The practice covers commercial litigation, ongoing legal support for companies and private matters such as property and inheritance. All communication, documents and reports are available in English and Russian.
Commercial Disputes in Arbitrazh Courts
Most disputes between companies in Russia go to arbitrazh (commercial) courts. Elena Petrova represents clients in claims arising from supply, lease, construction and intellectual property, as well as in tax and customs disputes.
Representation covers all levels: first instance, appeal and cassation. Where a dispute falls within courts of general jurisdiction, she handles it there.
Outside General Counsel for Foreign-Owned Companies
A foreign-owned company in Russia needs local legal input on contracts, compliance and inspections without keeping a full in-house team. This service provides that support on an ongoing basis.
Typical tasks include:
- drafting and reviewing contracts in Russian and English;
- preparing for and attending government inspections;
- legal audits of the company's documents;
- answering day-to-day questions from management.
Private Clients: Property, Inheritance, Family Assets
Private clients come with real estate purchases, inheritance opened in Russia and property disputes between family members. Foreigners often need help with notaries, registration and documents issued abroad.
Inheritance in Russia is accepted through a notary within six months of death. Missing this period means going to court to restore it, so heirs living abroad should act early.
Why Advocate Status Matters
| Feature | Advocate | Unlicensed legal adviser |
|---|---|---|
| Professional secrecy protected by law | Yes | No statutory protection |
| Right to send advocate's requests to state bodies | Yes | No |
| Defence in criminal cases | Yes | No |
| Membership in a bar chamber and disciplinary oversight | Yes | No |
In Russia, advocates are regulated by Federal Law No. 63-FZ "On Advocacy and the Bar". You can verify the status in the register of the Moscow City Chamber of Advocates using registration No. 77/13551.
How an Engagement Starts
- You describe the situation by email and attach the key documents.
- The advocate reviews them and gives an initial assessment of prospects and risks.
- You receive a written fee structure for each stage.
- After a retainer agreement is signed, work begins.
Consultations take place in person, by video call or by phone.
Office Near Arbat
The office is at 29/16 Sivtsev Vrazhek Lane, office 304, Moscow 119002, in the Central District. The nearest metro stations are Arbatskaya and Kropotkinskaya, a few minutes' walk away.
Meetings are held by appointment. Documents can also be exchanged electronically.
Contact the Advocate
Write in English or Russian, describe the dispute or task briefly and state any deadlines you already face. Court deadlines in Russia are strict, so early contact leaves more options.
The main channel of communication with the lawyer is email: lawyer@lawyer-moscow.com.