Since 1991, Legal 500 has been providing readers with an annually updated, impartial, third-party opinion on the leading law firms and lawyers in countries across the region. The EMEA guide provides researched coverage of over 80 countries and over 2,700 ranked law firms. The latest version, the Legal 500 Europe, Middle East and Africa 2024 edition, was published last week.
The rankings each year are based on the complexity of relevant projects worked on in the last 12 months, independent research and feedback from clients. The Bench retained all of its four individual and firm rankings again in 2024 including:
'Leading Individual' (Joby Beretta) for TMT (one of only 7 in the UAE) for the 11th year in a row;
Band 2 firm ranking for TMT (alongside A&O, CMS, Lathams, Simmons and White & Case);
Band 3 firm ranking for Real Estate (alongside A&O, Charles Russell, Clifford Chance, Dentons, King & Spalding and White & Case); and
Band 3 firm ranking for Intellectual Property (alongside CWB, Charles Russell, Eversheds and Simmons).
A massive thank you to all our clients and peers for your kind words again this year! Comments and testimonials from Legal 500 2024 include:
TMT
Legal 500 Comment:
The Bench is a boutique law firm with a core focus on TMT, offering a ‘breadth of expertise across the TMT sector’ that spans key areas such as fintech, e-commerce, data protection and TMT commercial agreements. The practice is led by the experienced team of Joby Beretta, Salio De Souza and Kelly Tymburski, with the latter being particularly well-known for her expertise in regulatory reform and development.
Testimonials:
‘They are so easy to work with, with experts across a wide range of areas to support whatever you need.’
‘Joby is not only supportive, but so easy to work with. He makes everything easy to understand and ensures he places the right team member for the right job. Things are clear, effective and efficient.’
‘Breadth of expertise across the TMT sector. Our company has utilised a range of the firms sector experience.’
Intellectual Property
Legal 500 Comment:
IP infringements, licensing, transactions and sponsorship agreements are regularly handled by the IP team at The Bench, which counts hospitality and TMT companies among its clients. Experienced practitioner Joby Beretta leads the team and is knowledgeable in data protection, e-commerce, franchising and sports law.
Testimonials:
‘A great team to work with. They make things easy and understandable for me and my team.’
‘Great people, doing a great job. We feel very comfortable working with them.’
‘Quick responses, and a breadth of legal expertise.’
Real Estate
Legal 500 Comment:
The Bench is often engaged in asset and facilities management agreements as well as commercial leasing; notably active in the hotels space, handling financing, franchise agreements, M&A, and mixed-use developments. Joby Beretta ‘provides strategic advice in complex real estate transactions and potential disputes', while Alexandra Plain advises investors on real estate acquisitions and disposals. Elise Gillians is experienced in construction as well as infrastructure projects. Yulande Neethling is a further contact to note.
Testimonials:
‘The Bench stands out due to its deep understanding of local laws and international practices.'
'The team’s dedication to understanding the unique needs of clients and offering a personalized service is what differentiates the practice.’
‘The Bench adopts a very collaborative approach.’
‘The team at The Bench is responsive, and simplifies complex legal issues. ’