Best law firms

Brussels Office Since:

1989

Firm Description

Freshfields LLP is a global leading law firm, combining a strong European offering with a first-class network.

Freshfields LLP brings a distinctive blend of legal excellence and strategic public affairs insight to the heart of EU policymaking. With a long established presence in Brussels and deep roots across Europe, the Firm supports clients in navigating the political, regulatory and legislative forces that shape today’s most complex business environments.
Operating at the intersection of law, policy and strategy, Freshfields’ EU Regulatory and Public Affairs team helps organisations engage confidently with EU institutions, anticipate regulatory change and influence outcomes on issues that matter most to their business.

On a daily basis, we help clients:

• Build a credible and effective profile towards decision-makers in Brussels, Berlin, London and beyond;
• Identify the risks and opportunities of policy developments and gain insights into the decisionmakers and political drivers behind them;
• Influence the policy debate and the substance of ongoing and upcoming legislation and decisions;
• Navigate and provide advice on understanding and influencing secondary legislation (Level 2) where there is a strong need for combined legal and public affairs expertise;
• Advise on how to register and comply with the latest requirements of the EU Transparency Register;
• Devise engagement strategies in the context of competition and trade proceedings, in alignment with the legal strategies;
• Understand relevant policy developments that could impact business decisions regarding potential investments or acquisitions; and
• Analyse and explain the rationale behind legislative provisions, particularly in the context of legal advice or litigation.

Owner Structure

International Structure

Over 5,700 people across 33 offices, with 101 nationalities speaking 75 languages

Key Strengths

Integrated legal and public affairs service: Freshfields brings together world class legal insight and decades of strategic policy advisory experience to deliver a level of representation that goes far beyond traditional public affairs support. We understand not only the rules and the politics behind them, but also the commercial realities driving our clients’ decisions. This holistic perspective—spanning business strategy, regulatory dynamics and legislative intent—enables us to advocate effectively at both EU and national level and to help clients navigate and influence policy with confidence.
‘One firm’ mindset: Complex cross-border work is what we excel at. We understand what it takes to work across different political, legal and business environments and bring a local understanding to global issues.

Consistency and diversity: The integration of our Brussels, Berlin and London teams within the firm’s network ensures consistency of advice and service. Our diverse backgrounds and nationalities allow us to seamlessly switch between law, politics and business and maintain a range of connections with EU and national officials, for the benefit of clients.

Number of Public Affairs Consultants

6 consultants in the Brussels team

Key Clients

PayPal

Airbnb

Experian

UN Principles for Responsible Investment

American Council of Life Insurers

Association of Bermuda Insurers & Reinsurers

QVC

National Retail Federation

Kroll Bond Rating Agency

Accenture

Thought Leadership

We work with our lawyers globally to share insights on the most complex legal challenges, be it in relation to digitalisation, sustainability, competition/trade and sanctions. We produce blogposts, podcasts and briefings, and set up a dedicated website to help clients understand the impact of Brexit. We take part in EU stakeholder platforms (e.g. EU AI Alliance, Blockchain Observatory & Forum and the Commission’s Expert Group on liability and new technologies).

Testimonials and why clients like to work with us

Clients say:

“Freshfields has been a key partner for many years. Their insights into the EU policy landscape coupled with their strategic advice in engaging with EU policymakers and building our presence have been essential to successfully position our members’ businesses in Brussels”

“Freshfields ability to anticipate policy developments, advise on engagement priorities, and open doors to the right decision‑makers in Brussels makes them an invaluable partner. Combining both regulatory and legal expertise, they are able to consistently deliver exceptional public affairs support in a challenging and evolving policy .”