Often drawing support from its investigations, litigation, and regulatory teams, A&O Shearman houses a broad offering known for its strength in SPC disputes within the pharma industry and strategic M&A. The group also has broad expertise spanning post-M&A cases, divestments, and patent infringement actions. Laëtitia Bénard leads the team and is recommended for her vast experience in multi-jurisdictional patent disputes within the life sciences sector, often representing pharma companies. Charles Tuffreau is well equipped to handle preliminary injunction proceedings and cases concerning patent infringement and validity.
Industry focus: Healthcare and life sciences in France
A&O Shearman
Responsables de la pratique:
Laëtitia Bénard
Autres avocats clés:
Charles Tuffreau
Principaux clients
Ipsen
ABF Ingredients
MGI
Eurazeo
Enovis
IQVIA
Principaux dossiers
- Representing a global pharma and healthcare client in patent actions before the Paris First Instance Court, the Paris Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court concerning the validity and enforcement against major generic companies of its SPCs relating to the combination of ezetimibe and statins, in the field of the treatment of hypercholesterolemia.
- Representing a global pharma and healthcare client to defend its rights regarding its SPC covering the combination of sitagliptin and metformin for the treatment of diabetes.
- Advised Ipsen on its entry into exclusive negotiations with the pharma laboratory Mayoly Spindler in relation to the divestment of its consumer healthcare business, including the drugs Smecta®, Forlax®, Tanakan®, Fortrans® and various production sites.
ADVANT Altana
Jointly headed by Armand Aviges and Jean-Nicolas Soret, the practice at ADVANT Altana often advises clients on seed capital fundraisings and cases involving allegations of anti-competitive behaviour. Aviges is known for his standout expertise in pharma product liability, acting for pharma companies in collective actions. Soret is an expert in joint ventures, and both public and private M&A, particularly within the medtech and biotech industries. Gilles Gaillard assists a varied client base of investors and funds, in addition to start-ups, while Delphine Lapillonne is a key name for healthcare class actions and occupational illness claims.
Responsables de la pratique:
Armand Aviges; Jean-Nicolas Soret
Autres avocats clés:
Gilles Gaillard; Delphine Lapillonne
Les références
‘High quality of service, very responsive, they know the sector and many relevant players.’
‘Gilles Gaillard: extremely nice to work with, good negotiator, very well connected.’
Principaux clients
Biophytis
Cfao Group
Cowen Healthcare Investments
Chambre Syndicale de la Répartition Pharmaceutique
Gruppo Sapio
In’tech Medical Sas
Laboratoire Synbionyme
Leem
Pharmalex
Proclinic
Sancare
Soredip
Stryker
Laboratorio Farmaceutico Erfo
Uriage
Xerys
Principaux dossiers
- Advising SCIENCE CORPORATION Inc on the acquisition of the activities and assets of PIXIUM VISION SA, a French biotech listed company specializing in neuromodulation for the treatment of visual disorders.
Dechert LLP
Dechert LLP houses a broad team known for handling the full spectrum of mandates within the sector, including IPOs, health product marketing disputes, and public private partnership (PPP) issues. Practice co-lead Mélanie Thill-Tayara is a key contact for pharma clients seeking advice on cartel and abuse of dominance proceedings on a domestic and EU level. Co-head Alain Decombe is recommended for his longstanding corporate knowledge, advising on joint ventures and asset deals. ‘Brilliant’ regulatory expert Sophie Pelé often appears before administrative courts and entities on behalf of key players within the life sciences sector. Marion Provost is noted for her ability to advise on the antitrust aspects of M&A and merger filings, in addition to handling cartel investigations.
Responsables de la pratique:
Alain Decombe; Mélanie Thill-Tayara
Autres avocats clés:
Jacques Sivignon; Sophie Pelé; Ermine Bolot; Marion Provost
Les références
‘Versatility, experience and expertise, innovation.’
‘Strong knowledge of the specificities of the sector. The regulatory angle is the team’s strong point.’
‘Sophie Pelé is very proactive and an expert in her field. High quality service.’
Principaux clients
ArchiMed
Abivax
Chiesi Farmaceutici S.p.A
GSK
Havea
Laboratoire X.O
Roche
Principaux dossiers
- Advised French biotech Abivax on a Nasdaq IPO.
- Representing Virbac in a complaint before the European Commission related to a potential “killer acquisition”, which led to a dawn raid conducted by the Commission post-Covid and to the formal opening of an investigation on 26 March 2024.
Dentons
Praised by clients for its ‘perfect knowledge’, Dentons is noted for handling the full gamut of mandates across the life sciences and healthcare sectors. All jointly leading the group, Jean-Marc Grosperrin‘s primary areas of expertise are private equity transactions and cross-border M&A within the pharmacy and biotech industries; Anne-Laure Marcerou is well versed in complex transactions, namely divestitures and strategic contractual matters; and Julien Le Guyader is recommended for his vast knowledge of market access and reorganisations within the medtech and pharma industries. Loïc Lemercier is a seasoned patent litigator who routinely acts in patent infringement and unfair competition cases, while Jessica Garestier stands out due to her regulatory specialism.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jean-Marc Grosperrin; Julien Le Guyader; Anne-Laure Marcerou
Autres avocats clés:
Loïc Lemercier; Jessica Garestier
Les références
‘Very good knowledge of the health sector, very good networks, good cross-functional expertise ranging from corporate, to pharmaceutical regulations, to taxation.’
‘Julien Le Guyader and Jessica Garestier – great responsiveness, agility in dealing with transversal and complex subjects.’
‘The Dentons team showed its commitment by respecting deadlines as well as demonstrating professionalism. The collaboration with the Dentons team went very well and the quality of work was satisfactory.’
Principaux clients
Pfizer
Bpifrance Large Venture
Verlinvest
Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Kyowa Kirin Pharma
Laboratoires Coloplast
Laboratoires Théa
Septodont
AL.CHI.MIA. S.R.L.
Ophta France
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Pfizer on the integration of Seagen France’s distribution activities of Tukysa® (a prescription medicine used to treat adults with breast cancer).
- Advised Bpifrance Large Ventures on its €39 million Series C financing of ENYO Pharma.
- Advised Verlinvest on its acquisition of a minority stake in French luxury cosmetics brand Cible Skin.
Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP
The team at Hogan Lovells (Paris) LLP is noted by clients for its ‘exceptional quality’, handling product liability claims, patent disputes, and preliminary injunctions. The group is also adept at advising on clinical trial issues, often acting in mandates with cross-jurisdictional elements. Mikael Salmela leads the team with his standout knowledge of M&A, supply issues, and data processing authorisations within the life sciences sector. The ‘exceptional’ Charlotte Damiano is a regulatory expert noted for handling market access matters, with a strong focus on pricing and reimbursement work. Damiano often acts in cases concerning pharma product financial regulation.
Responsables de la pratique:
Mikael Salmela
Autres avocats clés:
Stanislas Roux-Vaillard; Charlotte Damiano; Charles-Henri Caron; Julie Schwartz; Emmanuelle Burkic
Les références
‘Expertise in life sciences and their mastery of different disciplines (price and reimbursement, regulations and Public Health Code, taxation, litigation and public law in particular).’
‘I greatly appreciate Charlotte Damiano’s expertise in pharmaceutical taxation, market access and drug regulatory law. She has an excellent command of these subjects and communicates clearly and concisely, including on technical subjects and by anticipating the client’s objectives and constraints, which makes discussions fluid and productive.’
‘The Hogan Lovells Life Sciences team in France is of exceptional quality with two leading experts, Charlotte Damiano and Mikael Salmela. Charlotte is a distinguished expert in regard to pricing and market access.’
Principaux clients
Bristol Myers Squibb
Merck & Co., Inc.
MSD Vaccins
Eli Lilly
Icos Corporation
Voluntis
Medicrea
Valneva
GE Healthcare
GERON
Gilead
Principaux dossiers
- Assisted Celgene with a major health data processing authorization request to the CNIL for an innovative drug treatment under a cohort authorization for temporary use in France, as well as with the launch and deployment of CAR-T products in France.
- Assisting Merck & Co., Inc. and its French subsidiary MSD Vaccins in the coordination and defence of product liability claims brought by French plaintiffs before the courts or before commissions for conciliation and indemnification, in relation to alleged adverse events of the vaccines Gardasil or Gardasil 9.
HOYNG ROKH MONÉGIER
HOYNG ROKH MONÉGIER maintains its strong reputation for IP litigation and SPC-related issues, in addition to pricing and reimbursement matters. Team co-head Anne Servoir stands out due to her longstanding experience in competition matters within the pharma and biotech industries, often assisting originator companies with supply chain management and reimbursement issues. Experienced patent litigator Benoît Strowel works between the Paris and Brussels offices, often acting in multi-jurisdictional patent disputes. Sabine Agé has longstanding expertise in parallel overseas litigations, particularly in relation to pharma, biotech, and medical devices.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anne Servoir; Benoît Strowel
Autres avocats clés:
Sabine Agé; Amandine Métier
Les références
‘In-depth knowledge of the life sciences industry.’
‘Serious and competent.’
Principaux dossiers
McDermott Will & Emery AARPI
Led by Emmanuelle Trombe, the team at McDermott Will & Emery AARPI often utilises its ‘great responsiveness and remarkable listening skills’ to assist major clients across the cosmetics, pharma, and food industries. Trombe is known for her vast transactional expertise, often advising on M&A, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships across the pharma, healthcare, and medical device sectors. Anthony Paronneau is a key name for venture capital and private equity firms, particularly in relation to private acquisitions, while Anne-France Moreau is noted for her expertise in licensing transactions and investments.
Responsables de la pratique:
Emmanuelle Trombe
Autres avocats clés:
Anthony Paronneau; Anne-France Moreau
Les références
‘McDermott stands out for its great responsiveness and remarkable listening skills, which is a major asset in such a competitive environment. I particularly appreciate its mode of collaboration which favors agility and transparency. I am very satisfied and convinced that this team represents an undeniable asset on the market.’
‘Anthony Paronneau stands out for his skills, availability and transparency. His personality is just as remarkable, as he approaches each problem with calm, rigour and seriousness.’
‘Very competent team in the field of life sciences. experience of multiple types of deals and innovative in terms of solutions to finalise deals. Multi-skilled team. Very collaborative and easy to access.’
‘Anthony Paronneau and Emmanuelles Trombe: accessibility, competence, multidisciplinary expertise.’
‘Anthony Paronneau: strong work ethic, relevant proposals, ability to create a connection between the different parties.’
‘The strength of this team lies in its knowledge of the sectors and the industry. The advice is timely and pragmatic, taking into account the client’s context.’
‘We regularly call on Anne-France Moreau and her team. She stands out for her pragmatism, responsiveness, availability, and knowledge of the sector. The relationship is fluid, which promotes efficiency.’
‘This team is competent, responsive and solution and business oriented. The team offers innovative solutions. Excellent knowledge of life sciences – essential for licensing and acquisitions, fundraising, and other strategic collaborations.’
Principaux clients
Novartis Groupe France SAS
Myonex
Sonae
Biocorp
MaaT Pharma
Sensorion
Corteria Pharmaceuticals
Antabio
Sofinnova Partners
Owkin
DiogenX
AbolerIS Pharma
Gradient Denervation Technologies
Anoat Therapeutics
Orakl Oncology
Aqemia
Ose Immunotherapeutics
Pierre Fabre
L’Oréal
Servier
Principaux dossiers
Simmons & Simmons
The practice at Simmons & Simmons is known for handling major product liability claims, often appearing before criminal, civil, and administrative courts. Alexandre Regniault leads the team alongside Jacques-Antoine Robert; Regniault is an expert in clinical trial agreements, in addition to product liability and unfair competition claims, while Robert is known for his specialism in class actions concerning pharma products. Ombline Ancelin is well known for her broad knowledge of distribution issues, and investigations by competition authorities. Simonetta Giordano often assists with joint ventures, M&A, and commercial contractual issues, and Abdelaziz Khatab joined the team in May 2024 from August Debouzy.
Responsables de la pratique:
Alexandre Regniault; Jacques-Antoine Robert
Autres avocats clés:
Etienne Kowalski; Ombline Ancelin; Simonetta Giordano; Abdelaziz Khatab
Les références
‘The firm stands out for its workforce and responsiveness.’
‘Excellent in litigation and advice on civil and criminal liability for the pharmaceutical/healthcare product industries.’
Principaux clients
Merck Santé
Merck Serono
Servier
DomusVi
Rhythm Pharmaceuticals
Bayer Healthcare
Cooper Consumer Health
Eisai
Amgen
Principaux dossiers
August Debouzy
August Debouzy‘s offering exhibits ‘unparalleled’ experience in the full spectrum of life sciences IP issues and the data protection aspects of clinical trials, particularly relating to personal data transfers. The team is also well equipped to handle unfair competition work. Team co-lead François Pochart is noted for his broad knowledge of regulations governing medical devices and medicinal products, in addition to his strong focus on global pharma disputes. Co-lead Grégoire Desrousseaux
utilises his ‘very significant’ experience in life sciences patent issues to assist clients with infringement actions and seizures, while practice co-head and qualified patent attorney Lionel Martin often acts in opposition proceedings before the EPO and the UPC.
Responsables de la pratique:
François Pochart; Grégoire Desrousseaux; Lionel Martin
Autres avocats clés:
Pierre-Olivier Ally; Hélène Billery; Roxane Blanc-Dubois
Les références
‘Grégoire Desrousseaux knows how to adapt to several types of collaboration, he has professionalism and respect for the ideas of others. Very good technical and legal competence.’
‘The team is dynamic and we are satisfied with the level of expertise and the quality of the advice provided.’
‘Roxane Blanc-Dubois is very committed and responsive. Roxane was very educational when helping our teams to implement our regulatory obligations, and adapt to the size of our company and our compliance priorities.’
‘They have a lot of experience in patent litigation. Their advice, based on communication with the judges on many cases, is very fruitful and reasonable. They have a deep knowledge of French jurisprudence and the greatest ability I’ve ever seen to propose legally convincing arguments.’
‘Grégoire Desrousseaux has deep knowledge of French proceedings. In addition, he provides very clear and convincing pleadings in court.’
‘Grégoire Desrousseaux has very significant experience in the field and was able to guide us very well in our legal choices despite our limited experience.’
‘Advanced expertise in intellectual property law/patents and the ability to support the client on cross-country analyses. Organisation of training to prepare for potential legal risks.’
‘In-depth industry knowledge, unparalleled experience.’
Principaux clients
Abbott Diabetes Care
Metex Noovistago
Sofibel
Biomérieux
DBV Technologies
Alcon
Anthogyr
B Braun
Becton Dickinson
Brahms
Ceva
Disphar
Essilor
Ferring
Fresenius kabi
Gilson
I.Ceram
Insulet
Laboratoires Majorelle
LFB
Medtronic
Nipro
Nutricia
Nuvamid
Novasep
Teva
Ypso Facto
Wright Medical
Principaux dossiers
- Representing Abbott France against Dexcom in four infringement actions brought before the UPC (three as defendants and one as claimant) as part of the worldwide battle between Dexcom and Abbott over the continuous glucose monitoring system used by diabetics.
- Representing Metex in its defence in an infringement action before the Paris 1st Instance Court commenced in October 2023 by the South Korean company CJ CheilJedang Corporation on the basis of two patents relating to “promoters” for genetically modified bacteria that produce amino acids.
- Assisting France Développement Electronique in an infringement action before the Paris Local Division of the UPC brought against it by Canè.
Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie houses a ‘dedicated and committed’ team known for its broad experience spanning strategic collaborations, pricing and reimbursement work, and French transparency mandates. The group acts for a diverse and high-profile client base of global pharma and biotech corporates. The ‘excellent’ Julie Yeni heads the practice, utilising her vast knowledge of clinical trials and market access issues, with a strong focus on personal data processing. Yeni is also adept at advising on distribution and supply issues. Melodie Truong is another key figure within the team.
Responsables de la pratique:
Julie Yeni
Autres avocats clés:
Gilles Jolivet; Magalie Dansac Le Clerc; Melodie Truong
Les références
‘Dedicated and committed team.’
‘A particularly efficient team. We have been working with them for many years, and we are still very satisfied.’
‘Julie Yeni has always been our preferred contact. She meets our expectations more than perfectly.’
‘Julie Yeni is an excellent partner in the field of pharmaceutical and regulatory law.’
Principaux clients
AbbVie
Galapagos
Johnson & Johnson
Laboratoires Servier
New Mountain Capital
Principaux dossiers
Bird & Bird
Emmanuelle Porte and Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan jointly lead the team at Bird & Bird, which stands out due to its strong focus on both contentious and non-contentious IP work within the medtech and pharma industries, in addition to its strong capabilities in handling tender offers. The team is particularly adept at advising venture capital funds and innovation-focused companies on their fundraising activities. Porte regularly advises on venture capital issues and M&A, assisting medtech, healthcare, and biotech clients, and Le Bihan is well known for her strength in patent litigation within the pharma industry, often coordinating pan-European litigation. Ariane Mole is an expert in data protection, often appearing before the French Data Protection Authority. Alexandre Vuchot often assists with commercial contractual issues, namely distribution and procurement arrangements, while Johanna Harelimana is noted for her broad regulatory experience, particularly in relation to market access and product qualification issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Emmanuelle Porte; Anne-Charlotte Le Bihan
Autres avocats clés:
Ariane Mole; Alexandre Vuchot; Caroline Arrighi-Savoie; Johanna Harelimana
Les références
‘The team’s special feature is its professionalism. Its ability to advise and negotiate with third parties is remarkable. The team is also very responsive.’
‘What makes Bird & Bird unique is their comprehensive understanding of the medical device sector, particularly in the context of French regulations. The team has a deep understanding of the medical device industry and regulatory landscape, ensuring that our company receives informed and relevant advice tailored to our specific needs.’
‘The team prioritises understanding the unique needs of our company, ensuring tailored solutions that align with our specific business goals. They are not afraid to think outside the box, offering innovative solutions that address both current and future challenges.’
Principaux clients
NovAliX
Novo Nordisk
CorWave
Sparing Vision
Edwards Lifesciences
Dexcom
Moon Surgical
Implanet
LEEM
IQVIA
Doctolib
Novocure
Biosency
Shoebox
Adalvo
Orphalan
Pixium Vision
Eligo Bioscience
Juvisé Pharmaceuticals
Tilak Healthcare
Lesaffre
Advicenne
Enterome
Principaux dossiers
- Advising Juvisé Pharmaceuticals on the acquisition of the worldwide commercial rights (excluding the US/Canada) of Ponvory ® (ponesimod) from Actelion Pharmaceuticals Ltd, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson.
- Advised Eligo Bioscience on a new $30 million (€27.5 million) Series B round, led by Sanofi Ventures and supported by Bpifrance via its InnoBio 2 fund, as well as its historical investors Khosla Ventures and Seventure Partners (with Health For Life Capital™).
- Representing Edwards Lifesciences in a major patent dispute implying the infringement of five European patents covering a transcatheter heart valve.
Clifford Chance
The Clifford Chance team is well equipped to handle the full range of antitrust issues, including EU antitrust investigations involving allegations of abuse of dominant position and misuses of IP. The group is also noted for its strong employment disputes capabilities, in addition to its handling of governance-related matters. Marianne Pezant is a key contact for private equity firms and major corporations seeking advice on M&A within the life sciences and healthcare space, while David Tayar is recommended for his vast knowledge of abuse of dominance and restrictive arrangement cases, in addition to state aid investigations. Dominique Laymand often assists with compliance issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Thomas Baudesson; Marianne Pezant; David Tayar; Dominique Laymand
Principaux clients
Agria Vet Guide AB
Archimed
Ares Capital
Cinven
dsm-firmenich
Gland Pharma
Neuraxpharm
Novartis
Pfizer
Sofinnova Partners
Stada
Teva Pharmaceuticals
Teva Santé
Unilabs France
Principaux dossiers
De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés
De Gaulle Fleurance & Associés‘ team is known for handling the full gamut of matters relating to the manufacturing, supply, and distribution of health products, and service agreements. The team is also noted for its specialism in cannabis products and digital health. Practice co-head Jean-Marie Job is an expert in personal and commercial data management, and in market access issues concerning biotech and pharma products. The ‘outstanding’ Cécile Théard-Jallu co-leads the team alongside Job, and stands out due to her strong focus on matters involving sensitive data and artificial intelligence, combined with healthcare and life sciences regulation, often advising on clinical research projects and licensing mandates. Co-head Francine Le Péchon-Joubert has vast experience in assisting with trade mark filings and prosecutions on both a domestic and EU level, while Kevin Ishac is well versed in the full range of IP and data protection issues within the healthcare and life sciences sector.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jean-Marie Job; Cécile Théard-Jallu; Francine Le Péchon-Joubert
Autres avocats clés:
Kevin Ishac
Les références
‘Cécile Théard-Jallu is an excellent lawyer, very attentive to her client’s concerns. Her responsiveness is always incredible, and her opinions are always informed and pragmatic.’
‘They have a particularly deep knowledge of the life sciences industry and they always work on cutting-edge legal issues.’
‘I regularly work with Cécile Théard-Jallu, who is an outstanding professional in the sector. She put a great passion and enthusiasm for her job and is always involved in innovative and complex projects.’
‘In-depth knowledge of the sector.’
‘Cécile Théard-Jallu is excellent.’
Principaux clients
Alliance digitale maladiecoronavirus.fr
Bouchara Recordati
CEGEDIM
CFAO Healthcare
CIP
Genopole
Genoway
Gilead Sciences
Hyperion
Institute For Smart Health
Principaux dossiers
Delsol Avocats
Delsol Avocats stands out due to its specialism in health data issues, including data warehouses and matters involving artificial intelligence. The group is also well equipped to handle healthcare asset acquisitions, in addition to advising on the regulations surrounding early access to medicines and e-health. Jeanne Bossi Malafosse is an expert in the full spectrum of issues relating to health information systems, particularly in relation to medical research and the sharing of health data within the medicosocial and healthcare industries. ‘Excellent technician’ Gaëlle Merlier‘s workload consists of compliance matters, M&A, and product liability claims concerning health products.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jeanne Bossi Malafosse; Gaëlle Merlier
Les références
‘A team that listens, and is very technical and professional. It is a real pleasure to work with this team.’
‘Gaëlle Merlier is an excellent technician and is pragmatic.’
‘A very strong commitment from the team both on the legal level and in defending the interests of its clients.’
Principaux clients
Astrazeneca Docaposte
Takeda
Impact Healthcare
CNGE
CNOP
OWKIN
Rhisa
Bioptimus
Principaux dossiers
- Advising Rhisa on the setting up of a data warehouse hosting medical images from healthcare institutions to be anonymized and made available for research purposes.
- Advising OWKIN on the French law aspects and European aspects of strategic matters regarding the valorisation of data.
- Advising CNGE on the setting up of a data warehouse hosting general medical data called P4DP.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper houses a ‘very cohesive and diligent’ practice known for its strength in carve-outs of businesses within the medical device industry, issues surrounding the financing of healthcare providers by private equity funds, and M&A. Sonia De Kondserovsky leads the group, utilising her vast experience to advise on R&D and clinical trials agreements, strategic collaborations, and acquisitions of manufacturing sites. Denise Lebeau-Marianna is an expert in data protection and processing, often advising international pharma and biotech clients. Frank Valentin has longstanding experience in patent litigation and trade mark issues, often advising North American clients, while Marion Abecassis has expansive expertise in the domestic and EU rules governing clinical trials, advertising, and the relationships between healthcare professionals and industry players.
Responsables de la pratique:
Sonia de Kondserovsky
Autres avocats clés:
Denise Lebeau-Marianna; Frank Valentin; Yaël Hirsch; Marion Abecassis
Les références
‘Sonia de Kondserovsky is an extremely serious lawyer who always gives the best possible advice to her clients. It is a privilege to be able to work with her.’
‘International firm with extensive expertise. Interest in complex cases requiring varied and highly specialised resources and expertise.’
‘Skills in the health sector and diversity in areas of expertise (litigation, administrative, regulatory).’
Principaux clients
Eurazeo
Simago
Stryker
Becton Dickinson
Catalent
Danaher
Edwards Lifesciences
Emergent BioSolutions
Filorga
Fortive Corp
Innothera
Ipsen
Laboratoires Vivacy
Medtronic
Nordic Pharma
Pfizer
Pierre Fabre
Qualcomm Life – Capsule
ResMed
Roche
Sanofi
Santen Pharmaceutical
Seaspine
Sterimed
Teleflex
Principaux dossiers
Fieldfisher
Fieldfisher‘s broad offering is noted for its strong focus on digital health work and contentious reimbursement matters. Olivier Lantrès leads the team, utilising his ‘perfect’ industry knowledge to handle the full gamut of regulatory issues surrounding medical devices, cosmetics, and pharma products. Described by clients as ‘one of the best lawyers in health and digital law in France’, Marguerite Brac de la Perrière is a key contact for medtech, biotech, and start-up clients seeking advice on software contracts and issues surrounding data warehouses. Nathalie Hadjadj-Cazier is an expert in both contentious and non-contentious IP work, including the drafting of licensing agreements and trade mark litigation.
Responsables de la pratique:
Olivier Lantrès
Autres avocats clés:
Marguerite Brac de la Perrière; Nathalie Hadjadj-Cazier; Franck Veisse; Elsa Manoylovitch
Les références
‘Marguerite Brac de la Perrière is one of the best lawyers in health and digital law in France.’
‘Marguerite Brac de la Perrière and Elsa Manoylovitch stand out for their active listening skills, adaptability, suggestions for additional tools, precise, supported and pragmatic answers.’
‘Perfect knowledge of the life sciences industry and really clear advice.’
Principaux clients
GLEAMER
SOS Médecins France
ECHOSENS
Zentiva
THERADIAG
Owkin, Inc.
Recordati
BIOGARAN
Laboratoire Orion Santé
Principaux dossiers
- Assisting Gleamer, a provider of AI systems building a holistic AI copilot for medical imaging for healthcare institutions and physicians.
- Represented a leading manufacturer and supplier of medicines in several disputes before the court, in order to challenge their French marketing authorisation and the reimbursement of one of their products in France.
- Represented Biogaran in litigation regarding the packaging of drugs.
Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.
Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. houses an ‘efficient, experienced, dedicated’ team which handles a broad range of health data, patent infringement, and financing matters. Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier is a key name for patent validity and infringement cases, in addition to SPC issues; Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry has longstanding experience in unfair competition and trade secret protection work; and Emmanuel Larere is a seasoned patent litigator who often represents cosmetics clients in trade mark mandates. Arnaud Duhamel routinely advises investors and issuers on equity derivatives transactions, and capital markets expert Melinda Stege Arsouze has a strong focus on emerging markets, while Thierry Dor is knowledgeable about personal data law and AI projects. Dimitri Dimitrov is well equipped to handle merger notifications and distribution issues, while Anne Tolila often advises on M&A and divestment projects.
Responsables de la pratique:
Raphaëlle Dequiré-Portier; Jean-Hyacinthe de Mitry; Emmanuel Larere; Thierry Dor; Dimitri Dimitrov; Arnaud Duhamel; Melinda Stege Arsouze; Anne Tolila
Autres avocats clés:
Marie-Ange Pozzo di Borgo; Paul Jourdan-Nayrac; Aurélie Pacaud
Les références
‘Efficient, experienced, dedicated team.’
‘Fast, efficient, focused on relevant topics, solution-oriented, delivery on time.’
‘Available team. Experts with the ability to address issues with a political dimension.’
‘Aurélie Pacaud stands out in particular for her listening skills, her understanding of client issues and her tailored and particularly expert responses.’
Principaux clients
Imaneo
Apollo Global Management
Bristol Myers Squibb
Bryan, Garnier & Co
Cathay Innovation
Dreem SAS
Elsan
Gensight Biologics
Heal Capital
Inventiva
Isalt
LifeSci Capital
Meril Life Sciences
Ono Pharmaceutical
Obvious Ventures
Orpea
Phaxiam Therapeutics
Phoenix Group
SVB Securities
Principaux dossiers
- Assisting Cure51 with securing funding while crafting a contractual strategy and ensuring compliance with complex French health data regulations and clinical research conduct rules.
- Representing Meril Life Sciences before the UPC in a pan-European patent litigation filed by Edwards Lifesceinces, regarding 5 of its patents on prosthetic heart valves and delivery systems for the implementation of such heart valves.
- Assisting Sofinnova with its investment in Bioptimus—a spin-off of the French/American biotech Owkin.
HBC Avocats
Praised for its ‘remarkable knowledge’ of the biotech industry, HBC Avocats acts for a diverse client roster of life sciences-focused venture capital firms, biotech corporates, and clients active within the agricultural biotech space. Practice co-lead Jonathan Burnham is well known for his expansive knowledge of global licensing and collaboration agreements, and sublicence agreements. Co-head Erwan Cossé has broad experience in the full range of corporate matters within the health care and life sciences sector, often advising on investment agreements.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jonathan Burnham; Erwan Cossé
Autres avocats clés:
Fabrice Herbin
Les références
‘Jonathan Burnham is my go-to person to discuss tricky situations with ongoing licence or collaboration contracts.’
‘HBC Avocats is excellent in the field of business advice for biotechnology companies. The entire team is particularly experienced in this field and I can only recommend it. I have in mind several situations where the firm has been very creative and has helped to unblock complicated situations. Finally, the availability and commitment of the team is excellent.’
‘Remarkable knowledge of the world of biotechnology. The team is a force for bringing forward proposals for the structuring of partnership agreements and contracts. I highly recommend it.’
‘The service provided is of high quality: the great strength of HBC Avocats is its specialisation in the pharma-biotech field, and the team’s career history in this field (not only in law firms, but also in industrial companies).’
‘Jonathan Burnham is both rigorous and quick in his analyses, but also creative in identifying possible solutions. He has a track record in startups and large companies in the field of life sciences, and therefore an inside opinion on the positions of each party. Fabrice Herbin is precise and quick in his analyses, and he has great drafting skills. He comes up with strong suggestions in negotiation positions (we can feel his experience in the field).’
‘What stands out is the great professionalism of the team, which understands the client’s issues, does not hesitate to delve into key issues in the drafting of contracts, anticipates problems, and proposes solutions that should protect the client in the event of disagreement, or even litigation, with the other contracting party.’
‘Fabrice Herbin is very experienced in clinical development and manufacturing issues in the biotech and pharmaceutical fields. Doesn’t give up and forces you to ask yourself the right questions. Jonathan Burnham always gives good advice, and approaches subjects from a strategic angle when necessary.’
‘Small, highly expert team specialising in contractual matters in the pharmaceutical and life sciences fields. Very good understanding of scientific issues and intellectual property. Very effective collaboration.’
Principaux clients
Adcytherix
Eukarÿs
Umlaut.bio
Inotrem
Valneva
Global Antibiotic Research and Development Partnership
Memo Therapeutics
Pierre Fabre
Emergence Therapeutics
Onward Therapeutics
OSE Immunotherapeutics
Theranexus
Axplora
Novasep
Eligo Bioscience
Vital Meat
Streetlab
Nuntius Therapeutics
Inserm Transfert
Biophytis
Sanofi
BliNK Biomedical
InFlectis BioScience
M CAPITAL
IRDI CAPITAL INVESTISSEMENT
OT4B
WatchFrog
Austral DX
Axess Vision Technology
Backbone
Esprimed
Geonomy
Priothera
Stimunity
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Emergence Therapeutics, a French and German biotech company focused on the development of antibody-drug conjugate cancer drugs, on French law matters in connection with structuring and negotiating its sale to the US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly.
- Advised Adcytherix on structuring its incorporation, and on negotiating and drafting the investment agreements for its 30 M€ equity seed round backed by a syndicate of leading life science investors including Pontifax, Pureos Bioventures, RA Capital Management and Dawn Biopharma (a platform controlled by KKR).
- Advised GARDP on structuring, drafting and negotiating a collaboration agreement with the biopharmaceutical company Bugworks Research Inc.
LexCase
Diane Bandon-Tourret, Alain de Belenet, and Raphaël Apelbaum all jointly lead the group at LexCase, which is known for its ‘well-founded expertise and professionalism’. The group is well equipped to advise on collective claims relating to medical devices, and marketing authorisation issues. Bandon-Tourret regularly assists medical device manufacturers and pharma companies with product liability matters, while de Belenet stands out due to his knowledge spanning the full range of public law issues concerning healthcare products. Apelbaum is an expert in contractual penalties and local public health agency inspections, while Clémentine Calvet focuses on the data protection aspects of healthcare, including e-health projects.
Responsables de la pratique:
Diane Bandon-Tourret; Alain de Belenet; Raphaël Apelbaum; Maxime Büsch
Autres avocats clés:
Clémentine Calvet
Les références
‘Great team with great expertise.’
‘Lexcase is one of the leading law firms in the healthcare and life sciences sector. The high-quality handling of complex matters is characterised by its well-founded expertise and professionalism. You can expect not only outstanding support, but also excellent advice on any issue. Collaborating with LexCase is invariably highly professional.’
‘The collaboration with Diane Bandon-Tourret has always been professional. Her depth of knowledge, which is not only limited to the sectors of healthcare and life sciences, coupled with her years-long experience in these fields guarantees excellent legal advice.’
‘Team has excellent legal and technical expertise in the health sector. Very business-oriented with perfect knowledge of our activities and therefore our constraints. Very strong responsiveness and strong in proposing practical training/presentations.’
‘A high-level team that knows the law and our business.’
‘This team is very responsive and seeks to offer solutions that go beyond simply reading texts – it understands the operational challenges of clients well.’
‘Extensive knowledge of how businesses operate, excellent command of the subjects and practical application to the situations presented.’
Principaux clients
Fujifilm
Medtronic
Philips France Commercial
Philips RS North America
Philips Koninklijke NV
Pierre Fabre Group
Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmetique
Pierre Fabre Medicament
Olympus
Essilor Luxotica
Colgate Palmolive
SNITEM
Coloplast
Horizon Therapeutics
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice
Principaux dossiers
- Advising a leading international medical devices group regarding the withdrawal and replacement of life saving devices and other devices worldwide, following the implementation of a full-scale field safety corrective action, before the competent authorities and French courts, in particular in the context of a major collective action.
- Assisting several clients of the Conference Bleue Network in their discussions with the relevant French authority (ANSM) to obtain marketing rights for the French market through derogatory proceedings, in close coordination with European law firms.
- Assisting Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, a leading public institution and healthcare provider in France, with structuring and financing its research projects and drafting public partnership agreements.
Norton Rose Fulbright
Norton Rose Fulbright is recommended for its vast knowledge of competition issues within the life sciences sector, and personal data mandates concerning early access and clinical trials. Practice co-lead Marta Giner Asins is known for her expansive expertise in antitrust and competition issues within the life sciences and healthcare sector, while co-lead Karine Montagut specialises in M&A and investment issues. Christian Dargham is an expert in all matters concerning compliance, particularly investigations and compliance programmes, while Nadège Martin often assists with early access authorisations and licensing transactions.
Responsables de la pratique:
Marta Giner Asins; Karine Montagut
Autres avocats clés:
Christian Dargham; Nadège Martin; Marie-Adélaïde de Fleurieu
Les références
‘Responsiveness, rigour and customer orientation characterise Karine Montagut and her team, who have strong expertise in M&A in the field of health and life sciences.’
‘Karine Montagut – beyond her expertise, her negotiation skills and her experience, Karine perfectly coordinates the various advisors involved in the files and positions herself as the client’s preferred point of contact.’
‘Marie-Adélaïde de Fleurieu has strong M&A expertise, and is a very good negotiator, showing rigour and a sense of organisation.’
Principaux clients
Pfizer
Seqens
Ramsay Générale de Santé
Sanofi
Abbott
Medtronic
SYNLAB
Embecta
Principaux dossiers
- Advising SEQENS on the acquisition, from Novartis, of the pharma site of CELLforCURE located in Les Ulis (Essonne department).
- Advising Medtronic’s Integrated Health Solutions division on the antitrust and contractual aspects of a new strategic partnership with La Poste’s Health and Autonomy division, relating to the creation of a multi-brand and multi-pathology digital platform aimed at improving patients’ medical care.
- Advising a leading French pharmaceutical laboratory on in-licensing transactions relating to e-health products/solutions in the heart failure, oncological and neurological fields.
Reed Smith
Reed Smith houses a broad practice known for advising major pharma, cosmetics, and investor clients. All jointly leading the team, Daniel Kadar is a key name for healthcare compliance and risk assessment mandates, Marc Lévy is experienced in handling follow-on damages claims and abuse of market power cases, and Natasha Tardif is an expert in distribution issues and anti-competitive practice-related claims. Lucile Chneiweiss often advises on investigations and merger control proceedings.
Responsables de la pratique:
Daniel Kadar; Marc Lévy; Natasha Tardif
Autres avocats clés:
Lucile Chneiweiss
Principaux dossiers
Viguié Schmidt & Associés
Boutique firm Viguié Schmidt & Associés is recommended for its strength in administrative disputes, financing issues, and the full range of antitrust and competition issues within the sector. Etienne Gouesse is noted for his vast regulatory knowledge and his ability to handle major disputes, particularly product liability claims and cases concerning market authorisations, while Iñaki Saint-Esteben stands out due to his vast experience in merger control and antitrust issues within the life sciences and healthcare sector.
Responsables de la pratique:
Etienne Gouesse; Iñaki Saint-Esteben
Les références
‘Small, very agile structure, very competent in litigation relating to liability for defective products, very good knowledge of medical devices.’
‘Etienne Gouesse is very competent in the area of product liability litigation. He is widely involved in various subjects in the health sector (good knowledge of public procurement and recovery litigation).’
‘The team has a recognised practice in health law. Etienne Gouesse always manages to find pragmatic solutions to the new difficulties of the sector.’
‘Top level.’
‘Accessible and competent specialist team.’
‘Etienne Gouesse – ability to listen and good advice.’
Principaux clients
Johnson & Johnson
AB Sciences
D&A Pharma
Principaux dossiers
- Successfully represented D&A Pharma in an appeal before the Court of Justice of the European Union against the judgment of the General Court and the European Commission’s decision refusing to grant a marketing authorisation for its medicinal product (Hopveus) for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome.
- Successfully represented AB Science’s CEO in proceeding before the AMF for insider trading.
- Advising Johnson & Johnson Santé Beauté France regarding a private damages claim filed in 2017 by Casino (and several other companies belonging to the group) following a decision rendered by the FCA with respect to the home and personal care products industry.
Winston & Strawn LLP
Noted for its strong focus on the healthcare industry, Winston & Strawn LLP‘s ‘innovative and creative’ team is well placed to assist with acquisitions and financing work. Gilles Bigot assists a varied client list consisting of pharma product and medical equipment manufacturers, private health institutions and professional associations. Private equity and M&A specialist Julie Vern Cesano-Gouffrant is a key port of call for investors and healthcare professionals seeking advice on the full range of transactional issues within the healthcare and life sciences sector.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gilles Bigot; Julie Vern Cesano-Gouffrant
Autres avocats clés:
Rim Khirddine
Les références
‘The team continues to be innovative and creative to support its customers and help them achieve their goals.’
‘Great responsiveness and availability. Authoritative firm for litigation.’
‘Competent and very responsive team. Open and forceful team.’
‘Gilles Bigot: Great experience, intelligence and creativity. Excellent contact and competitive spirit. Julie Vern: Excellent contact. Very hard-working and intelligent. Defends the interests of clients tooth and nail.’
Principaux clients
EverImmune
Imapole
ImaOne
Sevetys
JUUL Labs
Oradianse
Bridgepoint
Point Vision
Proveca
Vivalto Santé
Sarah Santé Group
Abenex Capital SA
Telemos Capital
MedEuropa
Stingray
Capital Croissance
CRF Jeanne d’Arc
MBO+
Core Equity Holdings
New Kinesia
SoMed Santé
Tangramed
Evesio
Medalliance
Mon Chat et Moi
Groupe Accès Vision
M80
Denteka
Caravelle
Trocadero Capital Partners
Principaux dossiers
- Represented Antin Infrastructure Partners in its partnership with Excellence Imagerie Group, one of the largest medical imaging networks in France.
- Represented Vivalto Santé, a major player in hospitalization in Europe, in the acquisition of 100% of Groupe Santé Ovalie.
- Represented the partners of the BCF Life Sciences group in its sale to Sparkfood.
BCTG Avocats
BCTG Avocats acts for a diverse client list which notably includes Teva Santé and Servier. Hugues Villey-Desmeserets regularly advises clients on commercial policy issues, in addition to competition and regulatory matters, areas in which François Dauba is also an expert. Gaëlle Bloret-Pucci has longstanding experience in IP litigation, often appearing before the Paris Commercial Court and Civil Court. Séverin Kullmann leads the firm’s M&A and private equity group, and assists clients with joint ventures and reorganisations.
Responsables de la pratique:
Hugues Villey-Desmeserets; François Dauba; Gaëlle Bloret-Pucci; Séverin Kullmann
Les références
‘BCTG adapts its services to our specific needs, and offers tailored legal solutions, especially in the highly regulated sector of pharmaceuticals.’
‘The team around Hugues Villey-Desmeserets is highly skilled.’
‘We have been working with Hugues Villey-Desmeserets for years. Hugues is known for his practical approach and in-depth understanding of commercial challenges, which makes him a sought-after advisor for clients facing regulatory scrutiny or complex business transactions. His ability to combine legal strategy with an understanding of commercial imperatives is one of his key strengths, especially in dealing with pharmaceutical regulations and industry-specific legal matters.’
‘I work regularly with Séverin Kullmann and I am very satisfied with our interactions. He is competent, available and full of suggestions.’
‘Very pragmatic approach to cases.’
‘François Dauba is an excellent partner in competition law.’
Principaux clients
Teva Santé
Stada
Kenvue
GenoSafe
NHCO Nutrition
Servier
Seqens
Iktos
EG427
Mailstone
Pharma Life Cycle Assessment
Principaux dossiers
- Assisting the PHARMA LCA CONSORTIUM which involves 18 global pharmaceutical companies (AstraZeneca, GSK, Johnson & Johnson, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Roche, Sanofi, Takeda, etc.) in regular meetings to create product category rules for pharmaceutical products, allowing consistent assessments to deliver more environmentally sustainable pharmaceutical products.
- Advised IKTOS, a French company specialised in the development of artificial intelligence solutions applied to the discovery of new treatments, in the context of the negotiation of a major contract with Elsevier for the creation of an AI platform for synthetic chemistry dedicated to drug discovery.
Goodwin
Goodwin houses a broad offering known for its strength in financing mandates, patent infringement actions, and co-development and distribution agreements. Anne-Charlotte Rivière heads the practice, and is recognised for her vast expertise in venture capital, private equity, and M&A work within the life sciences space, particularly in relation to fundraisings. Rivière assists both global and domestic life sciences venture funds. Marie Fillon leads the firm’s IP group, with her primary area of expertise being collaboration, R&D, and manufacturing agreements.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anne-Charlotte Rivière
Autres avocats clés:
Marie Fillon; Thomas Dupont-Sentilles; Louis de Chezelles
Les références
‘Marie Fillon has an excellent knowledge of the start-up/scale-up environment in France in the healthcare sector.’
‘Very experienced in our sector. Adaptable. Ability to work internationally with US or UK partners. This is important in M&A deals in the healthcare sector. Great brand and great involvement and thoroughness of the teams.’
‘Anne-Charlotte Rivière is experienced in corporate matters in France and internationally for financing operations or complex structured deals.’
‘Anne-Charlotte Rivière: global vision of the issues in the field of life sciences. Marie Fillon: highly valuable business vision.’
Principaux clients
Affluent Medical
AlgoTx
AQEMIA
Arkhn
Biomunex
Cerba Healthcare
DNA Script
DentalMonitoring
eCential Robotics
Germitec
Mablink
Moon Surgical
Owkin
Qynapse
Robocath
SurgeCare
SpineVision
Stilla Technologies
Tribun Health
TRIcares
UroMems
Cathay Capital
Eurazeo
EW Healthcare Partners
Go Capital
Johnson & Johnson Innovation
Karista
Kurma Partners
Lauxera Capital Partners
Sofinnova Partners
Principaux dossiers
Herbert Smith Freehills LLP
Often collaborating with its expansive international network, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP‘s team stands out for its handling of patent revocation and enforcement actions, in addition to issues surrounding patent validity. Frédéric Chevallier is recommended for his strong focus on patent litigation and regulatory issues within the pharma industry, often representing global pharma corporations.
Responsables de la pratique:
Frédéric Chevallier
Principaux clients
Sanofi
Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Takeda)
Roche
Foundation Medicine
Janssen
Principaux dossiers
- Advising Sanofi on four infringement actions started before the Unified Patent Court in relation to one of its innovative products, Jevtana®, for the treatment of prostate cancer (cabazitaxel).
- Representing Millennium Pharmaceuticals Inc., Takeda Pharmaceuticals and its exclusive licensee Janssen in the enforcement strategy of their patents, protecting their blockbuster bortezomib product against generic entry.
jasper Avocats
Praised by clients for its ‘excellent’ knowledge, jasper Avocats stands out due to its product liability and clinical injury expertise. The group often assists healthcare professional associations and healthcare providers. Co-heading the practice, Olivier Saumon is well versed in the rules governing the sale of medicinal products online and criminal proceedings within the healthcare sector, and Céline Roquelle-Meyer is recommended for her longstanding experience in advising professional associations on professional practice contracts and governance structure. Jean-François Laigneau regularly handles transactional and regulatory issues concerning medical devices, cosmetics, and food supplements.
Responsables de la pratique:
Olivier Saumon; Céline Roquelle-Meyer
Autres avocats clés:
Jean-François Laigneau
Les références
‘Excellent knowledge of both the rules and local practices.’
‘Jean-François Laigneau: excellent knowledge of the rules and the market, practical and pragmatic approach, very present on files, and very responsive and proactive.’
‘Flexibility of intervention, flexibility in customer relations, availability, works extremely well with customers.’
‘Jean-François Laigneau is sharp and a real expert. He knows the applicable regulations perfectly, identifies critical points on projects, and adapts perfectly to clients and their requirements.’
‘The firm stands out for its responsiveness and availability, offering relevant advice thanks to its in-depth mastery of the subjects.’
‘Jean-François Laigneau stands out for his exemplary manner of carrying out work. His professionalism, rigour and his ability to provide sound and relevant advice is particularly remarkable.’
‘The law firm’s team stands out for its exemplary responsiveness and its ability to manage cases with a global vision. Whether on complex subjects or in emergency situations, the team mobilises quickly and efficiently, ensuring constant monitoring of cases while maintaining strict deadlines. This responsiveness, combined with an in-depth analysis of specific contexts in connection with numerous legislative and regulatory developments, allows them to formulate legal strategies adapted to the issues, in the short and long term.’
‘Jean-François Laigneau stands out for his in-depth expertise in the healthcare field. His ability to quickly grasp the specificities of a rapidly evolving sector, such as teleconsultation, as well as his strategic and pragmatic approach, were valuable assets. His expertise goes well beyond traditional technical skills; he was able to provide concrete and adapted solutions to the complex challenges we encountered, particularly with regard to compliance and regulatory framework issues in a digital health context.’
Principaux dossiers
- Advising one of the largest national medical biology groups, which refers all its corporate and regulatory issues to the firm, on the reorganisation of medical biology groups, organised in the form of “sociétés d’exercice libéral”, to prevent these companies from being refused registration on the grounds that they are controlled by external third parties and that, as a result, healthcare professionals have lost their independence.
Jones Day
Françoise Labrousse and Renaud Bonnet co-lead the team at Jones Day, which often advises on collaboration and investment agreements. Labrousse is recommended for her deep knowledge of administrative disputes, while private equity specialist Bonnet often assists with M&A, IPOs, and the full spectrum of financing issues. Described by clients as ‘one of the foremost patent litigators in France’, Thomas Bouvet is well equipped to advise on SPCs, standard essential patents, and patent enforcement actions relating to medical devices and pharma products.
Responsables de la pratique:
Françoise Labrousse; Renaud Bonnet
Autres avocats clés:
Thomas Bouvet; Colin Devinant
Les références
‘Thomas Bouvet has an excellent team for life sciences/pharma patent litigation.’
‘Thomas Bouvet – one of the foremost patent litigators in France. Colin Devinant – a rising star in Thomas’ excellent team.’
‘Very competent specialised team, which has real expertise on the market. Very well trained lawyers. Large volume of deals.’
‘Renaud Bonnet is a seasoned specialist who knows his clients well, has been supporting them for a long time and knows how to adapt to all their issues.’
Principaux clients
Institut Pasteur
Schwind eye-tech-solutions
Progelife
bioMérieux
Nanobiotix
Cellectis
ADOCIA
Mauna Kea Technologies
Sofinnova and NVentures
Therapixel
Amolyt Pharma
Bpifrance
Trill Impact
Principaux dossiers
Latham & Watkins
Praised by clients for its ‘exceptional precision’, Latham & Watkins often handles M&A and series financing mandates, acting for medical equipment companies, investors, and medical device clients. The ‘outstanding’ Eveline Van Keymeulen leads the team and is recommended for her vast experience in EU regulatory issues, particularly in relation to medical cannabis and hemp-based products. Jeanne Fabre regularly assists clients with market access strategy, advertising compliance, and clinical trial-related matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Eveline Van Keymeulen
Autres avocats clés:
Jeanne Fabre; Olivier du Mottay
Les références
‘The team is structured, responsive and very experienced in life sciences.’
‘Eveline Van Keymeulen is an outstanding lawyer, who provides finely crafted legal advice and whose availability and dedication are highly appreciated. One of the best if not the best lawyer in Europe in life sciences.’
‘The Latham & Watkins healthcare and life sciences practice stands out for its deep industry expertise and cross-disciplinary approach. The team offers a unique blend of regulatory, transactional, and litigation capabilities, allowing them to navigate complex matters with exceptional precision.’
Principaux clients
Abbott
AbbVie
Air Liquide Santé France
Ardian
Anne’s Daye
Argenx
Astorg Partners
bioMérieux
Bridgepoint
Direct Relief Foundation
EFPIA
Eleusis
Eli Lilly
Eurazeo
Euronext
European Sperm Bank
GlaxoSmithKline
GRAIL
Inari Medical
Ipsen
Ironwood Pharmaceuticals
Les Laboratoires Servier
Marinus Pharmaceuticals
MeiraGTX
Oncohost
ProPharma Group
Resilience Care
ReCor Medical
Samsung Medison
Swedish Orphan Biovitrum AB
Tempus Labs, Inc.
Veracyte
Zoī
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Samsung Medison, a global medical equipment company and an affiliate of Samsung Electronics, on its agreement to acquire 100% of the shares of Sonio SAS, a fetal ultrasound AI software company.
- Advised Boston Scientific on the US$50 series D financing round of TriCares, a MedTech which has operations in France and Germany that develops a breakthrough tricuspid heart valve replacement system.
- Advised Eurazeo in the context of the sale of its stake in D.O.R.C (Dutch Ophthalmic Research Center) to Carl Zeiss Meditec AG.
Magenta
The offering at Magenta is recommended for its strong focus on regulatory issues, particularly in relation to pricing and reimbursement, and financing within the pharma and medical device industries. Practice head Gaël Hichri‘s primary areas of expertise are competition and distribution, often appearing before the French Competition Authority in abuse of dominant position cases. Hichri is also noted for his knowledge of supplier and distributor disputes. Benjamin Jothy is another key figure within the team.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gaël Hichri
Autres avocats clés:
Benjamin Jothy
Les références
‘Good knowledge of competition law issues applied to the health sector.’
‘Extremely competent team.’
‘Gaël Hichri has a very good knowledge of the distribution and competition aspects in the pharmaceutical sector.’
‘Gaël Hichri has the strength to combine knowledge of competition law and the complex sector of the pharmaceutical industry.’
‘The team has the strong advantage of knowing our industry well and combining strong expertise in competition and market access. It is very available.’
‘Innovative and pragmatic.’
‘Gaël Hichri is pragmatic, innovative and rigorous.’
Principaux dossiers
Mercure Avocats
Mercure Avocats houses an ‘expert, dynamic and responsive’ team known for handling R&D and EU distribution agreements, in addition to work relating to the remote provision of health services and financing mandates. Agathe Simon specialises in M&A and corporate issues, particularly shareholder and joint venture agreements within the healthcare sector. François-Maxime Philizot stands out due to his regulatory knowledge, often in relation to pharma and medical device products.
Responsables de la pratique:
François-Maxime Philizot; Agathe Simon
Les références
‘Mercure Avocats is one of the few independent firms with almost exclusively sectoral expertise in life science and which is ranked in this field every year. Its partners are capable of managing any size of files and clients.’
‘The partners of Mercure Avocats are truly dynamic entrepreneurs. They have managed to create an independent firm recognised in life sciences. They also have a very human approach and it is very pleasant to collaborate with them.’
‘Expert, dynamic and responsive team accurately identifying the operational needs of their clients to achieve the expected objective.’
Principaux clients
Fondation Ipsen
Syndivia
Sanofi Pasteur
HRA Pharma
Les Laboratoires Servier
Waterland Private Equity
United Petfood Producers NV
Medaviz
Opticim
Pharming
Kuehne + Nagel
Dokteronline
Dr Reddy’s
BPI France
Menarini Diagnostics
Biogaran
Promepla
PSL
Alira Health
LEEM
Principaux dossiers
- Advised BPI France on the negotiation of the financing of medtech company Pixee Medical.
- Advised Dr Reddy’s on an analysis relating to advertising and online sales of medical devices in France.
- Assisting Les Laboratoires Servier with the negotiation of its R&D and business development agreements.
Pinsent Masons LLP
Described by clients as being ‘at the forefront of European patent litigation’, the team at Pinsent Masons LLP routinely appears before the UPC in infringement proceedings. Jules Fabre is a key contact for multi-jurisdictional patent and SPC disputes, while Annabelle Richard focuses on GDPR-related issues and tech transactions. Camille Chiari is well versed in M&A and joint ventures, and Melina Wolman stands out due to her product liability expertise.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jules Fabre; Annabelle Richard; Valérie Blandeau; Camille Chiari; Melina Wolman
Autres avocats clés:
Virginia de Freitas
Les références
‘Pinsent Masons’ patent and life sciences team in Paris is one of a kind in terms of expertise, experience, pragmatism and market knowledge. They are at the forefront of European patent litigation, being involved in many of the hot topic proceedings.’
‘Jules Fabre is a star in patent litigation in France. He has an extremely high level of expertise in this area and is a pleasure to work with.’
‘Proactive, clear advice, responsive and readily available.’
Principaux clients
Formycon
4D Pharma
Accord Healthcare
Zentiva
Teva Pharmaceuticals
Fresenius Kabi
Insud Pharma
Exeltis
Advanced Cell Diagnostics
Principaux dossiers
- Representing Zentiva in an application for a fast-track preliminary injunction from Bayer against the contemplated launch of Zentiva’s generic rivaroxaban (Xarelto) product in France, on the basis of alleged infringement of a patent covering once-daily administration of rivaroxaban.
- Representing Advanced Cell Diagnostics in the preparation and filing of a UPC infringement action against one of its main competitors in relation to kits for multiplexed, quantitative, high-resolution bioimaging in academic research, drug development, and clinical pathology and diagnostics.
- Representing Accord in a high-profile patent litigation against Sanofi in relation to its generic version of Sanofi’s blockbuster prostate cancer treatment Jevtana (cabazitaxel) before the UPC and before the French courts.
Taylor Wessing
Taylor Wessing regularly advises clients on market access issues, the opening of new enterprises in the pharma industry, and manufacturing agreements. Evelyne Friedel leads the team, and specialises in both competition and commercial issues within the life sciences and healthcare sector. Marc Schuler has longstanding experience in IT and IP law, particularly in relation to data management. Annabelle Lebaudy is well equipped to assist with R&D, licence, and supply agreements, while Marine Boullenger regularly assists clients with compliance programmes.
Responsables de la pratique:
Evelyne Friedel
Autres avocats clés:
Marc Schuler; Annabelle Lebaudy; Marine Boullenger
Les références
‘Evelyne Friedel and her competition team are experts who give very good advice that adapt perfectly to the client’s requests.’
‘The team was professional and responsive.’
‘The team had deep knowledge about French laws and regulations and they were very responsive.’
‘They give very good advice, in particular Evelyne Friedel. In-depth and reasoned approach to the legislation in this area.’
‘Good knowledge of the interactions between a US-based and a France-based company.’
‘Always willing to listen, reactive and available.’
Principaux clients
Biocon
Biotest
Eitan Q Core
Fresenius
Inogen
Inspire Medical
JOMDD – Sanamedi
Kohlpharma
Laboratoires Thea – Thea Pharma
Pentax Medical
Shockwave Medical
Sight Sciences
WL Gore & Associates
Principaux dossiers
- Assisting Inogen with the acquisition of PhysioAssist, including with regulatory matters and commercial agreements with healthcare institutions and professionals in France and Europe.
- Assisting Laboratoires Théa and its subsidiaries in France, the EU and outside the EU in regulatory, compliance and commercial matters.
- Assisted Biocon with corporate and regulatory issues to enable the Indian group to enter the French market, including advising on the authorisation granted by the French drug agency for the new premises/establishments and concerning the responsible pharmacist/head pharmacist.
Bignon Lebray
Bignon Lebray houses a broad offering known for handling unfair competition cases and data protection matters. In Lyon, Barbara Bertholet leads the team with her longstanding experience assisting a diverse client list of medical device and cosmetic manufacturers, and laboratories. Paris’ Caroline Cazaux often draws on her broad antitrust and competition expertise to advise on distribution issues surrounding healthcare and food products.
Responsables de la pratique:
Barbara Bertholet
Autres avocats clés:
Caroline Cazaux; Nicolas Moreau; Rachel Devidal
Les références
‘The team knows the health/biotech sector very well and knows how to adapt to the client’s needs.’
‘We worked with Barbara Bertholet and Rachel Devidal who were very efficient.’
‘All members of the firm are experts and provide very good legal advice adapted to biotechs. The firm is very responsive to deadlines and very professional. The quality of interaction and discussions with this firm are above other competitors. The team is dynamic.’
‘Barbara Bertholet obviously has senior experience but also a rare human dimension that is very appreciated and which makes the difference in the relationship with the client (discussion, support, understanding).’
Principaux clients
LYS Therapeutics
Principaux dossiers
- Assisted with organising regular training sessions for members of a non-profit organisation, which includes CROs and investigator centres, to address questions on regulatory issues related to clinical trials (pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and IVDs).
- Assisting a medical technology company specialising in innovative software solutions for the planning and treatment of neurovascular diseases, particularly aneurysms, with contracts involving its US subsidiary to manage data flows and protect intellectual property related to its software.
- Assisting a French company that specialised in the production of food supplements, regarding the termination of its relationship with an influencer, mainly after the publication of a controversial position that may have a negative impact on its image.
Ginestié Magellan Paley-Vincent
Ginestié Magellan Paley-Vincent regularly assists both public and private healthcare establishments and investors with practice contracts and professional ethics issues. Nathalie Boudet-Gizardin heads the practice, and is recommended for her deep experience in assisting healthcare professionals with criminal proceedings and partnerships with health entities. Fabienne Kerebel and Camille Faour are other key figures within the team, with Kerebel standing out for her vast knowledge of M&A and corporate governance issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Nathalie Boudet-Gizardin
Autres avocats clés:
Fabienne Kerebel; Camille Faour
Principaux clients
Cerba Healthcare
Principaux dossiers
Intuity
Led by Christophe Hénin, the team at Intuity is well equipped to assist with product liability claims and reimbursement issues, in addition market authorisation negotiations. Hailed by clients for ‘his experience and knowledge of the pharmaceutical field’, Hénin is particularly adept at handling distribution, product liability, and data protection issues, while Alain Gorny has vast experience in pharma advertising disputes.
Responsables de la pratique:
Christophe Hénin
Autres avocats clés:
Alain Gorny
Les références
‘Intuity’s reputation is well-established: this firm is a must.’
‘Christophe Hénin’s experience and knowledge of the pharmaceutical field place him far above others. Working with him or against him is an opportunity or a challenge depending on the case, because we know that we are dealing with a brilliant opponent as well as a highly experienced colleague and very wise advisor.’
Principaux clients
Ordre De Malte De France
Viatris
Sandoz
Polpharma
Principaux dossiers
- Advised ORDRE DE MALTE on its dealings with ANSM in relation to its pharmaceutical establishment.
- Advising and representing Viatris, Sandoz and Polpharma on marketing generic products and on the scope and legal implications of the ECJ judgment of March 16, 2023 (Joined Cases C-438/21 P to C-440/21 P).
Lerins & BCW
LERINS is known for its specialism in M&A, healthcare real estate, and takeovers of public and private healthcare establishments. Practice head Luc Castagnet is particularly adept at assisting investment funds and private healthcare entities with M&A and public-private partnership-related issues. Bertrand Vorms is well equipped to handle practice contracts, often representing healthcare manufacturers and healthcare coordination groups, while public health expert Bruno Lorit often advises on pricing disputes and issues arising as a result of collaboration between healthcare entities.
Responsables de la pratique:
Luc Castagnet
Autres avocats clés:
Bertrand Vorms; Bruno Lorit; Isaure Bouvier
Les références
‘Great availability. Exceptional ability to put a team in place very quickly depending on the nature and urgency of the subject.’
‘Responsive, sensible, efficient and precise.’
‘Bertrand Vorms: efficient, professional, fast, sharp, able to advise and adapt.’
Principaux clients
Almaviva
Euryale
Groupe Barrière
Groupe Elsan
Groupe Olympe Imagerie
Groupe Saint-Gatien
Hôpital Privé de l’Aube
Hôpitaux du Léman
Hospi Grand Ouest
Imagerie Duroc
K-Particulier
La Renaissance Sanitaire
Optical Center
Parquest
SNCPRE
Power Factory Sniffy
Vivalto Partners
Vivalto Santé Investissement
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Parquest on the acquisition of a stake in radiology practices (€7million) and on the legal structuring of the transaction, with regard to the corporate and regulatory aspects, in particular in relation to the French Medical Council.
- Advised public and private healthcare operators on the takeover of a private clinic creation of a GCS (groupement de coopération sanitaire) governed by private law and subject to public charges.
- Represented the Power Factory company distributing the Sniffy energy powder, banned by a ministerial decree dated July 25, 2024, which was challenged before the Conseil d’Etat (France’s highest administrative court) as part of an appeal on the merits and a suspension petition.
MCE CARREL
MCE CARREL is particularly active across the biotech industry, often assisting with investment and commercialisation issues. Alexandra Carrel is noted for her vast knowledge of mandates concerning the manufacturing, production, and distribution of healthcare products, and the negotiation of licence and collaboration agreements. Drawing on her prior expertise within the pharma industry, Mathilde Salavin often advises on clinical trial agreements and commercial partnerships.
Responsables de la pratique:
Alexandra Carrel; Mathilde Salavin
Autres avocats clés:
Cédric Hascoet; Antoine Robin
Les références
‘Very good listening skills and good understanding of our needs, availability and responsiveness of the team, pragmatic and wise advice in the face of our problems.’
‘Alexandra Carrel is a high-quality partner, and a very good, wise and strategic advisor who knows how to stay on top of her files.’
‘Personalised support directly by a senior, in-depth support on a wide range of contracts (commercial, intellectual property, etc.) as well as on the prevention and management of disputes. Very fluid communication.’
‘Alexandra Carrel stands out for her responsiveness, accessibility, relevance and level of analysis, and range of skills (both in the direct negotiation of licensing agreements with pharma and in the prevention of litigation, contractual issues, legal analysis and advice in the field of HealthTech and medicine). Double registration with the Paris and Geneva bars. Truly remarkable support.’
‘The team has always been fully invested and proactive at our side, especially the management team (Alexandra Carrel in particular).’
‘Alexandra Carrel is a person with rare qualities, strong legal expertise, and knowledge of both French and Swiss law, which is very practical when you negotiate internationally and must offer a neutral jurisdiction. She is a person of great intelligence.’
‘The firm’s team works in a coordinated manner to provide the best possible service according to specific requests. Young recruits are very involved. The distribution of tasks according to the different specialties allows for efficient work and the entire firm has excellent relations with other teams in the biotech sector, which allows for particularly effective work during negotiations. Very personal management of cases, young and dynamic team, serious and involved.’
‘Alexandra Carrel has a very in-depth knowledge of the practices of the biotech sector, in addition to being incredibly available for small businesses. Antoine Robin is extremely thorough and available.’
Principaux clients
Imcheck
Egle Therapeutics
Advesya
Carthera
Theradial
Vect-Horus
Phost’In
Biodol
Emglev
Superbranche
ADREP Calym
LYSARC
CHU de Nîmes
UPEC
Epigene Labs
Genoscreen
Everzom
Gencovery
Dianosic
Blackleaf
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Vect-Horus on the negotiation of an exclusive licence agreement with Novo Nordisk to develop targeted therapeutics.
- Advised Vect-Horus on the negotiation of an exclusive licence agreement with Ionis Pharma for the treatment of neurological diseases, with a double digit upfront for Vect-Horus.
- Advised Phost’In on the negotiation of an exclusive licence agreement to exploit Phost’in Therapeutics’s cutting-edge technologies targeting N-glycosylation to bring benefit to oncology and fibrosis patients.
Osborne Clarke
The broad and ‘extremely competent’ offering at Osborne Clarke often assists clients which are active within the medtech and pharma industries, particularly in relation to rare diseases. Thomas Devred leads the team, and is well equipped to advise on licensing, market access, and supply chain issues, in addition to handling data privacy issues involving patient data. Regulatory expert Léa Masson-Boukobza often acts for medical device and pharma clients in matters involving anti-gift rules, advertising, and clinical trials.
Responsables de la pratique:
Thomas Devred
Autres avocats clés:
Léa Masson-Boukobza
Les références
‘The team is extremely competent and fully invested in answering the questions asked. I warmly recommend this team and in particular Thomas Devred who is a very great professional.’
‘Thomas Devred has extensive experience in this field. His industry experience is a major asset in answering the questions and expectations of his clients.’
‘In-depth analysis, quality of exchanges, responsiveness and availability.’
Principaux clients
Act for Health – Pro Case Management
Amryt Pharmaceuticals
Corin
FédéPSAD
Grifols
Horizon Therapeutics
Karl Storz
Santhera Pharmaceuticals
Revolution Medicines
Unicancer
pharma&
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Grifols on the acquisition of Biotest and integration of compassionate use programmes for pharma products.
- Advised Karl Storz on an R&D cooperation to train artificial intelligence with patients’ data and upgrade medical devices.
- Advised Santhera Pharma on digital communication for the launch of a rare disease pharma product.
Product Law Firm
Product Law Firm is active across the medical device and healthcare industries. Paul-Henry Devèze leads the team with his strong knowledge of R&D, marketing, and distribution mandates, in addition to acting in criminal medical law cases concerning the liability of healthcare professionals and providers. Antoine De Brosses is noted for his specialism in food law.
Responsables de la pratique:
Paul-Henry Devèze
Autres avocats clés:
Antoine de Brosses
Les références
‘They have extensive experience on legal issues related to products, including medical devices, which makes them trustworthy. Paul-Henry Devèze in particular has a precise knowledge of these aspects, which enables him to help build the roadmap needed to achieve compliance in the life sciences sector.’
‘Paul-Henry Devèze is a smart lawyer and an asset to a strong team. He gets personally involved in projects, keeps abreast of changing needs and adapts easily. His responsiveness is an advantage when it comes to moving projects forward in complete confidence.’
‘Pragmatic and efficient.’
Principaux dossiers
Squire Patton Boggs
Jointly led by Carole Sportes and Valérie Ravit, the team at Squire Patton Boggs is recommended for its specialism in administrative and commercial proceedings and investigations, and is praised by clients for its ‘exceptional mastery’ of product liability law. The team is also well equipped to assist with investment matters. In addition to heading the firm’s international disputes group, Sportes is a key name for product liability claims, an area in which Ravit is also an expert.
Responsables de la pratique:
Carole Sportes; Valérie Ravit
Autres avocats clés:
Nora Mazeaud
Les références
‘As a client who has benefitted from the services of Squire Patton Boggs for product liability litigation, I would like to highlight the expertise and competence of the team. They demonstrate an exceptional mastery of the legal aspects related to product liability, and have an in-depth knowledge of the pharmaceutical sector. In addition, their responsiveness and availability at each stage of our collaboration have been exemplary. I highly recommend this firm for their professionalism and their ability to provide a high-quality service.’
‘Nora Mazeaud stands out for her qualities and professionalism. Communication with Nora is always fluid and effective. She listens to her clients, which allows her to fully understand the issues and specific needs of each case. Her professionalism is undeniable, and she demonstrates remarkable competence in handling product liability cases.’
Principaux clients
RIM
Principaux dossiers
Taliens
Regularly representing pharma companies in SPC appeals, the team at Taliens is also adept at handling trade secret litigation. Grégoire Triet is noted for his expertise in SPC cases, while Jean-Frédéric Gaultier stands out due to his deep knowledge of unfair competition and IP litigation.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jean-Frédéric Gaultier; Clara Steinitz; Grégoire Triet
Autres avocats clés:
Tougane Loumeau
UGGC Avocats
UGGC Avocats houses a ‘close-knit and technically advanced’ team which acts for both domestic and global pharma companies and venture capital firms. Practice co-head Sylvie Welsch is an expert in mass litigation concerning medical liability and mandates involving the promotion of health products. ‘Highly skilled professional’ Malka Marcinkowski co-leads the team and is noted for assisting clients with issues concerning CE marking and product distribution, while Alison Leroy is a key contact for real estate projects within the pharma industry, often assisting healthcare institutions.
Responsables de la pratique:
Sylvie Welsch; Malka Marcinkowski
Autres avocats clés:
Alison Leroy
Les références
‘Malka Marcinkowski is extremely pragmatic and knowledgeable. We found the team to be strong and personable, and really easy to work with and collaborative in its approach. Clearly there is a strong team bond and we felt supported and part of a very effective friendly team. We had an urgent matter that the team supported us with efficiently in the timeframe.’
‘Malka Marcinkowski is a highly skilled professional – she stands out as being trustworthy, easy to work with and indeed enjoyable to work with.’
‘A close-knit and technically advanced team.’
‘The UGGC team is a team that excels in its practice, strategic proposals and advice.’
‘Sylvie Welsch has a very high level of competence, and she makes strong proposals in particularly complex and sensitive situations. She also knows how to be available and attentive to the needs of the client.’
‘Alison Leroy’s team stands out for its great responsiveness and its ability to interact with ease with our business teams, and to understand both the legal and operational issues of the projects we entrust to it. I particularly appreciate their ease in taking on projects as if they were real members of our internal legal department.’
‘I am mainly in contact with Alison Leroy who has demonstrated an ability to assist us with great pragmatism while maintaining high legal quality. Alison has been able to help us on projects even at the last minute, always with the same sympathy and professionalism. She is a real Swiss army knife for our team.’
Principaux clients
Les Laboratoires Servier
AdBio partners
Tridek-One
Bpifrance
Therinvest
ANS
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Guadeloupe
Advent France biotechnology
Innothera Group
Olmix Group
DocCity
Principaux dossiers
- Advised Servier in connection with the Innovative Health Initiative (IHI) consortium, an EU public-private partnership funding health research and innovation, and more specifically in the overhaul of its governance of the existing and future consortium.
- Advised Servier and BioLabs on the establishment of the Spartners incubator in France.
- Advised Servier in connection with the opening of the Servier R&D Institute in Paris-Saclay, the renovation of its headquarters in Suresnes, and the closure of certain research centres to open them in the Servier Institute in Paris-Saclay.