Praised for its ‘outstanding expertise and performance level’, Sayenko Kharenko has a strong track record in litigation before all courts and administrative bodies, including the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. The team’s diverse roster of clients ranges from key corporates and industry players to domestic and international banks to private investors and HNW individuals. It houses an active international arbitration practice, which also excels in arbitral award enforcement. The group also advises on compensation for damages against the Russian Federation. Olexander Droug’s multi-jurisdictional disputes practice sees him represent both local and foreign clients in international arbitration and cross-border commercial litigation. Practice co-head Olena Sukmanova is experienced in the public and private sectors, with specialist knowledge of land disputes, anti-raiding, debt collection and investment protection. Oleksiy Koltok co-leads the litigation group and also brings to the team expertise in out-of-court dispute resolution. Tatyana Slipachuk is regularly called upon as an arbitrator and Ukrainian law expert. Promoted to Counsel in February 2024, Sergiy Protyven is active in bankruptcy and enforcement proceedings.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Dispute resolution team of Sayenko Kharenko is a top-notch Ukrainian team which always provides high-end services with diligence, expertise and exclusive approach. Team always strives for perfection and meets all goals.’

  • ‘Individuals of dispute resolution team of Sayenko Kharenko are professionals with outstanding expertise and performance level who know how to address any situation.’

  • ‘We are very satisfied with our work with the litigation team. They have developed an effective litigation strategy to defend the decisions made by the Ethics Council. We always feel supported by Sayenko Kharenko and can confidently recommend them as qualified attorneys who can offer a comprehensive approach to solving complex problems.’

  • ‘Oleksiy Koltok is a partner in Sayenko Kharenko's litigation practice and our key contact. His support is always timely and practical, and his deep expertise in litigation is evident. His unique ability to come up with creative solutions to complex problems truly sets him apart. Olena Sukmanova is also a key figure in Sayenko Kharenko's litigation practice. Her strategic and managerial abilities are outstanding, and her skill in handling complex legal issues makes her a valuable partner in our collaboration. Sergiy Protyven consistently showcases his exceptional litigation skills. His strategic mindset, combined with a deep understanding of legal matters, is the feature we value the most. Zhanna Zayets is an expert lawyer and a key member of Sayenko Kharenko’s litigation team. Zhanna has profound knowledge in litigation, which has been pivotal in our successful outcomes. Anastasiia Marushchak is a promising professional we are working with closely. Her analytical approach and ability to handle various tasks effectively has been contributing to developing and executing client litigation strategies.’

  • ‘We are extremely pleased with the exceptional service provided by Sayenko Kharenko dispute resolution team. The firm displays a remarkable ability to handle complex legal issues with clarity and precision. Sayenko Kharenko team's proactive approach, coupled with strong negotiation skills, help resolve the matter efficiently and effectively.’

  • ‘The communication throughout the process is seamless, and we appreciate the consistent updates and transparency. Team's dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for the client is truly commendable, and we value the partnership we have developed.’

  • ‘Skilled team with excellent knowledge and experience in international arbitration and dispute resolution.’

  • ‘Excellent knowledge and attention to detail from Olexander Droug and Tatyana Slipachuk.’

Key clients

  • Auchan
  • BigCommerce LLC
  • Ceetrus
  • EBRD
  • LLC 'Dniprovska Riviera'
  • PJSC Ukrtatnafta
  • PrJSC Kyivstar
  • Shell Ukraine
  • The Advisory Group of Experts
  • The Ethics Council
  • The State of Ukraine

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.
Sergey Pogrebnoy
Hall of fameSayenko Kharenko
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Olexander Droug
Sayenko Kharenko
Olena Sukmanova
Sayenko Kharenko
Oleksiy Koltok
Sayenko Kharenko

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Olexander Droug, Sergiy Pogrebnoy, Olena Sukmanova, Oleksiy Koltok, Olga Vorozhbyt

Other key lawyers

Tatyana Slipachuk, Sergiy Protyven, Zhanna Zayets, Alina Danyleiko, Anastasiia Marushchak