Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie is the French office of international law firm of the same name. The Paris office was first opened in 1963 and the office’s managing partner is Eric Lasry.
Baker McKenzie is a multinational law firm founded in 1949, it has 77 offices in 46 countries.
Focusses / specialisms
The French office has a particular focus on restructuring and insolvency and M&A work within the banking, entertainment, healthcare and technology sectors.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Accenture, Adient, Atos, Automattic, BNP Paribas, Bumble, Casino, Children Worldwide Fund, Claranova, Crédit Agricole, Dalkia, Embracer, EDF, Faurecia, Laboratoires Servier, LVMH, MVNO SYMA, Nielsen IQ, Safran, Service Now, Siemens, Sika, Vivendi, Tencent and Thales.
Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period the firm was active in M&A and restructuring matters.
In M&A matters, the firm worked on private acquisitions, share buybacks, acquisitions, joint ventures and restructuring deals for clients connected with automotive, energy, healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Embracer €2.75 billion deal acquisition of Asmodee group
Thales €1.66 billion deal acquisition of Hitachi Rail
transportation
Client Feedback: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
M&A
"Responsiveness, pleasant to work with, knowledgeable, non-arrogant, sharp."
Alain Sauty de Chalon
"Very responsive, pleasant to work with, non-arrogant, knowledgeable."
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton opened in France in 1949. The office has approximately 100 lawyers and an office in Paris.
Cleary Gottlieb is an international law firm founded in 1946,now
with 1,100 lawyers in more than 50 countries.
The French office has a focus on debt and equity capital markets and M&A, where the firm has achieved top-tier status in France. The firm is also very active in financial services regulatory work.
In banking and finance, key clients of the firm include Worldline, Edenred, Nexans, Capgemini, Latour Capital,
Axéréal, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, Republic of Benin, Republic of Senegal and Envol Immobilier.
In capital markets banking, key clients of the firm include ArcelorMittal, Total, Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Council of Europe Development Bank,
Neoen, Vallourec,
Oragroup and Worldline.
In financial services regulatory, key clients of the firm include Crédit Agricole, BNP Paribas, UniCredit, Euronext, ESMA, The Vatican, Dexia, Natixis, AFME and French Banking Federation.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Veolia, Alstom, Worldline, Capgemini, Novasep, Crédit Agricole, COFACE, Latour Capital, Amundi and Bpifrance Participations.
In private equity, key clients of the firm include Latour Capital, Warburg Pincus, Mubadala Capital, Ardea Partners,
Qualium Investissement, Silver Point Capital, Emerging Capital Partners, TPG, CVC Capital Partners and Bridgepoint.
In projects
andenergy, key clients of the firm include Petrosen, Republic of Senegal, Republic of Iraq, Republic of Benin, Port de Dakar,
Envol Immobilier, OCI, Société des Hydrocarbures du Tchad, Republic of Chad and ArcelorMittal.
Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance is the French office of the international law firm of the same name, which was established in France in 1962.The office is led by managing partner Mathieu Remy and has one office in Paris.
Clifford Chance is an international law firm established through a merger in the 1980s. The firm has offices in Africa, Americas,
Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.
The French office has a strong practice in banking, debt capital markets, structured finance and
securitisation capital markets, financial services regulatory, M&A, project development and project finance, achieving
top-tier status for France in all these areas.
For banking, key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Airbus, 3i, EIB, Ardian Private Debt, World Bank, Meridiam, Total and UniCredit.
For capital markets, key clients of the firm include Crédit Agricole, Natixis, Goldman Sachs, Carrefour, Government of the Sultanate of Oman, Credit Suisse, Apax,
Nicox, Pimco and Rexel.
For financial services regulatory, key clients of the firm include Watford Holdings, Alstom, Citi, RCI Banque, Shell, MarketAxess, Adyen, Saxo Bank, Bpifrance and Morgan Stanley Bank.
For M&A, key clients of the firm include L’Oréal, Dongfeng Motor Group, Société Générale, Carrefour, Crédit Agricole Assurances, Tencent,
Eramet, British Steel, Axel Springer and Vauban Infrastructure Partners.
For projects, key clients of the firm include African Development Bank, OPIC, French Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy, Hermes, UK Export Finance, CACIB, CDC, Standard Chartered Bank, Bouygues and Vinci.
For restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include
Kidiliz, Carrefour,
ActoMezz, Activa Capital, Hertz, Vivarte and Groupe Ales.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
Bank lending: Borrower side
"Very good knowledge of the market and legal practice with some pragmatism."
"Reactive, knowledgeable."
Jeantet
Jeantet is a French business law firm established in 1924. The firm has 150 lawyers and one office in Paris.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a focus on financial services regulatory, project finance and project development. The firm is also particularly active in equity and debt capital markets, private equity, banking, restructuring and insolvency and M&A.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Apollo Global Management, Alstom, Argos Withy, FSN Capital, Turenne Capital, LBO France, Groupe Open, L1 Capital, Lidl, ØRSTED, Orascom, PetroTrans, Islamic Republique of Mauritania, The Carlyle Group, Dzeta Conseil, Elsewedy, and Wineco.
Research period review:
33rd edition (2023/2024)
During the research period the firm was active in equity capital markets, financial services regulatory, M&A, private equity, and restructuring and insolvency.
In equity capital markets the firm worked mostly on secondary share offerings such as private placement of shares, share capital increase and share offers.
In financial services regulatory the firm worked in non-contentious deals for clients connected to the banking, financial services and investment management sectors.
In M&A the firm worked on acquisitions, divestments, joint ventures, mergers for clients connected with technology, construction and industrials and manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals and life sciences.
In private equity the firm worked on several private acquisitions deals for clients in the investment management sector.
In project development the firm worked on several projects, mostly for clients in the energy, utilities, and public sectors.
The firm assisted clients across a wide array of industries in restructuring and insolvency work, particularly in financial restructuring and corporate rescue.
During the research period M&A partner Philippe Raybaud joined the firm from LPA-CGR.
Deal highlights:
33rd edition (2023/2024)
Agrofert group €810 million acquisition of Borealis
Apollo Global Management €500 million acquisition of Air France-KLM
Bridgepoint Development Capital €210 million acquisition of Analysys Mason
Five Arrows €200 million acquisition of Kpler
Ørsted €689 million acquisition of Ostwind
McDermott Will & Emery
McDermott Will & Emery is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office has 80 lawyers.
McDermott Will & Emery is an international law firm established in the 1930s. The firm is chaired by partner Ira Coleman and has 20 offices in seven countries and more than1,200 lawyers.
The Paris office has a focus on banking, M&A, private equity and project finance.
Key clients of the firm include
Abénex, Andera Partners (ActoMezz), Natixis, Tikehau Capital, CAPZA, Five Arrows Direct Lending, Banco Santander, CACIB and LGT Private Debt.
Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom
Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office is headed by partner Armand
Grumberg.
Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom is an international law firm established in 1948 and has offices in the Americas, Asia and Europe.
The Paris office has a focus on M&A work.
Key clients of the firm include LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Scor, WABCO Holdings,
TriRX Pharmaceuticals,
Axian Group, Iliad, Coty, Silver Lake Partners and Capgemini.
White & Case
White & Case is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office was established in 1926 and is the firm’s oldest office in Europe. The office is led by executive partner Guillaume
Vallat.
White & Case is an international law firm established in 1901. The firm has
more than2,200 lawyers in 44 offices located in 30 countries and is chaired by Hugh Verrier.
The Paris office has a strong practice in debt, equity and structured finance capital markets, and in restructuring and insolvency, achieving top-tier status in France in all these areas. The firm is also very active in banking, M&A, project development and project finance work.
In banking, key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, Société Générale,
Tereos, LVMH,
Adisseo,
Cobepa, IK Investment Partners, HPS Investment Partners and Centerbridge.
In capital markets, key clients of the firm include Barclays, Belfius Bank,
BofA Merrill Lynch, Air France-KLM, Air Liquide, Atos, Casino, 3CIF,
Agence France Locale,
Agence des Participations de
l’Etat and Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations.
In financial services regulatory, key clients of the firm include Jefferies Finance, Macquarie Capital, JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Santander, Facebook, Klarna, Trade Republic, Qonto and Lydia.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas,
Boussard &
Gavaudan,
Cardif, DRT,
Equens, Europ Assistance, Faurecia,
Novasep, Oberthur, Orange and Pernod Ricard.
In project finance and development, key clients of the firm include Vinci Concessions, Themis Energy, Bouygues Telecom, Phoenix France Infrastructure, Altitude Infrastructure, Caisse d'Epargne Bretagne Pays de Loire, Crédit
Industriel et Commercial, Natixis, Société Générale and Chaabi International Bank Offshore - Groupe Banque Centrale Populaire.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include Air Austral, KKR,
Kartesia, CVC, Hertz France, Global
Media
Entertainment, Whitebox, Davidson Kempner,
Centerbridge and Varde.
A&O Shearman - France
Shearman & Sterling is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name, which first opened an office in France in 1963.
Shearman & Sterling is an international law firm with
more than850 lawyers, nearly half of which are outside the US. The firm is led by global managing partners George Casey and Adam Hakki.
The Paris office has a particular focus on equity capital markets work, where it has achieved top-tier status in France. The firm is also very active in debt capital markets and M&A.
In banking, key clients of the firm include Nomura, HSBC, CACIB, BentallGreenOak,
Credit
Suisse, Bank of America, Deutsche Bank, Lloyds Bank, Santander, Barclays Capital and UBS.
In capital markets, key clients of the firm include Air France KLM, Axa, Bolloré, CFAO, Constellium, Danone, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Deutsche Bank,
JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley and Oddo BHF.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Altavia, Altice, Amundi, Areva,
BentallGreenOak, BioMérieux,
Bpifrance, Corning Incorporated, China Investment Corporation, Polytan and Dassault
Systèmes.
In project finance, key clients of the firm include International Finance Corporation, European Investment Bank, Proparco,
OPEC Fund for International Development, Standard Bank, Development Bank of Southern Africa, African Development Bank, Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund, Deutsche
Investitions und
Entwicklungsgesellschaft and Engie.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include BPI, Eden Park, LBO France, Talos Investments,
Siparex, Société
Ivoirienne de Raffinage, TPG,
BentallGreenOak, Tikehau and Trail Capital.
Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard is
the Paris office of
the international law firm
of the same name. The
Paris office is led by
Rémy Blain.
The firm has a particular focus on financial services regulatory deals and bond
issuances.
Key clients of the firm include Morgan Stanley, Nomura, Royal Bank of Scotland, Natixis, Engie Global Markets, UBS, Société Générale,
Credit
Suisse, Deutsche Bank, JP Morgan Chase Bank and
UniCredit Bank.
Client feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Responsive and
hands-on. Creative. Provided solutions."
"The team is very professional and creative. Responsive and reliable."
Altana
Altana is a French law firm founded in 2009 and based in Paris.
The firm has a particular focus on
restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients of the firm include Defta, Millet Group, Natixis, Secom, Alkor Draka, Groupe Figaro,
Sirob Group,
Ivanhoe Cambridge and Samsung Electronics France.
Argos Avocats
Argos Avocats is a French law firm based in
Paris.
The firm has a particular focus on
M&A and private equity.
Key clients of the firm include Cafeyn,
Alira Health,
Groupe Up,
Bregal Milestone and
Pr0ph3cy.
ASAFO & Co
Asafo & Co is the French office of the international law firm of the same name. The firm has one French office in Paris.
Asafo & Co is an international law firm dedicated to Africa-related business. The firm has experienced teams of more than150 lawyers and legal professionals in eight offices in Abidjan, Casablanca, Johannesburg, Mombasa, London, Nairobi, Paris and Washington DC.
The French office has a focus on project development work.
Key clients of the firm include EDF, ANSUT,
Emerging Africa Development Fund, Citi, Société Générale, CACIB and Globeleq.
Client feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Good relationship with local counsel in a difficult jurisdiction. Good technical work."
August Debouzy
August Debouzy is a law firm in France established in 1995 by Gilles August and Olivier Debouzy. The firm has 150 lawyers and is based in Paris.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular strength in restructuring and insolvency work but is also very active in banking and M&A.
Key clients
In banking key clients of the firm include Visa, Microsoft, Royal Bank of Canada, ING, HSBC, Royal Bank of Scotland, AnaCap Financial Partners and Société Générale.
In M&A key clients of the firm include Orange, Total, Dassault Aviation, Thales, Engie, EDF, Banque des Territoires, Société Bic and Argos Wityu.
In project development key clients of the firm include Total, Veolia, EDF, ALSF, NEoT Capital, ONVHYM and Total Quadran.
In restructuring and insolvency key clients of the firm include XL Airways, Groupe Nox, United Mining Suppliers International, OGER International, Groupe Cahors, Groupe Famar, Mars Films and Dietrich Carebus.
Research period review:
33rd edition (2023/2024)
During the research period the firm was active in the banking, M&A, and project development practice.
In banking the firm advised mostly lenders in the banking industry sector on diverse financing transactions.
In M&A the firm advised on acquisitions and financial investments transactions for clients in the energy, technology, and banking sectors.
In project development the firm advised clients in the energy, mining, and utilities sectors.
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2023/2024)
M&A
“Very competent. Very swift and clear answer. Availability. Very good negotiation.”
“Very strong general practice firm with strong capabilities in all relevant areas.
Very responsive and knowledgeable.”
“Extremely impressive technically and very pleasant to work with.”
“Excellent all-round service.”
“Providing resources at short notice.”
Restructuring and Insolvency
“They have a deep expertise in this type of work and are familiar with all type of legal implications resulting therefrom (labour, bankruptcy, and others). On top of that it is remarkable its business-oriented approach.”
“Problem solving orientation and large experience in this area are its most remarkable attributes.”
Laurent Cotret
“His deep knowledge and experience as well as a very pragmatic and business-oriented approach.”
“He has a problem-solving approach that we appreciate much and a vast experience in restructuring.”
Valéry Denoix de Saint Marc
“Very strong and experienced M&A lawyer.
Excellent knowledge of international market standards.”
“Excellent all-round lawyer.”
Youssef Djehane
“Absolutely top-notch M&A lawyer, in particular for public M&A.”
Mahasti Razavi
“Good personal contact.”
Julien Wagmann
“I have known Julien for a number of years and have worked alongside him on many projects. He is an excellent lawyer and a real pleasure to work with.”
Ayache
Ayache Law is a French business law firm established in 1992 and with an office in Paris.
The firm has a focus on private equity work.
In banking key clients of the firm include Intermediate Capital Group,
TowerBrook, International Cookware, Consolis, UGC,
B&Capital,
Eduservices, Esri, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and JJA.
In M&A key clients of the firm include TDF, Louis Capital Markets UK, NHarris Computer Corporation, Nutraveris, Trapeze France (Group Constellation Software),
Esri France, Refresco, Chausson Matériaux, D&A and Founders of Talan.
Bentam Société d’Avocats
Bentam Société d’Avocats is a French law firm based in Paris.
The firm has a particular focus on debt capital markets and project finance.
Key clients of the firm include Bpifrance,
Tenergie,
Auxifip,
Avento,
Sergies,
LER Developpement, Crédit Industriel et Commercial, Crédit Coopératif and Banque Populaire Grand Ouest
–-Otoktone.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Strong knowledge. Accurate and swift answers. Relevant advice."
"Swift and accurate answers. Strong resume. Relevant advice. Appropriate credentials."
Bignon Lebray
Bignon Lebray is a French law firm with offices in Paris, Lille, Lyon and Aix Marseille as well as two international offices located in New Delhi and Shanghai.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular focus on M&A work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Bank of Communications (Luxembourg), Banque Palatine, FT Invest, Stratus, Satys, Swell, Ademe, Elysis, Bank of China, Faber France, Aptea, Sighor, Altima, Atlantic Dawn, Tikamoon and Desmazieres.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2023/2024)
During the research period, the firm was active in banking and M&A practice.
In banking the firm was seen advising on financing transactions for clients in the banking and real estate sectors.
The M&A practice of the firm was particularly visible during the research period advising clients on private acquisitions, joint ventures, financial investments, and corporate restructurings. The firm was seen advising clients in the private equity, healthcare, real estate, technology, banking, food and beverage, industrials and manufacturing, and consumer goods and services sectors.
During the research period, Associate
Dimitri Nadelgaft joined the firm’s banking practice while Partner Taous Mabed and Counsel Edouard de Limairac joined the M&A practice. Partner
Guillaume Douillard joined the restructuring practice of the firm.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2023/2024)
Bank of China €120 million financing
Bank of Communications Luxembourg
€100 million financing
Banque Palatine €75 million financing
Groue Positive €3.5 million acquisition of Marketing 1by1
ID Logistics €40 million acquisition of Colisweb
Client feedback: 33rd edition (2023/2024)
Banking
“Reactive, open-minded and friendly.”
“The support was excellent. The skills of the teams, their experience fully met our expectations. Their availability was total and their advice very valuable.”
Financial restructuring
“Bignon team is very proactive with client approach, they always managed to deliver their services on time.”
M&A
“Top-notch advice on M&A topics. A trusted adviser in difficult auction process.”
Restructuring and Insolvency
“Competence, very responsive, very dedicated and engaged.”
“Expertise. Responsiveness. Results and deadlines committed.”
Guillaume Douillard
“Guillaume is very competent and has extensive experience in banking relations. He listens and always offers the best solution. Above all, he manages to solve our problems.”
Alexandre Ghesquière
“Problem-solver; makes it happen; very well skilled.”
Serge Rastorgoueff
“Very well experienced professional. Excellent VFM.”
“Problem-solver attitude and responsiveness.”
“Serge is very competent and has extensive experience in banking relations. He listens and always offers the best solution. Above all, he manages to solve our problem. He also has excellent human qualities.”
Pierre-Emmanuel Scherrer
“Competence, very responsive, very dedicated and engaged.”
“Responsiveness. Accuracy and commitment to results and deadline. Solutions-driven.”
Delphine Tagand
“Competence, very responsive, very dedicated and engaged.”
Bird & Bird
Bird & Bird is the French office of the international law firm of the same name. The firm has two offices in France, located in Lyon and Paris.
Bird & Bird is an international law firm with
more than1,300 lawyers in 29 offices across Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and North America.
The French office has a focus on restructuring and insolvency work but
is also very active in banking work.
In banking, key clients of the firm include Mastercard, Vocalink, BNP Paribas,
Enterome, Norddeutsche Landesbank, Barclays, Société Générale,
Arkéa Banque Entrepriseset
Institutionnels, SVM Group and Gunvor.
In M&A and private equity, key clients of the firm include PP Yarns & Co, Pixium Vision,
Isatis Capital, SVP Groupe and
Socavit Holding.
In projects, key clients of the firm include Volkswind,
Envitec, Bluefield, Boreas, Engie, Akwa Group, Gunvor Group, Eiffage Energie, WKN France and JDR Cable Systems.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include Natixis, BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Renault, UPS France, French State, HSBC, Banque Palatine,
Norgine Ventures and Crédit Agricole.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Commitment to help us close the deal and to support us during key negotiations."
Project development: Energy
"Pragmatic analysis and following the issue even after the
end of collaboration."
Bredin Prat
Bredin Prat is a French law firm established in 1966. With offices in Paris and Brussels, Bredin Prat today has over 190 lawyers, including 46 partners and 21 counsels.
For international and cross-border work, Bredin Prat lawyers work with lawyers from the firm’s Best Friends, a network of independent firms. This network comprises 2,700 lawyers in 37 offices worldwide.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular focus on M&A work where they are in the top tier of ranked firms in France. However, the firm is also very active in equity capital markets, private equity and restructuring and insolvency work.
Key clients
In banking and debt capital markets key clients of the firm include Alstom, Altamir, Bain Private Equity, Firmenich, Lagardère, Maisons du Monde, Mizuho Bank, Natixis, Rabobank and SEB.
In equity capital markets key clients of the firm include Air Liquide, Brasil Warrant S.A., Carrefour, EDF, Stellantis (ex-PSA), PSP Investments, Saint-Gobain and Ubisoft.
In M&A key clients of the firm include Allianz, BPCE, Carrefour, Danone, EDF, General Electric, Motorola, Natixis, Suez and Techniolor.
In private equity key clients of the firm include KKR, Carlyle, HLD, Blackstone, Five Arrows Principal Investments (FAPI), Eurazeo, Wendel, PSP Investments, Sagard, Téthys Invest and Dentressangle.
In restructuring and insolvency key clients of the firm include Antalis International, Areva/Orano, Aviva, DHL, Fradim, Groupe Flo, Jaccar Holding, Liberty Steel, Oceanwood and St Mamet.
CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats
CMS Francis Lefebvre Avocats is a business law firm in France established in 1925. The firm has almost 450 lawyers and three offices in France: in Lyon, Paris and Strasbourg.
The firm has a focus on debt capital markets deals, but
it is also very active in structured finance and securitisation capital markets, financial services regulatory and project development.
For banking and finance, key clients of the firm include Société Générale, BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Natixis, LCL Le Crédit Lyonnais, CIC (including Crédit
Industriel et Commercial, Banque CIC Est, Banque CIC Ouest and CIC Lyonnaise de Banque),
Arkéa Banque Entreprises et
Institutionnels, NGE, Warburg Pincus/Groupe
Polyplus Transfection and
Credit
Suisse Asset Management.
For capital markets, key clients of the firm include Crédit Agricole, HSBC, CAFFIL, Bpifrance, My Money Bank, Barclays, Imerys,
Klépierre, Octo Finances, SFIL and La Banque
Postale.
For financial services regulatory, key clients of the firm include Hines, N26, iMGlobal Partner, Kriptown,
Agrica, Redburn (Europe), Market Securities, Makor Securities,
Mirovaand
Stellium Invest.
For project development, key clients of the firm include GRTgaz,
Photosol,
Sorégies, Nordex,
Montansolar, EWZ, Meridiam and Ailes Marines.
For project finance, key clients of the firm include 3i, Mirova, Engie, Bouygues
Bâtiment, Meridiam, Syndicat Mixte des Transports en Commun de
l’Agglomération Clermontoise and Deutsche Bank
For restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include Atradius, Banque Palatine and FCP Micado France,
Sodiaaland its affiliates, Saint-Gobain,
Mutares, Hainan Airlines, Vita Polymeres,
CEGC (Natixis/BPCE), Natixis and Monsoon Accessorize.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Respond on time and understand the complexity of the situation."
Crefovi
Crefovi is a French law firm established in 2012. The firm is led by founder and managing partner Annabelle
Gauberti and has offices in London and Paris.
The firm has a focus on private equity work.
Dartevelle Dubest Bellanca
Dartevelle Dubest Bellanca is a
French law firm
founded in 2009 and
based in
Paris.
The firm has a particular focus on
financial services regulatory work.
Key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas Securities Services, Crédit Agricole Group, Crédit Mutuel Alliance Fédérale, ING Bank, Total, Veolia and Coface.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"Excellent knowledge of regulations.
Very high availability.
Very rigorous in the drafting of documents."
"Know-how and rapid analysis."
De Pardieu Brocas Maffei
De Pardieu
Brocas Maffei is a French business law firm established in 1993. The firm is led by managing partner Emmanuel
Fatôme,
with 150 lawyers including 34 partners, and has one office in Paris.
The firm has a particular focus on banking and restructuring and insolvency work, where the firm is in the top tier for France. The firm is also very active in financial services regulatory, M&A and private equity deals.
In financial services regulatory, key clients of the firm include Crédit Agricole Assurances, April, Crédit Agricole Payment Services, CNP Assurances,
CDC Habitat and Henderson Park.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Altice, Covivio,
AccorInvest,
Orano (Ex Areva), La Banque
Postale, Natixis,
Axereal,
Batipart, EDF Energies Nouvelles and
Agrial.
In project development, key clients of the firm include Boralex, Innovent, Neoen,
Albioma,
Enedis,
GreenYellow, Solvay, Saur, Suez and Total.
In project finance, key clients of the firm include Eiffage, BEI, Eiffel, CEPAC, Vinci, Paprec,
Auxifip, Vauban Infrastructure Partners and Caisse Des Depots et Consignations.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include Toys “R” Us, Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits, Renault, Groupe
SEA-Invest, Oaktree, Alchemy Partners, Farallon,
Kartesia,
Makuria and Tikehau.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"Very competent, responsive and pragmatic."
"Pragmatic, efficient, very good value for money."
Dechert
Dechert is the French office of the international firm of the same name. The office is led by managing partner Alain
Decombe and is based in Paris.
Dechert is an international law firm originally founded
under
a different name in 1875. The firm is led by CEO Henry Nassau and has 22 offices worldwide as well as approximately 1,000 lawyers.
The French office has a particular focus on M&A and private equity work.
Key clients of the firm include Arkema,
ArchiMed, Air Liquide, Benta Pharma,
Interchim,
Robocath,
HysetCo/STEP,
Sevenhugs, Kerry Group and
Unibel.
Dentons
Dentons is the Paris office of the multinational firm of the same name. The office was first established in 1978 and is currently led by France managing partner Séverine
Hotellier.
Dentons is an international law firm with 20,000
professionals including 12,000 lawyers, in more than 200 locations in more than 80 countries.
The Paris office has a particular focus on project development work but is also very active in structured finance and securitisation capital markets, M&A and restructuring and insolvency.
In banking key clients of the firm include Crédit Agricole, CACEIS Bank, BNP Paribas, Groupe Rocher, Meridiam, KSL Capital Partners, LRC, Essling Capital, Prudentia Capital and Sparring Capital.
In capital markets, key clients of the firm include JP Morgan, HSBC, Credit Suisse, Natwest, Royal Bank of Scotland, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Rallye, Casino, Vinci and Faurecia.
In investment funds, key clients of the firm include Amundi Private Equity Funds, BNP Paribas Capital Partners, CA Indosuez (Switzerland), Five Arrows Managers,
Flexstone,
Idinvest Partners, ODDO BHF Private Equity, Omnes Capital, Swen Capital Partners and White Star Capital General Partner.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Rio Tinto, Lactalis, Pfizer, Accor, Bayer,
Cerdia,
Dradura, EDF,
Wavestone and Zentiva.
In private equity, key clients of the firm include Abenex,
Arcole Industries, CS Group, Essling Capital, Gilde Healthcare, KKR,
Mirova,
Paref, Sparring Capital and
Verdoso.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include Havas Voyages, Elrond
NPL 2017, Wilmington Savings Fund Society,
Adova, Paris Bedding, Supra,
Lacelier, Publications International and
Dalloyau.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Incredibly impressed with Dentons
– one of the best firms I have worked with. Diligent, hard-working, smart, knowledgeable, practical and positive attitude."
"Deep knowledge of our sector (healthcare) and dynamics of foreign PE firms."
DLA Piper
DLA Piper is the Paris office of the global firm of the same name. The office is led by Xavier Norlain and T. Alexander Brabant and more widely the office has over 175 lawyers.
DLA Piper is a global law firm established in 2005 through a merger and has lawyers in more than 40 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.
Focusses / specialisms
The Paris office has a particular focus on private equity but the firm is also very active in banking and M&A.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Capza, BNP Paribas, Funecap Holding, Solina, BlackRock, Idinvest Partners, France Air, Societe Generale, Medtronic France and ETEX Group.
DS Avocats
DS Avocats is a French law firm established in 1972. The firm’s president is Olivier Fages and the firm has four offices in France located in Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon and Paris.
The firm has a particular focus on private equity work but is also active in financial services regulatory, M&A, project finance and restructuring and insolvency.
In financial services regulatory, key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas Securities Services, Crédit Agricole Group, Crédit Mutuel Alliance Federale Group, Total, Coface and Veolia.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Cheops Technology, Boss - Nexa Technologies, BDF Conseils, Holiday Inn, Synergie & Partners,
Fibocom,
Yatsen,
Invio, Nishimoto Trading and LDC.
In project finance, key clients of the firm include the International Finance Corporation, TDF, Altitude Infrastructure, Berkeley Energy, Vinci Construction Grands Projets, Ministry of Finance of Uganda, Nordic Solar, Neoen, Yunnan Overseas Investment Corporation and Eiffage.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include CIMC Tianda, Paris City Vision,
Fogale Nanotech, LDC,
Zetra International, KTK Seats France,
Oxala Consulting,
Spicesoft,
Arcole Industries and H2B Services.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Highly responsive, comprehensive understanding of the domains involved (construction, gas operations, EU law, public law)."
Duhamel
Duhamel is an independent law firm with an office in Paris.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular focus in transactions work involving investment funds on both domestic and cross-border deals.
Research period review: 31st edition (2020/2021)
In this research period the focus of the firm’s work was on financial services regulatory work and acquisition work. This included structuring, refinancing or acquiring assets for investment or private equity funds for both domestic and international clients.
Deal highlights: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Ananta asset management’s fund raising
STAM’s acquisition of French real estate fund and assets
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2020/21)
Banking and finance
"We appreciate the creativity of the firm and its ability to work well with stakeholders, and its deep knowledge regarding regulatory aspects."
Investment funds: Real estate funds
"Comprehension of business. Deep knowledge of rules."
Jeremie Duhamel
"Availability and deep knowledge of the industry."
"He has outstanding knowledge of regulatory law and an excellent understanding of the French financial regulator's requirements."
DWF
DWF is the French office of the international firm of the same name which opened in France in 2017. The office is based in Paris and is led by managing partner Jean Francois Mercadier.
The office has a focus on M&A and project development work.
Key clients of the firm include Rubis Terminal Group, Schneider Electric, Orion Oil, Glencore International, Randgold Resources, Endeavour Mining, Laborizon,
MACIF, Free Sénégal, NJJ Capital and Five Guys France.
Fidal
Fidal is a French business law firm established in 1922. The firm has 90 offices throughout France and has 1,400 lawyers and consultants.
The firm has a particular focus on project finance and restructuring and insolvency work but is also very active in M&A work.
Key clients of the firm include Groupe Alliance, April Enterprise, Centum
Adetel,
Indelec, Konica Minolta,
Nautilhome,
Cullen Group,
L’eauVive,
Avirex and
Pronuptia.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
FTPA
FTPA is a French law firm established in 1972. The firm has 80 staff members and has one office in Paris.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular focus on M&A and restructuring and insolvency work but is also active in private equity work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include JCDecaux, Geveko Markings, CNES, SADE-CGTH, Quodagis, Parthena, Pricefx and Jost Werke.
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
M&A
"Relevant advice. Writing of the investment protocol matching with a complex multi-steps acquisition process. Responsiveness and good understanding."
Gibson Dunn & Crutcher
Gibson Dunn & Crutcher is the Paris office of the international firm of the same name. The office was established in 1967 and is currently led by Amanda Bevan-de-Bernède and Bernard Grinspan, who
lead a team of approximately 40 lawyers.
Gibson Dunn & Crutcher is an international law firm established in 1872 and has 1,500 lawyers in 20 offices across the US, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and South America.
The Paris office has a particular focus on restructuring and insolvency work where the firm has achieved
top-tier status in France. The firm is also very active in M&A work.
Key clients of the firm include Gilead Sciences, Conforama Holding,
Mutares, Technicolor,
SoLocal Group, HSBC, BNP Paribas,
RedBird Capital Partners,
OFE Advisers and Celio.
Gide Loyrette Nouel
Gide
Loyrette Nouel is an international law firm from France established in 1920. In France, the firm has 81 partners and 265 associates and is led by managing partner Jean-François
Levraud.
Worldwide, the
firm has 500 lawyers, including 100 partners, in 11 offices.
The firm has a particular focus on banking, debt capital markets and structured finance and
securitisation capital markets, where the firm has achieved top-tier status in France.
In banking, key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Société Générale, Natixis, CIC, HSBC France, ING, Amundi, Morgan Stanley and ING.
In capital markets, key clients of the firm include Europcar Mobility Group, Deutsche Bank, Air France KLM, BNP Paribas, Jefferies, Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Barclays, JP Morgan and Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
In financial services regulatory, key clients of the firm include Morgan Stanley, Kepler Cheuvreux, Oddo BHF, Primonial REIM, La Banque
Postale, ENI, Lombard Odier Europe, Crédit Suisse, French State, KKR and Westbrook Partners.
In investment funds, key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas REIM, NNIP, Primonial REIM, Mizuho, 360 Capital Partners, Gaia Capital Partners, Sigefi Private Equity, Korelya Capital, Omnes Capital,
Idinvest and
Ibionext.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations, EDF,
Unibail Rodamco, Nippon Steel Corporation, EOS Imaging, Essilor Luxottica, MSD, Europ Assistance,
Solocal (formerly Pages Jaunes) and
Fnac Darty.
In private equity, key clients of the firm include Idinvest Partners,
Balderton Capital, Temasek, Partech Partners,
Bpifrance, Socotec, April,
Vitalliance, Five Arrows Principal Managers and Kohlberg Kravis Roberts.
In projects, key clients of the firm include IFC, Government of Botswana, EIB, Government of Barbados, Government of Côte d’Ivoire, Delta Offshore Energy, Meridiam, FGIS, EDF and Naval Group.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include QBE Insurance Europe, Fundamental Films,
Stentys,
Fintyre Group, DFDS Seaways, Azul, LMDE, Akers, Reserve Bank of India and P3.
Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG is the French office of the international firm of the same name. The office is based in Paris and led by managing partner Frederic Dereux.
Gowling is an international law firm which can trace itself back to 1887 and with over 1,500 legal professionals in 19 offices.
The French office has a particular focus on project finance work but is also active in banking, debt capital markets, M&A, private equity and project development.
Key clients of the firm include Caisse d’Epargne Grand Est Europe, Banque Populaire Alsace Lorraine Champagne, Clarion Gramercy, Banque Palatine, Caisse d'Epargne Ile de France, Ventech, Terry de Gunzburg, Educapital, ITS (International Technology Solutions) and Citizen Capital.
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Investment funds: Private equity funds
"Very good knowledge of the sector, very good adaptability to the customer, good value for money, capacity to intervene in many countries."
"Strong and dedicated team led by Patrick Mousset."
Gowling WLG
Gowling WLG is the French office of the international firm of the same name. The office is based in Paris and led by managing partner Frédéric Dereux.
Gowling is an international law firm that
traces back to 1887 and with
more than
1,500 legal professionals in 19 offices.
The French office has a particular focus on project finance work but is also active in banking, debt capital markets, M&A, private equity and project development.
Key clients of the firm include Caisse d’Epargne Grand Est Europe, Banque Populaire Alsace Lorraine Champagne, Clarion Gramercy, Banque Palatine, Caisse d'Epargne Ile de France, Ventech, Terry de Gunzburg, Educapital, ITS (International Technology Solutions) and Citizen Capital.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Expertise.
Business-oriented attitude.
Competitive fees."
"Very good experience and sectorial knowledge, flexibility and business-oriented approach."
Grant Thornton Société d’Avocats
Grant Thornton Société d’Avocats is the French law firm of Grant Thornton France, member of Grant Thornton International. The firm is led by Grant Thornton France CEO Robert Dambo and has 23 offices and 117 partners.
Grant Thornton is an international law firm with 58,000 people across 135 countries.
The French office has a focus on M&A work.
Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills in France is a civil and commercial law firm established in 1964. The firm has one office in Paris.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is particularly strong in its work in debt capital markets, financial services regulatory and M&A as well as projects work.
The debt capital markets team has specialism in bond and note issuances.
For financial services regulatory, the firm focuses on providing regulatory advice related to the creation of new areas of work as well as advice on macroeconomic trends.
In M&A, the firm’s work for clients is focused on the technology and renewables sectors.
The project finance work focuses on financing work for clients in the energy, financial services and telecommunications sectors.
In project development, the firm focuses on domestic and international energy and transportation work.
Key clients
The firm’s notable capital markets clients include La Banque Postale, Korian, Air Liquide, Boluda and JCDecaux.
In financial services regulatory it advises Bpifrance, Generali, Western Union, UAE Exchange and CNP Assurances.
In M&A it works for Africa50, Altran Technologies/Capgemini, April, Axpo, and Bharti Airtel.
Project finance clients include Akuo Energy, Agence Française de Développement, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, BNP Paribas Group and BPCE/Natixis Group.
In restructuring and insolvency, it has advised BPCE/Natixis Group, Eiffage Group, Joint Administrators of Nortel EMEA entities and Polygon.
Research period review: 33rd edition (2023/2024)
During the research period, the firm was actively involved in banking, M&A, projects and restructuring and insolvency work.
In banking the firm worked mostly on syndicated credit facilities for clients in the banking and financial services sectors.
Deal highlights: 33rd edition (2023/2024)
Airbus €8 billion revolving credit facility
Safran €2 billion revolving credit facility
Schneider Electric £4.1 billion acquisition financing
Hogan Lovells
Hogan Lovells is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office is led by managing partner Xenia Legendre and the office has 150 lawyers.
Hogan Lovells is an international law firm, established in 1904 with offices across the world.
Focusses / specialisms
The Paris office has a particular focus on banking, debt capital markets, structured finance and securitisation markets, financial services regulatory and restructuring and insolvency work.
Key clients
In banking key clients of the firm include Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Banking, BNP Paribas, Crédit Lyonnais, L’Occitane, Akiem Group – Macquarie, Arc France, Bourbon Groupe, Towerbrook – Consolis, BNPP Asset Management – Mecachrome and Société Générale.
In capital markets key clients of the firm include BOURBON Group, Edmond de Rothschild (France), Société nationale, Valneva, Winance, BMW Finance, Citigroup Global Markets Europe and DBRS Ratings.
In financial services regulatory key clients of the firm include HSBC, BNP Paribas Group, Credit Agricole Group, Societe General (Group and Various Affiliates), CNH Financial Services (Financing Arm of The Fiat Group), Edenred, Euronet/ Ria, Moneygram, La Banque Postale and Opel Bank.
In M&A key clients of the firm include Akiem Group, Bertin Technologies, ESTEVE, Euro Ethnic Foods, Gilles Sales - Founder Oré Peinture, Gimv France participations, Groupe ADP, Helios Towers, Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations and Léon Vincent.
In private equity key clients of the firm include Argos Wityu, Azulis Capital, Arkea Capital, BNPP Développement, Socadif, MACSF, Blisce Advisors, BPI France, Cathay Capital Private Equity & Cathay Innovation and Chequers Capital.
In projects key clients of the firm include African Finance Corporation, Aéroports de Paris, Themis energy, IFC, Colas Projects, Mirova and Aéroports de Paris.
In restructuring and insolvency key clients of the firm include Bourbon Maritime, AccorInvest, TowerBrook Capital Partners (UK), Consolis, ACPS, Cineworld, FHB and Technicolor.
Holman Fenwick Willan
HFW is the Paris office of the law firm of the same name.
HFW is an international law firm which can trace its origins back to 1832. The firm is led by managing partner Jeremy Shebson and has 600 lawyers working across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Australia.
The firm is active in banking.
Key clients of the firm include Apax Partners, FM
Batilogistic, Destiny Group and
Graitec Group.
Joffe & Associés
Joffe & Associes is a French law firm established in 1996. The firm has three offices in Paris, Aix-en-Provence and London.
The firm has a particular focus on private equity work but is also very active in M&A.
Key clients of the firm include Fountaine Pajot, Daco Bello, Caisse
D'epargne Ile De France Capital Investissement,
Bpifrance,
Siparex, Rives Croissance, Elaia partners, Impact Partners,
Siparex Innovation and
Sofimac Innovation.
King & Spalding
King & Spalding is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office was established in 2009 and is led by managing partner Vanessa Benichou.
King & Spalding is an international law firm established in the 1890s and now encompassing 1,200 lawyers in 22 offices globally.
Focusses / specialisms
In France the firm has a particular focus on M&A work but is also active in project development.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Orange, EDF, Spie batignolles, Ingenico, Anadarko, Dragon Oil, Wintershall, Chevron, OMV, Petrofac and CNPC.
Kirkland & Ellis
Kirkland & Ellis is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office was established in 2019 and has four partners.
Kirkland & Ellis is an international law firm established in 1909 and currently has approximately 2,900 lawyers globally in 18 offices around the world.
In France the firm has a focus on private equity work.
Key clients of the firm include Antin Infrastructure Partners,
ICMS, Vista Equity Partners, Providence Equity Partners, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, Continental Grain Company, Warburg Pincus, Vitruvian Partners, West Street Capital Partners and Technicolor.
Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel
Kramer Levin
Naftalis & Frankel is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office was opened in 1999 and is currently led by Dana M Anagnostou and Renaud Dubois who serve as co-managing partners of the Paris office.
Kramer Levin is a full-service law firm established in 1968. The firm is headquartered in New York, with offices in Silicon Valley and Paris, and is led by co-managing partners Paul H Schoeman and Howard T
Spilko.
The Paris office has a focus on financial services regulatory work but is also very active in structured finance and securitisation capital markets.
In banking, key clients of the firm include Midcap Partners, Fundamental Partners, La Banque
Postale Asset Management, Aurel BGC, Zark Capital,
Constructel Constructions et
Télécommunications, Eiffel Investment Management,
TIkehau Investment Management,
Aviva Investors and GFI Securities.
In capital markets, key clients of the firm include Tikehau, Idinvest,
Acofi Gestion, Eiffel Investment Group, Amundi, LBO France, M Capital Partners, Barclays Capital,
Flexam Invest and Midcap Partners.
In financial services regulatory banking, key clients of the firm include UBS, Banque Delubac, Orange,
HiPay, LBPAM,
Treezor,
Smartbox, Acadian Advisors,
Twenty First Capital and Generali Wealth Solutions.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Atos, Worldline, Domidep, Chubb (Carrier),
Oodrive,
Ossiam, Arcure,
Qivalio, BWT AG and Groupe La Française.
In private equity, key clients of the firm include Ace Capital Partners (Tikehau), I Squared Capital, Lumos Capital Group, Scaled Risk,
Pledg,
Stairwage and Mansa.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"Quick and professional."
"High availability, keen understanding of complex issues and strong support in complex negotiations."
Lacourte Raquin Tatar
Lacourte Raquin Tatar is a French law firm established in 2013.
The firm has a focus on M&A work but is also active in banking and financial services regulatory.
Key clients of the firm include Korian, Lucky
Oldstone, Russell Investments, LaSalle Investment Management, Aviva Investors, Crédit Mutuel
Arkéa, SNCF, Orange, Tikehau and Bpifrance.
Latham & Watkins
Latham & Watkins is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office is led by managing partner Olivia Rauch-Ravisé. Latham & Watkins is an international law firm with more than3,000 lawyers in 14 countries.
The Paris office has a focus on private equity work, where the firm has achieved top-tier status in France. The firm is also very active in banking and restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients of the firm include Aviva, Credit Suisse, Diameter Capital, King Street Capital, Marathon Capital, Alcentra,
Ascometal, Baxter
Healthcare
Corporation,
Bpifrance Participations and BUT.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"This was a very complex restructuring
– the team was in control and commercial. Despite the large number of parties involved, they were able to respond to individual requests swiftly.
Coordination between the various team members was smooth. Really impressed by their
approach."
"Latham and Watkins and the leading engagement partner provided invaluable guidance to our group in working through our very complex restructuring transaction. At every step of the transaction Latham was thorough in their legal analysis and candid in sharing their views of the merits of each option. When it came time to execute, Latham completed extremely detailed work documents with ease."
Linklaters
Linklaters is
the French office of the international
law firm
of the same name.
The French office
is based in Paris and comprises 170 lawyers including 36 partners.
Linklaters is an international law firm with 515 partners in 21 countries.
The firm has a particular focus on
structured finance and securitisation capital markets, where it has achieved top-tier status in France.
Key clients of the firm include Genfit,
NHOA,
Société du Grand Paris,
Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank,
European Investment Bank,
Citigroup Global Markets,
HSBC,
Natixis,
JP Morgan and
Legrand.
LL Berg
LL Berg is a French law firm established in 2007. The firm is based in Paris, has four partners and 20 fee earners and is led by managing partner Olivier Abergel.
The firm is active in M&A and private equity work.
Key clients of the firm include
Telenco, Mademoiselle Desserts, Grand Frais,
Oodrive, DRT, Almaviva,
Protectim,
Clinadent,
Globeducate,
Eglo and Ardian.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Very proactive, deal-maker minded, very dedicated to
the deals, 360 degrees approach,
high-level team."
"Top-edge experience and network to benchmark."
LPA-CGR avocats
LPA-CGR is a French law firm established through a merger in 2016. The firm is headquartered in Paris and has
more than230 lawyers worldwide in 13 offices.
The firm has a focus on banking and M&A work but is also active in restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients of the firm include Groupe Casino,
Orano, Gingko,
Interor, Calyce, Mata Capital,
Tenergie, RES and
iHealthLabs Europe.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"The French team is very good in negotiations (strategy, recommendation to client) and focused on client needs."
Mayer Brown
Mayer Brown is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office has 80 lawyers including 28 partners.
Mayer Brown is an international law firm which can trace its origins back to 1863. The firm operates on four continents and the managing partner is Jeremy Clay.
The firm has a particular focus on private equity work but is also very active in structured finance and securitisation capital markets
and also project development.
In banking, key clients of the firm include Groupe Panhard, Naxicap Partners, L Catterton,
Sagard, Bridgepoint Development Capital,
Qualium Investissement,
Quilvest Capital Partners, LBO France and Montefiore Investment.
In structured finance and
securitisation capital markets, key clients of the firm include Bank of America, Factofrance, Dow Chemical, BNP Paribas, JP Morgan, Rabobank and MUFG.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Acolad,
Anaveo,
Mediawan, Pernod Ricard, Presto Engineering,
Sogal, Unilever, Oaktree Capital, ICG and Bridgepoint Development Capital.
In private equity, key clients of the firm include Ophiliam Management, UI Investissement, L Catterton, Bridgepoint Development Capital,
Sagard, Oaktree Capital, Marlin Equity Partners,
Qualium Investissement, Intermediate Capital Partners and
NewAlpha Verto.
Mermoz Avocats
HPML is a French business law firm established in 2000 and has one office in Paris.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm focuses on M&A and private equity work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include SERB, CICLAD, LFPI, Adaxtra Capital and NCI.
NH Law
Nabarro & Hinge, branded as
NH Law, is a French business law firm based in Paris and established in 2008.
The firm has a focus on private equity and is also active in banking and M&A.
Key clients of the firm include
Cerea Partners, Activa Capital, Borey Participation and
Nexstage.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Fast, efficient, good advice."
Osborne Clarke
Osborne Clarke is a French firm which is a member of the Osborne Clarke international network. The firm is led by managing partners Maxime Pigeon and Catherine Olive and is located in Paris. Osborne Clarke is an international law firm with over 900 lawyers including 270 partners located in 25 locations.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a focus on restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Imprimerie Léonce Deprez, Fives, Hanes, Enensys, Impact Partners, Inteva Products France, The Pokemon Company International and Mont Blanc France.
Paul Hastings
Paul Hastings is
the French office of the international law firm of the same name. The firm
is based in Paris and the office is chaired by Olivier Vermeulen.
The firm has a particular focus on
M&A and private equity work.
Key clients of the firm include Amundi Private Equity Funds, Andera Partners,
Astorg, B&Capital,
Bpifrance,
Mediapro Sport France,
Liberty House Group,
US Wells Fargo,
xCelle Americas, Triumph Group and Air France Industries.
Racine
Racine is a French law firm established in 1981. The firm has more than200 lawyers, including 72 partners, located in seven offices in France and Belgium and is led by managing partners Frédéric Broud and Xavier Rollet.
The firm has a focus on restructuring and insolvency but is also very active in banking work.
Key clients of the firm include Tristan Capital Partners,
Presstalis, ING Bank, Themis Banque, Allianz France, Orange Bank, Adeo, Suez, Composites One and
Axtom.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"Challenging ideas and strong advice for target model."
Ravet & Associes
Ravet & Associes is a French law firm established in 1989 by Yves-Marie Ravet. The firm is based in France in Paris, Rennes, Douai & Saint-Brieuc but also have an office in Belgium located in Brussels.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is active in banking and project finance.
Key clients
In asset finance key clients of the firm include Bank of China, Natixis, Credit Agricole, Nord, Caisse D’epargne, Air France, CCB Financial Leasing Corporation, CAIRE airline (Compagnie Aérienne Inter-Régionale Express), Engine Lease Finance Corporation and Aerovision International.
In banking key clients of the firm include Bpifrance, BNP Paribas, BRED Banque Populaire, Crédit Industriel et Commercial, Crédit Coopératif, Cap Vert Energie (CVE), Atlante Gestion and VOL-V.
In M&A and restructuring and insolvency key clients of the firm include Showroomprivé (Eric Dayan and Michael Dayan) and the companies Victoire Investissement, Financière Cambon and Camphi.
In project finance key clients of the firm include Arkea, BPCE / BRED, HSBC, Crédit Mutuel, CVE, VSB Energies Nouvelles, Atlante Gestion and CVE.
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Asset finance
"Responsive, relevant, very professional."
Reed Smith
Reed Smith is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office opened in 2005 and is currently led by managing partner Natasha Tardif.
Reed Smith is an international law firm which can trace its origins back to 1877. The firm is led by global managing partner Alexander Y. Thomas.
The Paris office is active in banking, M&A, private equity and project development.
Key clients of the firm include Crédit
Industriel et Commercial,
Proparco, EIB, GS Inima Environment, Olympique Lyonnais, Société Générale, Natixis, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Asian Development Bank and Meridiam.
Santoni & Associés
Santoni & Associes is a French law firm established more than 25 years ago by its founder Marc Santoni. Since 2007 the firm has been in an exclusive strategic alliance with Allen & Overy for restructuring, insolvency and distressed debt work.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a focus on restructuring and insolvency work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include IKKS, CACIB, HSBC, BNPP, Cale Street, French State (APE) and Groupe Beaumanoir.
Simmons & Simmons
Simmons & Simmons is
the French presence of the international law firm of the same name. It is
based in Paris.
Headquartered in London, Simmons & Simmons is an international law firm with offices across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
The firm has a particular focus on
project finance work.
A key client of the
firm is GAP.
Spitz Poulle Kannan
Spitz
Poulle Kannan is a French financial law firm established in 2011.
The firm has a focus on financial services regulatory, where the firm has achieved top-tier status in France.
Key clients of the firm include Deutsche Bank, EQT, Klarna, Edmond de Rothschild, BNP Paribas, UniCredit, Morgan Stanley, Natixis, Groupe BPCE and Total.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
Financial services regulatory
"Very clear, responsive, knowledgeable and practical."
"Spitz
Poulle are the standout leading financial services regulatory practice in the French market. Their partners are well known to international clients for their deep understanding of French regulations and the ability to provide practical advice to global groups."
Squair
Squair is a French law firm established in 2018. The firm has two offices located in London and Paris.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm is active in M&A work.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Biospeedia, Ai3 (founders), EV Bakery, MBS Group, Lanfranchi, Pregis, Ateliers de France and Kaezar Group.
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Investment funds: Private equity funds
"Both pro- and re- active, experts, modern, effective."
Trinity International
Trinity International
is the Paris office of the international law firm of the same name. The office opened in 2016 and Pierre Benheim is the leading partner. Trinity International is an international law firm, established in 2006.
Focusses / specialisms
The Paris office is active in project development.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include Tembo Power, Quair International, Scatec Solar, BIO, Electri Fi and Africa Ren.
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2020/2021)
Bank lending: Lender side
"Strong on legal knowledge and how to structure and deal with legal issues. Responsive and proactive."
UGGC Avocats
UGGC
Avocats is a French law firm established in 1993. The firm has 146 lawyers in nine offices.
The firm has a focus on private equity and restructuring and insolvency work but is also active in M&A.
Key clients of the firm include Colas, La Poste Suisse, LBO France, CDC Habitat,
Bpifrance, Invesco, Fides, Aeospace, Nimbus and Aequs Aerospace.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"UGGC
arereally proactive and support our company as if they were employees of it; the work done is very professional and they have a broad approach of solutions; their enthusiasm is really pleasant and motivating."
"UGGC is very efficient and knowledgeable in M&A and very responsive. They
are able to talk to businesspeople as well as lawyers."
Valoren
Valoren is a French law firm based in Paris.
The firm has a particular focus on
restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients of the firm include JJW, Cefival, AMALFI, Lion Air and
Carglass Maison.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Our matter is extremely complicated with various challenges and aspects requiring urgent and ongoing attention. The lawyers at
Valoren have been exceptional in dealing with this matter, providing expert assistance and guidance on all matters."
Volt & Associes
Volt
Associés is a French law firm established in 2016. The firm was founded by Emmanuel Vergnaud, Lucas
d’Orgeval, Stéphane
Letranchant and Alexandre Tron and is based in Paris.
The firm is active in restructuring and insolvency.
Key clients of the firm include
Noe Industries, Fitness Park, Auchan Group, Grandi
Stazioni Retail, Yves Saint Laurent, SCOR, Pierre Lang Trading and Cordillera Capital.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Professional,
innovating and
reactivity."
"Very professional, competent and reactive. Demonstrated strong negotiation capabilities and business-oriented mindset."
Watson Farley & Williams
Watson Farley & Williams is the Paris office of the international firm of the same name. The office was established in 1989 and is currently led by Romain
Girtanner.
The Paris office has a focus on project development work but is also active in banking and project finance.
Key clients of the firm include Société Générale, Crédit Agricole, Bpifrance, ING Bank, Technique Solaire, Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations, Predica, Entreprises
Audemard,
Orrion Chemicals
Orgaform and
Böllhoff Group.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"They are extremely client-oriented, available and competent."
"Very high quality in terms of
due
diligence
and transactional negotiations. Responses always in time. Clear advice."
Weil Gotshal & Manges
Weil Gotshal & Manges is
a French law firm established through a merger in 2003. The firm is part of the international law firm of the same name.
It has one office in Paris, which is led by managing partner Emmanuelle Henry and has more than 80 lawyers.
Weil Gotshal & Manges is an international law firm established in 1931. The firm has 1,100 lawyers and is led by executive partner Barry Wolf.
The firm has a focus on private equity and restructuring and insolvency work, where the firm has achieved top-tier status in France. The firm is also very active in M&A work.
In M&A, key clients of the firm include Casino, Orange, Engie, Vinci, Eutelsat, Total, Vallourec, Lagardère,
Altarea Cogedim and April.
In private equity, key clients of the firm include 3i, Advent International, Alpha Private Equity, A&M Capital, Antin Infrastructure, Apax Partners, APG,
ArchiMed, Ardian and Astorg Partners.
In restructuring and insolvency, key clients of the firm include Rallye, Casino, Bpifrance,
the
French State, Glass Holdings, Arc Holdings,
Hayfin Capital Management,
Foraco, Corsair and Vallourec.
Client
feedback:
32nd edition (2022/2023)
"Deep knowledge of French restructuring and insolvency-related issues, providing sound advice in complex situations."
"Trust, understanding of our key issues, knowledge of the French restructuring world and advice on how to handle different stakeholders, including the government, collaboration with other advisors."
Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Willkie Farr & Gallagher
is a commercial law firm established in 1925. The firm has one office which contains 90 lawyers including 19 partners and eight counsels.
Focusses / specialisms
The firm has a particular specialism in the private equity and restructuring and insolvency practice areas but also does particularly well in project development work.
In restructuring and insolvency, the firm works on domestic and cross border corporate restructuring and rescue work.
In project development, the firm specialises in international projects focusing on infrastructure and energy work for a wide range of sectors.
Key clients
Key clients of the firm include BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Natixis, BRED Banque Populaire, JP Morgan Asset Management, The Carlyle Group, Air France Group, Air France KLM, PAI Partners, Eurazeo, Ardian, CVC, HIG, Ministry of the Armed Forces, Meridiam, Ardian, Allianz, BBVA,
Research period review: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
During the research period the firm worked on a wide range of financial restructurings, project development, acquisition financing loans for both public and private sector clients.
In banking the firm has worked on a variety of loan and financing transactions for borrowers and lenders connected with banking, investment management, energy and financial services.
In M&A, the firm’s work focused on acquisitional and joint venture work for buyers, sellers and shareholders on both domestic and cross-border transactions in the energy, retail and telecommunications sectors.
In project development the firm worked on projects for clients connected with infrastructure, real estate and private equity sectors.
Looking at projects work, the firm’s work focused on both the financing and development of international projects for a variety of public and private sector clients using different frameworks such as PPPs, concession agreements and negotiations across a range of sectors including oil and gas, highways, renewables and telecommunications.
In restructuring and insolvency, the firm focused on corporate restructuring and rescue proceedings for companies, creditors or shareholders. This work was both on a domestic and cross-border basis and included clients in the aeronautics, oil and gas, hospitality and technology sectors.
Deal highlights: 32nd edition (2022/2023)
Air-France/KLM €7 billion French government aid package
CMA CGM €3 billion acquisition of Ingram Micro
Searchlight Capital Partners €400 million financial restructuring
PAI Partners €535 million refinancing
Client Feedback: 31st edition (2021/2021)
Banking and finance
"Clever and reactive. Business oriented."
Leveraged finance
"Extremely skilled and reliable. Smart approach. Think out of the box. Good understanding of the company needs and how to adapt the financing accordingly to make it fit industry standards."
M&A
"Impressive technical and drafting skills as well as a precious support in terms of negotiation."
"Great team/great reactivity and commitment/great technicity. "
Private equity
"Expert knowledge of corporate law, M&A practice, project finance structures. Responsiveness and dedication."
Project development: Infrastructure
"Best law firm in infrastructure project development, thanks to the best infrastructure lawyer globally."
Project finance
"Amir Jahanguiri is the best project finance lawyer globally: very experienced, smart, hard worker, best team support."
"They always demonstrate proactivity and real negotiating skills, including on complex issues. Their pragmatism also makes them effective deal makers. Finally, their expertise in financing brings their clients real comfort and allows them to approach cases with confidence."
"They have been very reactive and have also been able to 'think out of the box' in a context of tight deadlines and complex structures."
"We strongly appreciated their ability to adapt to the situation."
"Highly professional, balanced and strongly appreciated by sponsors and lenders. Top-quality documentation and good command of the whole process."
Restructuring and insolvency
"The team provided the lenders with very precise and helpful legal levers during an extremely tense negotiation and then delivered a complex documentation for both court proceedings and refinancing purposes."
Antoine Bouzanquet
"Expert knowledge of project finance and underlying industrial and financial contracts. Explains and communicates clearly."
"He has everything you should expect from a lawyer: skills, sympathy, reactivity, easy access, calm even in stressed environment. He knows how to defend his clients' interests, advises and knows when pragmatism has to be found. We have total confidence while working with him."
"Very dedicated. Very strong knowledge of project finance and many comparables. Strong ability to understand and challenge complex situations and make the bridge with acquisition finance/leverage documentation."
Grégoire Finance
"Great technicity, creativity, availability (reactivity)."
Amir Jahanguiri
"Best infrastructure lawyer globally."
"Very experienced, smart, hard worker, best team support."
"Highly respected professional, technically strong and constructive."
Paul Lombard
"Reliable – highly skilled – always available at any time – always finds smart solutions."
Annette Peron
"She is a strong reference in M&A transactions. Her experience in structuring and negotiating complex transactions supported by strong technical skills and her perfect knowledge of different jurisdictions are precious."
Batiste Saint Guily
"He is a very available lawyer who has extensive knowledge of French law and LMA financing rules. He listens and always finds common ground among the pool of lenders."
Winston & Strawn
Winston & Strawn is the Paris office of the international firm of the same name. Winston & Strawn was established
more than160 years ago. The firm is chaired by Tom Fitzgerald.
The Paris office has a focus on M&A but is also active in private equity.
Key clients of the firm include
Teréga, Drone Volt,
MedEuropa, Croix-Rouge Française, HIG European Capital Partners, ACON Investments, I@D International, Danfoss, Evergreen and LBO France.
