Colibri Law Firm has been recognised once again by Chambers and Partners in their 2016 Asia Pacific edition.
Overall, Colibri Law Firm has been ranked as Band 1 in Uzbekistan, Band 4 in Kazakhstan, Band 2 in Kyrgyzstan, and Band 2 in Tajikistan.
Plus, the firm is the only one to be ranked in four jurisdictions throughout the Central Asian region.
Seven of Colibri’s lawyers have been individually listed as leading practitioners across the region, which is more than any other firm in Central Asia. In addition, Zafar Malikov is recognised as an ’eminent practitioner’ and rainmaker who does an “absolutely fantastic job”.
Jurisdictional breakdown
Kazakhstan
Colibri’s Almaty corporate and finance practice is ranked as Band 4.
Colibri partner Otabek Suleimanov is recognised as “an expert in Kazakh insurance law” and praised for the timely and solution-oriented service he provides.
Chambers highlights the firm’s work on a complex construction model contract, complex insurance law advice provided to Zurich, and its joint work with both Fieldfisher and Pinsent Masons.
Clients praise the team, describing them as “very good lawyers technically with a sound understanding of how transactions work on a global scale.” Clients also comment that “Colibri know where we are coming from so are able to point things out ahead of time.”
Uzbekistan
Colibri’s Uzbek practice is ranked as Band 1, with four lawyers recognised for their expertise and skill.
Umid Aripdjanov is described as a “smart and experienced lawyer” who provides “practical, quick and on-point” advice.
Ravshan Rakhmanov is recognised for his international experience and particular focus on the oil and gas and telecoms sectors.
Zafar Malikov is listed as an eminent practitioner, and is very well regarded as a rainmaking partner who “does an absolutely fantastic job.”
Ravshan Adilov is recognised as an ‘up and coming’ lawyer. Clients appreciate sound familiarity with the local regulatory framework, describing him as a “bright lawyer with the ability to deal with a wide range of legal issues.”
Kyrgyzstan
Colibri’s Kyrgyz team is ranked as Band 2 and is praised by clients as “young and proactive”. Once again, international clients note the team’s “solution-oriented approach, as well as their quick and to-the-point responses.”
Denis Bagrov’s focus on mining and infrastructure is noted, with mention made of his work on the corporate restructuring of the Kumtor gold mining project, in conjunction with DLA Piper.
Kerim Begaliev, promoted to partner since last year’s rankings, is also recognised as an ‘up and coming’ lawyer by Chambers, with clients describing him as “responsive to questions raised and timely in providing answers.”
Tajikistan
Colibri’s Tajik team is ranked as Band 2 by Chambers as it “excels in banking and finance, and has further strengths in infrastructure matters and litigation.”
Clients comment that Colibri’s lawyers are “knowledgeable and responsive, and provide valuable input on local law issues”, with Khujanazar Aslamshoev indicated as the main point of contact.
Chambers also notes the team’s work with key clients ICD, IFC and EBRD, as well as with a number of leading international law firms, including Clifford Chance.