Competition/European Law - Greece (Band 1)
The firm is known for leading reputation in representing both international and domestic clients in proceedings before the Hellenic Competition Commission . Additionally recognized for expertise in handling state aid cases, with expanding activity in cases of antitrust private enforcement.
Work Highlights: Defended several main players in the Greek poultry market against fines of approximately EUR40 million for alleged horizontal anti-competitive agreements and fines imposed. Representing LARCO Mining and Metallurgical in an appeal for the annulment of a decision for a recovery of EUR136 million in state aid. Sources describe Managing Senior Partner John Dryllerakis as a truly eminent practitioner in competition law and "an absolute star." Vastly experienced in every aspect of competition law, he is able to advise on all manner of competition cases. Senior partner Emmanuel Dryllerakis is noted for his handling of complex antitrust cases before the Hellenic Competition Authority and litigation before the administrative courts, recently acting for Mythos Brewery of the Carlsberg Group on an abuse of dominance case against Athenian Brewery. Partner Cleomenis Yannikas is experienced in handling antitrust cases, recently leading in the poultry cartel case and regularly contributing to international publications on competition law.
Corporate/Commercial – Greece (Band 1)
Highly respected market leader, particularly identified with the oil industry and also has a large number of clients in the hospitality industry. The team works alongside leading international law firms on multi-jurisdictional matters. Often represents clients in general corporate and commercial issues, and is especially active on M&A.
Work highlights: Represented SOCAR in the privatization of a 66% stake in DESFA in a deal worth EUR400 million. Advised Carlsberg on the merger of its Greek subsidiary Mythos Brewery with Olympic Brewery. Interviewees describe Managing Partner John Dryllerakis as a "great corporate lawyer who is very respected." Emmanuel Dryllerakis heads the department and he is praised for being "very co-operative and helpful in difficult mergers." and for his “commercial way of thinking." He has lately been involved in several high-stakes transactions, including demergers and divestments. Cleomenis Yannikas continues to develop a strong reputation for his corporate and commercial work and advises on transactions as well as competition issues. He recently took the lead advising on a merger between Elpedison Energy and Elpedison Power, advising Hellenic Petroleum. Clients say: "He is very co-operative, flexible and responsive."
Dispute Resolution - Greece (Band 1)
A market leading firm in litigation and arbitration with key strengths in tax and antitrust litigation. Also active on IP cases and environmental disputes. In addition offers arbitrator services.
Work highlights: Acted for Regency Entertainment on a case concerning the privatization of Mont Parnes Casino, a case which has been appealed up to the ECJ. Represented Hellenic Financial Stability Fund in a claim against more than 40 defendants, relating to financial scandal and embezzlement of fund. John Dryllerakis, with over 50 years experience in the legal market, leads the Department and he is recognized as an "extremely prominent and highly esteemed" figure in the field. He regularly appears in cases before the Supreme Court and acts as arbitrator on high-profile disputes. Sources describe him as an "excellent, indefatigable litigator.” John Damilakis is a well-respected litigator and experienced arbitrator who is "co-operative and helpful in very difficult cases," according to impressed interviewees. Senior associate Panagiotis Kakaletris is praised by clients for his in-depth knowledge of Greek law, and his "efficiency and service-oriented approach." His growing experience includes anti-corruption and money laundering cases, and public project-related disputes.
Employment – Greece (Band 2)
The firm is known for both its advisory role for international and domestic clients on matters ranging from due diligence of employment contracts to social security issues and its niche understanding of data protection issues in employment law.
Work highlights: Advised Aquila Hotels on ongoing labour issues such as working-time schedule and employment contracts for managerial personnel. Advised Sulphur on various employment law issues, including flexible forms of employment and restructuring. Senior partner Sophia Grigoriadou is described by sources as "very trustworthy and solid." Her practice combines tax and employment law know-how.
Real Estate – Greece (Band 2)
A well-renowned firm in the areas of real estate investment projects and privatization. Advises a range of clients from the retail and tourism sectors, particularly advising hotels. Work highlights : The team worked with Minoan Group on zoning, planning and strategic advice for all stages of a golfing resort and six-star hotel project valued at EUR267 million.
Represented Odeon in litigation defending the installation, operation and building permits for a cinema complex before the Council of State. Voula Anargyrou has extensive experience of high-profile real estate transactions. She is especially active in advising clients on the associated tax elements and due diligence related to hotel acquisitions and long-term leases. Sophia Grigoriadou has great experience in privatization involving real estate properties and is known for her business-minded approach. She is described by impressed clients as "effective, with good communication skills and sharp thinking."
Tax - Greece (Band 2)
A widely respected and long-established tax team with years of experience litigating before the administrative courts and the ability to offer comprehensive advice on all domestic tax law matters, including criminal tax evasion and financial crime.
Work highlights: The team represented Verlinac claiming an exemption from the classification of tax-free reserves as state aid following decisions from the EC and ECJ, in a matter worth EUR1 million and Regency Entertainment in a matter worth EUR500,000 concerning the imposition of VAT on free entry tickets issued by casinos. John Dryllerakis has decades of experience in handling all manner of issues related to tax law, offering litigation and advisory services. Sophia Grigoriadou is specialised in tax law, with experience of litigation, tax planning and advice on a range of issues including transfer pricing and expatriate tax matters. Sources say she "understands the business very well and has a great client approach."