Chambers Global

Tax

Firm rating – Band 1

Individual ratings

Sergey Pepeliaev, Band Star

Described by sources as a "guru of tax litigation," Sergey Pepeliaev enjoys a stellar reputation for his unrivalled expertise in Russian tax law, and continues to actively participate in contentious tax cases.

Rustem Ahmetshin, Band 2

“Rustem Ahmetshin acts on tax litigation mandates, particularly those with cross-border aspects, focusing on clients in the pharmaceutical sector.”

Clients describe him as "a well-known local expert with strong experience on the Russian market who always delivers what we need."

Valentina Akimova, Band 3

“Valentina Akimova is active on tax consultancy work. Her practice covers questions regarding transfer pricing and VAT, while she also represents clients in court.”

Andrey Nikonov, Band 3

“Andrey Nikonov advises key clients in the oil and gas sector, as well as financial institutions, focusing on litigious tax mandates.” Market commentators describe him as a "strong lawyer."

Sergey Sosnovsky, Band 3

“St Petersburg practice head Sergey Sosnovsky is one of the leading tax experts in north-west Russia, actively representing clients in tax disputes before the courts.”

Intellectual Property

Firm rating – Band 3

Individual rating – Valentina Orlova, Band 2

“Valentina Orlova focuses on IP consultancy instructions including providing legal opinions and acting as a technical expert. She is also a recognised academic in this area, frequently assisting with the drafting of IP legislation.”

"She knows how Rospatent works inside out," a source confirms.

Corporate / M&A

Firm rating – Band 4

Individual rating – Vladimir Sokov, Band 5

Practice head Vladimir Sokov is described by clients as "very knowledgeable of corporate law." He has significant experience of the life sciences sector.

Dispute resolution

Firm rating – Band 4

“Yuri Vorobyev heads the dispute resolution and mediation practice, and is the key point of contact. The team is best known for tax litigation.”