Appointment of Zhandarbek Ramazan, co-head of the Litigation Practice, to the role of Partner in our firm.

Zhandarbek has proven himself to be an excellent leader in our firm. He consistently demonstrates leadership and builds a dynamic, high-performing team. Under his management, the team thrives, providing strategic direction and valuable input to the development of the Litigation Practice. Under his leadership, the team achieves outstanding results, earning the trust and loyalty of clients who often return for additional legal services, a testament to Zhandarbek’s ability to maintain and expand the firm’s client base.

Zhandarbek’s leadership is complemented by his team’s competence, proactivity and dedication to meeting client needs. His calm yet practical approach ensures that all projects are aligned with the firm’s goals, and he plays an active role in delivering solutions that add value to clients. His ability to lead a talented and engaged team speaks to his potential to thrive as a partner. He fosters a positive work environment and ensures the firm maintains a high standard of legal services. His contributions continue to strengthen the firm's reputation and position it for future success. Zhandarbek is also involved in strengthening the firm's reputation. He has held seminars for clients on litigation with government agencies on several occasions in the past year, and this year he took part in a business breakfast with Petrocouncil on "Contract Law and Disputes Arising from Contractual Relationships", and participated in the preparation of the GRATA International Legal Series on Dispute Resolution (in June).

Promotion of Arsen Salim Mir to Counsel in the Contract Law and Real Estate Department.

Arsen's dedication to GRATA has been exemplary for the past eight years. He consistently goes above and beyond, working long hours and weekends to ensure the best possible outcomes for our clients. His commitment extends to his colleagues, always willing to lend a helping hand on various matters.

Arsen's Expertise and Achievements:

• Played a pivotal role in the development of a legislative package for the new city of Alatau, demonstrating his deep understanding of contract law and real estate matters.

• Proactively seeks to enhance GRATA's reputation by:

  • Increasing participation in public events, positioning GRATA as a thought leader in the industry.

  • Contributing client notes and legal articles to strengthen our online presence and attract new clients.

• Recognized for his expertise by The Legal 500 in the Construction & Real Estate Sector, further solidifying GRATA's standing in the market.

Arsen's promotion reflects his exceptional talent, dedication, and leadership qualities. We are confident he will continue to make significant contributions to GRATA's success.

Gani Sagimbekov's promotion to Senior associate of the Dispute Resolution (Litigation) Department.

Since joining the firm in October 2022 as an associate, Gani has seamlessly integrated into the team, fostering strong working relationships with his colleagues. His ability to collaborate effectively has been a key factor in his successful tenure at the firm.

Gani is highly dedicated and passionate about his work, consistently seeking alternative solutions that benefit both the firm and the client. He conducts thorough, quick, and complementary analyses and case assessments. Known for his efficiency, expertise, and positive attitude, Gani has strong legal knowledge and a flexible, inquisitive mindset. He is proactive, often working beyond regular hours, including weekends, and actively suggests solutions to client issues. Colleagues and clients speak highly of his work ethic and qualifications, with many clients returning for additional legal services.

Gani is actively involved in strengthening the firm's reputation. Gani participated in drafting the Kazakhstan chapter of the GRATA International Legal series Dispute Resolution (in June). At the Kazakhstan Legal Forum, KLF, on September 27, 2024, he presented a speech, "Establishment of a private easement in court for exploration purposes and the practice of resolving land disputes during the transition from exploration to production". Also this year, two articles (in Russian) by Gani were published in Kapital: 'Agricultural lands: legal realities and regulation' and 'Land Mosaic: Land Design for Demolishing Old Housing'.

The promotion of Zhibek Nurbaktytova, junior lawyer of the Intellectual Property Department, to the position of Associate.

Zhibek Nurbakytova joined the firm in March 2022 in the Intellectual Property Department in Almaty and began her career as a legal assistant. 

During her tenure, Zhibek has developed expertise in analysing and applying laws, international treaties, regulations, and court decisions in intellectual property, as well as drafting and reviewing license and franchise agreements. Zhibek has filed intellectual property applications and actively participated in litigation related to intellectual property infringement, as well a`s drafting claims and other procedural documents. Zhibek has also conducted patent searches, handled trademark investigations, and drafted memorandums and legal opinions on various intellectual property matters.

The significant projects Zhibek has worked on include reviewing franchise agreements for major brands like Papa John's, Krispy Kreme, and Domino's Pizza, and representing clients in high-profile patent disputes, such as a patent invalidation case for a European pharmaceutical company. Zhibek also has experience conducting due diligence, drafting warning notices to IP infringers, and collaborating with customs and law enforcement to combat counterfeiting for companies like Siemens and GE Healthcare.