Avance receives again outstanding rankings in all its core competencies by two of the most reputable global ranking publications, Chambers Europe and Legal 500. In the newly released 2017 editions, clients and peers have commented on “dynamic”, “partner-driven” and “extremely experienced” Avance and its individual lawyers e.g. as follows:
Corporate/M&A
Clients praise the firm’s “dynamic and young team and they have a very international approach, which is good for transactions.” One client particularly values the level of partner involvement at the firm, describing it as “a partner-driven organisation which gives very good advice throughout the process. It is a fantastic firm, one of the best I have ever worked with.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
The team’s level of client service, dedication and promptness are praised by clients: “The team is very flexible and capable, operating on short response times. They have profound insight into clients’ overall objectives and interests, not just the contract at hand, and they have superb execution.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Ilkka Perheentupa is described by clients as “a very dynamic and talented person who is technically gifted, pragmatic and experienced, with an international background.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Avance Attorneys Ltd is “nimble, fast and extremely experienced“. It advised a consortium led by Tencent on its acquisition of 84% of Supercell, valued at $10.2bn. Onvest, Altor and Alma Media are also clients. Erkki-Antti Sadinmaa is recommended for venture capital and private equity deals. Ulf-Henrik Kull and Mathias Lindqvist are other key contacts. (Legal 500 2017)
Ulf-Henrik Kull – selected for inclusion in the elite “Leading individuals” list. (Legal 500 2017)
Banking & Finance
Clients appreciate the breadth of the firm’s capabilities and the collaboration of the lawyers throughout the organisation: “I think they have a very good and talented team who like to work together. They are all specialists as well, with a broad range for a relatively small firm.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Sources also praised the firm’s working culture, with one client reporting: “They are very reliable and available: it is a partner-driven organisation and it gave very good advice throughout the process. A fantastic firm.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Selinda Näse is “responsive, technically skilled and knows banking well,” clients say. Sources say “Sari Wallgren is very good, she’s responsive, has international style and doesn’t overcomplicate things.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Real Estate
Clients commend the team for its “in-depth knowledge and strong negotiation skills.” According to clients, the lawyers are “very effective and very good.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Christoffer Charpentier and Mathias Lindqvist – selected for inclusion in the elite “Leading individuals” list. Senior associate Henrikki Tahkokallio is also recommended. (Legal 500 2017)
Energy& Natural Resources
Sources find the department “extremely customer-friendly and easy to work with” and reference the firm’s “excellent capabilities for cross-border transactions and very dedicated team.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Capital Markets
Clients say the team offers “excellent quality, billing flexibility and is capable of handling cross-border transactions” while also noting its “outstanding knowledge of covered bonds.” The firm also receives plaudits for the qualities of its individuals, with interviewees describing the lawyers as “knowledgeable, responsive and practical.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Robin Nordblad – selected for inclusion in the elite “Leading individuals” list. (Legal 500 2017)
Competition/European Law
The team draws praise from clients for its “quick responses” and “to-the-point advice.” According to clients, the lawyers are “able to learn fast, very approachable and client-friendly.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
Avance Attorneys Ltd has “solid industry background”. It advised If P&C Insurance on its complaint to the FCCA regarding an alleged abuse of dominant position by OP Group. Practice head Mikko Alkio is “practical, business-minded and solution-oriented”. (Legal 500 2017)
Intellectual Property
Recent highlights for Avance Attorneys Ltd include handling Next Games’ IP licensing issues, as well as advising Raisio and Benemilk on licensing negotiations with food manufacturers in multiple jurisdictions. The well-regarded Mikko Alkio heads the team. (Legal 500 2017)
Dispute Resolution
Clients say Ulla Vuokila of Avance Attorneys is “very easy and pleasant to work with,” highlighting her experience and technical knowledge as well as her “absolutely brilliant argumentation.” (Chambers Europe 2017)
To views the rankings in full, please visit the Chambers and Legal 500 websites.