Cleopatra Leahu has substantial experience in energy & natural resources and mergers & acquisitions, acting as leading lawyer in complex acquisitions and project development, as well as in intricate permitting processes and securing of the relevant surface rights. Cleopatra is particularly proficient in the natural resources field, being recognized for her ability to devise tailored structures which helped companies preserve their titles and navigate the permitting process for major new developments, often in the face of intense scrutiny.

Cleopatra is recommended for Corporate/Mergers & Acquisitions in Legal 500 EMEA and is ranked for Energy & Natural Resources in Chambers Europe.
Selected representative experience

Advising a Romanian based oil & gas company controlled by an American multinational private equity, alternative asset management and financial services corporation in connection with the land acquisition, permitting and construction of a large gas development project, being anticipated to produce 1 billion m3 of gas per year.

Advising a private oil and gas exploration and production company focusing on conventional exploration, development and production opportunities, on various commercial, operational and regulatory issues pursuant to the business transfer performed for the acquisition of 19 Romanian onshore oil and gas fields from the largest Romanian oil and gas group.

Advising a multinational brewing and beverage company, in relation to the sale of its Romanian business to a Japanese brewery and soft drink company, as part of a cross border transaction including businesses in Romania, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia, with value exceeding USD 7 billion.

Advising a leading international provider of facilities solutions to the oil & gas production and processing industry, in connection with the sale of its Romanian business and its exit from the 15-year production enhancement contract for nine mature oilfields concluded with the largest Romanian oil and gas group.

Advising a worldwide company engaged in the exploration, development and production of crude oil and natural gas in selected areas of the world, in relation to the sale of its entire Romanian oil business.
Distinctions and citations

Cleopatra is praised for her “effectiveness and client service” and because “she understands the business and it is a good experience to work with her.” Source: Chambers Europe, 2018

“Arguably one of the best oil and gas lawyers in the country”, Cleopatra Leahu has “a creative and uncomplicated approach to sensitive issues”. Source: Legal 500, 2017

“Cleopatra Leahu is praised for her client-oriented approach: She has never let us down, she responds in a very timely way and she gives good practical advice.” Source: Chambers Europe, 2017

“Cleopatra fully understands our contract and provides very quick turnaround which is important in a fast-moving deal. Her knowledge of Romanian and EU law are unparalleled.” “Excellent, very good knowledge of our industry, quick in providing the advice, very nice person”. Source: IFLR 1000, 2017

“Cleopatra is described by her clients as “very good – she understands our business and the challenges we face.” Source: Chambers Europe, 2016

“Cleopatra Leahu is highly active in the Romanian energy and natural resources sector, with a focus on oil, gas and mining matters. She has experience of complex energy acquisitions and project developments, including PPP matters”. Source: Chambers Europe, 2015

“Cleopatra Leahu is noted for her “deep knowledge”. Source: Legal 500, 2014