Next Generation Partners

Firms To Watch: Leading Firms

Established by Ayxan Asadov in 2023, Bureau 28a is sought after for its strength in handling IP matters, corporate reorganisations and acquisitions, and instructions involving contract law issues. The team has established expertise in representing clients from the energy, banking and finance and telecoms sectors.

Leading Firms in Azerbaijan

Dentons

Dentons is well-known in the Azerbaijani market for its strength in the energy sector, with the team regularly assisting with the development of high-profile renewables projects. Banking and finance, capital markets and M&A mandates are also prominent in the group's workload, and the department is sought after by international financial institutions and entities in regulated industries to handle corporate transactions and regulatory matters. Ulvia Zeynalova-Bockin has solid expertise in handling cross-border matters involving banking and corporate law matters, as well as real estate finance and M&A cases. Zeynalova-Bockin co-leads the department with Kamil Valiyev, who advises public and private companies on commercial transactions. James Hogan is a key contact for financial institutions regarding investment work, and is highly regarded for his expertise in assisting with natural resources, commercial and corporate matters. Rena Eminova advises on energy, competition and contract law matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ulvia Zeynalova-Bockin; Kamil Valiyev


Autres avocats clés:

James Hogan; Rena Eminova; Bakhityar Mammadov


Les références

‘Dentons’ Azerbaijan team have established experience and professionalism. They handled the case with diligence.’

‘James Hogan and Bakhtiyar Mammadov were attentive and keen in each detail of our concerns. To the end of our journey, they supported us.’

‘Dentons’ team is highly professional in the advice that they provide, knowledgeable of their customers’ business and industry and are client-oriented.’

Principaux clients

ACWA Power


Masdar


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a prominent developer of high-end residential property on the complex legal framework for seaside property development in Azerbaijan.
  • Assisted ACWA Power with portfolios for power generation, renewable energy and desalinated water production plants.
  • Advised Masdar on the development of three renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan, with SOCAR acting as a minority shareholder.

Omni Law Firm

Omni Law Firm has an excellent track record in representing government entities and international banking clients in financing work. The group is equally strong in handling energy and construction projects, and has developing expertise in restructuring issues. Managing partner Roman Alloyarov is active in M&A, commercial law matters and project financing mandates, and Nigar Jafarova is well versed in advising on tax, international trade law and IP matters. Afag Abdullayeva's workload takes in capital markets, securities and commercial law cases. Ismail Zargarli has left the firm.

Autres avocats clés:

Roman Alloyarov; Afag Abdullayeva; Nigar Jafarova; Hilal Yagubov; Nigar Alimardanli


Les références

‘The best team, most experienced on the market, very professional and client-oriented.’

Principaux clients

SOCAR (State Oil Company of the Azerbaijan Republic)


Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Azerbaijan


MOL – Hungarian Oil and Gas PLC


JP Morgan


Raiffeisen Bank International AG


EBRD


IFC


Black See Trade and Development Bank


Marriott


Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan


Demiroren Group


BHM Law Firm LLC

BHM Law Firm LLC offers a range of legal services with a focus on dispute resolution, sports law and corporate governance issues. Sector strengths for the group include fintech, oil and gas and entertainment. Managing partner Mehman Sultanov focuses on banking and finance, tax law and energy and infrastructure projects; he co-heads the practice with dispute resolution expert Javid Aliyev and Gulnar Gurbanova, who fields expertise in corporate and commercial matters and IP rights. Sabina Samadova is 'smart, dedicated and her execution is always on point'.

Responsables de la pratique:

Mehman Sultanov; Gulnar Gurbanova; Javid Aliyev


Autres avocats clés:

Sabina Samadova; Takhmina Imanova


Les références

‘BHM Law Firm LLC stands out for its exceptional team, characterized by deep expertise and a client-focused approach.’

‘The individuals I have worked with at BHM Law Firm LLC are exceptional in both their professional skills and their personal approach to client service. What truly sets them apart is their dedication to understanding the unique needs of each client and consistently going above and beyond to provide solutions that are not only legally sound but also commercially viable.’

‘The lawyers can always answer our questions and provide excellent legal help.’

Principaux clients

Carlsberg Azerbaijan LLC


Baku City Circuit Operations Committee(Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix)


LVMH


HALLIBURTON EURASIA LIMITED Branch Office in the Republic of Azerbaijan


United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) representation in Azerbaijan


Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Österreich


Tesla Holding a.s.


“PJA” LLC (Papa John’s Azerbaijan)


The Royal Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia


AFFA (Azerbaijan Football Federation)


“SOCAR Cape” LLC


“SOCAR MIDSTREAM Operation” LLC


JOINT (the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee)


Majdal Advisory and Debt Collection FZ- LLC


ClausMarsh LTD


Eurodesign CJSC


IVolt LLC


Azerbaijan Insurers Association Public Union


BT Texnoservis LLC


Yelo Bank OJSC


Mpay CJSC


Azerconnect LLC


Renting and Housing International CJSC


MCG LLC


Orca Offshore FZC


Modenis LLC


Azerishiq OJSC


McCann- Erickson


VIBEANDWAVE LLC


Baku Maintenance Service Company


Azerenerji OJSC


Azerfloat CJSC


Principaux dossiers


  • Providing ongoing legal assistance to Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix including regarding the extension of F1 races in Azerbaijan.
  • Acted as counsel to United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees concerning the project “Legal Assistance and Counselling to Refugees and Asylum-Seekers” implemented by UNHCR Representation in Azerbaijan.

Capital Legal Services LLC

Capital Legal Services LLC supports domestic and international clients with a broad range of matters, including M&A, corporate finance, regulatory issues and PPPs. Practice head Azer Aliyev is the key practitioner, who has extensive expertise in corporate law and regularly advises on M&A and joint venture matters. Aliyez is equally strong in finance matters, acting for clients in the banking and finance and consumer goods sectors on restructuring work and transactional matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Azer Aliyev


Deloitte & Touche LLC

Deloitte & Touche LLC is well regarded for its expertise in corporate and M&A and compliance matters. The firm continues to provide tax and financial advice alongside legal support to local and international clients in a broad range of sectors. Nuran Kerimov co-heads the practice with Amina Bakhshiyeva, who has extensive experience in M&A, banking and finance and corporate and commercial law. Bahar Kavuzova is a key name to note.

Responsables de la pratique:

Nuran Kerimov; Amina Bakhshiyeva


Autres avocats clés:

Bahar Kavuzova


Les références

‘The team is very client oriented and responsive. It has strong knowledge of local legislation.’

‘Bahar Kavuzova has strong knowledge of legislation, labor in particular, and provides comprehensive analysis and advises from the perspective of case law as well, helping to assess the risks fully.’

‘Very punctual team with industry knowledge.’

Principaux clients

Azerbaijan Investment Holding


Raffle Construction


Stork


Huawei


HELL Energy


Pasha Technology


Ritz Carlton Baku


Schlumberger


SOCAR Midstream Operations


Sumitomo


Visa


Airbus


Agility


Berlin-Chemie


Bolt


BOS Shelf


British Council


Carlsberg


Coca-Cola


Colgate


EXPRO


Equinor


Henkel


Hilton Hotel Bank


JOCAP


Kapital Bank


KochSystem


Marriott Hotel Baku


Nestle


PASHA Bank


SAP


SOCAR GAS OPERATING COMPANY


Subsea 7


TAM International


TechnipFMC


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Azerbaijan Investment Holding on legal and regulatory matters pertaining to the partial privatisation and restructuring of eight state-owned enterprises.
  • Implemented a comprehensive legal strategy to combat counterfeit products on behalf of Colgate-Palmolive.
  • Assisted Equinor (formerly Statoil) with its withdrawal from the Azerbaijan market.

KPMG in Azerbaijan

KPMG in Azerbaijan's multidisciplinary practice is well known for combining consulting, tax and audit expertise with a strong offering in M&A, commercial and regulatory legal matters. The team's workload includes cross-border disputes, infrastructure and energy projects, and arbitration cases. Based in Kazakhstan, Alexey Abramov is active in real estate cases and commercial litigation, and Baku-based Seymur Niftaliyev brings expertise in banking and finance matters. Shahlar Mammadov advises on corporate and commercial law and contentious work.

Responsables de la pratique:

Alexey Abramov; Seymur Niftaliyev


Autres avocats clés:

Shahlar Mammadov


Les références

‘Shahlar Mammadov is one of the best lawyers I have ever worked with. He is highly responsible, responds promptly, and demonstrates excellent research skills.’

‘They are available and responsive.’

‘KPMG Law Azerbaijan is a very dynamic and competent team of legal consultants.’

Principaux dossiers


  • Acted as counsel to COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company concerning the UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) being hosted in Baku in 2024.
  • Advised Philip Morris International on the expansion of its business in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
  • Advised Azerbaijani Railways on the establishment of a joint venture to manage the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway route project, which has been financed by Azerbaijan Railways.

MGB Law Offices

MGB Law Offices has a strong offering in infrastructure, energy and financing projects, as well as handling litigation. Additionally, the team has notable experience in assisting clients with liquidation proceedings. Ismail Askerov heads the team, and is well versed in advising on commercial transactions, corporate and M&A and project finance work. Anar Janmammadov is a key contact for commercial contracts, while Kamal Huseynli advises international financial institutions on secured and unsecured loans, and brings expertise in renewable energy matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ismail Askerov


Autres avocats clés:

Anar Janmammadov; Kamal Huseynli


Les références

‘Kamal Huseynli makes complex issues simple.’

‘The team has very good knowledge with regards to government procurement practices and has an in-depth understanding of the legislative processes in Azerbaijan.’

‘Ismail Askerov leads the MGB Office in Azerbaijan with distinction and has dan understanding of the market with which to provide necessary support to international law firms’ involvement in Azerbaijani matters.’

Principaux clients

IFC


Asian Development Bank


KCA Deutag


Stork


Sanofi


Societe Generale


Exxon


Coca-Cola


Formula 1


Baker Hughes


Allied Legal Partners Law Firm

Allied Legal Partners Law Firm continues to develop its expertise in antimonopoly, IT, and tax and customs matters. With Samir Hadjiyev at the helm, the group regularly acts for financial services, insurance and manufacturing sector entities in mandates. Hadijev is well regarded for handling M&A, regulatory issues and a range of corporate and commercial law matters for clients in the transport, consumer goods and finance arenas.

Responsables de la pratique:

Samir Hadjiyev


Autres avocats clés:

Elkhan Askarov; Ilgar Alakbarov


Les références

‘I highly recommend Allied Legal Partners Law Firm for its exceptional professionalism and expertise in handling complex legal matters. Throughout our collaboration, they have consistently demonstrated an in-depth understanding of the law and an impressive ability to navigate intricate legal challenges.’

‘What sets Allied Legal Partners Law Firm apart is its proactive approach to problem-solving. They aren’t only skilled at analyzing issues from every angle but excel in delivering timely and strategic advice, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Their commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and strong communication skills make working with them a seamless experience. ’

‘Ilgar Alakbarov has consistently provided invaluable legal advice, demonstrating deep knowledge and a keen understanding of our business needs.’

Principaux clients

JSC Call Center


CJ-ICM


Meta (Facebook)


The Procter & Gamble Company


Warner Brothers


Figensoft


1520 Signal


Stadler Service Azerbaijan


Status Insurance Broker


Baku Taxi Service


Ernst & Young Holdings (CIS) B.V., Branch Office in the Republic

Ernst & Young Holdings (CIS) B.V., Branch Office in the Republic is well known in the Azerbaijani market for its integrated approach in handling legal and tax matters for clients in a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, technology and petroleum. Corporate finance is a key area of instruction for the group, which is equally adept at advising on regulatory matters. Arzu Hajiyeva, who is head of law and tax, is well known for her expertise in corporate taxation and often handles the tax aspects of M&A and restructurings. Hajiyeva leads the group with Mammad Balajanov, who fields expertise in contract law.

Responsables de la pratique:

Arzu Hajiyeva; Mammad Balajanov


Autres avocats clés:

Lala Aliyeva


Les références

‘The team consistently demonstrates exceptional expertise and professionalism. Their deep industry knowledge, innovative solutions, and client-focused approach have been invaluable.’

‘Mammad Balajanov stands out for his exceptional expertise and practical solutions. Mammad’s ability to address complex issues with clarity and his commitment to delivering results have been greatly valued in our work.’

‘Arzu stands out due to her vast experience in taxation, which has been honed over years of dedicated service in the field.’

Principaux clients

State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan


Procter & Gamble Azerbaijan Services LLC


SOCAR-KBR LLC


Azerbaijan Investment Company OJSC


Azercell Telecom LLC


Azer-Turk Bank OJSC


Azericard LLC


Tabaterra LLC


Kronospan Azerbaijan LLC


GRATA International

The team at GRATA International has a solid track record in handling employment and migration matters, as well as corporate structuring work, and is developing its expertise in dispute resolution, IP and antitrust law. Cross-border matters remain a core pillar of the practice. Practice co-head Ummi Jalilova has an excellent reputation in corporate and M&A, and often acts for clients in international financial transactions. Practice co-head Royal Ibrahimli fields expertise in banking and finance, tax and contract law. Fidan Vahabova's broad practice takes in antitrust and competition, IP and employment law matters. Shabnam Sadigova Huseynova left the firm in July 2024.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ummi Jalilova; Royal Ibrahimli


Autres avocats clés:

Fidan Vahabova


Les références

‘They treat every client equally, large or small.’

‘Royal Ibrahimli has superb collaborative skills.’

‘GRATA has an excellent corporate practice.’

Principaux clients

Korn Ferry (UK) Limited


BI-GROUP


POWERCHINA


Azerconnect LLC


Caspian IT LLC


Enter Engineering ltd


Agroinvest LLC


Yandex Delivery


Yango Eats


Aggreko group


International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation


Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector


Turan Legal and Tax Services LLC

At Turan Legal and Tax Services LLC, the team is sought after for its established expertise in handling IP, financing and regulatory compliance matters, often for clients in the technology sector. Zalbey Aghadadashov focuses on commercial disputes, M&A and investment work, and Araz Ismayilov counts corporate, commercial and employment law as core areas of strength. Andrey Garifulin is a key contact for pharmaceutical sector entities. Shabnam Sadigova Huseynova joined the group in July 2024.

Responsables de la pratique:

Zalbey Agadadashov; Andrey Garifulin; Shabnam Sadigova Huseynova; Araz Ismayilov


Les références

‘We are extremely satisfied with Turan Legal’s services. With years of experience, they consistently deliver our tasks with both timeliness and quality.’

‘Their outsourcing capabilities helped us to finalize each project we needed along the way.’

‘Zalbey Aghadadashov is the stand-out partner I worked with. His broad outlook and out-of-the-box thinking on complex legal matters is a valuable asset to any legal practice.’

Principaux clients

“Tabaterra” LLC


Genoks Saglik Hizmetleri Anonim Shirketi


“Seaya” LLC


LANDAU School Educational Complex CJSC (Global)


Pasha Travel LLC


SABAH ACADEMY LLC


PUSH 30 Pte. LTD (Global)


ONEVISION PAY LLC


PARLA Pharmaceutical LLC


“ETIK TEKNOLOJI” Anonim Shirketi (OJSC)


“Representative Office of JTI Caucasus” LLC


PROSOL CJSC


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised an international company on obtaining a newly introduced payment aggregator license from the Central Bank of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
  • Advised a fitness aggregator platform on an investment round by regional venture capital funds.

BDO Azerbaijan LLC

BDO Azerbaijan LLC is led jointly by Yunis Salayev and Kamila Gayibova. The firm has a solid track record in handling cross-border mandates, drawing on the strength of its international European network to assist with immigration, employment, and regulatory compliance issues, to name a few areas. The client base includes logistics and oil and gas sector entities. Sevin Tahirova fields expertise in corporate and immigration law.

Responsables de la pratique:

Yunis Salayev; Kamila Gayibova


Autres avocats clés:

Sevin Tahirova; Ruhullah Rahimov


Caspian Legal Center

Full-service law and tax consultancy firm Caspian Legal Center handles a range of compliance, tax, corporate, contractual and litigation matters. Orkhan Beydiyev leads the dispute resolution team, while Firangiz Heydarova specialises in tax. Farid Nabili has established strength in handling corporate, construction and tax work, and Pari Gasimli's broad workload includes restructuring mandates.

Responsables de la pratique:

Farid Nabili; Orkhan Beydiyev; Pari Gasimli; Firangiz Heydarova


Les références

‘The firm’s practice stands out due to its good industry expertise, responsiveness, and practical approach to legal challenges. ’

‘Farid Nabili is an exceptionally creative and practical lawyer, developing tailored solutions to different complicated legal questions. ’

‘I believe Farid Nabili is the best tax lawyer in Azerbaijan. What makes him different is that he can see the big picture, due to his background in tax both as an academician, practitioner and policy-maker. He is a person who is capable of thinking outside the box with very creative solutions. ’

Principaux clients

Azerbaijan Company for Poultry Development LLC


Bolt Operations OU


HCL Technologies (India based global technology company)


Bolt Operations OU


Synergy Resourcing International Ltd


MAN Energy Solutions Schweiz AG


Scanwell AS (International oil service company operating as a contractor of BP)


British American Tobacco


Four Seasons Hotels Limited (International Hotel Chain)


Technosec LTD


Allyn International Services


Turnkey Pro Solutions


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Allyn International Services on establishing its company, and on employment law regulation.
  • Assisted a client with obtaining work permits for its employees.
  • Assisted a client with establishing its business and obtaining trade marks in Azerbaijan.

Fortiori Law Firm

Fortiori Law Firm's group provides support to clients from a wide range of sectors, including the oil and gas, pharmaceutical and technology industries. Hamid Ahmadov is a key contact for M&A and structuring matters, and Sanan Shirinov brings expertise in advising on litigation and corporate governance work. Isa Rahimli has left the firm.

Responsables de la pratique:

Hamid Ahmadov; Sanan Shirinov


Autres avocats clés:

Sadig Shafiyev; Lamiya Zamanli


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised a major oil and gas supplier on the sale of shares to a foreign company, involving assisting the client with tax implications, cross-border regulations and transaction structuring.

NOTEM LAW FIRM

The offering at NOTEM LAW FIRM includes corporate, contract and migration law, and the team has solid expertise in advising on compliance issues and corporate agreements. Other key areas of instruction include M&A and intellectual property matters, and the group regularly acts for clients in the  technology, pharmaceutical and construction sectors. Firm managing partner Anna Dreyzina heads up the team.


Responsables de la pratique:

Anna Dreyzina


Autres avocats clés:

Lachin Gasimov


Les références

This firm is unique due to its deep expertise, client-focused approach, and innovative solutions. We highly appreciate the team’s specialization across various legal areas, personalized service, and strong industry knowledge. They consistently demonstrate a deep understanding of our industry and effectively align their legal advice with our business goals.’

‘Anna Dreyzina can quickly formulate an effective strategy for each matter that is assigned. She has provided support on various contract negotiations, and we were impressed by her professionalism.’

‘Lachin Gasimov is very patient, discreet, caring and attentive. The attention he shows in the preparation of contracts is important for us.’

Principaux clients

SMART MARINE LLC


ICT Bulut Bilişim A.Ş.


Eskimi LLC


BCC Group CJSC


ZT Trading LLC


1ST Fitness LLC


Zeta Play LLC


Zeta Clothing LLC


Conim Cert LLC


HP Offshore LLC


TerraPharm LLC


ID Concept LLC


VABISS LLC


Kazrosmed LLC


Holborn LLC


Murov Tech LLC


Cheweek LLC


INTELLIGENT DESIGN MIMARLIK DEKORASYON SAN TİC. A.Ş.


Monumentum Energy LLC


EG Auto LLC


NAV LLC


Kensington LLC


CASPI Cert LLC


AzFood Trade LLC


Stone Supply LLC


Principaux dossiers


  • Provided legal support to HP Offshore LLC on a share transfer matter.
  • Reviewed an EPC agreement for the construction of a major power plant in the Republic of Azerbaijan, and acted for BCC Group CJSC in the negotiations.

VLM and Partners

With the 'excellentVugar Mammadov at its helm, VLM and Partners fields expertise in the energy sector, often advising on renewable energy projects. The group is also well-versed in assisting start-ups and foreign investors with corporate structuring matters and financing work. The client base includes technology, e-commerce and fintech entities. Mammadov has extensive experience in handling PPPs, M&A deals, and private international law issues.

Responsables de la pratique:

Vugar Mammadov


Autres avocats clés:

Sara Aghamaliyeva; Vusala Babayeva-Nazirli


Les références

‘This is a team of true professionals. ’

‘Vugar Mammadov is an excellent lawyer. On top of that, he has strong empathy for the client´s needs, looking for ways how to solve them – looking for the solution combining legal and commercial aspects of the matter in question. ’

‘The exceptional service and guidance provided by them have been instrumental in the success of our endeavours. From the outset, the team demonstrated a remarkable proficiency in navigating complex legal issues, always ensuring that we were well informed and confident in our decisions.’

Principaux clients

Asian Development Bank


Freyssinet


Leaf Space


Thales Group


International SOS Hospital in Baku


Plato Capital and Co. Investment Company


Yelo Bank


PASHA Investments


Beko Azerbaijan


Arçelik


Borjomi


Tekfen Holding


Token Azerbaijan (Odero)


Kolin Construction


Layher Scaffolding Systems


DEVA Holding


Referans Pharmaceuticals


Fryday


KHAMSA Insurance and Reinsurance Brokers


Xurcun


Moore Azerbaijan


Principaux dossiers


  • Obtained the first payment institution license in Azerbaijan for Token Azerbaijan (Odero).
  • Advised BlueOrchard in its high-stake loan disbursement to AccessBank.
  • Provided legal assistance to PASHA Investments in its renewable energy investment project.