Market sources say the firm is primarily known for its M&A transactions. The corporate/M&A team is busy with acquisitions, structuring and regulatory advice in sectors varying from banking to telecoms to real estate. For example the firm advised on the Bulgarian elements of the global Nokia-Siemens merger. It also acted on the acquisition of Economic and Investment Bank AD. Clients praise the firm’s ‘experienced, well-networked lawyers, who are very impressive in regulatory advice and in court”. The firm is also respected for its energy work for clients such as E.ON, and its involvement in tenders for the planned new nuclear power plant in Pleven. Mostly working on the side of international investors, the firm is praised by clients for “always providing creative and relevant solutions to problems”. “Effective rainmaker” Yavor Kambourov is praised for “excellent leadership and on-the- ball advice on even the most complicated matters”. Clients say Vladimir Rangeloff “ is a dedicated team-player who always keeps the needs of clients in mind”. The firm often receives referral work from international firms such as Simmons & Simmons, Lovells or Shearman & Sterling.
Dispute Resolution
This firm has a growing reputation in Bulgaria, bolstered by a proven track record. Its notable client base features companies such as Nu Boyana Film Studios, E.ON, Nokia and its subsidiary in Bulgaria, as well as Bulgaria's largest steel manufacturing enterprise, Kremikovtzi. Assisted by the highly rated Stefan Tzakov, senior partner Yavor Kambourov handles cases with "perfect organisation and brilliant strategy.
Employment
This firm delivers a strong service, dealing with a wide range of employment-related issues and a large number of cases both within and outside the European Union. The team assists clients with the drafting of various legal documentation, including work permits for non-EU citizens and collective labour agreements, and also advises on social security issues. Nikolay Bandakov's co-operative manner, accuracy and dedication have gained him an excellent reputation as one of the best in the profession. The team has undertaken a considerable amount of work for companies such as Nu Boyana Film Studios, Nokia and Nu Image Bulgaria.
Energy and Natural Resources
Having recently completed the privatisation of seven electricity distribution companies and three thermal power plants, this leading firm is well known for its “reliable, detailed and meticulously in-depth information.” Stefan Tzakov specialises in energy and natural resources and is widely praised for his “precision and valuable ability to communicate the most complex points effectively.” His highlight work has included advising on the issuance of a licence for trading with electricity in favour of E.ON Sales & Trading Bulgaria. Other clients to rely on the firm’s expertise include Kaolin, IFC and the Bulgarian government
Intellectual Property
This outfit has an impressive reputation for all aspects of IP and exhibits a high level of expertise, particularly in the areas of trade mark registration, industrial design and copyright protection. Mitko Karushkov draws on his years of experience in the field to provide insightful and informed advice. The group advises a number of clients in the entertainment and computer software industries on copyright matters: notable names include Global Vision/Global Films Bulgaria.
Real Estate
Clients appreciate the firm’s quality across the board, noting the team’s ability to provide innovative solutions for multiple complex issues. Practice leader Atanas Shopov exemplifies this culture, winning praise for the "creativity and dependability of his advice." One client described him as "probably the best lawyer in Bulgaria for handling complicated and problematic real estate, territorial planning and construction cases." Recently, he has advised MULTI Development Bulgaria on a mall development, and has been involved in the firm’s work for CableTel Bulgaria, advising on land ownership issues. The firm has a record of representing financial institutions in the field of real estate financing, and has also been involved in many privatisation deals. Austrian steel company Voestalpine has engaged the firm in relation to the acquisition of a 10 million sq m plot for a potential EUR7 billion production enterprise; Radosveta Kojuharova is on the team for this project. Kambourov & Partners is also known for advising on construction projects including power plants, transport infrastructure and manufacturing enterprises.
TMT
Mobile operators as well as large cable networks seek out this firm’s advice on transactional and regulatory aspects of their TMT deals. For example, the team advised Gramercy International on financing CableTel’s acquisition of cable operators and network equipment in Bulgaria, making it the largest cable operator in the country. The firm’s media-related commercial advice is also popular. As one client put it, “they’re the originators of some of our best business decisions! Their innovative approach and insights based on years of experience are absolutely priceless.” Clients also praise the firm’s regulatory advice and say the outfit has established working relationships with regulators. Mitko Karushkov is liked by clients for his availability as well as his expert advice in media and IT matters.
