With a focus on transactional tax structuring, Abou Jaoude & Associates Law Firm is well-versed in corporate reorganisations. Carlos Abou Jaoude is regarded for his transactional expertise, while Souraya Machnouk is a key contact for public sector entities. Ibrahim Barraj is noted for his strength in corporate matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Souraya Machnouk is an exceptional commercially minded operator with a deep understanding of the Lebanese legal framework.’
  • ‘An excellent team, which is devoted to their work and knowledgeable of their files.’
  • ‘The firm is able to service clients on cross-border matters involving several jurisdictions.’
  • ‘Carlos Abou Jaoude’s experience in Lebanon and abroad in international finance and tax allow him to successfully handle the difficult legal challenges arising from the ever-changing business environment.’
  • ‘Souraya Machnouk is constantly able to provide effective and realistic solutions to the clients’ complex legal problems.’
  • ‘Souraya Machnouk is meticulous is her work and is always readily available to guide clients through any situation as she has abundant knowledge and experience in the finance field.’
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Key clients

  • Amazon
  • UBS
  • NCR Corporation
  • Orange Telecoms
  • Fadaat Media Group
  • Qatar Energy
  • The Body Shop
  • Collège Protestant Français
  • Laceco Architects & Engineers
  • ALMAZA Group Benta Group

Work highlights

  • Advised leading French global telecoms group Orange, on the highly complex tax and corporate reorganisation of its legal presence in Lebanon, involving the conversion of a branch into a company and valuation issues related to the transfer of assets and goodwill.
  • Advised the largest global private bank UBS, on the highly complex tax regulatory framework governing the transfer of Credit Suisse Lebanon to UBS AG pursuant to the global merger by absorption between the UBS and Credit Suisse banking groups, involving the transfer of assets and liabilities through universal succession.
  • Advised leading American global fast-food company, Subway on the complex tax regulatory framework governing its exit from the Lebanese market through the liquidation and de-registration of its branch.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Carlos Abou Jaoude, Souraya Machnouk, Ibrahim Barraj