1898
Founding in Colombo Fort
D. L. & F. De Saram is founded by Richard De Saram in the Gaffoor Building, Colombo Fort.
Our History
A firm built on continuity and quiet ambition.
For more than a century, D. L. & F. De Saram has grown alongside Sri Lanka's commercial life — advising successive generations of businesses, institutions and families through the country's most significant moments, and carrying that experience into the way we work today.
Our story
A pioneer of legal excellence for over 125 years, D. L. & F. De Saram has been one of Sri Lanka's trusted law firms since 1898, led by generations of the De Saram family and a team of experts dedicated to providing clients with long-term strategic solutions.
Founded by Richard De Saram and named after his sons, Douglas and Fred De Saram, D. L. & F. De Saram commenced its operations in the Gaffoor Building, Colombo Fort. Following a relocation due to military requisition, the firm now stands prominently on C. W. W. Kannangara Mawatha, opposite the Colombo Town Hall.
Over the decades, leadership has remained within the De Saram family, with pioneers like Fred De Saram, Colonel F. C., and Coo De Saram broadening the capabilities of the firm. From Michael Sproule and Dijen De Saram, leadership today resides in the trusted hands of Savantha and Prabash De Saram, who continue to grow and preserve the firm's distinguished legacy.
Our expertise spans commercial, banking and corporate law through to intellectual property, debt restructuring and energy infrastructure. Guided by past leaders who continue to serve as consultants, the firm evolves with the legal and business environment while retaining its reputation for exceptional legal service.
Historical timeline
Early 20th Century
Leadership and relocation
Douglas De Saram assumes leadership of D. L. & F. De Saram. The firm relocates to C. W. W. Kannangara Mawatha due to the military requisition of the original premises.
1954
Colonel F. C. becomes Senior Partner
Colonel Frederick Cecil De Saram ('Colonel F. C.') becomes the Senior Partner.
Late 20th Century
Expansion and continuity
The firm expands into commercial, banking and corporate law under the leadership of Colonel F. C. Following Colonel F. C., his brother Coo De Saram continues to lead the firm’s expansion in these areas.
1995
The firm’s first female partner
Nivi Abeyratne is appointed as the first female partner, enhancing the firm’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
1999
Derrick Perera becomes Senior Partner
After the passing of Coo De Saram, Derrick Perera takes over as Senior Partner.
Early 21st Century
Expansion, leadership and mentorship
Michael Sproule assumes leadership roles at D. L. & F. De Saram, initiating a phase of continued expansion. Dijen De Saram joins in leading the firm, contributing to its growth in key legal areas. Both Michael Sproule and Dijen De Saram transition to roles as consultants, continuing to influence the firm’s strategies and mentorship.
Current Era
Modern leadership
Leadership under Savantha and Prabash De Saram focuses on modern legal practices, including infrastructure, cross-border financing, and mergers and acquisitions.
2023
Recognition on the global legal stage
Savantha De Saram is elected to the Lex Mundi Board of Directors, marking a significant recognition on the global legal stage.
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