Competition: EU

Latham & Watkins maintains its spot in the top band based on ongoing recognition of its repertoire and performance. The law firm showcases recent experience in phase I and II EU merger investigations into transactions in the healthcare, telecommunications and heavy industry sectors, as well as impressive behavioural mandates. It additionally defends clients in investigations into abuse of dominance and has experience in the complainant side of similar investigations. Its lawyers also represent clients in appeals to the CJEU and the EGC against EC decisions, particularly concerning cartel fines. The law firm complements its practice with expertise in state aid matters, including high-profile cases that relate to tax rulings for individual companies.

"What I really appreciated is the fact the team quickly got into the details and technical aspects of our business. It showed business acumen and understood the issues quickly."

"I rely heavily on the lawyers in Brussels for some of the company's most important issues. It is the quality of the lawyers, the thoroughness of their work and their judgement."

"It is a dream team that is fully dedicated to our file, and attentive to developments and side events."

"I believe the team differentiates itself through its extremely deep and in-depth knowledge of the subject matter, giving absolute reassurance that you are getting the best in the business but in a business-friendly approach."

"Latham & Watkins has really reached the top level in Brussels."

Latham & Watkins advised Viasat on phase II merger clearance proceedings before the European Commission for its USD7.3 billion acquisition of Immarsat.

Lars Kjølbye is the managing partner of Latham & Watkins in Brussels and he earns a top spot in the rankings this year. He plays a leading role in diverse matters ranging from merger clearance notifications through to the defence of technology sector clients in EC behavioural investigations. He additionally represents clients in EGC appeals against EC fine decisions. "Lars Kjølbye is very talented and skilled." "If I had a complex matter with money at stake, I would think of him." "Lars Kjølbye is very pragmatic and knowledgeable. He is an outstanding antitrust lawyer who understands the Commission."

Sven Völcker is often identified as a high-profile individual in Brussels handling top-end merger clearance cases that necessitate significant interaction with the EC, including appeals against prohibited mergers. He also defends clients in sensitive cartel and abuse of dominance investigations. In addition, Sven Völcker is admitted to the German Bar and experienced in handling merger notifications to the German FCO and challenges to FCO decisions. "We were in good hands with Sven Völcker." "He is pleasant to deal with and intelligent."

Moving up this year is Elisabetta Righini who is known for having experience in state aid as both a private practitioner and from her previous role at the Commission. She has notably acted for complainants to the EC and EGC alleging unlawful aid and is adept at advising on new regulations. "It is always a pleasure to work with her and she has plenty of experience." "I have found her ability to be two steps ahead and understand the approach needed to succeed to be very compelling and impressive." "Elisabetta Righini was also very creative in developing a legal strategy which tackled particular specificities of our company with the overall legal challenge in a very unique way." "She checks all possible issues and leaves no questions unanswered. She speaks clearly, slowly, making sure her interlocutors follow what sometimes are complex legal issues."

Héctor Armengod has handled market-leading transactions in the technology and construction sectors, bringing him an improved ranking this year. He is also involved in a wider range of merger mandates, including those with contentious elements and foreign direct investment filings. "Héctor Armengod has an ability to make sure that even the most complicated matters go smoothly and with as little drama as possible." "Héctor Armengod is an excellent relationship partner."

Javier Ruiz Calzado is particularly versed in competition litigation. He represents clients in CJEU and EGC appeals of Commission decisions connected to merger reviews and behavioural matters. Clients from the healthcare and aviation sectors turn to him for advice. "He is very polished in his delivery and can handle difficult people impressively. In terms of the law, he is clearly very experienced and knows what he is doing." "He is commercial and pragmatic."

Luca Crocco has experience in EC merger filings, including covering the EU side of complex global merger control mandates. He additionally represents clients in abuse of dominance investigations by the European Commission. "Luca Crocco is an excellent lawyer in terms of when you need clear-cut advice on tricky areas." "Luca Crocco is a very smooth operator, has a good ability to manage things and is very efficient." "I found him really nice to work with and he handled his client very well."

Carles Esteva Mosso storms into the rankings this year with solid market support. Drawing from his previous position within the European Commission, he is a skilled adviser when it comes to advising telecommunications companies and private equity houses on merger clearance mandates, including phase II proceedings. "I found his advice to be incredibly helpful and the most valuable I have received." "Carles Esteva Mosso is always available to guide and provide strategic guidance." "He seems extremely knowledgeable and pragmatic."