Competition/European Law
Europe Guide 2024 : France
Band 2
Chambers Review
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton displays a strong recent caseload, particularly for high-profile clients in the TMT sector. The firm handles all areas of competition law, assisting with merger control mandates, FCA investigations and follow-on damages claims. Clients also benefit from the team's close cooperation with the firm's market-leading Brussels office, including on state aid mandates.
Work Highlights
- Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton acted for Veolia on the clearance of its EUR12.9 billion acquisition of Suez.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The competition team at Cleary Gottlieb stand out for their knowledge, expertise and dedication. Their strategic thinking, reactivity and meticulous attention to detail make them a unique force in the industry."
"Their ability to analyse intricate matters, formulate efficient defence tactics and guide clients through the complexities of competition law sets the team apart."
"The lawyers are always available and have managed to pick up the right arguments when needed."
"In addition to the team's highly professional and effective legal support, they are leading the discussions with the perfect strategy and approach."
"Cleary Gottlieb offers great respect for timings, responsiveness, skill and strategy."
"The competition team at Cleary Gottlieb stand out for their knowledge, expertise and dedication. Their strategic thinking, reactivity and meticulous attention to detail make them a unique force in the industry."
"Their ability to analyse intricate matters, formulate efficient defence tactics and guide clients through the complexities of competition law sets the team apart."
"The lawyers are always available and have managed to pick up the right arguments when needed."
"In addition to the team's highly professional and effective legal support, they are leading the discussions with the perfect strategy and approach."
"Cleary Gottlieb offers great respect for timings, responsiveness, skill and strategy."
Notable Practitioners
Frédéric de Bure regularly deals with FCA investigations into allegations of abuse of dominance in the TMT sector. In addition, he advises clients on merger clearance mandates, cartel investigations and distribution issues.
"Frédéric de Bure is very reliable and available and he has a very smart approach to complex cases."
"Frédéric de Bure has been supporting our matters over time with a creative approach and a strong legal background."
"He very quickly understood the issue that we had, not only the legal dimension but also the business stakes. I think he is a smart lawyer who quickly understands the issues. He gives clear advice that is complete and clear when it comes to the recommendations."
"He really knows the business and is very interested in it. He has a pragmatic approach with strong legal reasoning and analytical skills. He is really reactive and pragmatic, and builds a very good relationship with the client."
"His sharp intellect and negotiation skills are extremely valuable assets. His dynamic approach and his deep understanding of legal and business issues distinguish him as one of the most resourceful practitioners I know."
Séverine Schrameck frequently advises multinational clients on merger control matters before both the FCA and the EC. In addition, she represents clients in FCA investigations into allegations of bid rigging and cartel involvement, as well as in follow-on damages cases.
"Séverine Schrameck finds solutions and reassures the clients."
"Séverine Schrameck defends her clients' interests with exceptional skills, has a great listening ability, which enables her to show valuable pragmatism, and is always committed to obtaining the best possible result in all circumstances."
"Séverine Schrameck has repeatedly proven herself to be an unrivalled legal adviser. Her unparalleled judgement, her expertise and her unwavering commitment make her the epitome of excellence in the legal field."
"Whether it's defending clients' interests or navigating complex legal landscapes, Séverine Schrameck's abilities, keen listening and pragmatic approach are remarkable."
"We can only praise her expertise and client service."
Ranked Lawyers at
Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP
France