CMS expands Romania offering with strategic senior counsel hire

CMS is pleased to announce that Cristian Băcanu joins the firm as senior counsel in the Litigation & Arbitration team, a strategic hire that further strengthens CMS’s presence in the Romanian market.

CMS also announces the launch of its Defence practice, as part of the firm’s strategic plan to meet growing client demand in the defence sector.

Cristian began his legal career at CMS in Bucharest in the commercial litigation department. He later advanced his legal practice with a focus on civil, administrative, commercial, and insolvency litigation, before transitioning to public service, where he focused on justice reform, digital infrastructure, and international cooperation.
A former member of the Romanian parliament and public policy leader, he has held key roles in legislative development, including sponsoring anti-human trafficking laws and advancing rule of law measures.

As a former Secretary of State in the Ministry of Justice and a legal practitioner, he has shaped national and EU-level policies. His academic background includes an Executive Master diploma from the prestigious Hertie University in Berlin and a Konrad Adenauer Foundation fellowship.

Horea Popescu, Managing Partner, CMS Romania: “Cristian brings a unique blend of legal acumen, public sector leadership, and international vision, making him a valuable addition to our team. His proven dedication to governance and innovation will enhance the strength of our existing Litigation & Arbitration practice and strengthens our ability to support both local and international clients in the defence sector. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team and excited about the perspective and energy he brings.”

Cristian Bacanu, Senior Counsel, CMS Romania: “I am delighted to join CMS and also excited to bring a new perspective to the team and leverage my insights in policy shaping to drive forward our projects in the defence sector and strengthen the firm’s Litigation & Arbitration offering in Romania.”

CMS is one of the largest international law firms in Romania and has been active since 1999. The firm provides advisory and transactional work across the full range of practice areas, with a particular focus on cross-border transactions, high-stake dispute resolution, and complex regulatory advice.