Enforcing International Judgments in Russia for EU Firms 2025
Enforcing international judgments in Russia is a critical step for European businesses seeking to protect their rights in cross-border disputes. However, the process involves complex legal procedures and local nuances. This article explains how Turkish International Law & Consulting Firmhelps EU firms navigate exequatur and enforcement mechanisms in Russia in 2025.
Challenges of Enforcing Foreign Judgments
Key challenges include:
Reciprocity: Russian courts may require proof of mutual enforcement agreements.
Procedural Delays: Bureaucratic hurdles can extend timelines.
Sanctions: Restrictions may complicate asset seizures.
Exequatur Process
Legal Framework: Federal Law No. 229-FZ and the New York Convention govern recognition of foreign judgments.
Steps:
-File an application with a Russian arbitrazh court. -Submit notarized judgment, translations, and proof of reciprocity. -Court reviews within 1–3 months.
Requirements: Judgment must be final, lawful, and not contrary to Russian public policy.
Enforcement Mechanisms
Bailiffs: Federal Bailiff Service executes judgments, seizing assets or funds.
Bank Accounts: Freezing or debiting accounts in Russian banks.
Property Seizures: Real estate or equipment, subject to valuation.
Common Challenges
Delays: Courts may require additional documentation.
Reciprocity Issues: Lack of bilateral agreements with some EU countries.
Sanctions: Restrictions on seizing assets of sanctioned entities.
Best Practices
Draft Enforceable Judgments: Include clear terms and arbitration clauses.
Use International Arbitration: ICC or LCIA judgments are more readily enforced.
Turkey as a Hub: Enforce judgments via Turkish courts for EU-Russia disputes.
Why Use Lawyers?
Lawyers:
Prepare exequatur applications.
Liaise with bailiffs and courts.
Mitigate delays and sanctions risks.
Turkish International Law & Consulting Firm, with 20+ years of experience, has represented EU firms in Russian arbitrazh courts and ICC arbitration. Contact us: +90 552 647-07-17.