Admitted to both the Paris and the New York Bars, Sophie Scemla's expertise focuses on international litigation and white collar crime, with a particular emphasis on international cooperation and internal investigations. She has managed international disputes, extensive international fraud cases, international money laundering, tax fraud and criminal proceedings. Sophie has been involved in several high-profile criminal matters and international corruption cases (some in connection with the "Oil for Food" case), in the negotiation of agreements with foreign authorities. Regularly involved in conducting corporate investigations in France, Africa and Asia, Sophie recently coordinated international investigations involving the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, China, Angola and Brazil, and has implemented compliance programs and risk-mapping for a number of French and international groups. Sophie has assisted French and foreign companies in the context of international cooperation cases, notably to invoke the French blocking statute and trade secret regulations in order to limit the transmission of information to foreign authorities.
Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I.
The ‘dynamic and pragmatic team’ at Gide Loyrette Nouel A.A.R.P.I. is noted for its expertise in conducting internal investigations involving issues such as anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, duty of vigilance and breach of international sanctions. The practice is also well placed to assist with the implementation of compliance programmes, in addition to advising on matters concerning cyber security and data protection regulations. The ’remarkable’ Sophie Scemla, who acts for domestic and international clients in compliance audits led by the AFA, and advises on the setting up of anti-corruption compliance programmes, jointly leads the group alongside Bruno Quentin and Jean-Philippe Pons-Henry.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘This team is responsive and available. It covers a wide range of compliance, including anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, sanctions and protection of personal data.’
‘Sophie Scemla and Diane Paillot de Montabert stand out.’
‘Available, responsive and constructive.’
‘Sophie Scemla and Diane Paillot de Montabert are very attentive.’
‘The team is innovative and attentive. The investigations team offers a comprehensive service and our relationship is based on trust.’
‘Sophie Scemla is remarkable.’
‘A very dynamic and pragmatic team, with good knowledge of white-collar criminal law. They are proactive with their clients and have excellent compliance expertise.’
‘Sophie Scemla is an excellent lawyer.’
Key clients
- Doris Group
- Mediterranean Shipping Company
Work highlights
- Represented AXA Banque, a subsidiary of AXA that focuses on retail banking in France, in a disciplinary procedure initiated by the banking supervisor for alleged failure to comply with certain regulations related to AML/CFT matters.
- Assisted insurance company Allianz in drawing up a risk map for its insurance and reinsurance business, and in setting up an AML compliance system.
Lawyers
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Sophie Scemla, Bruno Quentin, Jean-Philippe Pons-Henry