Leveraging its ‘true understanding’, the team at Domanski Zakrzewski Palinka handles matters across the full spectrum of Polish and EU public procurement, concessions and PPP issues. Contractors bidding for public contracts in a range of sectors, from energy and construction, to healthcare and defence, turn to the team, which has recently advised on some of the most complex PPP projects on the Polish market. Spearheading the practice are the ’fully hands-on’ Katarzyna Kuźma, a key point of call for clients in the construction, energy, and waste management sectors seeking advice on infrastructure investments, and Marcin Krakowiak, who also serves as the infrastructure and energy department head. Tomasz Michalczyk is lauded by a client for his ‘creative solution-oriented attitude’ towards guiding contractors and contracting authorities through all stages of procurement procedures, particularly in the road and rail sectors. Wojciech Hartung specialises in issues involving public-public cooperation and competition law matters, while Tomasz Krzyżanowski, a recent addition to the team from Traple Konarski Podrecki & Partners, is experienced in the IT and TMT sectors. Marcin Gajdek regularly provides advice to clients with a focus on the Spanish market.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team has a true understanding and a holistic approach to client needs. The comprehensive view and knowledge of the sector gives added value compared to other law firms. I value the fact that they don't just point out the risks, but also assess their likelihood and think of solutions to the problem straight away.'

  • ‘Katarzyna Kuźma is a fully hands-on partner, very involved both in the legal analysis and in the direct communication with the client. She gives you the feeling that everything is under control. Wojciech Hartung has extremely broad knowledge of EU procurement law and can translate it into practice.’

  • ‘They supported us with various regulatory matters related to public procurement, including talks with the European Commission. They were involved in shaping the procurement system for a large infrastructure project, which is rather complex task.’

  • ‘I appreciate working with Katarzyna Kuźma and Wojciech Hartung. They both have an excellent approach to client expectations and problems, and they combine their open approach with deep knowledge, and willingness to solve any legal jigsaw with deep knowledge of public procurement regulations.'

  • 'Wojciech Hartung used to work for the Polish Public Procurement Authority which helps him to explain to the client the expectations of public authorities.'

  • ‘Tomasz Michalczyk; is one of the best lawyers in the public procurement law sector. Exceptional knowledge and competence and a creative solution-oriented attitude.'

  • ‘This practice's uniqueness lies in its responsive and helpful team, consistently delivering on promises. Clients can expect open communication and trust, as well as innovative perspectives. The team prioritises problem-solving and streamlined processes. Billing is transparent and adaptable to clients' needs.'

  • ‘The DZP team stands out for their profound grasp of essential materials, exceptional communication skills, and proactive approach. Their expertise consistently delivers superior results and well-informed client strategies. Notably, Katarzyna Kuźma excels in her ability to transform intricate concepts into actionable insights, and has great project management skills. Wojciech Hartung has proven invaluable in presenting results and recommendations clearly to top executives.'

Key clients

  • Zarząd Morskiego Portu Gdynia S.A. (The Port Authority of Gdynia)
  • The Royal Danish Embassy
  • PORR S.A. (VIE: POS)
  • Citybike Global
  • The Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy and the City of Kraków
  • Centrum Elektronicznych Usług Płatniczych eService Sp. z o.o., PKO Bank Polski S.A. and TECS Telecommunication & E-Commerce Solutions GmbH

Work highlights

  • Advising Zarząd Morskiego Portu Gdynia S.A. and the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy on selecting a private partner to implement a project to build an outer port at the Port of Gdynia.
  • Represented PORR S.A. in proceedings before the National Appeals Chamber concerning the outcome of tenders for the expansion of Ore Quay III and Bytom Quay at the Port of Gdansk, as well as the renewal of a rail tunnel in southern Poland.
  • Advising the City of Krakow Roads Authority on a PPP project in Poland concerning the design, construction and operation of Kraków Fast Tramway – stage IV.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Rising stars with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Domanski Zakrzewski Palinka
Partner in Infrastructure and Energy Practice. Specialises in matters concerning broadly understood infrastructure, public procurement and public-private partnerships. Advises both contractors and contracting authorities on all aspects of public procurement law at all stages of procurement procedures. He has extensive experience in handling tenders conducted by private entities with EU funds. Represents clients before the National Appeal Chamber and also in proceedings based on appeals filed with common courts. Advises in disputes in investments carried out by way of public procurement and in disputes between consortium members. Provides legal assistance with performance of infrastructure and investment projects, i.e. draftng and reviewing draft contracts required in the investment process and drawing up legal opinions and analyses for Polish and foreign business entities. Has broad experience gained while handling the preparation and performance of public and transport infrastructure projects carried out by public-private partnerships.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Domanski Zakrzewski Palinka
Heads the public procurement and environmental protection teams and specialises in Polish and EU law. Heads the team serving Spanish and German-speaking clients. Advises on complex investment projects carried out through partnership structures (PPP, concessions) and other forms of public-private cooperation, particularly with the participation of foreign entities. Advises private and public entities at all stages of public procurement procedures, when applying legal protection measures, and during performance of public contracts. Has extensive experience in advising clients in the construction, energy and waste management sectors. Has provided strategic advice to foreign entities expanding onto the Polish market and Polish businesses wishing to expand abroad.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Katarzyna Kuźma, Marcin Krakowiak

Other key lawyers

Tomasz Michalczyk, Wojciech Hartung, Tomasz Krzyżanowski, Marcin Gajdek