The 2009 edition of Chambers Global ranks EPAM as the most recommended law firm in Russia in Dispute Resolution. The firm’s Corporate and M&A practice is also ranked among the best in Russia.
Chambers Global ranks the leading lawyers and law firms both locally, by country, and worldwide. The rankings and editorial comment about lawyers are independent and objective. Inclusion in this section of the guide is based solely on the research team's findings. No one can buy their way in.
According to Chambers Global 2009:
Praised throughout the market as being “probably the best among the Russian firms,” EPAM is on its way to becoming an international firm having recently opened an office in London. Clients consider this group a top choice when it comes to Russia-specific, complex issues and note its “impressive track record for merger clearance work.”
The firm’s work on the international stage has included assisting Rexam with obtaining anti-monopoly clearance for the acquisition of Rostar, and it also works on behalf of the Russian government, acting for large state-owned corporates. Market sources also recognise its work alongside international law firms such as Ashurst or Hogan & Hartson.
Dimitry Afanasiev has good working relationships with many big Russian clients and is considered the firm’s “absolute star for all major deals.”
Chambers Global 2009, Corporate/M&A
This “prominent Russian firm” is viewed by sources as a remarkable player in the market, and its lawyers “always make sure they get the best result for their clients.” While it has offices in both St Petersburg and Moscow, the team established the London office in 2007 in order to manage international projects for its Russian clients and liaise with its international peers.
It also handles a volume of cases for the Russian government, which it recently represented in maritime litigation in multiple jurisdictions regarding the misappropriation of Russian trawlers. Besides maritime cases the team specialises in corporate disputes (specifically hostile takeovers), handles litigation arising out of general commercial matters and represents clients in IP and tax disputes.
Based in St Petersburg, Ilya Nikiforov is praised as an expert in international arbitration and he recently started getting appointments as an arbitrator.
Chambers Global 2009, Dispute Resolution