Leading Associates

Firms To Watch: Leading firms

Established in 2023 by Ana Kolevska, Law Firm Ana Kolevska is a boutique firm specialising in energy and infrastructure.

Leading firms in North Macedonia

Apostolska, Aleksandrovski & Partners

Apostolska, Aleksandrovski & Partners is highly proficient in providing its wide client base with expertise in an abundance of corporate and commercial fields including M&A, IP mandates, regulatory compliance and competition law. The team excels in handling restructuring and financing projects, particularly specialising in the energy, IT and pharmaceutical sectors. A trio of experts heads the team: Igor Aleksandrovski takes the lead on the firm’s project work and complex corporate transactions; Emilija Apostolska Temov has specialities extending from M&A and IP law to disputes work; and Ivana Kostovska holds strong expertise in corporate and commercial law, aiding global clients across a wide industry focus.

Praxisleiter:

Igor Aleksandrovski; Emilija Apostolska Temov; Ivana Kostovska


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Svetlana Trendova


Referenzen

The team is very professional and knowledgeable. They are always on time and on point with their advice.’

‘Igor Aleksandrovski is the partner that we work with the most. Igor stands out for his exceptional business acumen and ability to provide precise, tailored legal advice. He offers a deep understanding of the market, always considering the commercial impact of every decision, which sets him apart from competitors.’

‘They have excellent expertise and competence, and a client-centred approach, with competent, hard-working and focused lawyers.’

Kernmandanten

Mega S Power


One Contact


DS SMITH


Colgate / Palmolive Adria


Phoenix Pharma


Rething


Kromberg and Schubert


Samsung


BIG Energia


Huawei


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Karanovic & Partners in cooperation with local lawyers

Karanovic & Partners in cooperation with local lawyers maintains a strong reputation for providing legal counsel to its global client base with particular activity in corporate structuring, PPPs and strategic investment projects. The team’s expertise spans diverse sectors including automotive, pharmaceutical and both renewable energy and oil and gas. Veton Qoku manages the team with focused expertise in M&A across various industries including automotive, telecoms and healthcare. Additionally, he excels in leading energy and infrastructure projects across North Macedonia, Kosovo and Albania. Ljupka Noveska Andonova supports the team with experience in banking and finance and corporate and commercial transactions for the firm’s global client base.

Praxisleiter:

Veton Qoku


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Ljupka Noveska Andonova


Referenzen

‘Responsiveness, broad support beyond legal matters. Knowledge of the sector.’

‘Ljupka Noveska Andonova has an in-depth knowledge of the sector and is able to support us in legal matters and beyond. An absolute asset in supporting our value creation. On top of that, she also leads an amazing team with clear delivery and further potential.’

‘Knowledgeable and experienced team in local public law and investment laws, regulations etc. Very responsive and pleasant to work with. ’

Kernmandanten

EBRD


VETEREN PARK VIROVI DOOEL


OSTRO SOLAR DOOEL Skopje (Akuo Energy)


Lear Corporation


Gülermak Ağır Sanayi İnşaat ve Taahhüt A.Ş.


Barclays Bank PLC and National Westminster PLC


Mytilineos S.A.


Nouvelles Générations d’Entrepreneurs (NGE)


CWP Europe


GEN-I d.o.o.


Paysera


Halk Banka AD Skopje


IDOM Spain


Slice Solutions Inc.


Deel Inc.


VDL Groep BV


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised VDL Groep BV on their takeover of Van Hool Macedonia DOOEL Ilinden, part of the bus manufacturer Van Hool in Belgium, which was going into bankruptcy.
  • Provided IDOM with comprehensive legal support after they were contracted to develop the studies for the sewerage and wastewater treatment system of Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia.
  • Advised Paysera, a fintech company that provides fast, convenient, and affordable financial and related services worldwide, on all corporate and regulatory requirements to obtaining a relevant licence from the National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia.

Polenak Law Firm

Polenak Law Firm maintains a strong reputation as a full-service local firm, well-established in handling project work, M&A and corporate and banking transactions for multinational and local clients. A quintet of specialised lawyers leads the group. Kristijan Polenak acts as managing partner and co-head of the banking and finance department alongside Tatjana Shishkovska, who is also a key figure in the corporate team. Metodija Velkov handles matters of competition, regulation and compliance, with additional specialities in IT law, taxation and personal data protection. Tanja Polenak tackles employment and labour issues for the firm’s domestic and global clients. Aleksandar Dimic excels in real estate work and handling litigation proceedings.

Praxisleiter:

Kristijan Polenak; Tatjana Shishkovska; Metodija Velkov; Tanja Polenak; Aleksandar Dimic


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Andrej Stojković


Referenzen

‘Experience, integrity, promptness’

‘Kristijan Polenak: experience, conciseness, honesty and integrity, creativity, availability, promptness.’

‘Aleksandar Dimic: experience, integrity, availability, promptness’

Kernmandanten

Adient


Aptiv


Inditex


Johnson Matthey


Joyson Safety Systems


Global Special Opportunities Fund


Philip Morris


Deutsche Telekom Group


Cevahir Holding


MAGNA Automotive Europe GmbH


LC Waikiki


Leopold Kostal GmbH


LIMAK Holding A.Ş.


HelleniQ Energy Holdings S.A.


TITAN Cement


Diaverum AB


NLB Banka AD Skopje


NLB Lease doo Skopje


NLB Skladi, upravljanje premozenja, d.o.o.


Gerresheimer Skopje


A1 Makedonija Telekom


Magna


Yildirim Group


Majorel


Public Power Corporation (Greece)


TAV Airports


Palmet Enerji A.Ş.


ALFI Renewables d.o.o.


Herbalife


Duferco


Metso


Roche


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Yildirim Group in purchasing the assets of Euronickel Industries, a large nickel producer in North Macedonia.
  • Advised NLB Skladi on the acquisition of 100% shares in Generali Investment AD Skopje, one of the leading investment fund management companies in North Macedonia.
  • Advised the Vienna Insurance Group AG in relation to the merger of its subsidiaries in North Macedonia, MAKEDONIJA Insurance AD Skopje – Vienna Insurance Group and Winner – Vienna Insurance Group AD Skopje.

Debarliev, Dameski & Kelesoska Attorneys at Law

Debarliev, Dameski & Kelesoska Attorneys at Law is a specialised business and corporate law firm that is knowledgeable in the fields of M&A, commercial, competition, and banking and finance law. Its expertise spans sectors including construction, automotive and telecoms. Praised for its mix of ‘both seasoned and young lawyers’, the firm has a strong pool of expertise to offer clients. Dragan Dameski handles an array of matters within finance and corporate law, advising clients on M&A, financing transactions and regulatory compliance. Jasmina Ilieva Jovanovik co-leads with Dameski on complex cross-border financing transactions as well as tackling competition law matters and M&A. Emilija Kelesoska Sholjakovska and Ivan Debarliev also aid in running the team; both are involved in investment projects and routine matters of corporate law. Eleonora Mishevska is also a valued team member, with growing knowledge in corporate and commercial matters.

Praxisleiter:

Dragan Dameski; Emilija Kelesoska Sholjakovska; Jasmina Ilieva Jovanovik; Ivan Debarliev


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Eleonora Mishevska; Ivo Ilievski


Referenzen

‘The DDK team consists of well-experienced lawyers – some of them have more than 20 years of practice and they are very well aware of the legal system, legislation and practices of various regulators and agencies in North Macedonia which gives comfort that this team may handle any kind of legal matter that our business may require. DDK has great knowledge of various industry sectors and also is well informed of the trends and future expectations in those industries.’

‘Great team, a mix of senior, seasoned lawyers and young lawyers that have an amazingly quick response to any legal question/request we may have. ’

‘Above average professionalism, quick reaction time, high-quality analyses and response in short deadlines. They all know our company dossier and cases in detail, and they provide high quality legal support to our business. ’

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Law Office Pepeljugoski

Law Office Pepeljugoski is a full-service law firm, with notable proficiency in matters of IP law. The firm is well-versed in obtaining trademark protection, managing portfolios and representing clients in court to prevent unfair competition. The group also tackles corporate matters and project work for its extensive client list, spanning an abundance of sectors. Valentin Pepeljugoski is the managing partner of the firm, alongside being a strong arbitrator and covering matters of IP rights and competition law. Aleksandar Trajkovski is routinely involved in M&A transactions, particularly the transfer of IP within the telecoms and energy sectors. Ana Pepeljugoska is a key team member with growing expertise in IP law and litigation.

Praxisleiter:

Valentin Pepeljugoski; Ana Pepeljugoska; Aleksandar Trajkovski


Referenzen

‘Professional and consistent, we have had a wonderful experience with the Pepeljugoski law office. Instead of other experiences, their documents are always previously well reviewed in order to save clients time and during the procedure they are proactive and transparent, implementing a systematic strategy to finalize the legal product. ’

‘The individuals that were collaborating with our company were available, reliable and knowledgeable. With their consistent and dedicated approach, they are focused on the solution and closure of the legal product.’

‘Law Office Pepeljugoski stands out in the market because they are excellent professionals, a team that delivers quality in their work, they care about their clients, and are always available to hear your needs and requirements. ’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised a multinational company on the international market of cigarettes and tobacco products with respect to intellectual property rights and consumer protection laws of different brands and the acquisition of new brands for the portfolio.
  • Revised a complex reorganization plan for the return of a loan to a large German-based bank in bankruptcy procedure.
  • Consulted and prepared legal opinions on the management of the trademarks and designs portfolio for a Skopje-based joint venture between two multinational beverage companies.

Papazoski and Mishev Law Firm

Papazoski and Mishev Law Firm offers a broad corporate practice encompassing venture capital, M&A and restructuring. The firm is also well-versed in managing energy infrastructure projects, performing due diligence and providing investment structuring advice. Kiril Papazoski is the managing partner with a sector focus on energy, aiding numerous clients with investing in wind farms and photovoltaic power plants. Ivan Mishev aids in leading the team with his specific expertise in financial services regulations, as well as advising clients in matters related to banking and capital markets. Jovan Vrtov and Vasko Sotkaroski are valuable assets to the group, supporting on corporate and commercial matters.

Praxisleiter:

Kiril Papazoski; Ivan Mishev


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jovan Vrtov; Vasko Sotkaroski; Božidar Milošević


Referenzen

‘The team is exceptionally knowledgeable and dedicated, consistently delivering outstanding value for money. Their commitment goes well beyond expectations, as they actively support us in every facet of our transactions and project work. No matter the challenge or timing, they are always available—even on short notice—demonstrating an impressive level of reliability and flexibility.’

‘Kiril Papazoski is an outstanding lawyer who consistently goes above and beyond to assist and support his clients, regardless of the complexity or nature of the issue. He leads a highly capable and motivated team, seamlessly blending deep legal expertise with sharp commercial insight. His ability to break down complex legal and regulatory matters into clear, understandable terms sets him apart, making even the most intricate issues accessible to clients. His dedication and leadership make him an invaluable asset in any legal matter.’

‘Vasko Sotkaroski is distinguished by his exceptional talent and readiness to tackle challenges that might cause even seasoned lawyers to falter. His ability to navigate complex legal matters with confidence and skill is matched by his dedication to supporting clients in every aspect, whether it’s a high-stakes issue or a seemingly simple task. Where others might consider certain duties beneath their expertise, Vasko’s willingness to go above and beyond demonstrates his commitment to delivering outstanding service, no matter the situation.’

Kernmandanten

Lidl


Generali Investments


Evroins Insurance


Alkazar Energy


SC Ventures


DM Drogerie Markt


Iute Credit


PaySpot


Kemet Corporation


Telamon Corporation


Wabtec Corporations


ArcelorMittal


MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company


Flutter


Tikvesh Winery


Sutas


ESM


TestDevLab


Bechtel Enka


Hotel Marriot Skopje


Slice Inc.


TAV Construction


Socotab


Diners International


Vaillant Group


Zegin Group


EVN Macedonia


RLDatix


MaxBet


Zvilo


Genesis Resources


LifeWatch


Coficab


Credissimo


Innofruit


Spilhuset


AppGreat


Pixyle


Perutnina Ptuj


Energy Active DOOEL Skopje


Energy Wind DOO Strumica


Ecolog International Dubai UAE


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CMS

CMS provides proficient legal and tax advisory services in a multitude of sectors, including IT, telecoms, banking, and pharmaceuticals. The firm is well-versed in handling energy and infrastructure projects as well as criminal and civil litigation proceedings. Radivoje Petrikić is the managing partner with expertise in commercial and M&A transactions and development projects. Marija Filipovska Jelčić has experience handling transactional matters within the Balkan region, specialising in energy, M&A, compliance and ESG law.

Praxisleiter:

Radivoje Petrikić; Marija Filipovska Jelcic


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Aleksandar Josimovski; Aleksandar Kralevski


Referenzen

‘What makes this practice different is a combination of deep expertise, client-focused service, and a strong track record. Specialising in specific legal areas, the firm offers high-quality, knowledgeable services, earning a reputation for excellence. They prioritise clients’ needs by providing personalised, proactive problem-solving and maintaining clear, honest communication.’

‘They uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrating transparency and integrity in all dealings. They leverage advanced technologies to improve efficiency and accuracy, fostering a forward-thinking approach. A talented team and a positive work environment attract and retain top talent, enhancing overall performance. ’

‘We deeply appreciate the exceptional dedication and expertise of our legal counsels. Their profound knowledge and strategic insights have been invaluable in navigating complex legal landscapes and ensuring our interests are always safeguarded. Their meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to ethical standards have consistently earned our trust and respect.’

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Georgi Dimitrov Attorneys

Georgi Dimitrov Attorneys boasts a seasoned team of experts who are particularly skilled in handling corporate and commercial disputes. The firm is well-versed in representing clients in the administrative courts as well as supporting them in investment arbitrations. Georgi Dimitrov is the managing partner who is regularly consulted in high-profile disputes and is also highly knowledgeable in employment issues and labour reorganisations. Katarina Ginoska often uses her expertise in project development and M&A to manage energy projects as well as taking the lead in several arbitration proceedings. Jane Ilijeski leads the competition department and focuses on rights disputes. Nadica Dimovska is also a strong team member as the head of the litigation department.

Praxisleiter:

Georgi Dimitrov; Katarina Ginoska; Jane Ilijeski; Nadica Dimovska


Referenzen

‘Very client-oriented, fast and professional service. Compared to other firms they make you feel important and pay attention to detail.’

‘Katarina and Georgi are both always going the extra mile for their client. They explore issues in detail and give you many possible options.’

‘Georgi Dimitrov Attorneys stands out due to its focus on delivering tailored legal solutions to clients, reflecting deep expertise in specific practice areas such as corporate law, litigation, intellectual property, real estate, or regulatory compliance. The firm distinguishes itself by offering a client-centric approach—they invest time in understanding each client’s unique circumstances, offering customized legal strategies instead of one-size-fits-all solutions.’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Alma Media Corporation on the acquisition of a local company.
  • Advised Open Mineral Ag regarding securing debt over a concessionary.
  • Advised Microsoft on a corporate matter.

JPM & Partners

JPM & Partners advises on legal matters across the board, focusing on IP law, M&A and regulatory work with industry-focused knowledge in the energy sector. A trio of experts heads the team, with Ivica Jevtic specialising in ESG standards whilst Ivana Jevtić Nikolova has great expertise in IP law. Ana Tošić Čubrinovski is also a key individual leading the group.

Praxisleiter:

Ivica Jevtić; Ana Tošić Čubrinovski; Ivana Jevtić Nikolova


Referenzen

‘Working with the firm, we have had the privilege of collaborating with two standout individuals who have consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise and professionalism: Ivica Jevtić and Ivana Jevtić Nikolova.’

‘Ivica Jevtić is a true expert in the combination of labour law and finance law, with a remarkable ability to navigate the complexities of these areas seamlessly. His deep understanding of both fields, coupled with his extensive experience, has been invaluable to our organization, particularly when addressing intricate employment matters or financial legalities.’

‘Ivana Jevtić Nikolova is an expert in commercial law, and her work has been nothing short of exemplary.’

Kernmandanten

Wurth Macedonia


Avicena


EUROANSWER


Dekra Arbeit Skopje


Minstroy Holding Bulgaria


DELTATRE HUB LLC Skopje


EVOLV HEALTH


ArrowMetals & Trading AG


Advant Code


Viator & Vektor LLC Skopje


Crayon Macedonia LLC Skopje


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised ArrowMetals and Trading AG in the collection of an over 100 million-dollar debt during a bankruptcy procedure.
  • Advised MINSTROY HOLDING AD on the expansion of a lead and zinc mining concession in North Macedonia, a deal worth over $5 million.
  • Advised BUL-BILDING DOO on securing overseas credit worth over $30 million.

Konstantinovic & Miloševski Law Firm

Konstantinovic & Miloševski Law Firm  advises on all manner of corporate affairs, including M&A, private equity investments and restructuring issues. The firm is also proficient in handling disputes and IP mandates. Darko Konstantinovic co-heads the team with extensive expertise across corporate law matters including M&A, restructuring and competition. Biljana Miloshevska also acts as co-head with corporate, banking and employment specialities.

Praxisleiter:

Darko Konstantinovic; Biljana Miloshevska


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Zoran Miloševski; Filip Golubov


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising BMZ on one brownfield and one greenfield investment with amounts up to 65mil US$, as well as on the State aid contract.
  • Advising Strabag, a European-based technology group for construction services, on a wide spectrum of legal issues related to their business operations in North Macedonia.
  • Advised Ananas E-Commerce on numerous legal issues, including but not limited to the establishment of a corporate setup, regulatory approvals, compliance, commercial and competition aspects, financing in launching their project Ananas MK successfully.

Schoenherr North Macedonia

Schoenherr North Macedonia offers expertise in high-profile transactions and regulatory issues with a strong sector focus on retail and consumer products as well as handling matters in telecoms, finance and real estate. Slaven Moravčević and Andrea Radonjanin lead the team from Belgrade, Serbia, alongside a group of local attorneys with diverse expertise. Andrea Lazarevska manages transactions on the ground, specialising in regulatory, corporate and energy law. Margareta Krsteska and Filip Srbinoski also support the team with knowledge of corporate law and dispute resolution.

Praxisleiter:

Slaven Moravčević; Andrea Radonjanin


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Andrea Lazarevska; Margareta Krsteska; Filip Srbinoski; Filip Zafirovski; Srdjana Petronijevic; Luka Lopičić


Referenzen

This practice stands out due to its team’s professionalism, flexibility, and client-centric approach. Potential clients would appreciate that the team is highly adaptable, consistently delivering tailored solutions to meet specific needs. Their key strengths lie in their ability to collaborate seamlessly and communicate effectively, ensuring a smooth, transparent process throughout. Compared to other firms, this practice excels in responsiveness and personalized service, which fosters strong client relationships.’

‘In terms of innovations, the team has demonstrated agility in adopting modern technologies and tools to enhance client interactions, project management, and efficiency. Furthermore, the team’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity promotes a well-rounded and dynamic working environment, benefiting both their internal culture and external client outcomes.’

‘Srdjana Petronijevic is highly knowledgeable and consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of the subject matter, ensuring precise and timely advice. Her proactive approach and attention to detail help clients feel well-supported and confident in the process. Andrea Lazarevska is equally dedicated, always ensuring that tasks are executed with speed and accuracy. Her ability to manage complex situations swiftly and efficiently stands out, and she fosters open communication, making clients feel heard and valued.’

Kernmandanten

LIDL SEVERNA MAKEDONIJA DOOEL Skopje


Directorate for Technological Industrial Development Zones (“DTIDZ”)


TAB Gıda and Ata Holding Group


NLB Bank d.d Slovenija


OSM SOLAR DOOEL Skopje


Vienna Insurance Group (VIG)


Emapta Hold Co Pte. Ltd.


ITgma


Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment


Kontron AG


KKCG Group


EL-TE Engineering Macedonia


UEFA


United Media


Akdeniz


Solarpro Holding AD Sofia


Balkan Renewable Investments


RGREEN INVEST


Generali CEE Holding B.V.


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised Lidl on their entry into the North Macedonian market, offering comprehensive legal support, particularly in real estate and land acquisition.
  • Advised prominent software and IT services provider ITgma on the sale of a majority ownership stake in the company to Modirum, a leading technology and platform company dedicated to innovation and growth.
  • Provided comprehensive legal counsel to OSM SOLAR DOOEL Skopje for the development of their photovoltaic (PV) plant in Oslomej, Kicevo.

Popovski & Partners Law Firm

Popovski & Partners Law Firm is a full-service practice with strong expertise in dispute resolution, corporate law, and IP. The firm is well-seasoned in handling both domestic and international arbitration for clients across varied sectors. Tatjana Popovski Buloski has vast project experience focusing on energy, telecoms and insurance. Jana Dukovska Despotovska is a highly experienced IP lawyer and regularly handles matters of copyright and data protection. Ognen Martinov has expertise in commercial and civil litigation.

Praxisleiter:

Tatjana Popovski Buloski; Jana Dukovska Despotovska; Ognen Martinov


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Atanas Chavdarov; Anastazija Anastasovska Kostovska; Marjana Staninova


Referenzen

‘Popovski is unique in how they tailor their legal services to align precisely with our company’s need. Their deep understanding of our industry allows them to provide both legal advice and strategic insights. Their team is particularly adept at handling complex matters. The firm offers transparent and flexible billing options which provides us with the possibility to manage legal costs effectively. Compared to other firms, this practice distinguishes itself through its deep sector-specific knowledge and personalized approach. While many firms offer a broad spectrum of legal services, this firm’s targeted expertise and proactive service stand out.’

‘Tanja Popovski Buloski, known for her expertise in corporate matters as well as dispute resolution, consistently demonstrates a keen strategic insight that helps us navigate complex legal landscapes.’

‘Atanas Chavdarov and Anastazija Anastasovska Kostovska provide us with magnificent litigation support, while Marjana Staninova is extremely responsive and effective with corporate matters.’

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