Matthieu de Varax launches Odi-sé Avocats

Matthieu de Varax, one of France’s most respected aviation lawyers, has launched his own firm Odi-sé Avocats.

Odi-sé Avocats is entirely focused on aviation.

“The name Odi-sé reflects how, in many ways, buying, financing and maintaining an aircraft can truly be an Odyssey,” says De Varax. “We want clients to feel that they have an experienced and trusted advisor with them throughout the journey.”

De Varax has been practising aviation law for more than 20 years and has advised owners, banks, leasing companies, manufacturers and operators. He acts for many French and international banks and also advises lessors, airlines and maintenance companies.

De Varax has launched the firm with lawyer Wissam Dahmani and is looking to hire more aviation lawyers.

The firm will focus on business aircraft, commercial airlines, helicopters and defence companies.

Banks have typically been biased towards large law firms but De Varax believes this is changing.
“There is a real window of opportunity now where we are seeing big firms formally exit aviation finance and others move away,” he says. “Clients are recognising that smaller specialist firms can offer real expertise.”

De Varax joined the Paris office of Wilde Sapte (now Dentons) in 1995 moving to Simmons & Simmons in 1998 as partner. He moved to Mayer Brown in 2005.

He is listed by Who’s Who of Business Lawyers for aviation and is recommended by Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners for aviation finance. De Varax has a Degree in International Business Law from Universite Paris V.

De Varax says he is enjoying the freedom of his own firm. He adds: “It is really exciting and I have to say clients have been amazingly supportive. We have already delivered one helicopter and several aircraft in our first few weeks.”