Darrois Villey Maillot Brochier has an impressive track record and acts for leading French companies, banks and financial institutions on their largest and most strategic domestic and global transactions. The team is particularly skilled at dealing with large publicly listed transactions and contested takeovers. It recently worked on a groundbreaking deal concerning the squeeze of one of France’s most high-profile companies by the French state. The team’s strong ranks include the highly experienced Bertrand Cardi, Pierre Casanova, Hugo Diener, Olivier Huyghues Despointes, Christophe Vinsonneau and Laurent Gautier. Of note, Cécile de Narp was promoted to partner in 2023. Marcus Billam left the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘An incredible team of talented lawyers, offering spotless, business oriented and straight to the point services. They provide insightful advise on all domains.’
‘Bertrand Cardi is reliable, innovative, understands the business of his clients and provides clear answers.’
‘Extremely creative and rigorous team'.
‘Very good technical knowledge’.
‘Olivier Huygues Despointes: very good technical knowledge’.
‘Availability, high technique’.
'Darrois' M&A practice occupies a privileged position in the French and the global legal market. They show powerful dedication to client services, creativity, best-in-market legal knowledge and a practical approach that make the firm a powerhouse.'
'The team's dedication to their clients is unparalleled. Bertrand Cardi, Pierre Casanova and Olivier Huyghues Despointes stand out for their energy and commitment to clients, their creative approach to M&A practice and their collaborative approach with other co-counsels around the world.'
Key clients
- Accor
- Albioma
- Banque Postale
- BPCE
- Bouygues
- EDF
- Europcar Mobility Group
- Kering
- Ligue de Football Professionnel
- Société Générale
- Suez
Work highlights
- Advised Kering on the acquisition of a € 1.7 billion stake in Valentino.
- Advised Société Générale in connection with the €5 billion acquisition of LeasePlan
- Advised Bouygues in connection with the €7 billion acquisition of Equans from Engie.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Bertrand Cardi