“Exceptionally large team offering in-depth local litigation experience. … Clients benefit from its sector-specific expertise.”

“Dimitry Afanasiev is the firm's key rainmaker.”

“Highly respected” Ilya Nikiforov “is a highly recognised international arbitration expert in Russia and abroad."

Dmitry Dyakin (Moscow) “is truly outstanding and one of the best lawyers in Russia. His strategic thinking is second to none."

Valery Eremenko (Moscow) “has huge experience in corporate disputes and is very well known in the market." "He acts on big cases and is a very strong performer in court."

“Sergey Kovalev (Moscow) is praised for his prowess in Russian litigation, with a particular focus on bankruptcy-related proceedings, in-depth knowledge and strategic approach.” "He is strong in international law - he handles cases related to several jurisdictions and Russia very well."

Denis Arkhipov (Moscow) “goes in-depth into details and offers creative solutions."

“Gleb Bialyi (Kyiv) heads the firm's local litigation practice. In addition to domestic litigation, he also advises on international trade and customs law.”

“Sergiy Grebenyuk (Kyiv) is in charge of the firm's active white-collar crime practice.”

“Dennis Turovets (Minsk) is a versatile lawyer advising on transactional, banking and dispute resolution matters.” "He has an excellent academic background and is great at analyzing."

“Prominent for its deep bench of disputes lawyers covering the full range of contentious issues.”

"Handles a lot of high-profile cases and also can do large volumes of work."

"I value its speed and hands-on attitude."

“Co-founder Dimitry Afanasiev is regarded as the firm's key rainmaker, acting as a strategic adviser on significant business matters.”

“Sergey Kovalev is a respected name in Moscow.”

Dmitry Dyakin (Moscow) “is hands-on and a good communicator. He is prepared to listen and gets to the bottom line of issues". "He is entrepreneurial and creative, and has a winning attitude."

Denis Arkhipov (Moscow) “has been extremely active over the past year on large corporate disputes."

Valery Eremenko (Moscow) “is an excellent specialist and has great experience in significant disputes cases."

St. Petersburg team is “highly active in local litigation.”

"I like this team for its prompt and specific answers, in-depth knowledge, and attention to detail."

"Straight to the point and practical advice - these lawyers are real experts, and form a cohesive team."

Ivan Smirnov (St. Petersburg) “is creative, practical and always to-the-point."

“In Ukraine the firm is highly regarded for domestic litigation.”

"Strong lateral thinkers and expert litigators - the lawyers know the court system and are effective at anticipating risk."

"Great at coming up with strategic advice and implementing it."

“Arsen Miliutin (Kyiv) is highlighted as a "very bright and knowledgeable" senior associate.”

In Russia it’s “a go-to firm for large and complex cases.”

The “very comprehensive and precise” Sergey Kovalev (Moscow) and the “service-oriented” Denis Arkhipov (Moscow) are recommended.

The “solution-driven” Valery Eremenko (Moscow) is a Leading Individual.

In Ukraine the “knowledgeable and responsive” team provides “excellent service”.

The “relentless” Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi (Kyiv) and Oleksandr Volkov (Kyiv) “have great skill before the courts”.

Counsel Dmytro Marchukov (Kyiv) is “top class”.

Serhii Sviriba (Kyiv) is a Leading Individual.

“Co-founder Dimitry Afanasiev is regarded as the firm's key rainmaker, acting as a strategic adviser on significant business matters. He is recognised for his experience in the field of dispute resolution, notably in litigation.”

“Managing partner Ilya Nikiforov is widely recognised as one of the leading international arbitration specialists in the market. In addition to his work as a counsel, he also acts as an arbitrator.” A "smart, energetic and diligent lawyer."

“Dmitry Dyakin (Moscow) divides his time between international arbitration cases and domestic disputes.” "He is hands-on and a good communicator. He is prepared to listen and gets to the bottom line of issues." "He is entrepreneurial and creative, and has a winning attitude."

“Valery Eremenko (Moscow) is noted for his track record in highlighting local disputes.” "He is an excellent specialist and has great experience in significant disputes cases."

“Sergey Kovalev is a respected name in Moscow. He is noted for his particular expertise in financial product-related disputes as well as his experience in contentious commercial and energy cases.”

“Denis Arkhipov (Moscow) focuses on commercial disputes, IP litigation and defamation cases.” "He has been extremely active over the past year on large corporate disputes."

“Managing partner and department head [in Ukraine] Serhii Sviriba is valued as a great strategist.” He is "affable, helpful and proactive - one of those people who make things happen."

“Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi (Kyiv) is co-head of the arbitration practice and head of the sports law practice.”

“Counsel Dmytro Marchukov (Kyiv) is named as "a strong lawyer who knows the law inside out."

“Dennis Turovets (Minsk) is known for his international experience and acts on disputes for clients across the wider CIS region.”

“EPAM [..] has emerged as one of the leading local corporate law brands. Its Сhairman, Dimitry Afanasiev […] has strong connections with the Russian state and various home-grown corporations and foreign entities.”

The firm “employed highly innovative approaches, cross-linking various international precedents to achieve one of the first recognitions of a foreign judgment in the jurisdiction”.

The Firm “was very impressive in collecting evidence, managing 100-plus separate smaller cases at the same time, and speaking before the court.”

“Names to know at the firm are Dmitry Dyakin (Moscow), Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi (Kyiv), Ilya Nikiforov (St. Petersburg), Robin Wittering (Moscow), Evgeny Raschevsky (Moscow), “outstanding” Sergey Kovalev (Moscow), and Dennis Turovets (Minsk)."

"Nikiforov was reportedly the first-ever arbitrator from Russia selected for an SIAC panel… and in January was made a vice-chair of the ICC Commission on Arbitration and ADR – the first Russian or CIS practitioner to be appointed to a post in the commission.”

“Serhii Sviriba (Kyiv) “creates a well-defined and well-executed strategy”.

Dmytro Marchukov (Kyiv) is singled out for his “cross-examination skills”.

“Kyiv associate Oleksandr Volkov was admitted to practise in New York, while Moscow associate Olga Vishnevskaya gained an LLM in International Dispute Settlement in Geneva.”

“A first-rate litigation offering in both Moscow and St Petersburg, with a deep bench and a wide range of disputes experience. Acts on bankruptcy, insurance, contractual and white-collar crime matters, as well as on a number of international arbitrations.”

“Stands out as one of the most substantial and experienced teams in the market. Offers an impressive depth and breadth of advisers, who are skilled in handling arbitration, litigation and corporate crime mandates.”

"The team demonstrates a very high level of analysis and creativity."

"I would definitely recommend the team for both international arbitration and dispute resolution matters."

"The lawyers really know what they are talking about and they are very effective."

“As one of the founding partners, Dimitry Afanasiev is a prominent name with a strong marketplace reputation. He combines management and client development with an active dispute resolution practice.”

“Managing partner Ilya Nikiforov is one of the best-known litigation and arbitration specialists in the market. His stellar reputation extends to both international and domestic matters. He is particularly skilled at handling IP/IT matters, and has extensive Russian law expertise.”

“Dmitry Dyakin (Moscow) routinely handles both real estate and corporate disputes, and is recommended by a variety of sources. He has 12 years of arbitration and litigation experience, and leads many of the firm's most substantial mandates.”

“Sources say that Valery Eremenko (Moscow) is “extremely efficient at handling complex cases" and "very creative in the structuring of deals.” His extensive experience includes representing clients before the highest courts in Russia in matters relating to corporate, antitrust, real estate and IP litigation.”

In Ukraine the firm has “one of the strongest disputes practices in the Commonwealth of Independent States, and possessing huge experience in investment treaty and commercial arbitrations.”

“It is extremely effective, great at analysing and great at rooting out facts and evidence.”

“Olexiy Reznikov (Kyiv) is a top litigator and a highly visible personality in the Ukrainian market. He is praised both for his rainmaking and his legal expertise.”

In Belarus the team “advises on disputes in multiple jurisdictions, including Russia and Ukraine, as well as handling cross-border mandates. Represents national and international companies, banks and other financial institutions.”

“Dennis Turovets (Minsk) is praised by clients for his ability to “provide accurate and punctual services.” 

In Russia “the firm has a sizeable team, which “can handle litigation of any volume and complexity”. Sergey Kovalev (Moscow) “demonstrates excellent knowledge of Russian procedural law and judicial practice”; Denis Arkhipov (Moscow) is “a very skilled and charismatic litigator who is very persuasive in court”; and Valery Eremenko (Moscow) “comes up with original solutions to complex problems”.

In Ukraine the firm is “efficient, impressive, and excellent at strategy”. The “insightful” Serhii Sviriba, the “hardworking and highly efficient” Oleksii Reznikov, the “bright, very creative” Dmytro Marchukov and the “excellent, responsive” Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi are recommended.

“Dimitry Afanasiev is a prominent name with a strong marketplace reputation. He combines management and client development with an active … practice.”

“Ilya Nikiforov is one of the best-known litigation and arbitration specialists in the market. His stellar reputation extends to both international and domestic matters. He is particularly skilled at handling IP/IT matters, and has extensive Russian law expertise.”

“Dmitry Dyakin (Moscow) routinely handles both real estate and corporate disputes, and is recommended by a variety of sources. He has 12 years of arbitration and litigation experience, and leads many of the firm's most substantial mandates.”

“Sources say that Valery Eremenko (Moscow) is “extremely efficient at handling complex cases” and “very creative in the structuring of deals.” “His extensive experience includes representing clients before the highest courts in Russia in matters relating to corporate, antitrust, real estate and IP litigation.”

“Serhii Sviriba heads up the arbitration side of the disputes practice, as well as the Kyiv office itself. "He is very well plugged into the local market, and knows the nuances extremely well," according to commentators.”

“Olexiy Reznikov is a top litigator and a highly visible personality in the Ukrainian market. He is praised both for his rainmaking and his legal expertise.”

“Dennis Turovets (Minsk) is lauded by peers for his ability to handle mandates in an efficient manner, whilst clients praise his flexible approach to projects”. 

“EPAM [..] has emerged as one of the leading local corporate law brands. Its Сhairman, Dimitry Afanasiev […] has strong connections with the Russian state and various home-grown corporations and foreign entities.”

“Names to know at the firm are Dmitry Dyakin, Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi, Ilya Nikiforov, Evgeny Raschevsky and Dennis Turovets. Nikiforov was reportedly the first-ever arbitrator from Russia selected for a SIAC panel. He’s also the vice chair of the Russian Arbitration Association, a newly formed arbitral institution in Moscow that hopes to improve Russia’s stature as a seat.”

“Reflecting the dominance of English and US law in Russian commercial contracts the firm has built up a team of English and US experts as well.”

“There’s also Serhii Sviriba, who serves as the head of the arbitration commission of Ukraine and of Ukraine’s national committee for the ICC.”

"This Russian firm is a dominant force in the market due to its top-level corporate and disputes practices."

“Market observers unanimously agree this firm fields one of the most impressive disputes practice in the CIS. The group is exceptionally adept at navigating cases through Russian courts.”

“One of the best.”

“I would put them right at the top.”

“Dimitry Afanasiev is one of the most high-profile Russian lawyers on the market, and is an important figure for the practice. He is highly regarded for his management and rainmaking skills.”

“Valery Eremenko (Moscow) recently joined the firm from a Russian litigation boutique and brings more than 15 years' experience handling corporate, real estate, antitrust and IP litigation.”

“Alexander Vaneev (Moscow) is a rising star in the litigation team and joins the rankings this year following considerable praise from market sources.”

Excellence in dispute resolution has long been a staple of the practice, and its seven-strong St. Petersburg team is amongst the best inRussia. Its knowledge of court procedure and practice is second to none, and clients further benefit from the group's notable connections.

“It communicated the strategy really well, and accurately assessed where the challenges were going to be.”

“Ilya Nikiforov (St. Petersburg) is singled out as an "arbitration star,” and has an excellent reputation for his litigation work. Undoubtedly the best known contentious lawyer at the firm, he wins praise from all corners of the market for his highly detailed and business-oriented advice.”

In Ukraine “the group continues to advise on several investment arbitration cases, in which it represents the government ofUkraine. Commercial litigation remains an important part of the practice, usually involving disputes with tax and customs authorities.”

"It was flexible and understood our business."

“Head of the domestic litigation department [in Kyiv], Olexiy Reznikov is lauded as "one of the top litigators" in Ukraine.”

The firm “continues its expansion in the Belarusian disputes market.”

"The lawyers can handle complicated matters and it's easy to communicate with them."

“Dennis Turovets (Minsk) rises in the rankings following impressive client feedback. He represents prominent domestic and regional clients in litigation and arbitration proceedings.”

“Dimitry Afanasiev's broad expertise covers a range of practice areas, and he is particularly recommended for dispute resolution.” He “is one of the most high-profile Russian lawyers on the market, and is an important figure in the practice. He is highly regarded for his management and rainmaking skills.

“Ilya Nikiforov (St Petersburg) has an excellent reputation for his litigation work. Undoubtedly the best known contentious lawyer at the firm, he wins praise from all corners of the market for his highly detailed and business-oriented advice.”

“Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi (Kyiv) enters the rankings following extensive praise from sources. He often advises on sports arbitration cases.”

The firm “can easily be compared with international law firms in terms of its level of service and efficiency.”

“The firm’s huge team in Moscow and St Petersburg litigates in Russia’s highest courts and in international courts of arbitration. Recent work includes real estate, maritime, IP and competition disputes.” Denis Arkhipov is recommended.

The firm is “still strong in dispute resolution” in Ukraine.

“EPAM [..] has emerged as one of the leading local corporate law brands. ... Dimitry Afanasiev […] has strong connections with the Russian state and various home-grown corporations and foreign entities.”

“Names to know at the firm are Dmitry Dyakin, Victor Dumler, Markiyan Kliuchkovskyi, Ilya Nikiforov, Evgeny Raschevsky and Dennis Turovets. Last year, Nikiforov became the first arbitrator from Russia ever selected for a SIAC panel.”

“There’s also Serhii Sviriba, who serves as the head of the arbitration commission of Ukraine’s national committee for the ICC.”

“This firm's resources extend to over 100 disputes lawyers, making it the envy of other market players. … Its long experience in handling governmental cases is also a real pull-factor for many of the firm's prominent clientele.”

“Amongst Russian firms there are not so many that marry an international with a local practice; this firm is one of them.”

“Dimitry Afanasiev is a high-profile figure in Moscow and commended for his rainmaking ability, with interviewees noting he is “very savvy and well informed on how the Russian system works.”

“Having recently joined the firm …, Ivan Smirnov (Moscow) is predicted to make a big splash at his new firm, and brings many years of experience in the market.”

“Dmitry Dyakin arrival [after the EPAP’s merger with Magisters] provides the firm with yet another strong name in disputes. Climbing this year's rankings, he is widely regarded as an "excellent heavyweight lawyer."

“With the highest number of dispute resolution lawyers in Russia, this firm has the capacity to handle the largest and most complex of disputes. Though better known for its representation of Russian clients, the team has a sizeable and growing contingent of international companies on its roster.”

Interviewees say “the firm is very strong, and this has already been proven by its international recognition.”

“Ilya Nikiforov (St Petersburg) is a highly regarded figure, both in Moscow and St Petersburg, and wins praise for his management skills as well as his exceptional litigation and arbitration prowess.”

“The firm [in Ukraine] has a great reputation for providing an international level of service and acts frequently as local counsel on multi-jurisdictional arbitration cases.

“This is one of the top local firms both in Russia and Ukraine and I am very happy to work with it as it delivers an international level of service.”

“Domestic litigation partner Olexiy Reznikov (Kyiv) moves into the top band in recognition of outstanding feedback from both peers and clients. “He is a very experienced lawyer with huge knowledge and expertise; definitely at the top of the market.”

“Associate Dmytro Marchukov (Kyiv) impresses peers with his dedication and hard work, and they highlight him as a promising young lawyer.”

“New to the rankings, the firm [in Belarus] is making its mark in dispute resolution, mostly on the back of its corporate/M&A instructions. "Its advice is of high quality and it delivers the expected results," clients say. “Dennis Turovets (Minsk) divides his time between general commercial and contentious work.”

“Russia’s legal market is dominated by large international law firms, although home-grown law firm EPAM is notable for its size and prestige, and recently enhanced its status regionally by absorbing the well-regarded Ukrainian firm, Magisters.”

“EPAM recruited Ivan Smirnov in Moscow. International arbitration expert Dmitry Dyakin also joined as a result of the firm’s merger with Magisters.”

“Alexey Reznikov and Serhii Sviriba are among Ukraine’s most respected disputes lawyers.”

 “This team remains on the cutting edge of Russia’s legislative developments. Although the firm is a solid favourite with major Russian clients, it has also developed an international standing.”

“The firm has fully earned its success, say clients: “They are very effective at solving problems; they offer the price, quality and ability; they are the best.”

“This team "can compete with the major international law firms” when it comes to providing dispute resolution services to foreign clients with interests in Russia and former Soviet countries. It is also popular among domestic clients across many industry sectors. The firm has “the necessary resources and specialisation,” and is “efficient and cost-effective,” interviewees agree.”

“The interviewees say that the firm “understands the challenges and intricacies of the Russian legal system, and you do need a firm that knows how to navigate that.”

 “This local independent firm is highlighted for its expertise in both litigation and arbitration. The group advises a number of Russian corporations doing business internationally and also acts for international companies on a variety of disputes.”

“Managing partner Ilya Nikiforov has skills in litigation and arbitration, on both a domestic and an international level.”

"A go-to firm for dispute resolution" in Ukraine and a "long-established local outfit that has a stellar reputation for its skills in international arbitration and local litigation, and therefore handles a large volume of that work."

"The firm is "now impressing commentators with its fine litigation credentials".

 “This Russian firm is singled out for its expertise in an array of litigation and arbitration-related fields, including international commercial arbitration. The “well-known and respected team” has a combination of domestic and international companies on its client list.”

“Ilya Nikiforov wins plaudits from competitors for the “superb job” he does in litigation and arbitration. He has played a leading role in a number of the firm’s leading litigation cases over the past year.”

“One of the largest law firms operating in the Russian market, this group benefits from an exceptional reputation in corporate litigation.”

“Ukrainian partner Alexey Reznikov is "definitely one of the strongest litigators nationally.”

“The team fields experience in employment, construction, IP. competition and marine disputes and includes a group of specialist business crime lawyers. The firm has represented target companies in hostile takeover situations, and is experienced in international arbitration. Lawyers often work as local counsel with major Western law firms.

Ilya Nikiforov is “an emerging player in litigation and arbitration, particularly IP-related disputes.”