The boutique Tomov & Tomov has extensive expertise in international arbitration, particularly investment treaty arbitration and commercial arbitration under the rules of an array of institutions, namely ICSID, ICC and UNCITRAL, with recent matters concerning the energy and real estate sectors. Leading the practice is Lazar Tomov, who is praised for his ‘pure legal excellence’ and continues to represent the state in complex and high-value matters. Sylvia Steeva is also highly experienced in this field.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Tomov & Tomov's practice is entirely focused on international and domestic arbitration and litigation, and this makes it unique for Bulgaria. The team includes lawyers who are knowledgeable and diligent. Due to their expertise, they are capable of dealing with complex legal and factual matters in an organised and efficient way. We had excellent cooperation with them because they have fast response times and provide clear and concise advice.’

  • ‘I have worked mostly with Lazar Tomov and Sylvia Steeva. Tomov's advocacy skills were put to the test in many cases, and they always met the highest professional standards. He impresses with his legal knowledge in public international law and international investment arbitration, and with a clear strategic judgment. His work is pure legal excellence. Steeva is an excellent and reliable lawyer. She is knowledgeable, and patient with the details. Her contribution for the successful outcome of the cases is significant and undisputed.’

  • ‘Tomov & Tomov has unique expertise in domestic and international arbitration and litigation. Its team comprises bright and knowledgeable lawyers who work with dedication and precision to win the cases of their clients. They are well organised and deal with complex legal and factual matters very efficiently.’

  • ‘I have worked with Lazar Tomov and Sylvia Steeva. The depth of Mr. Tomov's legal knowledge, especially in public international law, is unmeasurable, and the versatility of his arbitration experience is invaluable. His advocacy skills and strategic judgment are admirable/fascinating. His logical legal thinking and focus are undisturbed even in difficult situations. Sylvia Steeva is one of the best lawyers I have worked with. She is knowledgeable and attentive. Her work meets the highest professional standards.’

Key clients

  • The Republic of Bulgaria through its Ministry of Finance
  • White & Case LLP
  • Arnold & Porter LLP

Work highlights

  • Representing the Republic of Bulgaria in three international investment arbitrations before ICSID, two in the energy sector, one in real estate.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Lazar Tomov

Other key lawyers

Sylvia Steeva, Yoana Yovnova