Dictio is a boutique Ukrainian law firm offering comprehensive legal services with a strategic focus on real estate and construction, investment structuring, corporate law, and complex dispute resolution. The firm serves both domestic and international clients, supporting cross-border transactions and infrastructure development in Ukraine, particularly within the framework of post-war recovery. The company’s portfolio includes leading international and national companies, construction holdings, investment and development companies, suppliers and manufacturers of construction materials, investors, high net worth individuals, etc.

Core Practice Areas

• Real Estate & Construction Law

– Legal due diligence and support for land and real estate acquisition;

– Structuring and drafting development and construction contracts;

– Zoning, land use, urban planning, and licensing matters – Legal strategy for unfinished and distressed construction assets.

• Investment & Corporate Law

– Structuring investments, M&A, joint ventures, and holding structures;

– Tax-efficient legal models and international corporate vehicles;

– Registration and operation of foreign businesses in Ukraine.

• Dispute Resolution & Litigation

– Representation in complex commercial, real estate, and corporate disputes;

– Pre-trial and alternative dispute resolution (ADR/mediation);

– Insolvency, debt restructuring, and enforcement proceedings.

• Public Procurement (Construction Sector)

– Legal support in national and international procurement procedures;

– Advisory on participation in donor-funded infrastructure projects International Activity & Strategic 

International Activity & Strategic Partnerships

In 2022, Dictio established a strategic affiliation with Miller Canfield (USA/Poland), creating a cross-jurisdictional legal service to support clients across Ukraine, Poland, and the United States. This affiliation focuses on legal advisory for international tenders, investment structuring, and infrastructure recovery. Affiliation led by Olena Shtohryn (Managing Partner Dictio, Ukraine), Andrzej Chelchowski, (Principal MC Poland) and Richard Walawender (Principal MC USA). 2023- 2024 important role in defence-related cases played Pawel Chudzicki (Managing Director MC, Washington D.C.). It became clear to both companies that it’s important to join forces to be more effective and participate in the implementation of the Post-War Recovery Plan, Ukraine Facility program, international donor programs, etc. The affiliation benefits the clients of both firms as they prepare for the reconstruction of Ukraine, international expansion and cooperation.

Dictio’s international legal team operates in Poland and Ukraine and forms tailored legal task forces based on project jurisdiction and complexity. Because of the large number of Ukrainian businesses entering the Polish market, the company’s Polish branch supports its business activities in Poland. 

Insurance & Professional Standards

Dictio maintains professional liability insurance through ALAS (Attorneys Liability Assurance Society, International) and Ergo Hestia S.A. (Poland).

Social Responsibility and Humanitarian Engagement

• During the war period in Ukraine Dictio lawyers have been involved in a number of humanitarian pro bono projects supporting foundations, which supply humanitarian aid to Ukrainian hospitals, medical equipment, generators, prosthetics for Ukrainian people.
• The firm’s managing partner, Olena Shtohryn, serves on the Expert Council of the Ukrainian Ombudsman Office in Poland, supporting the rights of Ukrainians abroad.
• Dictio is a member of the Board of Directors of the Confederation of Builders of Ukraine, actively contributing to sectoral reforms, legal advocacy, and professional education in the construction and development industry, creating partnerships between foreign and Ukrainian construction associations and businesses.
• 2023 Olena Shtohryn, Managing Partner at Dictio, was included by a committee of the Verkhovna Rada (Parliament) of Ukraine as an expert in the Working Group for the development of the Urban Planning Code of Ukraine.
• In 2023, Dictio joined the Ukraine Energy Initiative (under UN Global Compact), contributing to legal frameworks for rebuilding the country’s energy sector.

Awards & Recognition

• Top 10 Women Leaders in Ukraine (2024) – Global Woman Leader Magazine (Olena Shtohryn);
• Real Estate Law Firm of the Year – IBUILD Awards (2022, 2023);
• Exclusive winner of the 2021 Client Choice Real Estate award for Ukraine by Lexology (Olena Shtohryn);
• Audience Choice Award – Forbes Ukraine (2020)