Since 1987, Legal 500 has been providing readers with an annually updated, impartial, third-party opinion on the leading law firms and lawyers in countries across the region. The rankings each year are based on the complexity of relevant projects worked on in the last 12 months, independent research and feedback from clients. The Bench retained all of its four individual and firm rankings again in 2025 including:
'Leading Individual' (Joby Beretta) for TMT (one of only 7 in the UAE) for the 12th year in a row;
Band 2 firm ranking for TMT (alongside A&O, Clydes, CMS, Lathams, Simmons and White & Case);
Band 3 firm ranking for Real Estate (alongside A&O, Charles Russell, Clifford Chance, Dentons, King & Spalding and White & Case); and
Band 3 firm ranking for Intellectual Property (alongside CWB and Charles Russell).
A massive thank you to all our clients and peers for your kind words again this year! Comments and testimonials from Legal 500 2025 include:
TMT
Legal 500 Comment:
Commended for its ‘exceptional industry knowledge’, The Bench is jointly led by Kelly Tymburski, Jouhayna Amr, and Salio De Souza. Tymburski is noted for her strength in data privacy obligations, and Amr has over two decades of experience in digital banking and payment matters. Joby Beretta is another key team member.
Testimonials:
‘The Bench has been instrumental in supporting our growing business. Their approachable nature and ability to simplify legal complexities ensure we are compliant and empowered to make informed decisions that drive growth.’
‘Professional and attuned to client needs.’
Intellectual Property
Legal 500 Comment:
The Bench’s key strengths lie in franchising, intellectual property infringements, and technology licensing. Joby Beretta and Russell Woodford co-lead the practice, and Beretta is vastly experienced in data protection, media and entertainment, as well as telecoms matters.
Testimonials:
‘They are great, so approachable, and easy to work with. Legal work can be intimidating as it's not always easy to understand, but the team always ensure they explain everything in a way what is easy for me to digest, which I really appreciate.’
Joby Beretta always supports us.'
Real Estate
Legal 500 Comment:
Praised for its ‘personal, bespoke approach’, The Bench’s recent workload encompasses commercial leases, hotel financing, and mixed-use developments. Joby Beretta and Alexandra Plain jointly oversee the practice; Beretta is highly experienced in hotel and leisure matters, while Plain is noted for her capabilities in franchise agreements as well as real estate acquisitions and disposals. Yulande Neethling is another key team member.
Testimonials:
'The Bench delivers a very personal, bespoke approach to our legal needs. They understand our operational requirements, and this makes them very easy to work with, and this model is highly appreciated by our team.'
'In a fast-paced and evolving industry like hospitality, responsiveness is crucial, and the team consistently delivers, offering clear, actionable recommendations that align with our broader strategic goals.'
Comments