Recognition

BirișGoran was ranked from the very beginning by prestigious international publications as one of the top law firms in Romania for the quality of legal work, pragmatic work and solid understanding of the legal environment.

Tax – Band 1 | Gabriel Biriș – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1
Competition / Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goran – Band 3 | Răzvan Bardicea – Up and coming
Corporate/M&A – Band 5 | Teodora Moțatu – Up and coming
Real Estate – Band 4 | Daniela Lazea – Band 4
Dispute Resolution – Band 5 | Mihai Nușcă – Notable Practitioner

 

https://chambers.com/law-firm/biris-goran-europe-7:129925

Tax – Tier 1

Biris Goran SPARL‘s offering is ‘one of the best, if not the best, tax advice teams in Romania‘, offering tax and legal advice for clients across the cosmetics, energy, pharma, banking, real estate and betting sectors. The team’s particular focus is tax litigation, regularly representing multinationals and institutional clients in sensitive claims including obtaining penalty payments from state authorities for late reimbursement of VAT. Founding partner and team head Gabriel Biriș has longstanding experience of the market, and serves as a member of the European Commission VAT Expert Group. Ruxandra Jianu is a key contact for the firm’s tax consultancy wing, recommended for her ability to ‘think top-down through sophisticated matters‘.

Leading Individuals:
Gabriel Biriș

Practice heads:
Gabriel Biriș; Ruxandra Jianu

Other key lawyers:
Mihai Nușcă

Testimonials:

‘Highly knowledgeable, professional, great connections within the Romanian market’

‘Very fast answers, all the time updated. Great cooperation.’

‘Biris Goran is one of the best, if not the best, tax advice teams in Romania. They are always available, fast on their feet, with deep local and regional tax knowledge, capable of thinking sophisticated tax-legal matters.’

‘Ruxandra Jianu is our go-to expert. She has deep knowledge of how the tax and legal systems work, and can think top-down through sophisticated matters. ‘

‘BIRIȘ GORAN SPARL’s tax consultants are an extremely bright and capable team, very flexible in providing high value tax advice’

‘I would highly recommend Ms. Ruxandra Jianu. She is an experienced, dedicated, and successful consultant who has made great achievements with her commendable legal tax expertise. Ruxandra is very well-informed with amazing problem-solving skills. She is quick to come up with successful solutions for legal tax issues. She is honest and genuine, very approachable and best of all very knowledgeable!’

 

EU and competition – Tier 2

At Biris Goran SPARL, the team garners praise for its ‘profound knowledge of competition law, enabling them to offer comprehensive advice on a wide range of antitrust issues‘, and has ‘long-term experience with the competition authority‘. The practice has an excellent track record in handling a broad range of contentious matters, particularly cartel cases and investigations. The client base includes major international companies, particularly in the financial sector. Practice head Gelu Goran is ‘a problem-solver‘; Răzvan Bardicea is ‘exceptionally thorough‘.

Leading Individuals:
Gelu Goran

Rising stars:
Răzvan Bardicea

Practice head(s):
Gelu Goran

Other key lawyers:
Răzvan Bardicea; Radu Jianu

Testimonials:

‘We were required to find local Romanian counsel at short notice for a competition investigation and were very impressed with the availability of the partners and their ability to understand our business model and engage with the local team quickly to provide the confidence needed and deliver training at short notice.’

‘We worked with Gelu Goran, who delivered exactly what we asked for, prompted us to ask questions outside the box and was able to work with both the local team and HQ, great skills and very easy to work with.’

‘Deep expertise and procedural insights.’

‘Gelu Goran has top-notch credentials, a real instinct for what the regulator might be thinking and good access to case teams.’

‘The Biris Goran team is composed of exceptional lawyers, with in-depth knowledge of the law, as well as long-term experience with the competition authority. The team is extremely reactive, and responsive. They are also very client-oriented. It is a pleasure to work with them because I know that I can rely on them and that they will go the extra-mile for the client. Also, the communication is very good with them, whether by email or phone, so I am never in the dark regarding a case.’

‘I have had the opportunity to work with partner Gelu Goran and senior associate Razvan Bardicea on several merger control filings in Romania. Gelu, in addition to his in-depth knowledge of the law, has an imaginative mind and comes with alternative solutions in case an issue presents itself in the course of a deal. It is a pleasure to work with him as I know that whatever lies ahead, he will help us come through. Razvan is exceptionally thorough, with a great attention to detail. It is a pleasure to work with him as I know that I can fully rely on him.’

‘Gelu Goran is always available and a problem solver. Great to work with him.’

‘The Biris Goran SPARL team possess a profound knowledge of competition law, enabling them to offer comprehensive advice on a wide range of antitrust issues. They are client oriented, consistently putting the client’s needs first and adapting their advice and solutions to the client’s specific situation. Their responsiveness and accessibility make them a trusted partner in addressing even the moist complex legal challenges.’

Real estate and construction – Tier 2

Biris Goran SPARL‘s ‘flexible and client-oriented‘ real estate team is able to handle matters across the industrial, commercial, residential and office sectors for clients spanning institutional real estate investors and developers. As the founder of the NGL Symbio network, the firm has a reach across the CEE region. Daniela Lazea and Sorin Aungurenci co-lead the team: the former focuses on acquisitions while the latter is noted for his experience in zoning and regulatory matters.

Practice head(s):
Daniela Lazea; Sorin Aungurenci

Testimonials:

‘Biris Goran has left me with a great impression of professionalism and promptitude, they have a young and dynamic team.’

‘Biris Goran does not have the complex hierarchy in other law firms which can delay the fast feedback the client needs.’

‘I recommend Sorin Aungurenci for his real estate and construction knowledge. He is very efficient and is a great help in complex negotiations owing to his calm and smart approach.’


Commercial, Corporate and M&A – Tier 3

Under the leadership of transactional expert Teodora Moțatu, the corporate and M&A department at Biris Goran SPARL has seen an uptick in seller-side mandates, and continues to advise on shareholder disputes. Energy, agribusiness and food are among the firm’s key sectors of strength. Daniela Lazea is well versed in advising on real estate transactions, and Ruxandra Jianu is particularly strong in tax matters. Senior associate Kira Bujduveanu provides standout support, with experience in advising on joint ventures and corporate governance matters.

Rising Stars:
Kira Bujduveanu

Practice head(s):
Teodora Moțatu

Other lawyers:
Daniela Lazea; Ruxandra Jianu;
Kira Bujduveanu; Bogdan Nițulescu; Iulia Matei

Testimonials:

‘Teodora Motatu is brilliant.’

‘They have a winning spirit and are constantly looking for solutions to a problem.’

‘They treat you as a customer. The customer has priority. They make time for you and listen to your problems.’

‘Good collaboration amongst the team members.’

‘Teodora Motatu – good negotiation skills and capability to handle complex corporate matters.’

‘The transaction we worked on had extremely short deadlines for the complexity and size of the transaction. Biris Goran provided a very dedicated team which did an outstanding job in being available and delivering comprehensive legal advice and documents on short notice. Biris Goran also ensured that the Romanian leg of the transaction is closed smoothly with the Romanian counterparts ‘

‘Teodora Motatu and Kira Bujduveanu were both very dedicated to the transaction, assisting us with heart and hand. The success of the transaction truly mattered to them.’

Energy and Natural Resources – Tier 4

The energy and sustainability team at Biris Goran SPARL is praised for its ‘deep knowledge of energy laws and regulation‘, and places particular emphasis on industrial consumers and their regulatory needs. The team is also noted for its crossover tax and oil & gas expertise. Practice head Dana Dunel Stancu focuses on electricity matters and renewable sources, alongside expertise in dispute resolution and particular experience in arbitration cases.

Practice head(s):
Dana Dunel Stancu

Other key lawyers:
Gabriel Biriș

Testimonials:

‘Very serious and professional approach for all subjects needed. Nice to work with all of them and I warmly recommend them. ‘

‘Very friendly and professional team and with a very deep knowledge of the law. Gabriel Biris is a very good lawyer. I highly recommend that law firm.’

‘The team has deep knowledge of energy laws and regulations. Top fiscal advisers.’

‘I commend the practice for its flexibility in thinking and client-oriented approach.’

Tax – Band 1 | Gabriel Biriș – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1
Competition / Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goran – Band 3 | Răzvan Bardicea – Up and coming
Corporate/M&A – Teodora Moțatu – Up and coming
Real Estate – Band 4 | Daniela Lazea – Notable Practitioner | Sorin Aungurenci – Notable Practitioner
Dispute Resolution – Band 4 | Mihai Nușcă – Notable Practitioner

 

https://chambers.com/law-firm/biris-goran-europe-7:129925

Tax – Tier 1

Biris Goran SPARL has a leading reputation for handling the full spread of contentious and non-contentious tax matters. Clients range from major financial institutions through to small and medium-sized enterprises operating across a wide range of industries, including construction, energy, pharmaceuticals and retail. The litigation side of the practice has recently been involved in several market-defining disputes, with key representations of Banca Comercială Româna and Distribuție Energie Electrică among the cases setting the agenda. Founding partner Gabriel Biriș and Mihai Nușcă are two of the firm’s lead litigators. The firm also has a tax consulting arm which focuses on advisory matters, including the tax implications of M&A and business restructurings; Ruxandra Jianu is the main contact on this side.

Leading Individuals:

Gabriel Biriș
Ruxandra Jianu

Practice heads: Gabriel Biriș; Ruxandra Jianu

Other key lawyers:
Mihai Nușcă

EU and competition – Tier 2

Biris Goran SPARL has a strong track record for cartel cases and related investigations, and has recently achieved successful outcomes in these areas for clients operating in the financial services, agribusiness and pharmaceuticals sectors. Merger clearance work and day-to-day compliance and training are also key areas of expertise. Practice head Gelu Goran is commended for his ‘good contact with the Romanian competition regulator‘. Senior associate Răzvan Bardicea is also singled out for praise by clients.

Leading Individuals: Gelu Goran

Rising stars: Răzvan Bardicea

Practice head: Gelu Goran

Other key lawyers: Răzvan Bardicea

Testimonials:

‘Gelu Goran works well with international clients, having had international experience himself. He cuts to to the chase and has a good feel for client sensitivities. He has good contact with the Romanian competition regulator.’

‘The offer business-oriented advice and they always come with practical solutions. They are a very reliable partner, they are always reacting in a timely manner and they have a deep understanding of the client’s needs, which, together with their strong legal knowledge, leads to the most suitable solutions.’

‘The individuals have very strong and sound understanding of the law and, at the same time, are creative and provide practical legal solutions, while remaining in the legal framework. They are very collaborative and prompt in reaction.’

‘We would like to mention Gelu Goran and Răzvan Bardicea, who have both provided legal advice with a very deep understanding of the company’s business model and policies and worked as real business partners.’

‘Deep analysis combined with a very pro-business approach, good understanding of business needs.’

‘Gelu Goran and Răzvan Bardicea, both offering a very good analysis, flexible and trustworthy, prompt reaction.’

‘Overall the expertise of the team exceeded expectations. The reaction time and the delivery speed of the team was also impressive when a short deadline was crucial.’

‘Gelu Goran is taking active part in the discussions, delivery and project management which is a trust factor in most cases.’

Real estate and construction – Tier 2

Biris Goran SPARL fields a ‘young and dynamic team‘ in which each practitioner ‘has great knowledge of the field‘. The firm advises on acquisitions, sales and development projects across all asset classes, including office buildings, residential, retail, industrial and logistics spaces, and agribusiness. Daniela Lazea jointly leads the team with Sorin Aungurenci; the latter is ‘very efficient, smart and applies perfectly his knowledge on specific, even technical issues in contracts‘. Mariana Signeanu is the key name for real estate financing issues.

Rising Stars:

Mariana Signeanu

Practice heads:

Daniela Lazea; Sorin Aungurenci

Testimonials:

‘Biris Goran has left me with a great impression of professionalism and promptness, they have a young and dynamic team, very motivated, driven, well-prepared and highly intelligent, solution-oriented.’

‘Each team member we have worked with has great knowledge of the field and had been able to work independently with the client.’

‘ Sorin Aungurenci – for his real estate and construction knowledge. He is very efficient, smart and applies perfectly his knowledge on specific, even technical issues in contracts. Great help in complex negotiations, for his calm and smart approach. Good communication skills to be able to understand what are the client’s targets. Working to find a way to accommodate these intentions in the legal documents. He has proven clear judgement, balance and remarkable power of synthesis.’

Commercial, Corporate and M&A – Tier 3

Biris Goran SPARL‘s clients operate across multiple industries, including retail, fashion, hospitality, energy, financial services, telecoms and private equity. The firm’s strong tax and regulatory capabilities regularly come to the fore when structuring multijurisdictional transactions. Teodora Moțatu leads the team, who ‘has a lot of experience in cross-border deals and understands the specifics of the Romanian market‘. Clients also single out founding partner Gelu Goran, who is particularly strong on the competition side.

Practice head:

Teodora Moțatu

Testimonials:

‘The corporate and M&A practice group of Biris Goran delivers concise legal advice, always on time and they understand the Romanian market and our clients’ business needs. They are quick, reliable and pay attention to details as well.’

‘Gelu Goran is very business minded and provides clear legal advice. Teodora Moțatu has a lot of experience in cross-border deals and understands the specifics of the Romanian market.’

Dispute resolution – Tier 4

For the team at Biris Goran SPARL, administrative disputes are a major strong point, with the firm regularly involved in high-profile tax and competition claims. Clients come from across a wide range of sectors, including consumer goods, real estate, telecoms, energy, transport and cosmetics. Practice head Mihai Nușcă has 20 years’ industry experience and is praised for his ‘great ability to innovate‘. Senior associate Raluca Rusu-Oană is also noted.

Practice head:

Mihai Nușcă

Other key lawyers:
Raluca Rusu-Oană

Testimonials:

‘Outstanding knowledge and experience; excellent communication; excellent ability to follow and timely deliver the work.’

‘Mihai Nușcă: great ability to identify creative solutions and to adapt or change strategy as the case requires, outstanding knowledge of legal procedure, great ability to innovate.’

‘Raluca Rusu-Oană: excellent work and availability.’

Tax – Band 1 | Gabriel Biriș – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1
Competition / Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goran – Band 3 | Răzvan Bardicea – Associates to watch
Real Estate – Band 4 | Daniela Lazea – Notable Practitioner | Sorin Aungurenci – Notable Practitioner
Dispute Resolution – Band 4 | Mihai Nușcă – Notable Practitioner

 

https://chambers.com/law-firm/biris-goran-europe-7:129925

Tax – Tier 1

Biris Goran SPARL has a broad-based tax practice with a market-leading reputation for landmark disputes. The firm regularly represents some of Romania’s largest institutions, Banca Comercială Română being a notable example, on their confrontations with the tax authorities. The firm’s expertise covers direct and indirect taxes, and its lawyers are praised for their ‘good knowledge and understanding of the law‘ and being ‘always willing to find a solution ‘. Key team members include founding partner Gabriel Biris, whose experience also extends to legislative reforms, and Ruxandra Jianu, who works within the firm’s tax consulting arm, Biris Goran Consulting. Support here includes advice on corporate tax structuring and M&A.

Leading Individuals:

Gabriel Biriș – Biriș Goran SPARL
Ruxandra Jianu – Biriș Goran SPARL

Practice head (s): Gabriel Biriș; Ruxandra Jianu

Testimonials:

‘The team is client and problem solving oriented. They understand clients’ needs and always look for a solution, also different ways to improve or to mitigate risks within legal limits.’

‘A good knowledge and understanding of the law. Always willing to find a solution’

Work highlights:

  • Assisting Banca Comercială Română on a major multimillion Euro dispute with the tax authorities concerning transfer pricing, share transfers and assignment of receivables, as well as corporate income tax matters specific to financial institutions.
  • Legal advisor the largest Romanian energy distributor, Distribuție Energie Electrică in a complex tax dispute.
  • Provided tax assistance to River Development following the sale of one of its real estate developments.

EU and competition – Tier 2

Biris Goran SPARL is popular with clients who commend its ‘swiftness combined with unquestionable professionalism‘. The firm’s experience of competition and antitrust matters covers high level contentious and non-contentious mandates. The practice has a good track record on high profile cartel cases and investigations, and has achieved some notable successes on behalf of international clients such as Viessmann. This is coupled with a solid understanding of heavily regulated sectors such as financial services and life sciences. The ‘very helpful‘ founding partner Gelu Goran is praised for his ‘good and timely advice‘. Senior associate Răzvan Bardicea is also singled out for praise.

Leading Individuals: Gelu Goran – Biriș Goran SPARL

Rising stars: Răzvan Bardicea – Biriș Goran SPARL

Practice head(s): Gelu Goran

Testimonials:

‘Very proactive and knowledgeable.’

‘One of the most appealing aspects of the firm is its swiftness throughout the whole procedure of fulfilling a mandate, from the first contact until the mandate is completely performed. This swiftness combined with the highest level of professionalism on a wide range of legal fields resulted in that all of our co-operations were highly fruitful. Our main field of co-operation was competition law, specifically a Romanian merger clearance procedure, which is widely known for its strict deadlines and the requirement of precision and a deep understanding of different legal and business areas, and this firm was more than capable to correspond with these requirements.’

‘We have worked especially with Goran Gelu and Teodora Motatu. Both lawyers represented a distinguished level of understanding on their fields, competition law and M&A (another prominently complex field) respectively. Again, we must mention that their strongest aspect was their swiftness combined with unquestionable professionalism.’

‘Gelu Goran is very helpful and provides good and timely advice.’

‘Provide deep legal analysis, dedicated, focus on obtaining good results, good understanding of the business impact of the matters analyzed and appropriate adaptation of the legal opinion to respond to business needs and minimize any negative impact.’

‘Deep analysis combined with clear practical guidance, reliable, prompt’

‘Promptness, pragmatic/commercial approach, flexibility and, in general, ‘value for money’ and “out of the box” approach.’

‘Gelu Goran and Razvan Bardicea – Their experience in the specific area of competition matters provided a strong legal know-how and practical basis for dealing with any aspects/hurdles that could come in the course of the projects, both legally correct but also pragmatically and in a flexible manner. They were definitely efficient, responsive and very proactive, with a significant experience with the Romanian legislative initiatives environment and the Romanian authorities’

Work highlights:

  • Ongoing assistance to Aon UK and its Romanian insurance brokerage affiliate, Aon Romania, in a Competition Council investigation into the aviation insurance market for alleged bid-rigging and price fixing.
  • Advising Viessmann, a manufacturer of heating and refrigeration systems, in a vertical price fixing investigation.
  • Advising UniCredit Leasing Fleet Management in an industry-wide information exchange investigation.

Real estate and construction – Tier 2

Biris Goran SPARL is a strong choice for major real estate transactions and development projects. The firm acts for a mix of domestic and international investors and developers, including corporate owners and investment funds. Complex transactions, often with a heavy corporate element, have featured prominently on the agenda in the past year, both in terms of divestments and acquisitions. The firm was also busy with several high profile mixed-use, industrial and logistics developments. Daniela Lazea has good expertise in transactional and contentious matters, while Sorin Aungurenci has a particular emphasis on zoning and related regulatory issues. Mariana Signeanu is the main contact for related project finance.

Rising Stars:

Mariana Signeanu – Biriș Goran SPARL

Practice head(s): Daniela Lazea; Sorin Aungurenci

Testimonials:

‘Large availability, good English and international skills, engaged, and transparent.’

‘The firm is very capable, professional and available, with both legal and commercial understanding and orientation. ‘

‘Daniela Lazea is one of the top lawyers I’ve worked with. ‘

‘Very experienced and skilled. Very innovative. The team brought creativity, high professional skills and great knowledge in all relevant aspects. their devotion to the client and the deal were exceptional. The team was very committed to the deal and to the time frame the clients had set, willing to work long hours under a very demanding negotiation.

‘Mariana Signeanu walked with the client hand by hand until signing, and did not rest until all points were fully covered for the benefit of the client.’

Work highlights:

  • Assisted SIF Banat-Crișana on the indirect (via a share deal) acquisition of the land on which the IMGB Bucharest industrial platform is located, with an area totaling 540,000 square metres.
  • Assisted Tubinox in the sale of 100,000 square metres worth of industrial land and related buildings in Bucharest.
  • Assisted Zeus International in the financing and then acquisition of a portfolio of three hotels in Bucharest from Alpha Real Estate.

Commercial, Corporate and M&A – Tier 3

Biris Goran SPARL represents an impressive mix of investment funds and corporates, and has seen an increasing amount of buyer-side mandates in the past year. The practice has especially good experience of cross-border corporate deals in with a heavy real estate component, such as SIF Banat Crisana’s acquisition of South Korea’s IMGB Doosan. Coupled with the firm’s ‘exceptional quality ‘ and ‘great strength in M&A‘, is its ‘excellent knowledge of regulatory and tax structuring‘. The team is jointly led by Ana Frațian and the ‘pro-business and proactive‘ Teodora Moțatu , who ‘is always responsive‘, and ‘has great entrepreneurial drive‘.

Practice head(s): Teodora Moțatu; Ana Frațian

Testimonials:

‘The firm offers full-service with great strength in M&A; every practice needed for our M&A deal was smoothly provided with exceptional quality.’

‘Teodora Motatu is the partner to got to in M&A Deals involving Romania. She is always responsive, has great entrepreneurial drive, is pro-business and proactive and anticipates the clients´ needs’

‘Excellent knowledge of regulatory and tax structuring. Commitment and high level of negotiation skills.’

‘360 degrees of M&A, covering all levels of the transaction. Highly skilled team with extensive national and international experience.’

Work highlights:

  • Assisted River Development, a real estate developer, in selling of a company owning The Light One office building to UNIQA Real Estate.
  • Assisting Zeus International, a Greek hospitality management and restructuring company, in its leveraged acquisition of three Bucharest downtown hotels from Alpha Bank Romania.
  • Assisted SIF Banat-Crișana, a major local investment company, on its acquisition of IMGB Doosan, a South Korean heavy machinery company that owns the largest industrial platform in Bucharest.

Dispute resolution – Tier 4

Biris Goran SPARL is renowned for its extremely strong tax litigation practice where it represents major domestic and international clients on some of their most high value claims. This feeds into broader strengths in administrative litigation, including antitrust and competition disputes, and appearances before regulatory agencies and tribunals. The team is praised for its ‘excellent knowledge of substantial and procedural laws‘, and ‘very extensive experience with courts and tax authorities‘. Practice head Mihai Nușcă brings ‘exceptional knowledge of handling cases‘ and an ‘ability to foresee and prevent potential issues‘.

Practice head(s): Mihai Nușcă

Testimonials:

‘Excellent knowledge of substantial and procedural laws; Very extensive experience with Courts and Tax Authorities; multidisciplinary approach (legal, tax, transfer pricing, accounting).’

‘Mihai Nusca, Partner (Head of Litigation): exceptional knowledge of handling cases; proactive/ has the ability to foresee & prevent potential issues; effective communication with client; availability & direct involvement.’

Work highlights:

  • Assisting Banca Comercială Română in a major tax dispute.
  • Representing the energy distributor, Distribuție Energie Electrică, in a complex tax dispute.
  • Advising Viessmann, a global manufacturer of heating and refrigeration systems, in connection with a Competition Council investigation focused on vertical price fixing on the heating systems market.

Tax – Band 1 | Gabriel Biriș – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1

What the team is known for: Offers high-level tax advice to large domestic and international clients. Acts on a variety of matters, ranging from direct and indirect tax litigation to tax consultancy in support of mergers and restructurings. Assists with tax inspections, income tax reviews and the review of transfer pricing policies. Serves an impressive range of clients, including cosmetics companies and financial institutions, real estate developers and energy providers. Frequently advises on VAT reimbursements and excise duties.

Strengths: The “dynamic, fast and efficient” team wins praise from one client, who opines: “It is the best law firm we have ever worked with.”

A client appreciates that the team is “hands on and really knows its customers very well.”

Another client notes: “The assistance is very prompt.”

Work highlights: Represented Muntenia Nord in annulment claims as part of a complex tax dispute before the High Court of Justice.

Notable practitioners: The “excellentGabriel Biriș is a pre-eminent market player who offers a wealth of experience in a broad range of matters from direct and indirect tax litigation to transfer pricing matters. He also has notable experience advising on the tax aspects of corporate restructurings.

The “market-leadingRuxandra Jianu acts on the tax aspects of business restructurings and cross-border and domestic tax disputes, including VAT reimbursement and transfer pricing litigation. One client enthuses: “Ruxandra is an exceptional tax adviser, and an excellent adviser for fiscal optimisations and fiscally efficient investments.

Competition / Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goran – Band 3 | Răzvan Bardicea – Associate to watch

What the team is known for: Acts for clients involved in Competition Council investigations into anti-competitive practices, including price fixing and bid rigging. Represents claimants in private damages litigation, as well as assisting clients with appeals against RCC decisions. Noted for its activity in sectoral inquiries. Also handles competition compliance mandates.

Strengths: A client enthuses that the team’s “approach is very much client-oriented and pragmatic, and the legal advice is easy to understand and implement.”

Work highlights: Represented Aon in an RCC investigation into allegations of bid rigging and price fixing in the aviation insurance sector.

Notable practitioners: Gelu Goran has a broad contentious competition law practice, representing clients in antitrust investigations, market inquiries and follow-on damages claims. A client highlights his “down-to-earth approach,” and adds that Gelu is “very close to the business, so has an excellent understanding of the client.”

Răzvan Bardicea acts for clients on price-fixing investigations and appeals against Competition Council decisions. He also has experience in merger clearance mandates and compliance matters. One client particularly appreciates that Răzvan is “very careful to understand the whole business context so that he can give the best advice.”

Real Estate – Band 3 | Daniela Lazea – Notable Practitioner

What the team is known for: Advises on the buy and sell sides of property transactions, with substantial experience in the retail and commercial sectors. Assists international developers and investors with Romanian projects in the logistics and manufacturing sectors. Advises on permits, zoning and other aspects of construction mandates. Also handles matters relating to real estate financing and leasing.

Strengths: A client appreciates that the lawyers “have very good communication skills and know how to close transactions quickly.”
Another client states that “the team is well organised and very easy to reach.”

Work highlights: Advised Indotek on the acquisition of a shopping centre from AEW Capital Management.

Notable practitioners: Daniela Lazea and Sorin Aungurenci are the heads of the department.

Dispute Resolution – Band 4 | Mihai Nușcă – Notable Practitioner

What the team is known for: Works closely alongside the firm’s market-leading tax team to advise on contentious tax matters. Additionally acts on administrative disputes and appeals, as well as assisting with competition litigation and environmental law cases. Frequently retained by financial institutions, real estate firms and energy companies. Further strength in white-collar crime files.

Strengths: Clients are impressed by the team’s dedication, with one underlining the lawyers’ “experience, response time to requests and the way they built a strategy” as distinguishing attributes.
Another client appreciates the practice’s willingness to settle a matter out of court, noting that the team’s “innovative” approach enabled them to avoid a court litigation.

Work highlights: Assisted Banca Comercială Română with a high-profile appeal against a tax audit decision.

Notable practitioners: Mihai Nuşcă is a key contact within the department.

Tax – Tier 1

Biris Goran SPARL has a comprehensive tax practice with an especially good record for heavyweight tax disputes. The firm is regularly referred work on the tax aspects of complex restructurings and corporate deals, and has particularly strong expertise on real estate related issues. Practice co-head Ruxandra Jianu is the main contact for consultancy matters. Firm founder Gabriel Biriș leads the contentious side, which regularly assists clients on precedent-setting direct and indirect tax disputes with the authorities. Other key partners include litigator Mihai Nușcă and transfer pricing speclialist Alina Andrei, who works in the affiliated firm, Cabot Transfer Pricing.

Leading Individuals:

Gabriel Biriș – Biriș Goran SPARL
Ruxandra Jianu – Biriș Goran SPARL

EU and competition – Tier 2

Biris Goran SPARL has a multi-faceted competition practice offering strong contentious and non-contentious support to its international and domestic clients. The team has a strong track record defending clients against cartel claims, and has successfully represented companies in high profile antitrust litigations. Merger control proceedings and sectoral investigations are also regular areas of work. Clients come from across a range of sectors, including financial services, manufacturing, retail and energy. Gelu Goran is a well-regarded and experienced practice head.

Leading Individuals:

Gelu Goran – Biriș Goran SPARL

Testimonials:

‘Biris Goran is an excellent competition practice in Romania.’

‘They have a very pro-business approach, reacting quickly, with a thorough legal analysis behind. The lawyers understand our business and are able to integrate these into their advice.’

‘The lawyers at Biris Goran SPARL are very open minded and always focused on providing legal advice that fits the client’s business model. They offer real business solutions and represent a true business partner, being at the same time anchored in reality. They have a deep understanding of the client’s needs and their high quality legal advice is straight to the point.’

‘They have great flexibility, attending meetings with client’s business people – not only with the client’s in-house legal counsel – to better understand the needs and situations so that they can adapt the legal advice based on this and analyze all angles so that in the end the legal advice is not only very thorough, but also very realistic and suitable for the client.’

‘Gelu Goran is an excellent and responsive competition lawyer.’

Real estate and construction – Tier 2

Biris Goran SPARL is a leading choice for international and domestic developers and investors. The team regularly advises on major land acquisitions, development projects, leasing agreements and disposals. Recently the firm was involved in several complex package deals, and has good experience in residential, retail, office, and logistics sites. Real estate finance is a key area, and the firm’s capital markets expertise has helped with fundraisings. Practice head Daniela Lazea is a key contact, while Sorin Aungurenci is strong on construction matters. Clients also rate Mariana Signeanu.

Rising Stars:

Mariana Signeanu – Biriș Goran SPARL

Testimonials:

‘Large availability, good English and international skills, engaged, and transparent.’

‘The firm is very capable, professional and available, with both legal and commercial understanding and orientation. ‘

‘Daniela Lazea is one of the top lawyers I’ve worked with. ‘

‘Very experienced and skilled. Very innovative. The team brought creativity, high professional skills and great knowledge in all relevant aspects. their devotion to the client and the deal were exceptional. The team was very committed to the deal and to the time frame the clients had set, willing to work long hours under a very demanding negotiation.

‘Mariana Signeanu walked with the client hand by hand until signing, and did not rest until all points were fully covered for the benefit of the client.’

Commercial, Corporate and M&A – Tier 4

Biris Goran SPARL provides a mix of transactional and day-to-day corporate advice, including restructurings, business launches, and joint ventures. The firm is especially active on the real estate side, regularly assisting domestic and international investors on related corporate ventures and SPVs. The firm also represents clients in the retail, hospitality, technology, healthcare, and aviation sectors. The highly experienced Teodora Moțatu and Ana Frațian jointly lead the team.

Dispute resolution – Tier 4

Biris Goran SPARL is especially well regarded for its strong administrative litigation expertise, particularly in contentious antitrust and tax matters. The litigation team is led by Mihai Nușcă and also includes highly experienced founding partner Gabriel Biriș.

Tax – Band 1 | Gabriel Biriș – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1

What the team is known for: Offers high-level tax advice to large domestic and international clients. Acts on a variety of matters ranging from litigation to tax consultancy in support of mergers and restructuring mandates. Also assists with tax inspections and the review of transfer pricing policies, as well as with advice during cross-border mergers. Serves an impressive range of clients including cosmetics and financial institutions, real estate developers and energy providers, offering a comprehensive service. Also assists with day-to-day tax advice. Frequently advises on VAT reimbursements and excise duties.

Strengths:We were impressed by the work of the team in general, the seriousness, the promptitude, the proactive attitude and of course the quality of the delivered services,” enthuses a client. Another client comments on the lawyers’ performance, saying: “They manage to provide creative and innovative solutions in such a strictly regulated field,” and further praising the lawyers for their “unparalleled understanding of the business, the law and tax environment in Romania and their ability to successfully deal with the tax authorities.”

Work highlights: Acted as a legal adviser to Farmec on a dispute with the Romanian authorities, concerning the annulment of a tax decision.

Notable practitioners: Gabriel Biriș is a well-reputed market figure who is highlighted by clients for representing them against the tax authorities in court trials. Regularly advises on complex tax disputes, concerning transfer pricing and income tax matters. He has considerable experience representingboth domestic and international clients in contentious tax matters.

The “tax expertRuxandra Jianu wins praise for being “very knowledgeable, projecting security to the person sitting opposite to her and giving you direct answers so you feel like you are in secure hands.” Her expertise covers the full scope of tax and financial-related mandates including appeals against authorities, income tax and transfer pricing issues.

Competition / Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goran – Band 3 | Răzvan Bardicea – Associate to watch

What the team is known for: Acts for clients involved in Competition Council investigations into anti-competitive practices. Represents multinational banks, financial services providers and advertisers in disputes against local and European authorities, often challenging Council decisions and seeking damages. Noted for its activity in cross-border merger control proceedings. Also handles competition compliance mandates for domestic and international clients.

Strengths: Clients report that the firm’s lawyers “understand the business and are very prompt and flexible,” and also highlight the team’s “extensive experience in antitrust aspects.

Another affirms: “The lawyers understand our business and are able to integrate that into their advice.

Work highlights: Represented Publicis Groupe in litigation against the Romanian Competition Council regarding an alleged failure to seek merger control clearance from the authority.

Notable practitioners: Clients praise Gelu Goran’s extensive experience,” lauding him for being “always very prompt, flexible and reliable.” He is often involved in cross-border competition mandates in collaboration with international law firms.

Răzvan Bardicea is experienced in handling price fixing investigations, as well as competition-related disputes. Clients laud his “solid knowledge of competition law, communication skills, open-mindedness and focus on solutions.”

Real Estate – Band 3 | Raluca Năstase – Band 4

What the team is known for: Advises on the buy and sell-side of property transactions with substantial experience in the retail, logistics and manufacturing sectors. Assists international developers and investors with Romanian projects. Advises on permits and other regulatory aspects of construction mandates, with additional experience in litigious files relating to construction projects.

Strengths:The lawyers respond very quickly,” says one client, adding: “They know the legislation and have experience from previous cases, which means they can resolve problems.”

The lawyers have a global vision and don’t need long explanations,” states another source, going on to say: “They help deals to conclude easily.”

Work highlights: Advised One United Properties on the acquisition of land in Bucharest from Telekom.

Notable practitioners: Sources praise Raluca Nastase‘s skill in “coordinating her team in order to satisfy client’s needs,” noting: “She is good at resource allocation.” She heads the firm’s real estate team and assists with a full range of matters. She has experience in the aquisition of real estate assets from insolvent sellers.

Dispute Resolution – Recognized Practitioner

Real estate and construction – Tier 2

BirișGoran SPARL provides a comprehensive service, and is a popular choice for international and domestic investors and developers. Recently, the firm has advised on several significant developments in the manufacturing and industrial space, both for funds and corporates. Raluca Năstase and Daniela Lazea jointly lead the team. Sorin Aungurenci is noted for his strong expertise in zoning and related regulatory issues.

Testimonials:

“Great team with well prepared people. One of the best teams that I’ve worked with.”

“Young, reliable, fast to answer, and well prepared.”

EU and competition – Tier 2

BirișGoran SPARL‘s team has “a very pro-business approach“. It is popular with multinational clients and is also regularly referred work by major international law firms. The practice has considerable expertise in the financial services and the consumer goods sectors, and has a strong pedigree for cartel cases. Gelu Goran leads the highly experienced team, which has strong depth and experience, with Radu Jianu and Dan Jalbă among those attracting praise.

Testimonials:

“In terms of competition, they are able to understand in a holistic manner the internal processes and they are able to set up the client’s strategy with minimum involvement of the client’s resources.”

“They have a very pro-business approach, reacting quickly, with a thorough legal analysis behind. The lawyers understand our business and are able to integrate these into their advice.”

“Gelu Goran is a lawyer with the business understanding of a good CEO. As a client, I am happy when I know that Gelu is involved in a competition matter, as I know he has a clear understanding of the business and has the necessary skills to set up the best strategy.”

“Dan Jalbă has an outstanding power to filter the noise from the business information and flows such as to pin point the competition risks.”

“Radu Jianu has a fantastic power to filter huge amounts of information and come up with the most appropriate legal competition judgement.”

Tax – Tier 1

BirișGoran SPARL has achieved huge success for its clients in major tax disputes with the authorities. Gabriel Biriș has considerable experience handling tax-related contentious matters and was previously Secretary of State in the Romanian Ministry of Finance in charge of tax legislation. Ruxandra Jianu is also noted on the advisory side, which is undertaken through the firm’s consultancy arm, BirișGoran Consulting.

Leading Individuals:

Gabriel Biriș – BirișGoran SPARL

Commercial, corporate and M&A – Tier 4

BirișGoran SPARL has an experienced M&A team that acts for a domestic and international client base. Corporate real estate drives a large part of group’s work, which also stands out for its tax structuring expertise. Teodora Moțatu and Ana Frațian jointly lead the team.

Dispute resolution – Tier 4

BirișGoran SPARL is best known for its tax litigation expertise but also has strong experience of other forms of administrative disputes, including antitrust matters. Mihai Nușcă leads the team, which also includes founding partner Gabriel Biriș.

Testimonials:

“The firm offers high knowledge, high practical experience, prompt answers, easy understanding of the topics, very good communication, and fast access to all members of the team.”

“Good understanding of complex cases and excellent communication.”

Restructuring and Insolvency – Tier 3

BirișGoran SPARL‘s team has considerable experience in major restructurings. The firm represents debtors and creditors and has been involved in several high-profile insolvencies in the real estate market. Practice head Raluca Năstase is a licensed insolvency practitioner.

Tax – Band 1 | Gabriel Biriș – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1

What the team is known for: Offers high-level tax advice to large domestic and international clients. Acts on a variety of matters ranging from litigation to tax consultancy in support of acquisitions and restructuring mandates. Also assists with tax inspections and the review of transfer pricing policies as well as with advice during cross-border mergers. Serves an impressive range of clients including cosmetics and healthcare companies, real estate developers and energy providers, providing a comprehensive service which also assists with day-to-day tax advice.

Strengths: Sources highlight the “very motivated, solution-oriented and highly cohesive team.” Another client adds: “They are able to handle the most sensitive issues in an efficient and consistent manner.

Work highlights: Represented Banca Comerciala Romana in a tax dispute following a significant tax audit.

Notable practitioners: Gabriel Biriș is a distinguished tax practitioner who often represents clients in tax disputes. He also advises on VAT and transfer pricing. Clients describe Biriș as being “very knowledgeable, innovative and solution-oriented,” and additionally highlight his “poised and determined” delivery.

The “proactiveRuxandra Jianu advises domestic and international clients on transactional matters with a particular focus on tax restructuring and VAT issues. Sources appreciate that “she is extremely well prepared, solution-oriented, creative and charismatic.”

Competition / Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goran – Band 3 | Răzvan Bardicea – associate to watch

What the team is known for: Acts for clients involved in Competition Council investigations into anti-competitive practices. Additionally acts on follow-on damages claims, often in co-operation with international law firms. Also handles competition compliance mandates for domestic and international clients.

Strengths: Clients highlight the client care the firm provides. One cites “the speed of service and promptness of the lawyers’ response to our needs. “Another interviewee confirms, explaining: “This is a complex area of law so we need support, the physical presence of key lawyers and practical advice, all of which they provide.

Work highlights: Advised Aon on a Competition Council investigation into alleged bid rigging and price fixing in the aviation insurance market.

Notable practitioners: Gelu Goran is recognized for his handling of behavioral investigations. “He has a lot of experience with the Competition Council and handles cases very calmly,” confirms one client. Sources also appreciate his business acumen, explaining: “His knowledge of our business allows him to concentrate on giving hands-on and practical advice.

Răzvan Bardicea plays a supporting role in diverse matters ranging from behavioural investigations through to competition litigation and compliance mandates. Clients highlight his negotiation skills and note that he “has a sharp mind and a deep business and legal understanding.”

Real Estate – Band 3 | Raluca Năstase – Band 4

What the team is known for: Advises on buy and sell-side property transactions with experience in domestic and cross-border deals. Assists international developers and investors on Romanian projects. Also provides advice on permits and other regulatory aspects of construction mandates. Additionally acts on mandates involving title investigations and commercial lease issue.

Strengths: A client praises the team for being “very dedicated and well connected in the industry.” One source notes: “I can rely on their co-operation at any time.

Work highlights: Assisted Philippe Jacobs and Ibitol Group with the sale of the Coresi Business Park to Immochan.

Notable practitioners: Raluca Nastase advises on development projects, acting on contractual, regulatory and financing aspects. She also assists clients with transactions involving real estate assets. A client highlights her “leadership, creativity and knowledge.

Restructuring/Insolvency – Band 4

What the team is known for: Assists international clients from the banking, energy and real estate sectors. Regularly handles financial reorganisations, litigation and liquidation proceedings. Often acts as a trustee for insolvent companies.

Work highlights: Assisted ECOPIM with its corporate restructuring to avoid bankruptcy.

Notable practitioners: Raluca Năstase heads the department and is a good point of contact.

Dispute Resolution – Recognized Practitioner

Notable practitioners: Raluca Năstase heads the department and is a good point of contact.

Real estate and construction – Tier 2

BirișGoran SPARL hosts a ‘very professional team‘, praised for its ‘experience in the field of real estate and construction‘. Raluca Năstase heads the practice with Daniela Lazea, who recently assisted One United Properties with its €16.8 m acquisition of the North Gate office complex in Bucharest. Sorin Aungurenci is an ‘impressive‘, ‘polite and efficient‘ professional.

EU and competition – Tier 2

BirișGoran SPARL is experienced with handling cartel matters, leniency cases, compliance work and antitrust litigation, acting for a client base which includes UniCredit Bank, Siemens and Nestle. Practice head Gelu Goran is acting for Aon UK and affiliate, Aon Romania, in a Competition Council investigation into alleged bid-rigging and price fixing in the aviation insurance market.

Tax – Tier 2

Noted for its ‘ability to understand the nature of the business it is analysing‘, BirișGoran SPARL’s team handles the full spectrum of tax work with particular expertise in tax litigation. Gabriel Biriș heads the practice with Ruxandra Jianu, and acted for Banca Comercială Română in its large tax audit relating to financial transactions. On the transaction front, the team advised ECC Romania on the tax aspects of its cross-border merger with Fire Corporation. Alina Andrei and tax manager Ioana Cârtițe ‘are both very good profesionnals‘.

Commercial, corporate and M&A – Tier 4

Real estate-driven transactions are a core strength for BirișGoran SPARL with the team acting for clients such as One United Properties and LeasePlan Romania. Recent highlights include acting for Coresi Business Park in the sale of its flagship office centre to real estate company Immochan. The practice acts for both domestic and overseas clients and regularly adivises Greece-based Zeus International on its operations in Romania. Ana Frațian and Christian Mîndru jointly lead the group.

Dispute resolution – Tier 4

BirișGoran SPARL has a focus on tax litigation but also handles administrative and antitrust matters. Practice head Mihai Nușcă represented Banca Comercială Română in a high-profile audit of its financial transactions, including drafting the tax appeal against the decision of the Romanian tax authorities and acting on the mutual agreement procedure. Industries of expertise include telecoms, energy, transport, oil and gas, gambling and real estate.

Restructuring and Insolvency – Tier 3

At BirișGoran SPARL, practice head Raluca Năstase is acting for Global Vision on its acquisition via public auction of 93 ha of land from three companies in insolvency. Her team is particularly experienced in restructuring options analysis and is active in the construction and real estate, telecoms, energy and transport sectors.

Tax – Band 1 | Gabriel Biriș – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1

What the team is known for: Offers high-level tax advice to large domestic and international clients. Acts on a variety of matters ranging from litigation to tax consultancy in support of acquisitions and restructuring mandates. Also assists with tax inspections and the review of transfer pricing policies. Serves an impressive range of clients including cosmetics companies, real estate developers and energy providers, providing a comprehensive service which also assists with day-to-day tax advice.

Strengths: Clients praise the team’s approach which is “oriented towards finding valid solutions.” Another client notes: “They provide well-researched and compelling briefs, motions and arguments for us, paying extremely close attention to detail.”

Work highlights: Advised Farmec on the dispute of a tax decision. Assisted Wirom with various fiscal matters, including VAT and excise duties.

Notable practitioners: Gabriel Biriș is an experienced litigator, representing clients in VAT disputes in particular. He also regularly advises on non-contentious taxation mandates, and is described by clients as “an excellent leader.”

Leading tax consultant Ruxandra Jianu acts on tax restructuring and transactional mandates. Clients appreciate her expertise and say she is “very switched on and responsive, with excellent technical knowledge.” Another interviewee notes that she “has a very good understanding of our business and of the business environment in general.

Real Estate – Band 2 | Raluca Năstase – Band 4

What the team is known for: Strong reputation for representing investment funds in real estate tax structuring and asset management matters. Provides advice on compliance, permits and other regulatory aspects of construction mandates. Assists with title investigations and commercial lease issues, as well as cross-border joint ventures. Particularly recognised for experience of acting on the sell side of property transactions. Often advises international developers and investors on their Romanian projects.

Strengths: The firm is acclaimed for its responsiveness and client-focused approach, as one client reports: “The lawyers had a very strong understanding of specifics of our business, and the legal advice was always appropriate from a practical perspective. They always replied in a prompt and timely manner.” Another client notes the “highly diverse team,” while a further source comments that the firm is “able to handle good cases.

Work highlights: Advised SORAVIA on the sale of the Metropolis office development to PPF. Assisted AdamAmerica with the share deal acquisition of the Construdava office property from Commerzbank.

Notable practitioners: Raluca Nastase offers extensive experience in a range of real estate mandates, particularly real estate litigation, acquisitions and insolvency. She often advises institutional investors and high net worth individuals.

Competition / Antitrust, Gelu Goran – Band 3

Gelu Goran of BirișGoran often works for clients on litigious mandates, compliance issues and competition authority investigations into price fixing. He advises companies from a range of industries, including FMCG, energy, and construction. Clients say that “Gelu has a wealth of knowledge and experience in competition and antitrust law; he has a very good understanding of our business and the market we are active on. He is very reliable and available, and he gives clear and pragmatic advice.”

Restructuring / Insolvency – Band 4

What the team is known for: Assists international clients from the banking, energy and real estate sectors. Regularly handles financial reorganisations, bankruptcy proceedings and security enforcements. Often acts as a trustee for insolvent companies. Attracted multiple new clients to the practice, including Adivin 95.

Strengths Interviewees note:They provide practical, client-oriented solutions, have a good understanding of the business climate, and offer targeted legal support and prompt advice on last-minute assignments.” Another source highlights the team’s technical credentials: “They are good lawyers with an understanding of the economic reasoning behind insolvency.

Work highlights: Assisted Benevo with the auction of the assets of the bankrupt Aversa. Advised Wirom Gas on the recovery of debt from insolvent state-owned company Terma Serv.

Notable practitioners: Raluca Năstase heads the department and is a good point of contact.

Real estate and construction – Tier 2

Land acquisition mandates are a keystone of BirișGoran SPARL’s practice. Raluca Năstase advised Predeal Investiții on the purchase of 50,000sqm of land in the north of Bucharest from a company undergoing insolvency. Other clients include Rossmann and Universal Property.

EU and competition – Tier 2

BirișGoran SPARL has ‘excellent professional knowledge’ of EU and competition matters. Gelu Goran and senior associate Răzvan Bardicea recently represented Ameropa Grains in a cartel investigation for alleged price fixing; the company was found not to have infringed competition rules.

Tax – Tier 3

Tax disputes are a core area of strength at BirișGoran SPARL. Gabriel Biriș and Ruxandra Jianu successfully assisted Farmec with the annulment of a €13m tax decision.

Commercial, corporate and M&A – Tier 3

BirișGoran SPARL assists shareholders and corporates with buy and sell mandates. Of counsel Christian Mîndru heads the practice; he advised the shareholder of MT&T Property Management on selling a 100% stake to Atalian.

Dispute resolution – Tier 4

Tax, commercial and insolvency litigation are prominent in BirișGoran SPARL’s caseload. Mihai Nușcă acted for Orange România in litigation over recovering receivables from an insolvent trade partner, and is assisting Hidroelectica with a €60m tax annulment dispute.

Tax – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1 | Gabriel Biris – Band 1

Basic facts about the department

– 3 partners
– 4 other qualified lawyers
– 4 tax consultants

What the team is known for: Offers high-level tax advice to large domestic and international clients. Well known for expertise in tax legislation, regularly working with the Romanian authorities on amendments to the fiscal code. Attracts praise for work on a variety of matters ranging from complex litigation to tax consultancy in support of acquisitions and restructuring mandates. Also assists with tax inspections and the review of transfer pricing policies. Serves an impressive range of clients including cosmetics companies, real estate developers and energy providers.

Strengths: Interviewees report that the team is “client-oriented, available at all times of the day, responsive and knowledgeable.

The team is big enough that they have enough capacity to handle matters in a short space of time,” notes one client.

Work highlights: Advised Pumac SA on the tax implications of the sale of a large land plot in Bucharest to Skanska.

Assisted Portland Trust with court proceedings to recover VAT paid on its investment in the Floreasca Park project.

Significant clients: Farmec, Hidroelectrica, Wirom, Electrica Distribuție Muntenia Nord, Tinmar.

Notable practitioners : Gabriel Biriș is widely considered an outstanding tax litigation expert. Peers describe him as “the most famous tax lawyer in Romania” and note his recent high-profile role working within the Romanian government. Interviewees also highlight his ability to give creative solutions and say that “his clients appreciate him very much because he is very courageous.

Peers and clients alike praise Ruxandra Jianu for her skill in advisory matters relating to M&A, restructurings and real estate investments. She acts for multinational corporations on tax reviews, due diligence, inspections and disputes. Clients note her availability and say that she is an “excellent tax adviser.”

Real Estate – Band 2 | Raluca Nastase – Band 4

Basic facts about the department
– 4 partners
– 11 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for Strong reputation for representing investment funds in real estate tax structuring and asset management matters. Provides advice on compliance, permits and other regulatory aspects of construction mandates. Assists with title investigations and commercial lease issues, as well as cross-border joint ventures. Particularly recognised for experience of acting on the sale-side of property transactions.

Strengths Clients hold the team in high esteem, saying: “They have done excellent work. Their availability is very good; they have a short response time and a very practical approach. BirișGoran are deal doers who are always looking for solutions.

Work highlights Represented Aberdeen Asset Management in its EUR86 million sale of Auchan Titan shopping centre to NEPI.

Assisted Adamamerica with the high-profile acquisition of Phoenix Tower from Commerzbank, as well as its subsequent financing.

Significant clients Pumac, Vastint, MT&T Property Management, Liebrecht & wooD, Europa Capital.

Notable practitioners Raluca Nastase‘s contentious experience in real estate encompasses title disputes and investigations as well as construction matters. From an advisory standpoint, she is active on acquisitions and lease agreements for offices and industrial properties.

Competition/Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goan – Band 3

Basic facts about the department:

– Head of department: Gelu Goran
– 1 partner
– 4 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for: Supports clients throughout Competition Council investigations, including during dawn raid proceedings. Has experience in standout contentious mandates relating to merger control gun jumping, leniency applications in cartel cases and the early settlement of investigations. Clients include national and international media companies, energy producers and agricultural traders.

Strengths: Interviewees report highly positive experiences of working with the firm, praising its “seasoned lawyers with very good communication skills.”

Work highlights: Advised Publicis Groupe on an investigation led by the Competition Council alleging a failure to notify and seek clearance from the antitrust authority prior to its acquisition of Zenith Media Communications.

Represented Policolor in its challenge to the fine imposed by the Competition Council following the early settlement of a price-fixing investigation.

Significant clients: LafargeHolcim, Weatherford, Japan Tobacco International, Procter & Gamble, Ameropa Grains.

Notable practitioners Gelu Goran often assists with horizontal and vertical price-fixing investigations and compliance audits for a wide range of clients from sectors such as banking, FMCG, construction and energy. Sources admire his “technical knowledge, solution-driven approach, very good understanding of the client’s business and flexibility.”

Restructuring and Insolvency – Band 4

Basic facts about the department

– Head of department: Raluca Nastase
– 2 partners
– 5 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for Assists international clients from the banking, energy and real estate sectors. Regularly handles financial reorganisations, bankruptcy proceedings and security enforcements. Active on a number of mandates spanning multiple jurisdictions.

Work highlights Acted as trustee on the insolvency proceedings of Leon Trans.

Assisted Hidroelectrica in dispute resolution matters during its insolvency proceedings.

Significant clients Benevo, San Metal International, Sticom Trading, S&D Pharma, Hortim International.

Notable practitioners Raluca Nastase heads the department and is the key contact for clients.

Corporate / M&A – Band 5

Heads of department: Christian Mîndru and Ana Frațian
– 1 partner
– 10 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for Advises international clients and law firms on the Romanian aspects of cross-border mandates. Frequently advises on transactions in the technology sector and assists with the tax aspects of corporate matters.

Work highlights Assisted IT services provider Atos with its acquisition of Xerox’s IT outsourcing operations, valued at USD1.05 billion as a worldwide transaction.

Acted for global textiles producer Coats plc on the sale of its crafts division to Aurelius Group.

Significant clients Maravet, Comfert, Aberdeen Asset Management Deutschland.

Notable practitioners Christian Mîndru and Ana Frațian head the practice and are key contacts.

Dispute Resolution Practice – is classed as a “Other Noted Firm”.

Real Estate & Construction – Tier1

BirișGoran SPARL is ‘thorough and detailed in its advice’. Ruxandra Jianu and Gabriel Biriș advised Pumac on its sale of a 21,000sqm site near Grozãvești to Skanska. The firm has a strong presence in the title insurance space, with First Title a client.

Dispute Resolution – Tier 4

BirișGoran SPARL is ‘very good at setting out expectations and timeframes’. The firm handles public law, tax, commercial and insolvency litigation. Mihai Nuşcă represented Cramele Halewood in various disputes against public authorities.

Corporate / M&A – Tier 4

BirișGoran SPARL’s ‘flexible and proactive’ team provides ‘a good level of service, with clear and concise answers’. Practice head and of counsel Christian Mîndru advised Atos on the post-closing aspects of its purchase of Xerox.

Tax – Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu – Band 1 | Gabriel Biris – Band 1

Basic facts about the department:
– 3 partners
– 4 other qualified lawyers
– 4 tax consultants

What the team is known for: Offers high-level tax advice to large domestic and international clients. Well known for expertise in tax legislation, regularly working with the Romanian authorities on amendments to the fiscal code. Highly visible in a variety of matters, from day-to-day issues and complex tax litigations to specific advice relating to acquisitions and restructuring mandates.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):

“A team of young, but experienced, professionals who are dynamic and client-oriented.”

“The standards were high, and the lawyers pleasant and responsive. I was impressed with the speed of response.”

What’s new?: Recent client wins include Renergy Power Plants, Angelli and Epstein Architecture.

Work highlights: Advised Wirom on a variety of tax issues, such as profit tax, VAT and excise duties, including recently representing the client in a dispute with the tax authorities.

Assisted Doguș Group with a complex tax due diligence for the acquisition of a group of agribusiness companies.

Notable practitioners:

Gabriel Biris comes highly recommended as a prominent player in the Romanian tax field. Sources describe him as “one of the best in the market” for a wide range of contentious, transactional and advisory matters. Lately, this included assisting Hidroelectrica with a complex tax litigation case.

Tax consultant Ruxandra Jianu is widely respected in the market and praised for her “expertise and timely responses” by impressed clients. Her broad, in-depth experience of Romanian and cross-border tax matters, including VAT recovery issues and restructuring processes. This recently included advising major cosmetics producer Farmec in a complex dispute against the Romanian tax authorities.

Significant clients: Oriflame, Lease Plan, Red Bull, Nestlé, Raiffeisen Bank.

Real Estate – Band 2 | Victor Constantinescu – Band 1 | Raluca Nastase – Band 3

Basic facts about the department:
– 4 partners

– 11 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for: Well known for representing investment funds in real estate tax structuring and asset management matters. Provides advice on compliance, permitting and other regulatory aspects of construction mandates. Assists with title investigations and commercial lease issues, as well as property investments and joint ventures.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):

“The team is capable of handling complex and sensitive legal matters, and has a strong emphasis on the client’s needs.”

“The firm is extremely customer focused, and the lawyers are prepared to go the extra mile.”

What’s new?: The shareholders of Comfert are amongst the firm’s latest client wins.

Work highlights: Represented Raiffeisen Evolution in the sale of Promenada Mall.

Advised Gran Via on the purchase of a land plot for use in a residential development.

Notable practitioners:

Sources highlight outstanding practitioner Victor Constantinescu for his “commercially-oriented approach” to high-end property cases. He is a prominent figure on complex asset and property management cases, and is known for assisting clients with joint ventures in property development matters. Lately, he assisted Aberdeen Asset Management Deutschland AG in the sale of its flagship shopping centre Auchan Titan in August 2015 for EUR 86 million.

Raluca Nastase acts for clients on construction mandates, leases, zoning issues and acquisitions. Recently, this included acting for Benevo on various aspects of a construction project for a shopping centre development in Bucharest. She is also experienced in insolvency and litigation cases relating to the real estate sector. Clients were impressed with “her ability to find creative solutions to complex matters, and understand the need for fast solutions under challenging conditions.

Significant clients: Aberdeen Asset Management, Europa Capital, Liebrecht & Wood, Portico Investments, Adval Asset Management.

Competition/Antitrust – Band 3 | Gelu Goran Band 2

Basic facts about the department:
– 1 partner
– 1 of counsel
– 4 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for: Well versed in a variety of competition matters, including noteworthy expertise in merger control litigation and cartel investigations. Assists many clients with compliance programmes and is recognised for its support throughout Competition Council investigations, including during dawn raid proceedings. Stands out for knowledge of cases in the FMCG sector, as well as recent success in energy, agriculture and media-related cases.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients):

“Excellent competition law knowledge, with a very good grasp of business specifics. The lawyers are available and give clear, concise and pragmatic advice.”

“The lawyers are specialised in competition matters, which differentiates them a lot from other lawyers in terms of understanding, knowledge, experience and the capacity to deal with very complex issues.”

What’s new?: New client wins include Publicis Groupe, Profi and Viessmann.

Work highlights: Acted for Japan Tobacco International on a Competition Council investigation into alleged price fixing.

Advised Wintershall, through its Romanian affiliate Wirom, on the investigation of alleged price fixing, including assistance with the dawn raid and cartel litigation.

Notable practitioners:

Founding partner Gelu Goran draws praise from clients for being “an extremely talented lawyer, capable of understanding business implications and providing solutions within the legal framework.” He is appreciated for his advice to a variety of clients across competition issues, particularly cartel investigations and compliance issues. In recent highlights, he continued to advise Ameropa Grains on a long-term cartel investigation for alleged price fixing.

Significant clients: Weatherford, Holcim, Nestlé, Procter & Gamble, Siemens.

Restructuring and Insolvency – Band 3

Basic facts about the department:
– 2 partners
– 5 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for: Experienced in assisting international clients in the banking, energy and real estate markets with insolvency, bankruptcy and financial reorganisation cases. Active on a number of mandates spanning multiple jurisdictions.

Strengths: (Quotes mainly from clients)

“These lawyers do the thinking for me, and are on top of all the issues, covering business as well as legal.”

Work highlights: Assisted Benevo with the auction process and transaction of the bankrupt Aversa, to the value of EUR17.3 million.

Represented Plus Development in an insolvency procedure.

Notable practitioners:

Raluca Nastase is the main contact point for clients.

Significant clients: Hidroelectrica, San Metal International, CEC Bank, Wirom Gas Romania, Alpha Bank Romania.

Corporate / M&A – Band 4

Basic facts about the department:
– 1 partner
– 10 other qualified lawyers

What the team is known for: Widely recognised for advising international clients and law firms on the Romanian aspects of cross-border mandates. Strong track record of transactions in the technology sector, and on the tax aspects of corporate matters.

Strengths: (Quotes mainly from clients)

“This law firm definitely delivers, thanks to its understanding of local law and international standards.”

What’s new?: Coats was added to the team’s client list.

Work highlights: Assisted Atos with the Romanian elements of its acquisition of the IT outsourcing operations of Xerox, an international deal worth USD1.05 billion.

Notable practitioners:

Christian Mindru and Ana Fratian are the primary contacts for this team.

Significant clients: Maravet, Vector Watch, Bongrain, Treetops Capital Partners.

Real Estate, First tier

BirișGoran SPARL’s real estate practice is led by Victor Constantinescu. He advised Raiffeisen Evolution on the €148m sale of the Promenada mall to New European Property Investment (NEPI). The firm is also advising Europa Capital on three residential projects in Bucharest.

Corporate/M&A, Second Tier

BirișGoran SPARL advised Atos on the Romanian aspects of its $1bn purchase of Xerox’s IT outsourcing business. The firm also advises on angel investments in technology start-ups, recently acting for Vector Watch, a smartwatch manufacturer, on a venture capital investment. Of counsel Christian Mîndru, who is also a member of the Quebec Bar, and Ana Fraţian lead the team. Name partner Gabriel Biris became Secretary of State for fiscal legislation.

Energy & Natural Resources, Third Tier

BirișGoran SPARL advises major players in the energy sector on regulation, corporate matters, competition law and energy trading issues. Dana Dunel Stancu advises major hydro electricity player on its electricity export business, and represented Voith Hydro in a €350m dispute regarding a hydroelectric dam restructuring.

Dispute resolution, Fourth Tier

BirișGoran SPARL acts in tax, commercial and employment cases. Mihai Nușcă leads the practice, which recently represented Hidroelectrica in a €70m tax dispute.

Tax, Band 1 | Gabriel Biris, Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu, Band 2

What the team is known for Established full-service practice that provides extensive expertise on direct and indirect tax, and is renowned for handling complex tax disputes. Highly active lately advising energy sector clients on their tax concerns.

What’s new? Hidroelectrica, Doguș Group and Raiffeisen Bank are amongst several recent client wins.

Work highlights Assisted domestic energy client Wirom with profit tax, VAT, excise duties and other tax matters. Advised Nestlé on numerous complex tax litigation matters.

Notable practitioners

Gabriel Biris remains a leading figure in Romanian tax, with almost two decades of experience in the field. His expertise spans all manner of tax issues, including onshore and offshore optimum tax structures, compliance, tax controls and litigation. His wide-ranging client list includes prominent names such as Hidroelectrica and Portland Trust.

Ruxandra Jianu offers significant expertise in local tax legislation and international tax and accountancy planning. She works closely with the firm’s litigation team on contentious tax cases.

Significant clients Red Bull, Oriflame, Lease Plan, Doguș Group.

Real Estate, Band 2 | Victor Constantinescu, Band 1 | Raluca Năstase, Band 3

What the team is known for Wide-ranging real estate offering, with particular strength in commercial leasing, joint ventures, asset management and title investigations. Works closely with the firm’s other departments to advise on transactional, tax, finance and litigation cases relating to real estate. Noted for extensive activity with international clients, and notably popular with North American investors.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

“The lawyers are very friendly and easy to work with. They have good expertise and are always keen to assist.”

“This is a strong player in the real estate sector, able to see the market from a wider perspective.”

What’s new? Liebrecht & Wood and Raiffeisen Evolution are two recent client wins.

Work highlights Assisted Benevo, and its joint venture partner Autoplast Engineering, with a high-profile real estate transaction, involving the successful auction process for the real estate assets of Aversa.

Acted on Raiffeisen Property International’s Sky Tower project, assisting with all leasing and other real estate-related matters.

Notable practitioners

Clients praise prominent real estate practitioner Victor Constantinescu as a”straightforward, accurate, prompt and determined” lawyer who has a “good understanding of international clients.” His extensive recent caseload included advising Adval Asset Management on various asset management issues relating to several commercial properties in Romania. Market commentators regard him as a “good communicator, who can analyse a question very quickly, and provide clear supporting information.”

Raluca Nastase has strong experience in all real estate matters, including acquisitions, title investigations, industrial and office leases, and zoning. She was recently part of the team which advised Interprime Properties on its Baduc and Timpuri Noi development projects.

Significant clients Aberdeen Property Investors, Adval Asset Management, Europa Capital, First Title Insurance, Interprime Properties.

Competition/Antitrust, Band 3 | Gelu Goran, Band 3

What the team is known for Provides extensive advice on competition compliance and training, with a focus on the consumer goods sector. Experienced in assisting with cartel investigations, and in defending clients in antitrust investigations and merger control litigation.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)

“Excellent level of service. This law firm can be highly recommended.”

“We are very satisfied with the high level of expertise and client-oriented approach of this team.”

Work highlights Advised Weatherford on the Competition Council’s ongoing investigation into alleged bid-rigging arrangements. Assisted Holcim with the competition issues relating to its proposed merger with Lafarge.

Notable practitioners According to interviewees, Gelu Goran has “an impressive record in competition law, and very good experience in the area.” He has focused experience of abuse of dominance matters, including advising on pricing for dominant companies, as well as cartel investigations, antitrust audits and compliance programmes.

Significant clients Nestlé, Policolor, Procter & Gamble, Siemens, UniCredit.

Restructuring & Insolvency, Band 3 | Raluca Năstase, Band 3

What the team is known for Prominent in real estate bankruptcy cases, as part of a wide-ranging, internationally focused restructuring and insolvency practice. Equally adept at contentious insolvency matters and banking-related financial reorganisation cases.

Work highlights Acted for domestic construction client Plus Development on its EUR25 million insolvency procedure.

Notable practitioners Raluca Nastase leads this firm’s restructuring and insolvency team, and is the primary point of contact for the practice.

Significant clients CEC Bank, Euro Mansarda, San Metal, Simber Industries.

Corporate/M&A, Band 4

What the team is known for Wide-ranging work includes prominent activity on IT and real estate-related mandates involving a variety of domestic and international clients. Full-service approach includes detailed advice on the tax aspects of transactions.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients) “Hands-on, alert and responsive, and good at cases with international elements.”

What’s new? Ana Fraţian was recently promoted to partner within the firm.

Work highlights Advised Canadian retail group Benevo, and its joint venture partner Autoplast Engineering, on the EUR17.3 million auction process for the assets of insolvent company Aversa.

Notable practitioners Christian Mîndru is the main contact figure for this team.

Significant clients Bongrain, Publicis Groupe, 3TS Capital Partners, Treetops Capital, Vector Watch.

Real Estate, First tier

BirișGoran SPARL’s real estate practice is led by Victor Constantinescu. He advised Raiffeisen Evolution on the €148m sale of the Promenada mall to New European Property Investment (NEPI). The firm is also advising Europa Capital on three residential projects in Bucharest.

Corporate/M&A, Second Tier

BirișGoran SPARL advised Atos on the Romanian aspects of its $1bn purchase of Xerox’s IT outsourcing business. The firm also advises on angel investments in technology start-ups, recently acting for Vector Watch, a smartwatch manufacturer, on a venture capital investment. Of counsel Christian Mîndru, who is also a member of the Quebec Bar, and Ana Fraţian lead the team. Name partner Gabriel Biris became Secretary of State for fiscal legislation.

Energy & Natural Resources, Third Tier

BirișGoran SPARL advises major players in the energy sector on regulation, corporate matters, competition law and energy trading issues. Dana Dunel Stancu advises major hydro electricity player on its electricity export business, and represented Voith Hydro in a €350m dispute regarding a hydroelectric dam restructuring.

Dispute resolution, Fourth Tier

BirișGoran SPARL acts in tax, commercial and employment cases. Mihai Nușcă leads the practice, which recently represented Hidroelectrica in a €70m tax dispute.

Tax, Band 1 | Gabriel Biris, Band 1 | Ruxandra Jianu, Band 2

What the team is known for Comprehensive practice advising on direct and indirect tax, specifically VAT, and further celebrated for its contentious tax abilities. Also involved in discussions regarding legislation amendments.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
“The firm is very well known on the market and has been involved in the most important transactions.”

“It is a very good relationship; the lawyers are prompt and we are satisfied with the quality of their work.”

What’s new? Cris-Tim, Tinmar and Cramele Halewood are all recent client wins.

Work highlights Representing Wirom in a major dispute with the tax authorities, as well as other tax advisory services.

Assisting Oriflame Romania with all tax matters including a transfer pricing review.

Notable practitioners

The eminent Gabriel Biris is a household name in the Romanian tax market. He has a well-established practice and sources describe him as “a great tax attorney who is notable and visible.”

Clients feel they can rely on tax consultant Ruxandra Jianu‘s technical advice. She covers all areas of tax and works with the firm’s dispute resolution team on contentious cases.

Significant clients Cramele Halewood, Kika Mobilier, Lease Plan, Monsson Alma, Red Bull.

Real Estate, Band 2 | Victor Constantinescu, Band 1 | Raluca Năstase, Band 3

What the team is known for Robust team covering all legal aspects of real estate-related transactions, including acquisitions, joint ventures and real estate contract negotiations. Leasing mandates form a part of the team’s practice and it is experienced in commercial property management. Noted for its specialised practice in title investigations.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
“We recently received a report from the team that was so detailed that we had hardly any questions. The team is friendly, commercial and gives not just legal advice, but also looks at the practical factors.”

“What the team did very well is getting the balance between delivering a service you would expect from an international firm, because it is linked to international associations, and also having that regional knowledge.”

Work highlights Assisting Benevo with the relaunching and restructuring of its flagship shopping centre development, Victoria City Lifestyle Retail Center.

Assisting Raiffeisen Property International with the leasing and day-to-day matters relating to the Sky Tower project.

Notable practitioners

One of the founding partners and department head Victor Constantinescu is a highly recognised real estate specialist. Clients appreciate his international experience and comment: “He is very sharp and shrewd, with a good business mind and very hands-on.”

Clients commend Raluca Nastase‘s “attention to detail and ability to handle and understand complex matters.” She has experience dealing with leases, acquisitions, title investigations and construction matters.

Significant clients Aberdeen Property Investors, Cine Grand, Dinu Patriciu Global Properties, Europa Capital, First Title Insurance.

Competition/Antitrust, Band 3 | Gelu Goran, Band 2

What the team is known for Notable presence on numerous competition investigations, including cartel arrangements, price fixing and abuse of dominance. Advises clients from a wide range of sectors with many drawn from the fast-moving consumer goods sector. Offers support on compliance, pricing and merger clearance.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
“The advice I receive is business-oriented and easy to understand.”

Work highlights Advising Procter & Gamble on a Competition Council investigation of management of electrical waste.

Assisted JTI with a Competition Council investigation of alleged price fixing in the tobacco sector.

Notable practitioners Clients praise Gelu Goran as a “seasoned practitioner in competition matters.” He recently assisted Weatherford with general antitrust compliance matters and a Competition Council investigation of alleged bid-rigging in the energy sector.

Significant clients Holcim, Nestlé, Policolor, Profi, Siemens.

Restructuring & Insolvency, Band 3 | Raluca Năstase, Band 3

What the team is known for Provides comprehensive support for restructuring projects and insolvency proceedings with additional tax capabilities. Typically advises on both the creditor and debtor sides on matters such as the liquidation and restructuring of large to medium-sized corporates. Strong client base in the real estate sector.

Work highlights Instructed by Plus Development SRL in its EUR25 million insolvency procedure.

Acting as the trustee on the insolvency of Mainrom Invest.

Notable practitioners Raluca Năstase is department head and the point of contact.

Significant clients Banca Comercială Română, CEC Bank, Euro Mansarda, S&D Pharma, Simber Industries.

IP, IT & Media Band 3 | Ana Maria Andronic, Band Up and Coming

What the team is known for A robust choice for IT, internet and media issues, and recently active in industrial property and copyright matters. Advises on the protection and defence of IP rights. Growing experience in sports law, handling IP rights for event organisers.

Work highlights Assisted Asser Institute with a research study on sports events and sports organisers’ IP rights.

Assisting Cine Grand with trade mark registrations and a trade mark dispute with a well-known retail operator.

Notable practitioners Department head Ana Maria Andronic is noted for her expertise in copyright and trade mark matters related to IT, particularly internet privacy. She is described as a “very good adviser who is responsible for the growth of the firm in IP,” and is praised for her client service and tailored advice.

Significant clients 3TS Capital Partners, Aukro Romania, CloudBag, Policolor, UberVU.

Corporate/M&A, Band 4

What the team is known for Compact practice with a growing reputation for advising domestic start-ups, investment funds and multinationals on IT and online matters. Recent work includes joint ventures and acquisitions as well as general corporate advice. Other areas of focus include oil and gas, agriculture, retail and media.

Strengths (Quotes mainly from clients)
“Highly experienced in the energy sector.”

“The cross-border work was handled well. The team understood where we were coming from as a Western firm.”

What’s new? Treetops Capital and Treetops Capital Agribusiness Fund are recent client wins.

Work highlights Lead counsel advising Romcarbon on its joint venture with the EBRD and the Global Finance investment fund.

Assisted renewable energy developer Monsson Group with the EUR80 million sale of a wind farm project to German power generation company STEAG.

Notable practitioners Christian Mîndru is joint head of the M&A department and the point of contact.

Significant clients Publicis Groupe, Bongrain, Ringier Romania, Romcarbon, 3TS Capital Partners.

Within Real estate and construction, second tier

Biris Goran’s well regarded real estate practice is recommended for its ‘utmost professionalism, expertise and delivery’. The team recently assisted Gran Via with the €4m sale of 6,500sq m of land to Lidl and continues to advise longstanding clients such as Aberdeen Property Investors and Benevo on asset management issues and acquisitions. Other clients include Ciné Grand and Europa Capital. Practice head Victor Constantinescu attracts praise for his ‘international experience and understanding of the local market’.

Within TMT, second tier

Biris Goran is recommended for its excellent network and ‘broad experience in the new media sector’. It has strong niche expertise advising start-ups, but also advises established companies on telecoms, IT and IP. ‘Experienced IP expert’ Ana Maria Andronic heads the team, which advised 3TS Capital on its investment in an internet company.

Within Corporate and M&A, third tier

Christian Mindru heads Biris Goran’s three-partner practice, which combines ‘excellent corporate advice’ with specialist tax knowledge and acts for an international client roster including Simartis, Bongrain and 3TS Capital.

Within Dispute resolution, fourth tier

Biris Goran’s team is led by the ‘smart and meticulous’ Mihai Nușcă. It advises clients such as Holcim, Nestlé Romania and Orange on administrative and commercial disputes.

Tax, Band 1  |  Gabriel Biris, Band 1  |  Ruxandra Jianu, Band 2

THE FIRM Biris Goran is widely recognised as a firm which is synonymous with tax, and has one of the strongest practices in the market. The compact yet formidable team offers a combination of tax and legal services to clients such as Red Bull, Danske Commodities and Oriflame. It covers fiscal matters related to restructuring, transfer of assets and complex transactions. Recent highlights include representing leading natural gas distributor Wirom in proceedings related to a major dispute with the tax authorities, and acting as lead tax counsel to Romcarbon on a tax restructuring mandate for a EUR23.5 million transaction.

Sources say: “From a technical point of view, the firm is excellent.” “Its lawyers have the best reputation as tax experts.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of practice Gabriel Biris receives praise from clients for his “excellent tax advice” and is recognised by peers as one of the expert practitioners in this area.

Ruxandra Jianu is a key partner at this practice and is praised by clients for her “impressive breadth of knowledge and passion for tax.

Real Estate, Band 2  |  Victor Constantinescu, Band 1 |  Raluca Nastase, Band 4

THE FIRM This prestigious eight-strong team handles all matters pertaining to real estate for an impressive client list, which includes Aberdeen Property Investors, Benevo and Dinu Patriciu Global Property. In a recent standout mandate, the lawyers assisted Europa Capital with the potential acquisition of numerous development projects, as well as providing ongoing advice on its EUR200 million industrial park in Turda.

Sources say: “A local firm with internationally experienced lawyers.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Victor Constantinescu comes highly recommended for his commercial and precise advice. Sources also highlight his flexibility and international experience.

Clients praise Raluca Nastase as a “witty and hard-working” real estate practitioner. Her litigation and restructuring work earns client accolades.

Competition/Antitrust, Band 3  |  Gelu Goran, Band 2

THE FIRM The compact competition and antitrust team at this local firm has specific expertise in compliance, cartel investigations, vertical restraints and merger control. It is well known for its expertise in matters related to the consumer goods sector, where it has advised a number of high-profile clients on matters such as price fixing and abuse of dominance. The firm is instructed by companies from a range of other sectors, including financial services, pharmaceuticals and construction, making up a client portfolio that features the likes of Siemens Romania, UniCredit Bank, Publicis Group and Procter & Gamble.

Sources say: “It offers a combination of strong knowledge of competition legislation and case law with practical advice.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Practice head Gelu Goran is described by one client as “an excellent lawyer and a skilled professional with an excellent command of case law and legislation.

Corporate/M&A, Band 3

THE FIRM Despite its compact size, this team remains busy with corporate instructions. Ringier Romania, Appnor, BAC Investment and Monsson Group are just some of the group’s clients. It is highly active in the IT sectors, and also draws on the stellar reputation of the firm’s tax practice. The team recently advised Romcarbon on a joint venture with EBRD and the Global Finance investment fund. In addition it assisted the private investors and management with the buyout of News Outdoor Romania.

Sources say: “We felt in very good hands with the team.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Daniel Visoiu draws praise for his international outlook, commercial approach and client service. In a recent highlight he advised Romcarbon on a joint venture with EBRD and the Global Finance investment fund.

Intellectual Property, Band 3 |  Ana Maria Andronic, Band U

THE FIRM This eight-lawyer team continues to expand its presence in IP. Its main focus is on non-contentious IP matters, where it is regularly instructed in connection with IP matters related to corporate restructuring, registration rights agreements, licensing and service agreements. Recent highlights include acting as lead counsel to Allegro Group, part of the Naspers Group, on a number of matters including employment structure and employee-generated IP. Other noteworthy clients are ITNT, Sparrowhawk International Channels, uberVU and Simartis Telecom.

Sources say: “It has a solid and up-to-date understanding of issues affecting foreign companies in Romania.”

KEY INDIVIDUALS Former judge and head of department Ana Maria Andronic receives praise for her international experience and understanding of the domestic legal market. She is applauded by one client for her ability to “understand how to get things done and to meet clients’ needs.

Restructuring/Insolvency, Band 3

THE FIRM Biris Goran is recognised for its restructuring and insolvency capabilities. The team benefits from the support and broad knowledge of the firm’s tax and real estate practices, and is recommended for its solid litigation experience. Notable recent highlights include acting as a trustee in property developer Mainrom Invest’s EUR32 million insolvency proceedings.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Group head Raluca Nastase is the key point of contact for clients in this practice area.

Real Estate and Construction, second tier

Biris Goran SCPA’s ‘excellent’ team has ‘a strong balance of local expertise, an international approach and reasonable fees’. In 2012, the group advised Benevo on its €20m acquisition of a 78,000sq m industrial platform. It is also acting for Raiffeisen Property International on the Sky Tower development. Co-heads Victor Constantinescu and Raluca Nastase are recommended.

IT, Telecoms and Media, second tier

Biris Goran SCPA has significant IP expertise. Highlights included acting for Inspire Multiplex Private on the registration of its trade mark portfolio, and advising Red Bull Romania on IP matters and sponsorship agreements relating to advertising and promotional campaigns. Ana Maria Andronic heads the team.

Public Private Partnership and Procurement, second tier

Biris Goran SCPA advised Wirom Gas on its tender before the Romanian Ministry of Economics and Commerce for the 49-year concession contract for natural gas distribution in southern Romania. Other clients include VAMED AG and Tecsa Meccanismi. Paula Dicu is recommended.

Corporate and M&A, third tier

Biris Goran SCPA advised Romcarbon on a €23.5m joint venture agreement with the EBRD and Global Finance investment firm. It was co-counsel alongside Salans in advising Monsson Group on the €80m sale of a wind farm to Steag. Dan Visoiu and his team are ‘very responsive’ and have ‘a can-do attitude’.

Dispute Resolution, fourth tier

Biris Goran SCPA represented RoGrup in a €15m tax case against the Romanian Customs Office and the Ministry of Finance, and acted for Monsson Alma in a RON71m contractual dispute relating to wind farms. Raluca Năstase is the key contact.

Tax, Band 1  |  Gabriel Biris, Band 1  |  Ruxandra Jianu, Band “Up and coming”

Biris Goran is undoubtedly one of the leading names for tax in Romania. Its five-member team has been focusing on tax restructuring mandates of late, handling projects for both companies and high net worth individuals. It advises several energy and gas companies on issues ranging from profit tax to VAT, transactions and structuring. Highlights include providing tax inspection assistance to Mediaş, a local subsidiary of global gas company Wintershall Holding, and representing one of the leading domestic players in the Romanian natural gas distribution field, Wirom, in various matters.

Sources say: “Very well known for its tax expertise.”

Practice head Gabriel Biris is a high-profile figure in the field and an accomplished relationship manager, who is recognised as one of the few specialists in tax law in the Romanian market. “He’s one of the best, and extremely creative,” sources say.  

Peers speak highly of Ruxandra Jianu’s in-depth knowledge of tax matters.

Real Estate, Band 2   |  Victor Constantinescu, Band 2

This 12-lawyer team has been busy assisting the Timisoara Airport Park with various mandates, and advising Raiffeisen Property Holdings on the management of non-performing assets. Restructuring is a recent growth area, where the firm’s deep tax knowledge is an asset. Other highlights include providing leasing and insolvency advice to Aberdeen Property Investors, owner of the Iris Shopping Mall and PGV Tower in Bucharest.

Sources say: “Biris Goran helped us to grow our business, with a lot of solid advice. It goes beyond the mere legal counsel to get really involved in its cases.”

Founding partner Victor Constantinescu leads the real estate practice. According to clients, he is distinguished by his experience in the field and his “international perspective.”

Competition, Band 3   |   Gelu Goran, Band 2

The six-strong competition team at this firm is best known for its expertise in cartel investigations before the Competition Council. In this field the group continues to advise UniCredit on the ongoing investigation of an alleged cartel arrangement. It is also commended for the strength of its compliance and regulatory work, representing clients such as Holcim, Procter & Gamble and Siemens.

Sources say: “A very thorough and practical firm.” “The team knows the local environment but has a global view.”

“Flexible and pragmatic” practice leader Gelu Goran is a respected practitioner whose practice centres on merger control, anti-cartel proceedings and antitrust proceedings.

Corporate/M&A, Band 3   |   Daniel Visoiu, Band 4

This team combines Western experience with a practical grasp of the Romanian business environment and comprehensive Romanian legal expertise. Highlights of the firm’s recent M&A practice include working for Bongrain on its acquisition of a majority stake in Delaco, which was amongst the largest deals in the dairy products sector. The firm is also very active in the technology, media and telecommunications sectors, with clients such as Infopress and Publicis Groupe, which it recently assisted with the acquisition of various media companies. It also represents Trilulilu, an emerging online content provider, with corporate matters.

Sources say: “I find the firm very professional, thorough and knowledgeable. I have no trouble recommending it to others.” “It has a diverse experience base that means we can call on any lawyer whatever the matter. The firm covers all the key bases with a broad range of expertise, and does it well.”

Daniel Visoiu is a founding partner, and is qualified at the Bar of Florida. He brings with him experience gained in a major French corporate firm, and in the investment banking sector. A client describes him as “very dedicated, and there whenever you need him.”

Restructuring & Insolvency, Band 3

This local firm has a strong reputation in all areas of financial law, and offers a total of nine lawyers working on restructuring and insolvency projects. The team advises the government of Romania on potential insolvency law reform and implementation of legislation from the European Union. A recent highlight was advising the Bank of Cyprus on a EUR15 million real estate insolvency that involved some innovative banking and litigation solutions. The firm has also represented the Romanian Property Fund in the recovery of USD68.41 million.

Sources say: “It’s good to have a firm that bends to your needs and is there when you need it. I’m very grateful to have someone who knows their way around.”

Intellectual Property, Band 3   |  Ana-Maria Andronic, Band “Up and coming”

This firm has a rapidly growing reputation in the IP sector, with a six-lawyer department that focuses on an IT and software licensing clientele. The practice recently advised major client Publicis Groupe on a range of IP issues including a transfer of IP assets.

Sources say: “The team was fast in its responses and always provided accurate and sophisticated responses to any questions.”

Senior associate Ana Maria Andronic leads the practice and is described as “very flexible and knowledgeable.” Clients also highlight her international perspective.

Energy and Natural Resources, Band 4

Solar energy is a particularly strong area for this local firm. In addition, the team provides full support to gas companies, wind farms and energy equipment manufacturers. Recent highlights include assisting Romenergo with its corporate restructuring, and advising Wintershall Holding on a joint venture agreement with Romgaz to operate two natural gas wells in western Romania.

Sources say: “It covers all the key bases with a broad range of expertise, and does it well.”

Real Estate, second tier

Biris Goran SCPA’s well-regarded group advised Astoria Business Center on the €10m sale of the Astoria office building to Bluehouse Capital. It is advising the Romanian subsidiary of Dachser Logistics on the ongoing greenfield development of a warehouse facility. Clients include Aberdeen Property Investors, Raiffeisen Property Holdings International, First Title Insurance and Timisoara Airport Park. Victor Constantinescu and Raluca Nastase head the team.

IT, Telecoms and Media, second tier

Biris Goran SCPA’s IT, telecoms and media team advised Publicis Groupe on its acquisition of Romanian operations of a leading global media planner and communications services provider. It also advised Appnor MSP regarding its partnership with Revevol. Ana Maria Andronic has ‘strong knowledge on IP matters’ and Dan Visoiu is also ‘very knowledgeable’.

Public Private Partnership and Procurement, second tier

Biris Goran SCPA’s ‘excellent’ team has advised Wirom Gas on numerous public private partnerships and procurement projects involving gas distribution and supply concessions obtained from the Romanian Ministry of Economics and Commerce. Other clients include VAMED Standortentwicklung und Engineering, Tecsa Meccanismi and Administratia Strazilor Bucuresti. Daniel Visoiu and Paula Dicu are recommended.

Corporate and M&A, third tier

Biris Goran SCPA’s has ‘a very strong team in terms of industry knowledge’, and it advised Publicis on its acquisition of Publicis Romania. It acted for AppScend.com relating to an investment in a Romania-based mobile apps company and advised the shareholders of Travel House on the sale of a majority stake to GED. Daniel Visoiu, who is ‘excellent on M&A transactions’, and Ana Fratian are recommended.

Dispute resolution, fourth tier

Biris Goran SCPA has a ‘first-class’ contentious tax and insolvency practice. It advised Realitatea Media in a Romanian Supreme Court tax recovery case against the Romanian state, and acted as judicial administrator and liquidator of Sigma Proiect Development.

Banking, Finance and Capital Markets, fourth tier

Biris Goran SCPA is recommended for its ‘strong tax expertise’. It recently advised Portico Investments on the second refinancing of a retail portfolio with ING Lease and assisted Asmita Gardens with the restructuring of a €45m loan. Christian Mîndru heads the practice.

Energy and Natural Resources, fourth tier

Biris Goran SCPA advised Wirom, a Romanian-German joint venture gas company, during a Romanian Competition Council investigation. It also advised Romenergo on corporate restructuring. Christian Mîndru heads the practice.

Tax, Band 1  |  Gabriel Biris, Band 1  |  Ruxandra Jianu, Band Up and Coming

The five-strong team at this specialist firm provides tax support to a wide range of clients, from international corporations to high net worth individuals. Wirom Gas and Upground Estates feature on its prestigious client list. Sources praise the group’s depth of knowledge, the high quality of its service and its speedy, pragmatic and innovative provision of solutions. “It acts proactively, and I always have contact whenever I need to. When it comes to tax, there is no-one better than Biris Goran. As far as I’m concerned, it is as good as it gets,” enthused one client.

Gabriel Biriș is the practice head. He is described by clients as “the authority on tax issues in Romania,” and peers note that there are few in the market with his degree of specialism. Competitors comment that he has a “deep understanding of the Romanian legal framework and the complicated structural changes.”

Ruxandra Jianu is described by interviewees as “dedicated, flexible and open minded. She acts immediately in response to clients’ questions.”

Real Estate, Band 2   |  Victor Constantinescu, Band 2

This group’s recent work includes acting on due diligence, permits and leasing for two major shopping centers. The firm was also adviser to Upground Estates on the EUR100 million sale of an office development to RREEF and EFG Bank. Contentious work has included litigation for Portico Investments following the insolvency of a retailer. Peers comment that the firm’s tax expertise gives it an “excellent platform for advising local investors.” One satisfied customer says: “The group understands how to maintain relationships with dynamic clients. I have recommended this service to quite a few people.” Victor Constantinescu is a founding partner of the firm and practice co-head. Clients are full of praise for his “commercial acumen and practical insight.”

Competition/Antitrust, Band 3   |  Gelu Goran, Band 2

BirișGoran has a busy and renowned antitrust practice that also provides advice on commercial merger control work and state aid matters. High-profile clients come from a wide range of industry sectors and include Procter & Gamble, UniCredit Bank and Holcim. Recent work for JT International focused on supply and distribution agreements, as well as significant training in compliance and other matters, including conducting mock dawn raids.

Sources say: “High-quality, independent advice. The firm could one day become a market leader.”

Practice head Gelu Goran has a formidable market reputation and is considered by clients to be a “first port of call for competition questions.”

Restructuring/Insolvency, Band 3

Biris Goran joins the rankings following significant market recognition of its developing practice. The team of nine lawyers handles financial restructuring, insolvency and bankruptcy issues. The firm recently represented Plus Development as debtor in an insolvency matter and has also acted for Vulcan International. The lawyers are noted for their experience and problem-solving skills in this area. Raluca Nastase and Ana Birchall are the key contacts for the team.

Corporate/M&A, Band 4   |  Daniel Vişoiu, Band 4

This firm focuses mainly on domestic corporate and M&A work, acting for both local and international clients. It is well known for its experience in real estate M&A and tax structuring for M&A work, but standout mandates have come from other sectors in the past year. The eight-lawyer team advised Bongrain in its acquisition of a majority stake in Delaco, one of Romania’s main dairy product suppliers. The firm also acted for Publicis Groupe on three acquisitions in the Romanian market. Sources have described the team as “very responsive and high quality.” Heading the department, Daniel Vişoiu is recommended by sources for his comprehensive advice.

Energy & Natural Resources, Band 4

The energy team at this firm now comprises four highly experienced practitioners. Recent highlights include advising on the securitization of carbon trading allowances, as well as on gas trading and distribution. It is also active in the electricity distribution sector, municipal heating and renewable energy projects. Clients include GazProm Marketing & Trading and Wirom Gas. Interviewees approve of the team’s experience of common law jurisdictions and comment on the firm’s flexibility and openness to client feedback, which “gives a great deal of confidence in its skill.” “The lawyers are always available, which means that things get done as quickly and efficiently as possible,” add sources.

Real Estate, second tier

Deemed ‘outstanding’ and ‘excellent’ for its real estate work, BirișGoran has a full service practice with particular emphasis on acting for developers. The firm Advised Sparkassen Immobilien (Immorent) on a €70m shell-and-core construction agreement, as well as electro-mechanical works agreement and leasing and development matters, for Sun Plaza, the largest shopping centre in Romania. It also advised the Romanian subsidiary of Dachser Logistics, one of Europe’s largest logistics operators, in an acquisition of land outside Bucharest to develop a greenfield warehouse facility, and provided ongoing support for its development. Clients include Portico Investments, Plus Development and Upground Estates. Victor Constantinescu heads the practice and is ‘proactive and fair with the ability to draw on his international experience and apply to the local market’. Raluca Nastase is ‘a true expert in property law’.

It, Telecoms and Media, second tier

Biriş Goran has leveraged its excellent tax practice to develop a significant client base in the media sector. The firm has particular expertise in intellectual property and transactional matters. It is acting for Publicis Groupe with respect to the acquisition of the Romanian operation of Zenith, a leading media agency in the country. Daniel Visoiu heads up the practice and is respected for his ‘professional approach’.

Public Private Partnership and Procurement, second tier

Clients are impressed with the ‘outstanding’ PPP practice at BirișGoran. The firm has particular expertise in the health sector. It is counsel to a large health care services company regarding various submitted tenders to the Romanian Ministry of Public Health regarding hospital construction projects with an estimated value of €170m. Daniel Visoiu heads the team and ‘can handle difficult situations’.

Corporate and M&A, third tier

Clients are impressed by ‘quick response times, clearly expressed, detailed legal opinions and a practical, commercial approach’ at BirișGoran. The firm is well known in the market for its expertise in tax matters and real estate work. It acted as lead counsel to EU-based Bongrain, an international player in the milk-processing sector and which is traded on the Euronext Paris exchange, in its acquisition of a majority stake in Delaco, one of Romania’s main dairy product suppliers. The practice also represented Infopress Group, the largest printing company in partnering with private equity house GED, pursuant to a deal worth more than €12m. Daniel Visoiu heads up the corporate team and is recommended.

Dispute Resolution, fourth tier

Tax and insolvency work are at the heart of BirișGoran’s dispute resolution practice. The firm is acting for the debtor Plus Development in an insolvency matter with a total value of €25m, as well as appearing before the Romanian Supreme Court on behalf of a multinational client in a tax recovery case against the Romanian state. Raluca Năstase heads up the team.

Banking, Finance and Capital Markets, fourth tier

Real estate finance is a key strength of Biriş Goran, and the firm also has a strong reputation in the market for its tax expertise. It acted as legal advisor to the borrower, Portico Investments Limited, on a loan worth €75m from ING Lease to be used to refinance the company’s investments in Hungary, Czech Republic and Romania. On the lender side, the practice acted as counsel to Unicredit Bank and Unicredit Lease as well as to the borrower and lessor (ICCO) on a €26m sale and lease back transaction. The firm also represented the borrower and sponsors on a €60m real estate financing for office and residential development in Bucharest. Cristian Mîndru heads up the team.

Tax, Band 1

Clients are unanimous in their praise of this tax team’s wide-ranging skills and exemplary service. The group is particularly highly regarded for its tax advice and litigation provided to clients in the real estate sector. It has, however, consistently diversified its practice to assist companies in the retail, energy and financial services industries. Its client list features Adama, Upground Estates and Marfin Leasing among others.

Gabriel Biriș is identified as the leading name at the firm and recognised for his deep commitment to tax matters. Sources say he manages to ‘combine creativity with grounded and practical advice’.

Tax adviser Ruxandra Jianu also receives praise for her straightforward tax expertise.

Real Estate, Band 2

This outfit is well known for its first-rate tax practice, however, it also features an active real estate group which is frequently instructed on a diverse range of mandates. Highlights for the team include advising the sellers of Upground Estates on the sale of a real estate development to RREEF, and acting for two US forestry funds, including Four Winds Capital Management, regarding forestry acquisitions in Romania. Sources say the 12-lawyer team is ‘responsible and provides cost-effective advice’.

Victor Constantinescu is the leading name at the practice, where he advises institutional funds on real estate investments and handles real estate joint ventures.

Competition/Antitrust, Band 3

This compact four-lawyer department continues to attract competition work from several high-profile clients. It advised Procter&Gamble on a fast-moving consumer goods industry-wide investigation, and acted for Holcim on the merger control aspects of a joint venture with two of its competitors.

The well-known Gelu Goran is the leading name at the practice and counts UniCredit, Siemens and JT International among his clients.

Corporate/M&A, Band 4

Interviewees say this team of seven is particularly visible in real estate M&A, and also ‘highly impressive’ in tax, including M&A-related tax structuring. Highlights include advising the seller of Upground real estate development to RREEF and EFG for EUR 340 million, and acting for a group of European investors on the sale of an office building in Bucharest for EUR 40 million.

Daniel Vişoiu is the key contact for the practice.

Corporate and M&A, third tier

Renowned as the ‘go to’ tax firm in the Romania market, BirișGoran SCA’s corporate clients are impressed with ‘quick response times, clearly expressed, detailed legal opinions and a practical, commercial approach’. Dan Vişoiu heads a team of three partners and eight assistants in a practice built on excellent real estate expertise. The team acted as lead counsel regarding the corporate restructuring and merger of EU-based group companies holding real estate worth more than €250m. It also advised the vendor in the sale of a real estate development to RREEF and EFG Bank at €340m and reported as the largest real estate transaction in Romania to date. On the M&A side, the firm is representing Publicis Groupe in various ongoing acquisitions in Romania.

Real Estate and Construction, third tier

BirișGoran SCA provides clients with ‘detailed legal opinions and a practical commercial approach in helping to assess risks’. The firm, which is well known for its expertise in tax, is particularly strong in financing and funds work. It advised Sparkassen Immobilien on a €32m real estate refinancing of Notel Novotel in downtown Bucharest, as well as successfully assisting the sellers in the closing of a forward sale of an office building in the Sema Parc complex real estate investment fund Europolis, for approximately €110m. Victor Constantinescu and Raluca Năstase are co-leaders of the group; clients say they are ‘very capable and easy to deal with’.

Tax, Band 1

Universally acclaimed as the market leader, Gabriel Biriș is saluted by peers for being ‘almost single-handedly responsible for all the standard documentation in the field’. Clients note that his performance matches his formidable reputation. Moreover, he has built a tremendous practice of real depth around his own strong credentials. The firm provides advisory and restructuring advice, and also tackles the incidental tax issues arising from its own transactions, which include the largest real estate deal to date in the local market. The innovative establishment of a separate tax consultancy entity means the team now has the capacity to offer clients, including foreign investment funds and significant Romanian corporations, a comprehensive service unrivalled by any firm outside the top band.

Real Estate, Band 2

Noted for its proficiency in tax-related real estate matters and regulatory issues, this commercial firm has been highly active in the past year. Clients benefit from the lawyers’ understanding of the local market and expertise in complex cross-border structuring. ‘We receive a tailor-made service and are particularly impressed with the group’s international approach’, clients say. Transactional work includes advising on the EUR 340 million sale of Upground, a mixed-use project. The firm also acted as leading Romanian borrower counsel in a multi-jurisdictional facility agreement for Portico Investments, for the EUR 100 million refinancing of Portico’s retail portfolio.

Victor Constantinescu specializes in real estate joint ventures and advising institutional funds. He is frequently engaged in mandates that span the region and is praised for his flexible approach and good negotiation skills. ‘He is accommodating to our needs and we know we will find a solution when we work with him’, clients report.

Raluca Năstase is particularly proficient in complex acquisitions, structuring and title investigations. ‘She has a strong result-oriented approach and a distinct talent for building good client relationships’, note commentators. Clients also praise her breadth of expertise.

Corporate/M&A, Band 4

According to interviewees, this is ‘a very fine firm indeed, with the ability to handle complex problems quickly and without difficulty.’ Its ‘incredibly impressive young lawyers’ are considered ‘ones to watch for the future’. Recent work highlights include assisting Cefin with the EUR 70 million sale of an industrial park to a London-based investment fund. Daniel Vişoiu heads the corporate/M&A practice group, which also houses experienced international arbitrators.

Banking & Finance, Other Notable Practitioners

Christian Mîndru’s practice at BirișGoran SCA centres on real estate, acquisition and project finance. Commentators praise this ‘talented and capable individual’ for his ‘ability to see problems from the client’s perspective.’

Competition/Antitrust, Other Notable Practitioners

Gelu Goran of BirișGoran SCA is renowned for his remarkable expertise and experience in this area. ‘He has been doing this since the beginning and remains a very impressive practitioner,’ sources agree. He advises a number of international entities and a plethora of household names.

Real Estate and Construction, third tier

Victor Constantinescu is the partner responsible for real estate work at BirișGoran SCA, supported by Raluca Năstase. The practice’s clients include European Future Group and Cefin.

Corporate and M&A, fourth tier

BirișGoran SCA is a five-partner practice with dual-qualified US corporate and M&A head Daniel Vişoiu and renowned tax expert Gabriel Biriș as its standout partner. The firm has a very strong offering in tax and corporate restructuring, and acts for many clients in the real estate and financial sectors.

Tax, Band 1

The firm: Domestic firm BirișGoran is ‘one of very few firms providing tax law – and they do it exceptionally well’, reported clients. The boutique has a ‘strong dedicated tax group’ that works on all tax disciplines, including direct and indirect tax, auditing and litigation. Gabriel Biriș is the driving force behind the tax team and is ably assisted by partner Luisiana Dobrinescu, with an additional four lawyers to call on for support when needed. International clients turn to the firm for advice on how to structure their operations in Romania to comply with local legislation and to maximize their share-holder’s returns. European Future Group, a real estate investment fund based in Jersey and active across CEE, instructed the firm on tax restructuring matters.

The Lawyers: Gabriel Biriș is the undisputed leader in the tax field, with peers describing him a ‘the biggest tax expert in Romania’ and clients praising his ‘impressive and effortless knowledge of tax law, friendly demeanor and reliability’. His previous work in the tax department of a major company has undoubtedly given him a competitive edge in the market, as clients value his practical experience. Significant work has seen him advise Immoconsult, an Austrian-based real estate firm, on tax due diligence relating to a company that owned real estate assets worth more than EUR 75 million.

Clients / Work Highlights: The team advised Baneasa Investments, the group building the largest commercial/multi-use project in Romania, on tax restructuring services relating to the entire group and valued at EUR 200 million.

Real Estate, Band 2

The Firm: Fielding a team of ‘well-organized, intelligent and determined’ lawyers, this group is also valued for its hard work and dedication. Poaching Christian Mîndru from Gide Loyrette Nouel has added invaluable financial expertise to the practice, which is particularly important given the firm’s propensity to act for borrowers. It recently represented a Greek-UK consortium on the sale of two office buildings and two other real estate sites.

The Lawyers: International clients single out Victor Constantinescu for combining ‘superb local knowledge’ with a Western outlook. He is also appreciated for his fluency in English.

Corporate/M&A, Band 4

The Firm: This ‘internationally minded’ group of young lawyers, previously with Salans, have imposed themselves in an increasingly competitive market by concentrating on a few areas of expertise: real estate, private equity, tax and competition. Clients are keen to report a ‘dynamic set which responds to client needs and is more commercially oriented than larger firms’. An emblematic example of the firm’s strategic success thus far is its mandate from one of the largest real estate developers in Romania, on work valued at around EUR 250 million. Other significant work in recent months includes assisting investments funds in forays into the Romanian pharmaceutical and IT sectors. Three of the firm’s five partners are also licensed to practice in the USA.

The Lawyers: Sources point to Daniel Vişoiu as an excellent professional sought after for his international experience, which includes time spent in the USA and Hungary.

Clients / Work Highlights: The firm assisted the sellers of a majority of shares held in Romstal Leasing, a large Romanian leasing company, to a major European banking institution. This deal was valued at EUR 75 million. The team also advised the sellers of a majority stake in a leading Romanian brokerage house to a leading US investment bank. Other clients include AIG/Lincoln; Holcim; ING Lease; Procter & Gamble and SAAB.

Banking & Finance, Other Notable Practitioners

Christian Mîndru’s arrival at BirișGoran SCA from Gide is expected to raise the firm’s profile in banking and finance and provide strong support for its well-established real estate practice. Mîndru is described as ‘highly technically able, with vast knowledge to structure a deal and translate this into a contract.’ Acquisition, real estate and project finance are his areas of strength.

Competition/Antitrust, Other Notable Practitioners

Gelu Goran, of BirișGoran SCA, is ‘thorough, client-oriented and an excellent communicator’ with over ten years of experience. He undertakes a great deal of compliance and auditing work for multinationals. Clients include Procter & Gamble, Holcim and Siemens. He has been admitted to the New York Bar and is held in high esteem by peers.

Real Estate and Construction, second tier

BirișGoran’s partner Victor Constantinescu is particularly recommended by clients. He is supported by Raluca Năstase, whom one client describes as ‘one of the strongest negotiators I have met in Romania and the perfect person to help you navigate Romania’s ever-changing legal system’. In 2007, the firm acted for European Future Group (EFG) in a JV with Immoeast in the construction and development of ten logistics centers across Romania – including the Pantelimon Warehouse Logistics Center in Bucharest – with a combined project value of €300m. The firm also advised Cefin on the sale of Industrial Park A1 to Teesland IOG for €70m. According to clients ‘Victor Constantinescu excels in structuring and closing complex and time-sensitive real estate transactions.’

It, Telecoms and Media, third tier

BirișGoran SCA has experience advising on IT-related private equity deals. Florida Bar member and partner Daniel Vişoiu brings the expertise to deliver the standard ‘Silicon Valley’ English Language documents that multinational clients in the sector and hedge fund clients demand. Vişoiu also specializes in website law and, according to clients, ‘has an eye for detail in agreements’. In media, the firm represented a major TV holding group in 2007, advising on extending its news channel through Romania.

Corporate and M&A, fourth tier

At BirișGoran SCA, Raluca Năstase became a partner on 1 January 2007, bringing the tally of partners to five. Tax expert Gabriel Biriș is the best-known personality of the firm, with a reputation for being, as one client described him, the ‘tax Pope of Romania’. Partner Daniel Vişoiu heads corporate and M&A work for the firm. In 2007, the firm acted for Romstal Imex on the sale of its holding in Romstal Leasing to KBC in a transaction valued at in excess of €70m. The firm also provided advice to a leading real estate developer in Romania on the tax and corporate restructuring of the group companies holding real estate assets with a value exceeding €250m. Clients note: ‘They continue to impress on all fronts. They advise us commercially and tell us when they think we should get another opinion. The level of professionalism of the partners and dedication to us as a client and the overall focus is super’.

Tax, Band 1

The firm: Domestic firm BirișGoran is ‘one of very few firms providing tax law – and they do it exceptionally well’, reported clients. The boutique has a ‘strong dedicated tax group’ that works on all tax disciplines, including direct and indirect tax, auditing and litigation. Gabriel Biriș is the driving force behind the tax team and is ably assisted by partner Luisiana Dobrinescu, with an additional four lawyers to call on for support when needed. International clients turn to the firm for advice on how to structure their operations in Romania to comply with local legislation and to maximize their share-holder’s returns. European Future Group, a real estate investment fund based in Jersey and active across CEE, instructed the firm on tax restructuring matters.

The LawyersGabriel Biriș is the undisputed leader in the tax field, with peers describing him a ‘the biggest tax expert in Romania’ and clients praising his ‘impressive and effortless knowledge of tax law, friendly demeanor and reliability’. His previous work in the tax department of a major company has undoubtedly given him a competitive edge in the market, as clients value his practical experience. Significant work has seen him advise Immoconsult, an Austrian-based real estate firm, on tax due diligence relating to a company that owned real estate assets worth more than EUR 75 million.

Clients / Work Highlights: The team advised Baneasa Investments, the group building the largest commercial/multi-use project in Romania, on tax restructuring services relating to the entire group and valued at EUR 200 million.

Real Estate, Band 2

The Firm: Fielding a team of ‘well-organized, intelligent and determined’ lawyers, this group is also valued for its hard work and dedication. Poaching Christian Mîndru from Gide Loyrette Nouel has added invaluable financial expertise to the practice, which is particularly important given the firm’s propensity to act for borrowers. It recently represented a Greek-UK consortium on the sale of two office buildings and two other real estate sites.

The Lawyers: International clients single out Victor Constantinescu for combining ‘superb local knowledge’ with a Western outlook. He is also appreciated for his fluency in English.

Corporate/M&A, Band 4

The Firm: This ‘internationally minded’ group of young lawyers, previously with Salans, have imposed themselves in an increasingly competitive market by concentrating on a few areas of expertise: real estate, private equity, tax and competition. Clients are keen to report a ‘dynamic set which responds to client needs and is more commercially oriented than larger firms’. An emblematic example of the firm’s strategic success thus far is its mandate from one of the largest real estate developers in Romania, on work valued at around EUR 250 million. Other significant work in recent months includes assisting investments funds in forays into the Romanian pharmaceutical and IT sectors. Three of the firm’s five partners are also licensed to practice in the USA.

The Lawyers: Sources point to Daniel Vişoiu as an excellent professional sought after for his international experience, which includes time spent in the USA and Hungary.

Clients / Work Highlights: The firm assisted the sellers of a majority of shares held in Romstal Leasing, a large Romanian leasing company, to a major European banking institution. This deal was valued at EUR 75 million. The team also advised the sellers of a majority stake in a leading Romanian brokerage house to a leading US investment bank. Other clients include AIG/Lincoln; Holcim; ING Lease; Procter & Gamble and SAAB.

Banking & FinanceOther Notable Practitioners

Christian Mîndru’s arrival at BirișGoran SCA from Gide is expected to raise the firm’s profile in banking and finance and provide strong support for its well-established real estate practice. Mîndru is described as ‘highly technically able, with vast knowledge to structure a deal and translate this into a contract.’ Acquisition, real estate and project finance are his areas of strength.

Competition/AntitrustOther Notable Practitioners

Gelu Goran, of BirișGoran SCA, is ‘thorough, client-oriented and an excellent communicator’ with over ten years of experience. He undertakes a great deal of compliance and auditing work for multinationals. Clients include Procter & Gamble, Holcim and Siemens. He has been admitted to the New York Bar and is held in high esteem by peers.

Real Estate and Construction, second tier

BirișGoran’s partner Victor Constantinescu is particularly recommended by clients. He is supported by Raluca Năstase, whom one client describes as ‘one of the strongest negotiators I have met in Romania and the perfect person to help you navigate Romania’s ever-changing legal system’. In 2007, the firm acted for European Future Group (EFG) in a JV with Immoeast in the construction and development of ten logistics centers across Romania – including the Pantelimon Warehouse Logistics Center in Bucharest – with a combined project value of €300m. The firm also advised Cefin on the sale of Industrial Park A1 to Teesland IOG for €70m. According to clients ‘Victor Constantinescu excels in structuring and closing complex and time-sensitive real estate transactions.’

It, Telecoms and Media, third tier

BirișGoran SCA has experience advising on IT-related private equity deals. Florida Bar member and partner Daniel Vişoiu brings the expertise to deliver the standard ‘Silicon Valley’ English Language documents that multinational clients in the sector and hedge fund clients demand. Vişoiu also specializes in website law and, according to clients, ‘has an eye for detail in agreements’. In media, the firm represented a major TV holding group in 2007, advising on extending its news channel through Romania.

Corporate and M&A, fourth tier

At BirișGoran SCA, Raluca Năstase became a partner on 1 January 2007, bringing the tally of partners to five. Tax expert Gabriel Biriș is the best-known personality of the firm, with a reputation for being, as one client described him, the ‘tax Pope of Romania’. Partner Daniel Vişoiu heads corporate and M&A work for the firm. In 2007, the firm acted for Romstal Imex on the sale of its holding in Romstal Leasing to KBC in a transaction valued at in excess of €70m. The firm also provided advice to a leading real estate developer in Romania on the tax and corporate restructuring of the group companies holding real estate assets with a value exceeding €250m. Clients note: ‘They continue to impress on all fronts. They advise us commercially and tell us when they think we should get another opinion. The level of professionalism of the partners and dedication to us as a client and the overall focus is super’.