Aequitas remains a top-tier choice for local counsel, specialising in banking and finance, labour and employment, M&A, natural resources and environmental law. The firm has been expanding in healthcare and pharmaceuticals, gaining recognition for specialist areas such as insurance, media and customs, while also venturing into bitcoin and cryptocurrency. Managing partner Olga Chentsova is a key contact. The firm welcomed Bernar Alikhan as an associate in October 2024, strengthening its corporate law and dispute resolution practices. In December 2024, associate Zhandaulet Sholanov departed the firm, where he had focused on banking and finance, energy, natural resources and competition matters.
Client feedback
"They are very commercial, have hands-on transactional experience, provide great client service and are generally very pleasant to deal with. The quality of advice is consistent and of very high standard – timely, accurate and commercial." – Corporate and M&A
Kirill Greshnikov
"Kirill Greshnikov is really pleasant to deal with. He perfectly understands clients and their needs, offers excellent client service, and has established smooth internal team interactions that eliminate the need for constant updates. His invaluable transactional experience makes him a trustworthy adviser."
Tair Kulteleev
"Kulteleev is an intelligent and experienced lawyer who is very pleasant to deal with."
Work highlights
Advised SAP Kazakhstan on comprehensive labour relations matters as local counsel, including analysis of leased labour procedures and external personnel engagement structures. The firm provided strategic guidance on employee termination processes, staff reduction procedures and conflict resolution, while supporting the establishment of employee representation mechanisms and bonus payment obligations. The detailed analysis culminated in a comprehensive memorandum addressing complex labour compliance requirements in Kazakhstan.
Key clients
Aristo Pharma, AVATR Technology (Chongqing) Co, Saipem, SCM Group
