts in major and catastrophic claims where the plaintiff has sustained injuries such as loss of limbs, head injuries or spinal damage resulting in paralysis and has negotiated many settlements in excess of $1 million. If your claim for compensation has been rejected, your compensation payments have ceased or the licensed workers’ compensation insurer has made any other adverse decision to your claim, Vince and his team can organise a review or appeal against that decision with WorkCover. Sciacca’s Lawyers is proud of its tradition of providing access to justice for ordinary Australians. Vince organises and participates in the Queensland regional visits programme, which is designed to offer onsite assistance to workers. He regularly travels to Cairns, Townsville or Ipswich to interview clients and report on the progress of their claim. Vince also acts for day care centres and Family Day Care Associations throughout Queensland advising on centres’ obligations and responsibilities to children in their care. Vince has been involved in cases which have changed the legal landscape, most notably, regarding the issue of paid care and assistance to injured workers. WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE INJURED AT WORK Always lodge a workers’ compensation application – even if your injury is minor. If your employer tells you not
to lodge an application, ignore their advice. Workers’ compensation is a RIGHT. You have only six (6) months from the date of your injury to lodge an application. If you don’t apply within six months you can never receive compensation. Completing an incident report form DOES NOT amount to lodging an application for workers’ compensation. Claiming you are unaware of your entitlements will not be an excuse if you miss the six-month limit for lodging an application. Seemingly minor injuries (i.e. back strain) often become more serious over time. The six-month limit is strictly enforced and starts from the initial injury, NOT when the injury gets more serious. If you lodge your application more than 20 days after your injury, you will only be compensated for lost income from when you lodge your claim, not from when you were injured. Delaying the application could cost you money. If your application is rejected, you have three months from receiving the written notice of rejection from WorkCover to lodge an appeal. If you miss the three-month time limit, you can never receive workers’ compensation, and you cannot pursue a common law claim against your employer. You should always see your own doctor for treatment and advice on your injury, even if you’ve seen your employer’s doctor. NEVER feel compelled to rely on advice or reports from your employer’s doctor. You should follow all reasonable requests made of you by WorkCover Queensland. For all enquiries regarding workplace injuries contact Sciacca’s Lawyers on our toll-free number 1800 658 525.
SME - Corporate Law Firm of the Year in Australia Pointon Partners Tony Pointon Senior Partner Tel: +61 3 9614 7707 adp@pointonpartners.com.au www.pointonpartners.com.au
Pointon Partners is based in Melbourne, Australia, and is a leading provider of legal services to businesses and their stakeholders. At Pointon Partners we work using a team methodology comprising from one to four legal operators, depending on the size and complexity of the matter and the appropriate skill level and charge out rate as required. This enables us to handle from the most complex and the most sophisticated commercial transactions down to simple matters. Pointon Partners offers the expertise and experience of a large commercial law firm, coupled with the personal service and attention that can only be offered by an expert, smaller legal firm. We act in matters in all Australian jurisdictions and also internationally, with appropriate legal representatives in those jurisdictions.
and drafting skills to ensure that your transactions are completed in a professional and effective manner. Corporate Advisory We provide a full range of corporate advisory services in respect of the ‘ASX Corporate Governance Principles, Guidelines and Recommendations’, ASX Listing Rules, public company takeovers, takeovers panel disputes and corporate obligations generally under the Corporations Act. We provide expertise in annual accounts and corporate disclosures, shareholder and ASX communications, AGMs and shareholder meeting advice, employee share and option plans, corporate governance, company constitutions, senior executive and director remuneration issues, directors and executives indemnities and D&O insurance, share buy-backs, capital reductions and reorganisations and other structural share issues.
We are committed in our relationships with our clients, our staff, our related professionals, and our community. In respect of our community, the firm is a member of the peak body for Melbourne’s future, The Committee for Melbourne. Our directors are also involved as directors of a Victorian Government designated Melbourne Major event, The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, and various worthy charities.
Foreign Owned Subsidiaries We provide a range of legal services to the Australian based subsidiaries of international companies. We assist these international companies and their Australian subsidiaries with establishing a business presence in Australia, carrying out mergers with and acquisitions of other Australian companies and their assets, advice in relation to Australia’s foreign investment rules and Foreign Investment Review Board notification requirements, advice in relation to financial reporting requirements for Australian companies with international holding companies, and assist such clients to meet the ASIC lodging requirements for foreign owned companies. We also assist international companies and their stakeholders with a range of other Australian legal issues, including the protection of their intellectual property in Australia and compliance with Australia’s taxation laws.
Corporate Law Capital Raisings Our firm can assist you with initial public offerings (IPOs), venture capital, private equity raisings and other public and private capital raisings. Our comprehensive services include advice in relation to capital raising structures, due diligence, drafting of capital raising and investor documentation and obtaining all necessary listing approvals and other required approvals from the relevant authorities.
Corporate Regulatory Compliance Our firm regularly assists our corporate clients with meeting their compliance obligations under the Corporations Act and the ASX Listing Rules. This includes assisting corporate clients with such matters as regulatory filings required by ASIC and the ASX, financial reporting obligations, meeting continuous disclosure requirements, advice on compliance with corporate constitutions, responding to ASIC and ASX enquiries and seeking Corporations Act and ASX Listing Rule waivers and modifications.
Mergers and Acquisitions Our lawyers have extensive experience in the area of mergers and acquisitions of listed and unlisted public companies. We have successfully assisted in negotiating and implementing business acquisitions in various industries, including extensive experience in the resources sector. We have a dedicated team of partners to advise on corporate takeovers and ACCC compliance and an enthusiastic team of lawyers with strong commercial
Company Secretarial We can also assist our corporate clients with their company secretarial requirements, including ongoing regulatory filings, company register management, documenting share transactions, changes in company officeholders, preparing notices of meetings and drafting resolutions, board and member meetings, drafting company minutes and public company announcements.
Our commitment to the quality of our services means that you are assured of a personal relationship with our lawyers including direct partner supervision, the support of our specialist skills and complete openness in all your dealings with the firm.
Client Choice - Logistics Law Firm of the Year in China Shanghai Kai-Rong Law Firm Jin Yu- Lai Managing Partner Tel: +86 21 5396 1065 jinyulai@skrlf.com www.skrlf.com
Shanghai Kai-Rong Law Firm, founded in 1998 as one of the first private law firms in Shanghai, is a leading law firm specialising in international trade, freight forwarding, maritime, aviation, insurance, finance and commerce, among other areas. Kai-Rong’s achievements have been recognised and awarded by domestic and international institutions. Moreover, the firm has been listed by ALB, Getting the Deal Through, Chambers and other publications, who have described the firm as a leading law firm for areas such as insurance and transportation. Mr Jin Yu-Lai is the founder and the managing partner of Kai-Rong. Admitted as attorney by the Ministry of Justice of PRC in 1987, Mr Jin specialises in maritime, aviation, insurance, company law, finance and risk investment. He is highly experienced in all phases of complex litigation, non-litigation and arbitration, and has a thorough understanding of commercial and maritime law and procedures. He is the arbitrator of the mediation committee of CCPIT, the arbitrator of the China Maritime Arbitration Commission, the arbitrator of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre, the director of the China Maritime Law Association, the director of the Maritime Law Committee of the China Bar Association, a panelist for the Kuala Lumpur Regional Center for Arbitration (Maritime) and a fellow member of International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Mr Jin is also highly experienced in aviation, shipping and insurance, and
has acted for many domestic and international well-known shipping companies, forwarding companies, airline companies and insurance companies to successfully deal with thousands of significant cases. Today, the firm’s lawyers are renowned for exquisite professional legal knowledge and genuine serving attitude, and are committed to serving clients, domestic and international, with unmitigated zeal and great professionalism. The firm wins its clients’ trust by offering effective and high-qualified services; therefore, it retains a stable cooperation relationship with many well-known domestic and international industries and law firms, such as BLG, Clyde & Co, Gates & Partner. The firm is one of the foremost recommended Chinese law firms for business cooperation, and its reputation for excellence has been widely acknowledged by its clients and peers. The firm’s landmark cases have included: assisting Korean Air to handle an aircraft crash accident of 15 April 1999 and the related death / injury claim and property claim; assisting Cargolux Airlines and its eight German insurers to handle a ground handling incident with a claim amount of approx USD 14 million in China; assisting Bombardier Inc and its insurer USAU to deal with Bao Tou Aircrash claim in Beijing No.2 court involving claim amount USD 20 million; assisting MD Helicopters Inc of the US and their London market insurers to deal with a claim arising from aircraft dropping in sea involving claim amount USD 8 million; as well as representing Agility against Jade Cargo International to deal with disputes on service contract worth $2 million.
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Corporate Law Firm of the Year in China
Troutman Sanders For further information please contact: Edward J. Epstein Managing Partner - Shanghai Office Tel: +86.21.6133.8998 edward.epstein@troutmansanders.com www.troutmansanders.com/edward_epstein
Firm Overview Founded in 1897, Troutman Sanders LLP is an international law firm with more than 600 lawyers in offices located throughout the United States and China. The firm’s core practice areas are: Corporate, Real Estate and Finance, Business Litigation, Specialized Litigation, and Energy and Industry Regulation. Troutman Sanders is defined by its knowledge base and proactive approach to addressing legal and business challenges.
see our job as “ We providing clients with
solutions that are both creative and lawful.
”
For more than 20 years, Troutman Sanders’ lawyers have been serving clients doing business in China. The combined teams in Hong Kong (1997), Shanghai (2007) and Beijing (2012), consist of more than 40 legal professionals assisting Asian, North American and European-based companies to invest and do business in China. In China and the US our lawyers also have significant experience in assisting China-based clients with their US investments and operations. We foster a culture of lawyers who take a proactive approach to our clients’ needs and get the deal done. We see our job as providing clients with solutions that are both creative and lawful. Our multilingual attorneys cover a wide range of Chinese languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese and Taiwanese, and 74 GLE Practice Awards 2014
their multicultural backgrounds help Western investors to bridge cultural differences. Corporate Practice in China Troutman Sanders corporate practice reflects the broad reach and complex concerns of businesses operating in a global economy. We serve a diverse array of clients, ranging from publicly traded multinationals to closely held private companies, private equity firms and investment banks. We pride ourselves on offering sophisticated and creative legal advice focused on helping our clients achieve their business goals. After China entered the WTO in 2001 and as the market has continued to open up, our clients have looked for opportunities to hit the ground running. Traditional foreign direct investment in wholly-owned subsidiaries and joint ventures in China has therefore given way to mergers and acquisitions. M&A activity is also being driven by the need for consolidation and rationalization of existing foreign investment portfolios. Our experience includes M&A transactions among foreign-owned businesses as well as between Chinese-owned and foreign-owned businesses, including the sale of distressed assets. Our industry expertise includes manufacturing, chemicals, real estate, service industries and value added telecoms business. We aim to assist our clients to grow their businesses in China and support them in any way we can, whether
this involves employment disputes, regulatory compliance and governmental relations or litigation management. China can be seductive to both newcomers and frequent visitors and we endeavor to keep our clients on track, to challenge conventional wisdom and to counsel clients based on practice not just theory. We are sensitive to China’s changing political economy as it affects foreign business and our goal is to provide clients with on the ground advice for doing business in China. We know nothing is easy in China, but we endeavor to make everything possible for our clients.
know nothing is “ We easy in China, but
we endeavor to make everything possible for our clients.
”
Corruption and employee fraud in China is a big concern for multinational companies and our clients frequently seek our assistance to mitigate risk when doing business with or in China, whether in the context of merger and acquisition activities or daily business operations. Our lawyers have advised on and conducted investigations relating to the enforcement of China’s own fraud and anti-corruption laws as well as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). Our compliance exercises for US-based clients include FCPA program management, FCPA-specific due diligence and relevant training and education.
Individual - Dispute Resolution Lawyer of the Year in China Fangda Partners Helen H. Shi Partner Tel: +86-10-57695607 hong.shi@fangdalaw.com www.fangdalaw.com
Helen H. Shi is a litigation and arbitration partner in Fangda Partners (Beijing, China). Her practice covers all aspects of China-related dispute resolution, ranging from domestic litigation to international arbitration, and is particularly acclaimed for her expertise in CIETAC arbitration.
arbitrator. She also provided Chinese commercial law opinions and testified as expert in a number of China-related litigation or arbitration abroad, including arbitration before HKIAC, SIAC, and an ad hoc tribunal in London, and court proceedings in Hong Kong and Canada.
Helen Shi has a proven track record for acting as counsel in complex and cross-border commercial arbitration cases. She has dealt with more than 100 cases concerning disputes arising from joint venture contracts, equity acquisition, international trade, technology transfer, loan and guarantee transactions, as well as construction disputes. She has successfully represented many international financial institutions, multinational companies and large Chinese corporations before Chinese courts in different levels and various arbitrations institutions such as CIETAC, ICC, and HKIAC.
She is also widely published on China-related dispute resolution topics and speaks often at international conferences and seminars.
In addition to her role as counsel, Helen has also heard over 50 cases (including CIETAC and ICC cases) as
Helen Shi is qualified in both PRC and New York. She is a native Mandarin speaker and is fluent in English.
Before joining Fangda in 2005, Helen began her legal career with CIETAC as legal counsel, administering many foreign-related cases. She then studied law in the US before joining a leading US law firm and spent six years there, handling China-related disputes. Such unique experience established her position as a leading PRC litigator in the market.
Aviation Law Firm of the Year in India RNClegal / Rajinder Narain & Co. Ravi Nath, Esq. Partner; Attorney-at-Law Advocate Supreme Court of India Tel: +91 11 4122 5000 ravi.nath@rnclegal.com www.rnclegal.com
Ravi Nath has 24 years of experience in aviation-related laws, including aircraft equipment & facility financing, regulatory and litigation. His clients include major manufacturers, leading banks and financial institutions, lessors and export credit agencies, such as: ABN Amro, AerCap, Airbus, Aircastle, Airlease, Avions de Transport Regional GIE, Avolon, AWAS, Bank of America, Bank of China Aviation Limited, BBAM, BNP Paribas, Boeing, Bombardier, China Aircraft Leasing Company Limited, Citibank, COFACE, Dassault, Deutsche Bank, Dubai Aero Space, DVB, ECGD, ELFC, Embraer, Euler Hermes, GECAS, HKAC, ICBC, ILFC, JP Morgan Chase, Macquarie, Natixis, Standard Chartered, US Ex-Im, Willis Lease Finance Corporation et al. His practice includes government regulations, companies, cross-border financing and securitisation. Mr Nath is a partner at one of India’s oldest legal firms, RNClegal / Rajinder Narain & Co. He was also the president of Inter Pacific Bar Association in 2004. Two of the firm’s other partners were chief justices of the Delhi High Court, and one a president of The High Court Bar Association. During the last 10 years, Mr Nath has advised on transactions in excess of $15 billion. The Legal 500 stated: “Ravi Nath’s esteemed reputation as
an aviation expert puts clear blue water between Rajinder Narain & Co. and its rivals…” In addition, Who’s Who Legal 2013 has identified him as one of the world’s 10 highly reputed aviation lawyers. He is a frequent speaker at various International conferences and serves on the Legal Advisory Panel of Aviation Working Group. Mr Nath served as the chair of the Aviation Committee of the International Bar Association and is the editor and author of various books and papers on aviation laws. He regularly advises on major aviation transactions and issues. Moreover, the Bar Association of India has conferred its highest honour on him. He was invited, along with India’s former finance minister, Mr P Chidambaram, and president of the Bar Association, Mr Nariman, to be a co-author on a book relating to legal aspects of doing business in India. Mr Nath received his B. Com (Hons) and his LLB in International and Competition Law at King’s College London and in Public International Law at Harvard University. He completed an apprenticeship at erstwhile Sinclair Roche, London.
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Boutique - Employment Law Firm of the Year in India Chadha & Co. Savita Sarna Partner and Head, Labour and Employment Practice Group Tel: +91 98118 60040 ssarna@chadha-co.com www.chadha-co.com
Chadha & Co. is one of the leading full service law firms in India offering a wide range of legal services in the areas of corporate and commercial laws. One of the highly specialised areas of practice of the firm is Labour and Employment laws. The Labour and Employment practice group adopts a business-focus approach in advising the clients so that the strategy advised is implemented in an effective manner, meeting all parameters of the applicable laws and regulations. The Labour and Employment practice for Chadha & Co. is headed by Ms. Savita Sarna, Partner, who has vast experience in advising multinational clients on all aspects of employment laws ranging from drafting employment contracts, to boardroom and executive disputes. She regularly advises corporate clients on employment contracts; employee handbooks; individual dismissals; collective redundancies and other cost-cutting measures; employment aspects of mergers and acquisitions; team moves and restrictive covenants; compromise agreement negotiations; non-competition clauses; severance plans, discrimination; business transfers; disability; working conditions; international posting / secondment; social security benefits; contract labour; trade union; enquiries, etc. Savita prominently represents companies and their managements on employment related projects and litigation. The clients of the firm include leading Fortune 500 corporations as well as small and medium enterprises; specifically, in the area of labour and employment, the firm has advised several clients including one of the subsidiaries of GE Industrial in India, STMicroelectronics, Canon, DSM Nutritionals Products, DIAB, Daikin Air-conditioning, Hitachi, L’Occitane, Mitsubishi, Vestergaard, Toyota, EPSA, Sacyr, etc.
Services rendered by Chadha & Co. under the Labour and Employment practice include: Documentation and Strategy Services: The firm specialises in strategising for recruitment and retention of the employees of its clients. The firm also assists its clients in drafting and reviewing employment agreements and policies, notices of termination, consulting and secondment agreements, confidentiality and non-compete arrangements, recovery of dues and settlement agreements, etc. Company Policies / Employee Handbook: The firm has proven expertise in drafting company policy documents such as employee handbook, code of conduct, HR manual, anti-sexual harassment policy, etc. We tailor-make these documents to suit the requirements of our clients with special emphasis on detailed clauses relating to standard employment practices, including leave policies, working hours, employment benefits, discipline and grievance, separation, confidential information, intellectual property rights, etc. Advisory Work, Statutory Compliances and Auditing: Our firm is advising its clients on a regular basis on the applicability of various labour laws in India (both Central and State), including the Industrial Disputes Act, the Employees’ Provident Fund Act, Trade Unions Act, Payment of Bonus Act, Payment of Gratuity Act, Contract Labour Regulations, the state-specific Shops & Establishments enactments, etc. Expatriate Social Security and Immigration Issues: The firm is advising clients on immigration, related taxation issues and other legal requirements that arise when recruiting employees from abroad and sending employees to foreign countries. Employment Litigation: The firm is advising and representing its clients in employment litigation before various labour departments pertaining to provident fund, employee state insurance, gratuity, industrial disputes, etc.
Boutique - Patents Law Firm of the Year in India Mehta & Mehta Associates Dr. Ramesh Kr. MEHTA M.Sc., M.Tech., Ph.D., DIIT, LLB M.A.(Eco), DGL, IPA, IDA, ITMA. Attorney-at-Law Founder Former Examiner of Patents & Designs
Former Dy. Director – IPR, DRDO Former Executive Consultant (IPR&TT) FITT, IIT Delhi Tel: +91-124-4108474, 4108475 mehta@mehtaip.com www.mehtaip.com
Mehta House B-474, Sushant Lok - I, Sector - 27 GURGAON - 122002, NCR, INDIA
Mehta & Mehta Associates do NOT have any branch office. Mehta & Mehta Associates has been awarded with/as: » Global Law Experts Practice Awards for the year 2014 as Boutique - Patent Law Firm of the Year in India; » Corporate INTL Global Award Winner for the year 2014 as Patent Law Firm of the Year in India; » Corporate INTL Legal Award Winner for the year 2013 as Patent Law Firm of the Year in India.
76 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Client Choice - Arbitration Law Firm of the Year in India Tuli & Co Mr. Rajat Taimni Partner Tel: +91 22 4236 6400 r.taimni@tuli.biz www.tuli.biz
Tuli & Co is a leading Insurance, Reinsurance & Dispute Resolution law firm in India. We advise our clients on potential dispute situations and long term strategy to handle complex disputes. Tuli & Co’s approach is straightforward and informal. Our clientele consists of foreign multinationals, domestic private companies and public sector companies spread across various locations as a result of which we have developed an efficient network of law firms and senior counsels in dealing with cases across most commercial centres in India. For international cases, we leverage the network of Kennedys associated offices for assistance and representation work. The firm has achieved a significant degree of recognition both from clients and competitors in Court litigation. Clients have instructed us on complex, high value disputes which invariably have an international element to them. The firm in recent times successfully represented World Sports Group Mauritius against MSM (Singapore) Pte Ltd on the issue of arbitrability of disputes and grant of anti-arbitration injunctions. The judgment in World Sports Group (Mauritius) v MSM Satellite (Singapore) Pte Ltd [2014 (2) ABR 349] is one of the most important arbitration decisions rendered by the Indian Supreme Court over the last few years. We continue to act for the World Sports Group in their disputes with the
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and Multi Screen Media (MSM) for the media rights of the Indian Premier League (IPL). We are also acting for our US based client Venture Global Engineering in its disputes with Tech Mahindra (the erstwhile Satyam Computer Services) concerning shareholding rights in one of India’s most profitable IT companies. We are handling claims with values of US$4.75 billion in an oil and energy dispute, US$1.05 billion in a sports telecast dispute, US$910 million in an automotive engineering dispute, US$600 million in a luxury tourist train dispute and US$550 million in a pipeline project dispute. The firm is currently involved in at least 10 high profile cases all pending adjudication before the Supreme Court which involve inter alia: (1) arbitrability of disputes where there are serious allegations of fraud; (2) whether an arbitration clause survives a contractual release; (3) the factors to be considered if an award is to be set aside on the grounds of public policy; and (4) the scope and import of the severability doctrine under Indian arbitration law. Clients have described the firm’s dispute resolution practice as cutting edge, sterling and first rate. We are in a select band of firms that handle the most high profile and complex disputes and are instrumental in driving cases that settle the law on key issues.
Litigation Law Firm of the Year in India KARANJAWALA & COMPANY Mr. Raian Karanjawala Managing Partner Tel: +91 11 435 88888 raian@raian.in
KARANJAWALA & COMPANY was founded in 1983 by Raian and Manik Karanjawala and operates today out of two offices in New Delhi. Over the years it has come to dominate the litigation landscape and has serviced a wide variety of diverse clients from prime ministers to captains of industry to the biggest corporate houses and the largest media companies. It is equally at ease handling the day-to-day cases of ordinary litigants as it is handling the legal disputes of royal families. Though historically its practice began with a predominant Supreme Court and High Court emphasis, it has today expanded in a manner, which ensures that it has a presence in all the subordinate courts and tribunals in the National Capital Region (NCR) and its services are often enlisted to handle litigation on a pan–India basis. The approach of the Firm is reflected in its working creed. The Firm believes in sober and thought-through advice, effective and expeditious execution, and competitive and cost-effective pricing. Also, the client is always that of the Firm and never of an individual; and therefore the most optimum and client friendly utilization of talent is assured. The Firm has been conferred numerous awards, such as: European CEO: “Best Dispute Resolution Team”, India, 2009; India Business Law
Journal’s prestigious Indian Law Firm Awards, 2009, 2010, 2011 2012 & 2013; Legal Era Awards: “Best Litigation and Arbitration Law Firm Award” for 2012, 2013 & 2014; The Corporate INTL Global Awards’ “Boutique Litigation Firm of the Year” in 2012, 2013 & 2014; The Global Law Experts Practice Awards 2013: “Commercial Dispute Resolution Firm of the Year”; Legal Comprehensive - Golden Global Awards 2013: “Dispute Resolution Law Firm of the Year”; Corporate Livewire Global Awards 2013 & 2014: “Boutique Litigation Law Firm of the Year - India”; ACQ Global Awards 2013 & 2014: “India - Boutique Litigation Law Firm of the Year”; Global 100 - 2013 & 2014: “India - Boutique Litigation Law Firm of the Year”; Global Law Experts International Awards 2013: “Boutique - Litigation Law Firm of the Year”; ACQ Law Awards 2013: “India - Boutique Litigation Law Firm of the Year”; and DealMakers’ Annual Awards 2013 & 2014: “India - Boutique Litigation Firm Of The Year”. The firm has also been listed among the top-tier firms for dispute resolution in Asialaw Profiles 2011 & 2012; Asia Pacific Legal 500, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2012 & 2013; and in Chambers and Partners (Asia) as a “Band 1” firm for “Dispute Resolution: Litigation, New Delhi” for 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014. Mr Raian Karanjawala was named one of the 50 most influential people in India by ‘India Today’ magazine in 2004.
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Corporate Regulatory Law Firm of the Year in India
New Delhi Law Offices Sunitha Narahari Partner Tel: +91-11-4072-5050 sunitha@ndlolegal.com www.ndlolegal.com
New Delhi Law Offices, known as ‘NDLO’, is one of the leading law firms in India. The firm is lead by a prominent corporate lawyer supported by an experienced team of lawyers comprising partners, of counsels and associates. Since its founding in 1992, NDLO has built up an impressive practice and offers full spectrum legal services, with focus on corporate and commercial laws. NDLO has been regularly advising major national and multinational clients in diverse areas of law. The firm is well equipped and positioned to provide highly specialized legal advisory services in areas of strategic investments both in and outbound, entry strategy, mergers, acquisitions and restructuring, consolidation and liquidation, banking and finance, securities and capital markets, infrastructure, technology transfer and information technology, duty and tax structuring, anti-dumping and real estate. The corporate and commercial practice is complemented by a skilled team of litigating lawyers experienced in handling matters both on the original and appellate side. With emphasis on fast response time and associated cost efficiencies, NDLO’s mainstay has been its ability to work closely with clients on a ‘handson’ approach. The firm has been involved in helping national and multinational clients not only in drawing up business blueprints but has assisted them in successfully implementing them. NDLO’s value system and approach to legal practice has built a level of faith and confidence which sees NDLO partners and of counsels being appointed to board positions for advising and guiding clients on strategic and operational issues. NDLO’s experience, knowledge and resources base is complemented through the presence of eminent ‘of counsels’. With varied backgrounds, from having worked extensively with major public sector undertakings, from formerly being a senior customs regulator to having a sound footing in engineering practices, the of counsels enhance and add to NDLO’s rich kaleidoscopic experience and expertise in the legal field. This complemented by the contemporary technology platform of NDLO, resources of its constituent associates, its strategic network of associates and particularly business and commercial contacts always provide clients the comfort and assurance of being in ‘safe and good hands’. Over the years NDLO, has grown and expanded. Currently it has constituent associate offices in Hyderabad, a city much identified as an international hub for software and the media industry, and Pune, a city known for its engineering industry with recent forays into software development. With a significant client base, including an increase in its securities & capital markets and information
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technology practice, NDLO is poised to open associate offices in the cities of Mumbai and Bangalore. With an effective countrywide network of associates in all major cities, NDLO has the ability to take up assignments on a pan-Indian basis. Considered as home ground, NDLO is positioned to advise and assist clients on all areas of corporate and commercial laws ranging from issues involving general corporate advisory to strategic. NDLO routinely advises and assists multinational clients on the pros and cons of entering, setting up and successfully operating businesses in India, on issues relating to modelling business ventures, whether it be joint venture, collaboration, wholly owned subsidiaries, intricate aspects of technology transfer, licensing, etc. GENERAL General Corporate Advisory: Backed by years of experience in advising, assisting and working closely with large corporate clients, NDLO’s general corporate advisory services are frequently sought by its clients on diverse corporate law issues confronted by today’s businesses. The services are delivered seamlessly with fast response time, essential for responding to day-to-day operational issues. The firm’s proactive and hands-on approach has seen several NDLO partners being appointed to clients’ boards for guiding and advising them on strategic and operational issues. Corporate Commercial Contracting: NDLO has advised and assisted clients on all aspects of corporate commercial contracting. Whether it be sub-contracting or toll manufacturing, OEMs or suppliers, dealers or distributors, the firm has regularly assisted clients in structuring, negotiating, drafting and closing contracts relevant to their commercial operations. Corporate Finance - Venture Capital / Private Equity: NDLO’s advice and assistance covers diverse issues relating to corporate borrowing and lending. The firm has advised and assisted clients in relation to capital/debt restructuring, inter-corporate loans and advances, project and equipment financing, etc. It has handled matters relating to private placement, rights issues, securitization, etc. NDLO has been extensively associated with ‘Venture Capital’ and ‘Private Equity’ activity for over a decade and has witnessed these phrases
grow into the current bywords of corporate finance in India. NDLO has experience in assisting venture capital and private equity funds in the structuring, drafting, negotiation and contractual closure of their investment in portfolio companies. With its more than a decade long association with this segment, NDLO has been able to develop indepth knowledge and expertise in this segment. This has put NDLO in good stead to successfully assist clients on all aspects of VC/PE Funding and, in particular, on contentious issues such as control as well as exit through IPOs, third-party negotiated buyouts, tag- and drag-along exits, including litigation driven promoters’ buyouts. Apart from conventional legal advice and assistance, NDLO has also successfully provided real-time support to its clients through active participation in hostile board scenarios. NDLO has represented a varied spectrum of VC companies in equally varied industries. Amongst others NDLO has assisted VC companies in industries such as manufacturing (consumer goods, steel, pharmaceuticals, automotive, etc), printing and media, software, food, textile and clothing, real estate and infrastructure. The firm has also advised international venture capital funds in funding start-ups and relatively new entities in the areas of information technology and other emerging markets in India. REGULATORY Corporate Regulations & Compliance With today’s business dynamics on one hand increasingly demanding attention and focus on core business competencies and, on the other, regulations becoming ever complex and stringent, NDLO offers regulatory and compliance services specially packaged to enable clients to manage both ends. The firm’s regulatory and compliance practice covers all areas of domestic corporate, environmental and industrial laws. The firm is also overseeing and ensuring legal compliance of the Sarbanes Oxley Act (SOX) by Indian subsidiaries of its listed US multinational clients. Corporate Governance With increasing demand for disclosures/transparency across all areas of corporate functioning, there is a surge in requests for devising systems and methods to ensure clients meet the standards of good corporate governance. Apart from undertaking periodic audits, advising and assisting clients in developing and meeting corporate governance benchmarks, the firm directly contributes to corporate governance practices through acceptance of independent directorships by its partners and of counsels.
Individual - Commercial Litigation Lawyer of the Year in Indonesia
www.lgsonline.com
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Mohamed Idwan (’Kiki’) Ganie is the Managing Partner, and one of the founders, of Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo (LGS). He graduated from the Faculty of Law of the University of Indonesia and holds a PhD in Law from the University of Hamburg. Dr. Ganie is admitted to the Indonesian Bar (PERADI) since 1984 and is a licensed Indonesian Capital Market lawyer. Dr. Ganie has more than 30 years of legal experience, and specializes in commercial transactions and commercial litigation, including alternative dispute resolution and has acted as an expert in a number court and arbitration proceedings. His expertise covers general corporate/company law, mining, investment, acquisitions, infrastructure projects/project finance, antitrust, and shipping/aviation. Dr. Ganie is a Chairman of the Association of Indonesian Anti-Trust Lawyers, a member of the Regional Panel of the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC), and a fellow (FSIarb) of the Singapore Institute of Arbitrators. Menara Imperium 30th Floor Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said Kav. 1 Kuningan Jakarta 12980, Indonesia Tel: +62 21 831 5005 Fax: +62 21 831 5015 Email: ganie@lgslaw.co.id Web: www.lgsonline.com
Project Finance Law Firm of the Year in Indonesia
www.lgsonline.com
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
In our more than 29 years of service we have secured our position as the premier Indonesian corporate transaction and commercial litigation law firm. We have experience representing a diverse range of clients, including domestic and multinational corporations, public and private companies, Government instrumentalities and State Owned Enterprises. We work closely with our clients to understand the challenges they face, determine their needs, and arrive at practical solutions that are both cost-effective and viable over the long term. We approach assignments with a pragmatic view that is driven by a deep understanding of business needs and of the surrounding practicalities of the legal and business landscape. Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance certifications of ISO 9001:2008 for Quality Management systems and ISO 14001:2004 for Environmental Management systems ensure the quality of all aspects of our operations and services. Menara Imperium 30th Floor Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said Kav. 1 Kuningan Jakarta 12980, Indonesia Tel: +62 21 831 5005 Fax: +62 21 831 5015 Email: lgs@lgslaw.co.id Web: www.lgsonline.com GLE Practice Awards 2014 79
IP Law Firm of the Year in Malaysia MarQonsult Clara Yip Partner Tel: +603-7882 0456; +603-7880 3457 clara@marqonsult.com www.marqonsult.com
MarQonsult was established in February 2002, with the aim of providing timely, personalized and specialized consultation to businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals seeking to manage and protect their intellectual property rights, and profit from their intangible assets. Our firm practices exclusively in intellectual property. At MarQonsult it is envisioned that through practical and commercial advice and skilled expertise, the client can make informed decisions as well as avoid common pitfalls in the registration, exploitation, enforcement and maintenance of their intellectual property rights in Malaysia. With the assistance of our committed team of legal, technical and support staff, we offer a unique model that resolves all our clients’ intellectual property needs effectively, efficiently and professionally and keeps our clients informed of developments on a regular basis. Our firm counsels local and international businesses, institutions and organizations. We are located in the city of Petaling Jaya, adjacent to the capital Kuala Lumpur, and are only a 20-minute ride by Light Rail Transit to MyIPO. Ms Clara YIP – Founder of the firm She holds a Law and Economics degree from Auckland University (New Zealand) and is a Registered Patent, Trade Mark and Industrial Design Agent in Malaysia. She was admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand in 1993 and was called to the Malayan Bar in 1994. She is proficient in English and Malay, and is conversant in Cantonese, Mandarin and French. She has 20 years of experience in a wide range of intellectual property work including patent, design, trademark filing and prosecution; copyright work; trademark opposition; ownership disputes; trade secrets; trade dress; passing-off; participated in different phases of litigation including settlement negotiations and trial preparation. She has been voted Asialaw’s Leading Lawyer in Intellectual Property in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009. She currently serves on the Patent Standing Committee of the Asian Patent Attorneys Association. She is a contributor to INTA’s online publication on Trademark Cancellations as well as BNA’s Malaysian chapter on International Licensing. Services CLEARANCE • An availability search for trademarks [identical mark and similar mark search with full advice
• •
relating to availability] A novelty or infringement search for patents [with advice on any relevant prior art] A novelty or infringement search for designs
APPLICATION, PROSECUTION, MANAGEMENT & MAINTENANCE Patents, Trademarks, Designs, Domain Names: • Preparing all requisite forms • Ensuring compliance of formality requirements • Reporting, and replying to office actions, adverse reports • Preparing appeals and submissions • Attending hearings, Liaison with authorities • Amending applications, Recording IP transactions • Monitoring of deadlines, Renewal applications • Creating programs for managing IP portfolio COMMERCIALIZATION OF IP In addition to negotiating, drafting, and enforcing license, distribution and franchise agreements, we help clients to develop strategies and models for the commercialization and licensing of IP rights, and to perform due diligence on the acquisition of IP rights. We also have experience in identifying technologies for potential licensing, assisting with technology transfer agreements, and mediating disputes arising from IP agreements. IP DISPUTES We provide opinions in matters of counterfeiting disputes, infringement, passing-off, conflict of rights, trade dress, product packaging, trademarks and related Internet issues, trade secrets and related contracts. We use various methods or means that are deemed the most appropriate to help clients resolve conflict in a cost effective manner through negotiation, settlement, arbitration, opposition proceedings, civil litigation (through our associate legal firm), criminal proceedings, or enforcement through the various governmental authorities.
Mid-Market - IP Litigation Law Firm of the Year in the Philippines Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & De Los Angeles 21stFloor Philamlife Tower 8767 Paseo de Roxas Makati City 1226, Philippines Tel: +(632) 848-0114 / 555-9555 / +(632) 810-3110 / 815-3172 (Fax) romulo@romulo.com www.romulo.com
Romulo offers a full range of legal services with its team of talented and experienced lawyers who are experts in their own fields. The Intellectual Property Department of Romulo is engaged in the full spectrum of intellectual property practice in the Philippines. It is involved in protecting patents, trademarks and copyrights, and in negotiating and registering licensing and technology transfer agreements. Founded in 1902, Romulo is a pioneer in IP practice. It
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has had considerable experience in prosecuting applications and maintaining registrations before the Intellectual Property Office, as well as in pursuing civil and criminal cases involving infringement and unfair competition. It has successfully handled landmark cases in Philippine IP jurisprudence. Upon request of clients, the IP Department monitors potentially infringing IP applications and may also liaise with different government agencies such as the Bureau of Customs to protect its clients’ IP rights.
Industry Choice - Maritime Law Firm of the Year in Singapore
GURBANI & CO
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Gurbani & Co is a mid-sized firm, with a distinguished reputation in regional legal
OUR PEOPLE
circles as a provider of outstanding legal services, particularly in the marine and insurance industry. Over the last 25 years, we have forged strong client relationships, representing interests across a broad spectrum of industries in maritime, insurance and commercial litigation matters as well as international commercial arbitrations.
The driving force behind our success is our team of committed litigators who are at the cutting edge of legal developments, combining rigorous analysis with astute judgment that only comes with in-depth knowledge and experience in our specialist areas.
Complementing our strength in litigation and arbitration is a robust ship finance and corporate law practice involving commercial contracts, property, employment, creditors’ rights, and private client services. Our practice areas include shipping and maritime, insurance, international trade, insolvency, commercial arbitration, dispute resolution and ship finance and general corporate law. Gurbani & Co is consistently listed by Chambers as a leading maritime and insurance
Prem Gurbani
Richard Kuek
Loke Yim Munn
Christopher Yee
R Govin
Tan Hui Tsing
law firm in the Asia Pacific. In its 2012 Asia Pacific Guide, Chambers confirms that “this quality shipping practice has a formidable reputation for its admiralty and
commodities expertise” and in its 2013 edition, the firm was highly recommended as a leading lawyer in the domestic shipping category. It has been said that the firm’s
litigators “immediately come to mind for admiralty and shipping matters – and they are tenacious”.
Bharath Ganesh
Eugene Cheng
GURBANI & CO | 78 Shenton Way, #31-02, Singapore 079120 | www.gurbaniandco.com | Tel: +(65) 6336 7727 | Fax: +(65) 6336 0110 | Email: mail@gurbaniandco.com
Boutique - IP Law Firm of the Year in South Korea
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Patent, design, trademark applications; International applications i.e. PCT for patent, Madrid for trademark; Patentability research; Prepare a written statement requested by an examiner during the process of application or registration; File an opposition and provide information and supporting evidence, documents etc; Register and management of copyrights, characters, computer programs and software applications
Patent, trademark and copyright infringement Misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition and antitrust Contract, franchising, licensing Other dispute involving Intellectual Property and technology asset. Appeal to an examiner’s rejection Invalidation/cancellation of a registration Confirmation of the scope of active and passive rights of a patent and other Intellectual Property rights Correction of patent registration Grant of non-exclusive license on a patent, utility model or design right
Patent/technology research (patentability; infringement; validity; freedom to operate; right to use) Patent analysis (competitor analysis; patent trend/ patent map) Technology transaction (*Government authorized technology transfer organization since 2009) Technology/license management consultation Technology inventory services Negotiation in the transaction and commercialization of technology Transfer or license patent, trademark right or copyright
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Mid-Market - Patents Law Firm of the Year in South Korea
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
Maritime Law Firm of the Year in Sri Lanka Messrs. Julius & Creasy S.A. Cader Partner Tel: +94 11 2422601-5 jcship@sltnet.lk www.juliusandcreasy.com
Sakeen Abdul Cader apprenticed in the chambers of Sri Lanka’s last Queen’s Counsel, Vernon Wijetunga. He was enrolled as an Attorney-at-Law in the year 1979. Cader initially worked as junior counsel to Vernon Wijetunga QC and he joined the Firm in the year 1979. Subsequently he was appointed as a Partner of the Firm. He is a Notary Public and Commissioner of Oaths. He initially focused on the area of Industrial Law. Currently, Cader is mainly focusing on the areas of Admiralty/Maritime Law, Marine Pollution Law and Customs Law. He heads the Admiralty, Shipping and Maritime division. He has extensive experience in acting for many local and foreign clients, including many P & I Clubs, Charterers, Salvage and Ship-managers. He advises the top 5 P & I Clubs in respect of their legal matters and handles assignments on the instructions of several leading City of London Solicitors firms specializing in shipping, and law firms in the USA. Cader acts for clients in the Admiralty Court and in the Superior
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Courts. Some of HSBC Bank’s recovery cases are also handled by his department. Recently, he has advised and acted for clients on the instructions of leading legal firms in London in relation to salvage matters and issues pertaining to double banking operations. He is also involved in handling alternative dispute resolution (ADR) proceedings and arbitration proceedings in respect of shipping matters. He represents clients in respect of issues pertaining to the Customs Ordinance. He is contacted by clients on a regular basis to assist them in connection with the Arbitration proceedings held in different jurisdictions and the enforcements of the awards. He has represented the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and also the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation in several matters. He is the consultant for the Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA) and Lanka Ship Owners Association (LASO). He also advises on legal issues of the Sri Lanka Medical Council and acts for them. He also has considerable experience in handling matters concerning Public Law and Human Rights. He was a former legal advisor to the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union.
IP Law Firm of the Year in Taiwan
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
台北市中山北路三段27號13樓
業務涵括知識產權之申請、侵權及訴訟
13th Fl., 27 Sec. 3, Chung San N. Rd., Taipei 104, Taiwan, R.O.C. ): 886-2-25856688 7: 886-2-25989900/25978989 Email: email@deepnfar.com.tw www.deepnfar.com.tw
IP
Prosecution Infringement Litigation
Intellectual Property Law Firm of the Year in Turkey
PRACTICE AWARDS WINNER
GLE Practice Awards 2014 83
The North African region has been host to some significant developments in recent years. Massive anti-government demonstrations and revolution-like protests dominated international headlines as some elements of the region’s populations voiced their feelings of no-confidence against their respective governments in countries such as Egypt and Tunisia. All in all, Africa and the Middle East are highly varied regions, home to countries at both extremes of the wealth spectrum. As the disruption from the aforementioned events still settles, North Africa faces a new challenge of finding jobs for the 9.8 million young people entering the labour market between now and 2020. According to the OECD, growth in the 10 years preceding the Arab Spring did not make it possible for North African countries to create enough jobs for the young. The regional unemployment rate among the 15 to 24-year-old age group is, on average, 23%, which is three to four times higher than that of adults. However, the rate is 41% if the discouraged are included: that is, those young inactive people in a position to work, but not looking for employment – and so are not included in the official statistics. Over the last decade, 84 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Morocco and Algeria have achieved a rate of job creation higher than the rate of growth of the active population, but the young have benefited least. In other countries in the region, economic growth has not been sufficient to create jobs at a rate matching population growth. The arrival of young people on the labour market represents an opportunity, but it could also be a factor of instability if their aspirations are not taken into account. Mthuli Ncube, chief economist at the African Development Bank, noted: “Taking into account present trends, the education of young people in terms of numbers of years of school and college is progressing faster than population growth in North Africa. This represents a
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST WINNERS
Sophie James / Shutterstock.com
unique opportunity for the economic and social development of the region, on condition that advantage is taken of this talent, this reservoir of human capital in full growth, and it is directed towards the productive sectors of the economy.” The OECD believes that although the supply of graduates has increased rapidly, economies remain focused on sectors of activity that are incapable of providing jobs that correspond to their level of studies, such as clothing and textiles or the mechanical industry. Further still, unless strategies are adopted for an inclusive growth which creates greater numbers of jobs for the well qualified, these countries run the risk of seeing their stability threatened by those who have been left behind or rejected, as was the case in 2011 in several North African countries. The Middle East is best known for producing and exporting oil, which has a significant impact on the entire region, both through the wealth that it generates and through the movement of labour. However, many coun-
tries in the region, such as Bahrain, are seeking to produce income streams geared away from oil in an effort to diversify their economies. In particular, Bahrain and other states are looking to strengthen their financial industries. Besides oil, other industries that contribute to the Middle East’s economy include agriculture, cotton, livestock, textiles, metals and defence equipment. Both Africa and the Middle East are emerging from recession, with economic growth boosted by demand for exports, increased public spending, greater availability of cross-border credit, as well as improvements in commodity and oil prices and global trade. South Africa’s former economic policy was fiscally conservative, focusing on controlling inflation and attaining a budget surplus. The current government largely follows the same prudent policies – but must contend with the impact of the global crisis, and is facing growing pressure from special interest groups to use state-owned enterprises to deliver basic services to low-income areas, and to increase job growth. GLE Practice Awards 2014 85
Contents: 88.
Ehrlich & Fenster
Biotech Patents Law Firm of the Year in Israel / Individual - Patent Prosecution Lawyer of the Year in Israel / Individual - Trademarks Lawyer of the Year in Israel
88.
Tadmor & Co
International - Competition Law Firm of the Year in Israel
89.
JACKSON, ETTI & EDU
Full Service IP Law Firm of the Year in Nigeria
89.
Abenry & Company Advocates
Business Law Firm of the Year in Tanzania
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AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST WINNERS
90.
Kennedys Dubai LLP
Industry Choice - Litigation Law Firm of the Year in the UAE
90.
Birungyi, Barata and Associates
Client Choice - Tax Law Firm of the Year in Uganda
91.
Kampala Associated Advocates
Editor’s Choice - Banking & Finance Law Firm of the Year in Uganda
92.
Luqman Legal Advocates and Legal Consultants
Full Service Law Firm of the Year in Yemen
GLE Practice Awards 2014 87
Biotech Patents Law Firm of the Year in Israel / Individual - Patent Prosecution Lawyer of the Year in Israel / Individual - Trademarks Lawyer of the Year in Israel
Ehrlich & Fenster Dr. Gal Ehrlich Founder and Managing Director Tel: +73-7919199 info@ipatent.co.il www.ipatent.co.il
Ehrlich & Fenster is Israel’s leading patent attorneys firm, offering premiere expertise in all matters concerning the protection and prosecution of intellectual property. The synergism between highly personalized service and unrivalled expertise in all technological fields has made Ehrlich & Fenster the most reputable IP firm in Israel. The firm and its team are renowned for excellence in both the local and international professional arena, being ranked first in Israel by Chambers & Partners, MIP, IAM and Corporate INTL Legal Awards. Extensive professional knowledge and experience, along with scientific insight, enables Ehrlich & Fenster to offer an optimal IP strategy. The firm assists in managing the IP portfolios of clients in light of the client’s business strategy – be it in licensing, investment, financing and/or buyout exits and deals amounting to billions of dollars.
and “singled out for his superb direction of a talented team”.
The firm helps clients identify, determine and broaden the protection scope of their core IP. This is achieved by analyzing and assessing the potential business opportunities that may emerge from the client’s innovative technologies and areas of invention. Ehrlich & Fenster’s strategic advantage is in its ability to identify the individual or multi-core technologies often hidden within a development. The firm pursues all the potential business directions available to a client including buying, in-and-out licensing, selling and international expansion.
Chambers & Partners ranked Ehrlich & Fenster “Band I” Patent Attorney firm in Israel in the Patent and Trademark section for the third consecutive year. Chambers & Partners’ ranking includes the following feedback: “Excellent attorneys who give a very high-quality service” and “The firm offers a full set of patent capabilities, covering all their clients’ needs.”
Rankings IAM Patent 1000 2014, the world’s leading patent practitioners, has ranked Ehrlich & Fenster to be the No.1 IP prosecution firm in Israel for the second consecutive year. The IAM Patent 1000 2013 has mentioned Dr. Gal Ehrlich to be “outstanding”
The IAM magazine has chosen Dr. Gal Ehrlich to be one of the 250 World-Leading IP Strategists for the fourth successive year, and has chosen Adv. Amit Ehrlich to be one of the 300 World-Leading IP Strategists for the second successive year. MIP: Ehrlich & Fenster was ranked in 2013 by MIP to be the No. 1 PCT filer in Israel for the fifth consecutive year. Ehrlich & Fenster was ranked as Tier 1 Patent Attorney firm by Managing Intellectual Property Patent Survey 2014.
Chambers & Partners also ranked Dr. Gal Ehrlich & Dr. Paul Fenster as “Band I” patent attorneys and ranked Maier Fenster as a “Band 2” patent attorney, making Ehrlich & Fenster the most reputable IP firm in Israel for the fourth consecutive year. Corporate INTL Legal Awards 2014 has chosen Ehrlich & Fenster as the “Patents Law Firm of the Year in Israel” and “Biotechnology Law Firm of the Year in Israel” for the third consecutive year.
International - Competition Law Firm of the Year in Israel Tadmor & Co Dr David E Tadmor / Shai Bakal Managing Partner / Head of the Antitrust Group Tel: +972-3-6846016 / Tel: +972-3-6846010 david@tadmor.com / shai@tadmor.com www.tadmor.com
Our team includes 4 highly experienced partners and 8 associates, who counsel and represent local and foreign clients before the Israeli Antitrust Authority, the Antitrust Tribunal and in civil and criminal proceedings before other Israeli courts.
yers in Israel and as being “in a league of his own” and “the first port of call”. Dr Tadmor leads the team together with Shai Bakal, former head of the mergers team in the Israeli Antitrust Authority (IAA). Prior to joining Tadmor & Co, Shai practised law at the legal department of the IAA (2002-2007), where he was in charge of different sectors including the food sector, retailing and IP. He was later appointed as the head of the IAA’s mergers team. Shai has unique expertise and vast experience in merger control issues and, in particular, in cross-border transactions.
Our specialisation covers all civil and criminal aspects of competition law, as well as regulation in areas such as Telecommunications, Gas and Oil, Aviation, Price Supervision and the Environment.
Dr David Tadmor and Shai Bakal are both Who’s Who legal nominees. They lecture together at the Tel Aviv University School of Law in the area of antitrust law and intellectual property.
Many of our lawyers have worked within key regulatory bodies and within the industry itself. By understanding the way in which the regulators operate and the intricacies of the antitrust provisions, we are better able to provide our clients with commercially focused and targeted advice that minimizes their level of risk and maximizes commercial benefit.
Dr Ittai Paldor, who heads the firm’s litigation department, is a former IAA senior prosecutor. Ittai represents clients in notable criminal antitrust cases, as well as civil litigation involving complex antitrust issues.
Our competition law team is one of the leading groups of competition law experts in Israel and is ranked in all professional surveys (including Chambers, GCR and Legal 500) as a tier 1 competition law firm.
The competition group was established by Dr David E Tadmor, the former Antitrust Commissioner of Israel and the managing partner of Tadmor & Co. During his time as a General Director (1997-2001), the IAA trebled in size and much of the foundation for Israel’s competition law and enforcement policies was laid. Dr Tadmor was named by Chambers as being in the top class of antitrust law-
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Our antitrust team was involved in the leading antitrust cases of recent years. Recent notable work includes representing Siemens AG in an appeal against the Commissioner’s decision in the alleged GIS cartel case, representing Israel Today newspaper in the high profile acquisition of Makor Reashon, and representing First International Bank of Israel in the appeal over the Commissioner’s landmark determination regarding information exchange between banks.
Full Service IP Law Firm of the Year in Nigeria
JACKSON, ETTI & EDU Tel: +234 (1) 4626841 jacksonettiedu@jacksonettiandedu.com www.jacksonettiandedu.com
JACKSON, ETTI & EDU, (JEE) is a full service law firm based in Nigeria, with an internationally renowned intellectual property (IP) practice. Headquartered in Victoria Island, Lagos, the financial nerve centre of the country, and with four other offices (including its international operations in Ghana), the firm provides legal services throughout Africa and beyond. JEE’s trademark services include: preliminary opinions and clearance searches; takeover and completion of IP matters initiated by different agents; registration of trademarks and prosecution; renewals and restorations; acquisition, protection, enforcement, transfer and revalidation of IP rights; recordal of mergers, assignments, registered users/ licences, changes of names and addresses; third party and other office actions; rectification and nullification of wrongful registered trademarks; as well as preparation and vetting agreements. In addition, the firm is well versed in commercial IP transactions, including IP audits and due diligence reports; conducting market investigations and raids; infringement, unfair competition and anti-counterfeiting matters; domain name registration and maintenance; dispute resolution; brand protection and illicit trade matters; as well as providing legal opinions on contentious and non-contentious trademark related issues. JEE is also home to an IP Watch Service – a unique selling point of the firm, which has become invaluable in the protection of clients’ rights. The Service’s primary function is the provision of expeditious/accurate search reports and market surveys for clients. Industry Recognition Our IP Department provides specialist IP services through a complement of experienced and seasoned lawyers who have distinguished themselves in this field. They are members of various international IP associations and institutions. They also hold international and local leadership positions and continue to act in various capacities of influence in this practice area. Some notable transactions for the Department include handling the worldwide patent and trademark registrations of the Emergency Auto Transfusion Set (Eat-Set) device – an indigenous invention breakthrough in medical science, used for the collection and subsequent reinfusion of the patient’s own blood, funded by UNDP. The Department has also: advised on a proposed franchise agreement between a leading medical diagnostics company and local Nigerian companies; assisted one of the largest international pharmaceutical companies in recording a series of changes in its IP portfolio spanning 500 trademarks; advised on issues relating to Regulatory Data Protection and Data Exclusivity for a leading South African Law Firm; advised on Trademark issues arising from the License agreement between an international Brewery and its local counterpart; handled the Assignment and Recordal of Change of Name & Address of the entire Trademark portfolio of a well known international luxury goods
organization comprising about 50 Trademarks; pioneered the drive for local companies to conduct IP audits as part of determining their true asset value, and helped to develop IP policies for such companies. One of the IP partners was recently appointed a member of the Committee of Experts, by the Federal Minister of Science & Technology, to review the Draft Science, Technology & Innovations Policy’s compliance with IP. Another of the partners is Nigeria’s sole member of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Domain Names Dispute Resolution Panel, and has sat on three matters so far. Moreover, the firm was recently appointed by the country’s National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), to review and advise on Nigeria’s country position on the Draft Terms of Reference for A Study on Intellectual Property for OPEC’s Research & Development (R&D). JEE’s partners have consistently worked with the Law Reform Commission on the amendment of the various IP legislations. They were also involved in the review of Nigeria’s Draft Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy on Intellectual Property Law and requirements. African Practice With a view to offering our clients the benefits of a one-stop shop for all their Intellectual Property needs in the continent, we provide full IP services throughout the African Region. The firm has a dedicated African Unit which deals solely with the filing and prosecution of Trademarks and Patents on the African continent. With offices located in Nigeria and Ghana – the hubs of business activities in West Africa, and an enviable network of top-rated associate-agents across Africa, we are uniquely positioned to offer superior Intellectual property services in Africa. Ahead of the Pack The firm continues to advise a diverse clientele, ranging from individual inventors looking to protect their IP, to multinational and global businesses – including philanthropic organisations for whom JEE renders practically pro bono PR services. Operational excellence, client satisfaction and relationship management are the firm’s targets for 2014. Its partners are also looking at new product lines and processes that will complement and enhance the services that are currently on offer. Other unique selling points include the firm’s: continued investment in modern information technological systems, including IP software and data management systems which enable clients to view their matters within the firm’s portal; its continuous training for staff; nurturing its close relationships with government and other regulatory bodies; in addition the paralegal structure and assigned portfolio managers; and finally its effective succession plan to ensure continuity and seamless service to a varied clientele continue to be of paramount focus and importance to the Firm.
Business Law Firm of the Year in Tanzania Abenry & Company Advocates Lucy Sondo Partner Tel: +255 2129461 / 2129462 lucy.sondo@abenry.com www.abenry.com
It is an exciting time for Abenry & Company Advocates as we continue to grow while remaining always adaptable, motivated and responsive to the changing world and in particular the changing Tanzania.
The firm is comprised of three partners, one consultant and five associates. The background experience of its members allows Abenry to offer the best legal services in the country in all aspects of law. Abenry operates in Mainland Tanzania as well as in Tanzania Zanzibar.
Tanzania is surpassing expectations and the economy is now shining. Having almost halved inflation, Tanzania is now expected to grow even more. Recently released figures from the World Bank state that GDP is expected to grow by an impressive 7% in 2014 making now the best time to invest in the many opportunities Tanzania has to give.
Our team of lawyers has, over the years, been involved in a number of corporate transactions, real estate transactions, intellectual property matters, capital market transactions, private public partnership projects, privatization projects, corporate restructuring and general advisory work. The members have the requisite competency, knowledge, ability, and skill in handling legal matters.
Tanzania is now recognised as an ideal location for foreign investment, with thanks to untapped natural resources, a competitive business environment and sustained reductions in poverty levels. With the amount of attributes this country has to offer, Tanzania is increasingly becoming a smart investment choice. Unquestionably, there will be challenges to overcome and risks to take; however, with high risk comes high return. With various Investment opportunities especially in the sectors of Oil & Gas, Telecommunication, Mining, Banking and Agriculture, Abenry is keeping pace and remains client focused. Our partners, consultants, senior associates, associates and support staff have continued to meet the challenges of our field and to excel despite setbacks. We should all be very proud of where we are today and excited about where we are headed. Our Company Abenry & Company Advocates’ legal partnership started in year 2006 as Abenry & Company, Advocates. In 2010 the firm merged with Ringo & Associates to form Adept Chambers. In January 2012, the legal fraternity saw the rebirth of Abenry & Company. Since commencing business, the partners, consultants and other associates of Abenry & Company Advocates have worked on numerous legal issues.
Abenry Mission Our mission is to provide high-quality, result-oriented legal services based on integrity, highest standards of professionalism and respect to individuals and businesses. EXPERTISE Lucy Sondo is the founding partner of Abenry & Company. She was a state attorney for 12 years before joining the private sector in 1997. She is a holder of a master’s degree in drafting with an experience of over 26 years. Lucy has been practising as an advocate for more than 16 years. She is conversant with the legal system and the problems relating to the Tanzania legal system. Her clients include the government of the United Republic, the government of Zanzibar, various institutions, companies (both local and foreign) and individuals, commercial and investment banks, broker-dealers, asset managers in financing securities and derivative markets and drafting and negotiating of appropriate documents. Lucy has been at the centre of rendering legal advice to both local and foreign investors.
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Industry Choice - Litigation Law Firm of the Year in the UAE Kennedys Dubai LLP Peter Ellingham Partner Tel: +971 4 350 3600 p.ellingham@kennedys-law.com www.kennedys-law.com
Kennedys is an international law firm with more than 1,600 people in 11 countries across the world. Although the firm’s head office is located in London, more than 30% of its business is generated outside the UK – and that proportion is growing. The firm’s Dubai office, which opened in 2006, forms part of its Asia-Pacific Group, which also includes Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, as well as an associate office in India, Tuli & Co. Initially set up to concentrate on insurance work, the Dubai office has seen expansion since 2012, and now comprises 10 lawyers, who between them specialise in Construction (both contentious and non-contentious), Insurance and Reinsurance, Aviation (both contentious and non-contentious), Marine, Property and general commercial litigation. Peter Ellingham, partner, noted: “Personally, I qualified in 1990 and have since that time practised in insurance and dispute resolution, handling cases of all sizes, from modest value to multi-millions, from individual cases to group litigation. That, in essence, is what we do as a firm in the chosen field of Litigation. Our clients, whether they are individuals, firms or corporations, are commercially orientated. We listen to their needs and on any dispute, we see our job as achieving the most cost-effective outcome in the shortest possible timeframe and at minimum cost.” Kennedys considers expert legal knowledge to be a given for lawyers. Its people know that clients value practical, commercial and straightforward advice. Kennedys calls this ‘legal advice in black and white’. Chambers notes: ‘Nothing is too much trouble’ for the team at Kennedys. The lawyers provide clients with ‘no-nonsense advice as and when we need it’ and ‘always give us what we ask for and a little bit more’.
Kennedys maintains a wide and varied client base. It includes corporate insurers (global, international and local), insurance intermediaries, Lloyd’s of London Syndicates, construction companies, property developers, corporate and private airlines, shipping companies, professional services firms, finance houses and high-net-worth individuals. So far in 2014, the Dubai office has: successfully resisted a multi-million dollar claim in arbitration in DIAC, achieving a $2 million recovery of fees, the case involving allegations of negligent design of a retail complex; succeeded at Cassation in an insurance dispute following a significant warehouse fire; successfully resisted the enforcement of an arbitral award on appeal; and successfully contested jurisdiction in the English courts on behalf of a UAE insurance company and its insured. Mr Ellingham added: “Every year brings significant change and development for the global firm. We now have a comprehensive offering for insurers, with claims expertise in virtually every field. We are rapidly expanding our Corporate Insurance offering, following the establishment in 2013 of an international team run by Peter Cashin in our Hong Kong office. “In Dubai, we added Aviation to our services at the beginning of the year, with the arrival of partner Anthony Frances who has seven years’ experience in the region. Meanwhile, we are in the process of expanding our insurance offering, with three individuals joining us this autumn. “As we grow and add to our experience of litigation and insurance in the UAE, we inevitably develop the way we do business, the services we offer to clients, and the manner in which those services are offered. In Insurance, we have seen a rapid rise in the extent to which insurer clients require management information on claims and claims processes – and have implemented systems that enable us to provide the same.”
Client Choice - Tax Law Firm of the Year in Uganda Birungyi, Barata and Associates CEPHAS BIRUNGYI KAGYENDA LLB Hons (MUK), DIP. LP (LDC), DIP. ITA (IPA) Advocate / Tax Consultant Tel: +256 (0)772 444 536 cbirungyi@taxconsultants.co.ug / birungicephas@yahoo.com
Birungyi, Barata and Associates is internationally recognised as the pioneer and leading specialist tax law firm in Uganda and has established a credible and reliable tax practice. It has been retained widely in Uganda by both private and semi-public entities. Uniquely positioned to provide the best in advisory and litigation on tax and finance matters, this boutique law firm is comprised of eleven Advocates, three tax economists and a station in the technical department. The tax department is headed by the distinguished tax lawyer, Cephas Birungyi. The Corporate, Commercial and Finance Department is headed by Enoch Barata. The team has a track record of delivering a highly efficient and quality result to its clients in Uganda, Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and Asia, and has been involved in the negotiations and drafting of various tax and tax related legislation and cross-border agreements. Cephas Birungyi is an Advocate of the High Court. He is a graduate of the University of Makerere and holds post-graduate qualifications from various institutions in the UK, Sri-Lanka and South Africa. He has distinguished himself as a Tax Consultant, and represented the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) in the Parliamentary Committee of Finance, also advising on the drafting of the Income Tax Act 1997 of Uganda. He represented the Uganda Revenue Authority in drafting the Tax Appeals Tribunal Act. Cephas is currently a member of the Investment Committee of the Uganda Law Society. He is also retained by the International Finance Corporation (a member of the World Bank Group) as a consultant in taxation. In terms of litigation, Birungyi, Barata and Associates (popularly acronymised as BBA) has no peer in respect of the number of tax cases handled and won in court. Besides litigation, the firm has done extensive consultancy work over the last five years for reputable organizations such as energy company Eskom on a range of tax matters, Consultancy Services for the Study on Revenue Generation, Revenue Utilization, Revenue Sharing
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and Mechanisms for Land Sector Fiscal Transfer for the Government of the Republic of Uganda. We have conducted a study on the Reform of Business Levies on behalf of the Ministry of Local Government of the Republic of Uganda. Together with the GTZ, the firm conducted a project to harmonize East African Tax Laws for East African Community Partner States (Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda & Burundi). The firm, together with TATA Consulting Services of India is undertaking the Modernization and Computerization of Tax Management Systems in the Uganda Revenue Authority. The firm undertook the project for benchmarking and drafting the Internal Revenue Code of Liberia. The firm was contracted to develop and carry out training of several staff in Modernizing the Taxpayer Identification System in Bauchi State of Nigeria for the Federal Government of Nigeria under the State Governance and Capacity Building Project (SGCBP) funded by the World Bank among others. The firm was contracted by International Finance Corporation to draft a Tax Appeals Tribunal Act for the Republic of Rwanda and was contracted by East Africa Community and GTZ to develop a Model Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) and also East Africa Code of Conduct against Harmful Tax Competition. Birungyi, Barata and Associates is currently developing a software application for case filing procedures at various court levels and intends to start rolling it out to clients by the year 2015. While tirelessly working to ensure the best services and attention to its clientele, Birungyi, Barata and Associates’ underlying principles are founded in good governance and ensuring a happy working environment. Our goal is to match the best in the world in terms of quality while keeping firmly in touch with the local environment.
Editor’s Choice - Banking & Finance Law Firm of the Year in Uganda
Kampala Associated Advocates Sam Mayanja Managing Partner Tel: +256-752-730558 smayanja@kaa.co.ug www.kaa.co.ug
Kampala Associated Advocates (“KAA”) is based in Kampala, Uganda and approved by the Uganda Law Council to provide legal services. KAA focuses on representing clients with cases involving Banking, Litigation / Dispute Resolution, Corporate & Commercial (including Land and Employment), Revenue and Taxation, Credit Management, Immigration and International Law. Since 2001, when the firm was founded, the firm has represented clients ranging from individuals to small businesses and large corporations. The firm delivers first class, timely and cost-effective solutions in contracts and transactions, with an emphasis on thorough investigations and adequate research. The firm serves the best interests of its clients in negotiating deals, prosecuting or aggressively defending trials and appeals. The firm includes a team of 22 advocates with a wide range of expertise and experience. The Managing Partner is Sam Mayanja and other partners are Peter Kabatsi, Elly Karuhanga, Oscar Kambona, Charles Kalumiya, David Mpanga, Joseph Matsiko, Paul Kuteesa and Aisha Naiga. Other associate lawyers are Jet Tumwebaze, Bruce Musinguzi, Ann Kemaali, Isaac Kyagaba, Gad Wilson, Denis Otatiina, James Orima and Joseph Okwi. The firm boasts a large clientele, both individual and corporate, which, among others, encompasses some of the largest commercial banks in the Ugandan economy. Clients include Barclays Bank Uganda Limited, Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited, NC Bank Uganda Limited, Standard Chartered Bank Uganda Limited, East African Development Bank, Centenary Rural Development Bank, Equity Bank Limited and Pride Micro-Finance Limited. Departments in the Firm Corporate and Legal Advisory: the corporate team advises on the formation of legal entities such as companies, branches
and non-governmental organisations. It also advises on corporate structuring, company secretarial practice, shareholding issues, mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, winding up and insolvency. On the corporate finance side, we advise on international finance, international cross-border finance, trade and commodity finance, project finance, infrastructure finance and asset finance. We handled the Kenya Airways and Uchumi Supermarkets Cross-listings on the Uganda Securities Exchange, together with Pavia Ansaldo, a Rome-based law firm, advising Uganda government / EU on creation of an infrastructure fund for EAC, also acting as Borrowers Counsel to MTN Uganda on an ABSA Bank syndicated $100 million facility, among others. Litigation / Dispute Resolution: the litigation team represents our clients in commercial disputes, land disputes, election and constitutional petitions, disputes arising under employment law and taxation, and international arbitration. The firm has handled successful litigation for MTN Uganda Ltd, especially against Uganda Telecom Ltd, Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) and Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), among others. Revenue and Taxation: the practice covers the areas of tax planning, taxation disputes, taxation resolution and international taxation advice. We also facilitate negotiations with the Uganda Revenue Authority to settle and resolve tax disputes before the Tax Appeals Tribunal and courts of higher jurisdiction. We have successfully challenged multi-million-dollar tax assessments on Commercial Banks, Tullow Oil, Total, MTN Uganda Ltd, Orange Telecom among others. Banking: our Banking team works with each bank’s credit department to create, perfect, monitor and enforce collateral securities provided to secure loans and other credit facilities to customers. We have handled securities for East Africa Development Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Barclays Bank, Centenary RD Bank, among others.
Debt Collection and Credit Management: we specialise in serving debt notices, negotiating debt settlement or recovery options. We also provide legal action for recoveries and assist in negotiations with the Uganda Revenue Authority on writeoffs for debts that cannot be recovered. We have had considerable success in the management of a multi-billion Uganda Shilling receivables portfolio for Barclays Bank Uganda Limited, Stanbic Bank Uganda Limited and UMEME Limited, and have assisted Civil Aviation Authority and Nile Breweries Limited in bringing down their respective debt recovery portfolios. International Law: the department focuses on advising clients on various legal issues that have an international law perspective, such as private international law or conflict of laws, cross-border legal issues, intellectual property law, refugees and human rights law and international criminal justice. Immigration: we assist foreign organisations and individuals who are looking to work, establish businesses or live in Uganda to apply and process immigration permits, including work permits, entry permits, dependants’ passes and other visa categories. We have a global partnership with Dentons, one of the 25 largest legal service providers in the world. Through Dentons, we have access to a network of offices and associates in the US, Europe, Russia and Central Asia, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Africa. The Dentons network helps KAA to combine regional and international best practice with sound legal solutions, ensuring a cost-effective and coordinated strategy in matters involving multiple jurisdictions. The firm has won recognition both nationally and internationally, from: Chambers Global 2013, IFLR 1000 Top Law Firms, Global Law Experts - Banking and Finance Law Firm of the Year 2014, East Africa Law Society Leading Law Firms, among others.
GLE Practice Awards 2014 91
Full Service Law Firm of the Year in Yemen Luqman Legal Advocates and Legal Consultants Abdulla Luqman Managing Partner Tel: +967 7333 77 33 7 abdulla@luqmanlegal.com www.luqmanlegal.com
Luqman Legal Advocates and Legal Consultants is associated with Al Suwaidi & Company, a UAE-based law firm with offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ajman. It is also an exclusive member of the Employment Law Alliance, the first Yemeni firm listed by the Legal 500, and a Band 1 firm on Chambers and Partners.
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Luqman Legal is also the first Yemeni-foreign partnership in Yemen, and one of the leading law firms in the Middle East able to offer legal consultancy, as well as litigation and arbitration, under one roof and in a number of jurisdictions. Lawyers of the firm are multilingual and familiar with US, European and Arabian cultures and legal systems. This enables them to bridge cultural and legal differences to best serve their clients. The firm in Yemen provides international quality services to a number of the largest multinational corporations and government entities.
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Transaction highlights • Appointed as an expert witness on Yemen Law in a multimillion arbitration conducted under the rules of the Stockholm Chambers of Commerce (SCC); • Provided significant legal advice relating to oil & gas, and submitted expert statements in a number of industry related arbitrations under ICSID, UNCITRAL and ICC; • Appointed by the IFC to advise on the drafting of a lease law for Yemen, which was ratified by the Parliament;
92 GLE Practice Awards 2014
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Provided comprehensive advice and legal assistance to Dubai Ports World relating to their joint venture and concession with the Yemeni Government to develop and manage Aden Port and Container Terminals; Represented BP and Shell in all their legal requirements to accomplish their exit from Yemen and the transfer of their assets and employees to local entities; Appointed as an expert witness in an oil & gas related arbitration under the ICC Rules in Paris between a consortium of oil companies and the Government of Yemen.
Awards Winner of the 2013 Corporate INTL magazine Legal Award - Employment Law Firm of the Year in Yemen; winner of the 2013 Corporate INTL Legal Award - Full Service Law Firm of the Year in Yemen; winner of the ACQ 2013 Global Award - Yemeni Top Corporate Law Firm of the Year; nominated for Acquisition International’s 2013 M&A Awards; received a Chambers and Partners ranking for Abdulla Luqman, who was identified as a top Yemeni lawyer; winner of the Corporate INTL Global Award – Full Service Advisory Law Firm of the Year (2010/11/12) in Yemen; received a Legal 500 ranking for Abdulla Luqman, who was identified as a top-listed Yemeni lawyer; winner in the category of - International Trade Law Firm of the Year, Yemen (Lawyer Monthly Legal Awards 2012); is the exclusive representative of the Employment Law Alliance in Yemen, the largest network of international employment lawyers in the world; and was named Most Respected Legal Advisory Firm of the Year (Yemen) - 2014 International Fund Awards.
A-Z INDEX
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A.I.Kitsios LLC................................................................................................................... 12 Abenry & Company Advocates.......................................................................................... 89 Advokatfirmaet Rรถdstenen................................................................................................ 15 Afschrift.............................................................................................................................. 36 Almeida Guzmรกn & Asociados.......................................................................................... 52 ameleo. law LLP................................................................................................................ 24 ARAGO.............................................................................................................................. 19
B
Basilio Advogados............................................................................................................. 44 Belluzzo&Partners............................................................................................................. 30
Birungyi, Barata and Associates........................................................................................ 90 Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP......................................................................................... 48 Boehmert & Boehmert....................................................................................................... 23 Boga & Associates.............................................................................................................31 Bray & Krais...................................................................................................................... 16 BVR & Partners................................................................................................................. 28
C
Cabinet M Oproiu.............................................................................................................. 35 Cardinal, Abogados y Consultore...................................................................................... 53 Casseli Law Firm................................................................................................................57 Chadha & Co..................................................................................................................... 76 Christos Patsalides L.L.C.................................................................................................. 14 Courtois Lebel....................................................................................................................21
CSB Advocates................................................................................................................. 32
GLE Practice Awards 2014 93
D
DANIEL ADVOGADOS......................................................................................................47
Dantas, Lee, Brock & Camargo Advogados...................................................................... 45 Darae Law & IP Firm..........................................................................................................81 DeBee Gilchrist, a Professional Corporation..................................................................... 62 Debello Law........................................................................................................................17 Deep & Far........................................................................................................................ 83 Deloitte Advokatfirma AS................................................................................................... 33 DESTEK PATENT, INC..................................................................................................... 83 df-mp................................................................................................................................. 24 Díaz-Durán & Asociados | Central Law............................................................................. 53 Dominic Stamfords............................................................................................................ 69
E
Ehrlich & Fenster............................................................................................................... 88
F
Fangda Partners................................................................................................................ 75
Fleuchaus & Gallo Partnerschaft mbB Intellectual Property and Litigation Attorneys........................................................................................................................... 25 Fox, Swibel, Levin & Carroll, LLP...................................................................................... 60 Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP................................................................................. 10
G
Giambrone Law Studio Legale Internazionale.................................................................. 28 Gilbey Legal...................................................................................................................... 18 Grimaldi Studio Legale...................................................................................................... 29
94 GLE Practice Awards 2014
A-Z INDEX
Gurbani & Co......................................................................................................................81
H
HALTOM & DOAN............................................................................................................. 58 Holland Van Gijzen Attorneys at Law and Civil Law Notaries........................................... 33 Horvitz & Horvitz................................................................................................................ 50 Hunters...............................................................................................................................17
I
IBAÑEZ, QUINTANA, SAAVEDRA & HOFFMANN........................................................... 55 Ikaros Typographos & Co Lawyers................................................................................... 13
IP SPHERE........................................................................................................................21
J
JACKSON, ETTI & EDU.................................................................................................... 89 Jacob Associates............................................................................................................... 22 Jáuregui y Del Valle, S.C................................................................................................... 55
K
Kampala Associated Advocates.........................................................................................91 KARANJAWALA & COMPANY...........................................................................................77
Karatzas & Partners Law Firm.......................................................................................... 26 Kennedys Dubai LLP......................................................................................................... 90 KKG Kubas Kos Gaertner................................................................................................. 34 Klein Lyons Barristers & Solicitors.....................................................................................47 Kovács Réti Szegheő Attorneys at Law............................................................................ 26
GLE Practice Awards 2014 95
L
Lewis Nedas Law.............................................................................................................. 16 Licks Attorneys.................................................................................................................. 46 Lozano Blanco & Asociados.............................................................................................. 52
Lubis Ganie Surowidjojo.................................................................................................... 79 Luqman Legal Advocates and Legal Consultants............................................................. 92 LW TAX Lemaitre Wittkowski GmbH................................................................................. 25
M
Mamo TCV Advocates....................................................................................................... 32 MarQonsult........................................................................................................................ 80 MARTHA McCARTHY & COMPANY LLP......................................................................... 48 MEDIASTIC-MARTINEAU ASSOCIES AARPI.................................................................. 20 Mehta & Mehta Associates................................................................................................ 76 Messrs. Julius & Creasy.................................................................................................... 82 meyerlustenberger | lachenal Rechtsanw채lte....................................................................37 MOLO LAMKEN LLP..........................................................................................................61 Monfrini Crettol & Associes............................................................................................... 36 MONROY TORRES ABOGADOS......................................................................................51 MUNARI GIUDICI MANIGLIO PANFILI E ASSOCIATI......................................................27
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NautaDutilh Avocats Luxembourg......................................................................................31
New Delhi Law Offices...................................................................................................... 78
O
Ocampo Hurtado Orellana Abogados............................................................................... 49
96 GLE Practice Awards 2014
A-Z INDEX
Olswang Belgium LLP........................................................................................................11 Ortega Abogados Asociados S.C...................................................................................... 56
P
ParrisWhittaker.................................................................................................................. 43 Pierce & O’Neill, LLP......................................................................................................... 63
Pointon Partners................................................................................................................ 73
R
Rechtsanwälte Haver & Mailänder.................................................................................... 22 Rivera Gaxiola, Carrasco y Barrera, S.C.......................................................................... 54 RNClegal / Rajinder Narain & Co...................................................................................... 75 Romulo Mabanta Buenaventura Sayoc & De Los Angeles............................................... 80
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Salans FMC SNR Denton Europe LLP............................................................................. 23 Savitz Law Offices, P.C..................................................................................................... 60 Schindler Cohen & Hochman LLP..................................................................................... 62 Sciacca’s Lawyers Pty Ltd................................................................................................. 70 Shanghai Kai-Rong Law Firm........................................................................................... 73 Studio dell’Avvocato Antich............................................................................................... 30 Studio Legale Sutti.............................................................................................................27 Symeou & Konnaris LLC................................................................................................... 13
T
Tabas, Freedman & Soloff, P.A.......................................................................................... 59 Tadmor & Co...................................................................................................................... 88 GLE Practice Awards 2014 97
A-Z INDEX
Tassos Papadopoulos & Associates LLC.......................................................................... 14 Todd y Asociados, SC.........................................................................................................57 Travers Thorp Alberga....................................................................................................... 49 Troutman Sanders............................................................................................................. 74 Tuli & Co.............................................................................................................................77 Typographos & Co Lawyers............................................................................................... 13
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V,M&L ADVOGADOS........................................................................................................ 44 VANHAUTE ATTORNEYS................................................................................................. 12 Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino, LLP..................................................................................... 58
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WFaria Advogados............................................................................................................ 43 Williams & Connolly LLP................................................................................................... 64 Wollen Michelmore............................................................................................................ 15 Woodfines Solicitors.......................................................................................................... 18
Y
Y.P. Lee, Mock & Partners................................................................................................. 82 Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP............................................................................. 59
Z
ZBM................................................................................................................................... 34
98 GLE Practice Awards 2014
Global Law Experts Practice Awards 2014 www.globallawexperts.com
100 GLE Practice Awards 2014