Highlights / 2009 / 2008 / 2007 / See All
Corporate and M&A
- The Legal 500: Tier 1 in Corporate and M&A: St. Petersburg
“…Baker & McKenzie - CIS, Limited , which has long been one of the strongest firms present in St Petersburg. Its second Russian office recently advised KIT Finance on the creation of a Russian asset management JV with Fortis Investment Management, and USG on establishment of its manufacturing plant in St Petersburg.
Dispute Resolution
- Chambers Europe: Tier 1 in Dispute Resolution: St Petersburg
Baker & McKenzie has been strengthened by the arrival of top litigator Ivan Smirnov, who recently departed from DLA Piper. Two new associates have also joined the firm’s St Petersburg office from DLA Piper. Following Smirnov’s arrival, the team has become a clear market leader; already a well-regarded practice, it is commended for its ability to handle a broad range of litigation and arbitration cases. The firm’s formidable global presence is noted as a distinct advantage in this area, with the St Petersburg team frequently working alongside its impressive Moscow and international offices. Clients say the practice “shines in litigation”, with one source commenting: “These lawyers have not let us down.”
General Business Law
- Chambers Europe: Tier 1 in General Business Law: St Petersburg
This firm’s St Petersburg office “continues to build on its excellent reputation and strong brand” and sources assert that the lawyers here “live up to our high expectations and always fulfill the tasks they set themselves.” The firm provides both foreign and domestic clients with a vast array of advice, including expertise in the areas of banking and finance, securities, real estate, tax, corporate law and M&A. It is lauded in particular for its skills in employment law and was involved in a number of key employment cases in the past year, including advising one of the St Petersburg consulates on redundancy issues. Another notable highlight saw the team advising Jensen Group on its acquisition of two plots of land in the region. Close collaboration with the Moscow and London offices has enabled the St Petersburg team to participate in some significant global projects over the past year, and the team’s ability to “guide international clients through the ins and outs of Russian law” is particularly appreciated by interviewees. Clients also value the lawyers’ ability to “work on their own initiative.”