What do you see as the main points that differentiate [law firm name] from your competitors?

 Abu Sharkh & Shammout stands out through a firm-wide commitment to proactive legal alignment with client strategy. Rather than addressing legal issues in isolation, we work across all departments to provide integrated solutions that support long-term business continuity. Our unified structure allows for coordination between corporate, regulatory, dispute resolution, and commercial teams. This ensures that every matter is handled with sector-specific insight, legal precision, and operational efficiency.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

 The rapid development of the legal sector has made digital legal services an essential requirement. With the growing number of laws related to data, privacy, and cybercrime, regulatory compliance has become a key concern for companies. There is increasing demand for internal policies and procedures that ensure customer data protection and align with legal frameworks. This has shifted the role of law firms toward guiding clients through preventive legal strategies that minimise risk and regulatory exposure. Intellectual property is also expected to grow significantly, as it becomes a strategic asset for companies operating in the era of digital innovation. The key drivers behind the growth of these practices are accelerating technological developments, including artificial intelligence and digital transformation, as well as new legislation introduced to keep pace with those changes. Clients, whether individuals or companies, now require more sophisticated legal expertise to remain compliant and competitive.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

We have restructured the firm to operate through a fully digital platform for case and workflow management. This change has streamlined our operations across all departments, enhanced internal coordination, and improved the speed and clarity of communication with clients. In parallel, we established dedicated legal units focused on key sectors, allowing us to provide anticipatory legal advice rather than reactive support.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

Technology has changed how we engage with clients across every practice area. Digital collaboration tools now allow for secure and efficient communication, including contract sharing, consultations, and case tracking. Internally, our team uses digital tools to improve workflow, document accuracy, and deadline management. Clients expect this level of access and responsiveness, and our systems ensure we consistently meet that expectation.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

We supported a client seeking to expand into a foreign market that imposed nationality-based restrictions on company formation and the registration of commercial agencies. These restrictions initially prevented the client from registering its agency rights under its own name. After detailed legal analysis and engagement with the relevant authorities, we secured a legal interpretation confirming that if a foreign investor establishes a local company in accordance with national laws, that company is entitled to register commercial agencies in its own name regardless of the shareholder’s nationality. This outcome enabled the client to enter the market while retaining full agency rights, significantly increasing the long-term commercial value of its operations.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Clients increasingly seek law firms that offer both consistency and foresight. They rely on us not only for legal accuracy but also for informed judgment in navigating market shifts and regulatory change. In the next three years, Abu Sharkh & Shammout aims to expand its institutional advisory capacity, grow its cross-border client base, and continue delivering sector-driven legal solutions that align with national and regional development agendas.

This year, we celebrate 30 years of continuous work, as the only law firm in the region that was homegrown – and has remained so. While many competitors grew through integration with international law firms, we developed organically. We set our standards and ways of working, tailored to the specific needs and dynamics of this region.

We established practice and industry groups early on, which allowed our cooperating lawyers to grow as specialists while staying closely connected across teams. Clients appreciate that we are a true one-stop shop that can provide fast, consistent, and practical support across multiple jurisdictions.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

 We see strong growth in energy and infrastructure, driven by the region’s push toward renewables. ESG and compliance work are also expanding quickly, as regulations become more demanding and businesses look for practical ways to meet those standards.

Also, there is agrilaw, as food security, sustainability, and EU-driven standards remain at the forefront. We see clients across the agricultural value chain needing tailored advice on everything from land use and subsidies to supply chain and ESG compliance.

Finally, the defence industry is also an area where specialised legal support is becoming essential.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

 We’ve put a lot of effort into building real industry know-how. Our cooperating lawyers are trained both internally and externally to understand the specifics of our clients’ businesses, from sector regulations to the commercial realities of how those industries operate. This focus on deeper specialisation allows us to give advice that is legally sound, practical and directly relevant to the challenges our clients face.

We also invested in professionalising our internal operations, from quality control to smarter use of technology. While these may seem like behind-the-scenes improvements, they have a direct impact, since clients benefit from greater efficiency and clarity in every matter.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients and the services you can provide them?

 Absolutely. Technology has become an inseparable part of our work. It helps us deliver faster, manage better, and communicate more effectively with clients.

We always have in mind that our clients want transparency, real-time updates, and practical tools that make their lives easier. We’ve embraced that shift, but always with the view that technology is here to serve these relationships, not replace them.

As we closely follow the development of AI and adopt tools that help us work smarter, it is always with the goal of improving the quality and efficiency of what we deliver. We are very clear about our priorities: the interests of our clients and the quality of our services.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

There are many examples of how we help businesses address their broader environment, not just legal issues. For instance, we work with clients to identify key stakeholders, understand their interests, and determine the best ways to engage with them. We also advise on strategic positioning and adapting approaches in line with the market developments. This combination of legal insight and business understanding enables clients to make informed decisions and strengthen their presence in the region.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Looking ahead, our ambition for the next three years is to be pioneers in emerging areas. We’ve built a regional platform that provides clients with a steady, consistent service, while placing strong emphasis on in-depth understanding of their businesses, industries, and emerging technologies. That is why we will go into deeper specialisation in areas that are still emerging, anticipating clients’ future needs and building expertise where it will matter most.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate Labora Legal from your competitors?

 Labora Legal is among the elite employment law practices in Denmark.

We are one of only two substantial boutique firms fully dedicated to employment law.

The partners all have 20+ years of employment law specialist experience from leading full-service law firms where they acted as heads of the respective firm’s employment law practices.

Labora Legal stands out by being a highly specialized and fully flexible boutique law firm which enables the partners to service their clients personally and leverage their profound legal expertise and understanding of the client’s specific business to provide top-notch advice in a cost-efficient manner. Our partner rates tend to be lower than the partner rates in other leading employment law practices.

This combination creates a unique level of service and basis for high client satisfaction.

As testament to the success of our business model, our client base mostly consists of sophisticated long-standing corporate clients, including among others several global and regional heavyweights, who recognize and appreciate the value of our exceptionally client-friendly setup.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

Based on our experience from recent years, we expect our employment law practice to grow steadily but growth as such is not a key priority for us.

We think our practice has a unique and optimal size for the Danish market given our strategic focus.

We also recognize, however, that if we keep building new client relationships and nurturing the existing ones, growth is inevitable.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?
Having increased our team from 3 to 4 very experienced and recognized employment law specialist effectives from 1 April 2025 and thereby onboarding several amazing new clients.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

We use technology to leverage efficiency and client value, but we still provide our legal advice via direct personal communication with our clients, which is necessary to provide holistic and value-adding advice on specific matters.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

A recent example of value adding advice to a client involves a corporate client facing numerous restructuring processes within the company which created a high level of frustration and uncertainty among its employees.

The client did not comply with the statutory rules on work councils in Denmark and had been opposed to this for many years due to the risk of time-consuming discussions with employee representatives.

However, in a controlled process we advised the management to meet with employee representatives exchanging views on the upcoming restructuring processes, thereby establishing trust between the management and employee representatives. On this basis, a more formal work council was established in close cooperation with management thereby succeeding in (i) meeting legal requirements to have a work council but more importantly (ii) creating a value-adding trusted forum between management and employee representatives enabling management to present necessary restructuring processes within in the company while at the same receiving and understanding employee concerns and proposals for easing the process for the benefit of all relevant stakeholders.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

We certainly think so.

For us it is first and foremost a priority to keep doing what we do best, which is building and nurturing long-term mutually beneficial client relationships by at all times providing highly specialized, value-adding and cost-efficient legal advice at a partner level.

This will be the main foundation for maintaining our position among the elite employment law practices in Denmark.

At EGE ÇAKIRCA, we differentiate ourselves from competitors through our specialized expertise, particularly in renewable energy law. Our firm has a strong focus on renewable energy projects, including solar and wind power, which allows us to offer comprehensive legal support tailored to the specific needs of clients in this sector. This deep understanding of renewable energy regulations, trends, and best practices sets us apart as leaders in this field.

Our strong track record in M&A transactions — both domestic and cross-border — further distinguishes us. We regularly advise on share and asset acquisitions, corporate restructurings, and strategic partnerships involving energy companies, infrastructure assets, and technology-driven enterprises. By combining our corporate/M&A expertise with our energy sector focus, we deliver highly tailored transaction strategies that align legal solutions with our clients’ commercial objectives.

Another key differentiator is our extensive experience in handling cross-border transactions. We excel in navigating the complexities of different jurisdictions and legal frameworks, making us well-equipped to facilitate international deals effectively. This capability ensures that our clients receive seamless legal support regardless of the geographical scope of their business operations.

Innovation is at the core of our legal practice. EGE ÇAKIRCA is known for its ability to devise creative and forward-thinking solutions to complex legal challenges, particularly in areas where regulatory environments are evolving rapidly, such as energy law and sustainability. This innovative approach allows us to stay ahead of industry trends and provide cutting-edge legal advice to our clients.

Additionally, our firm’s thought leadership is evident in our active contribution to legal scholarship, participation in industry conferences, and engagement with regulatory bodies. This commitment to staying informed and involved in the legal landscape ensures that our clients benefit from the most up-to-date and informed legal advice, further solidifying our position as a trusted legal partner in the industry.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

The global shift towards renewable energy sources has been a prominent trend in recent years, driven by concerns about climate change and the need for cleaner energy solutions. This transition has significantly increased the demand for legal services in areas like project development, financing, regulatory compliance, and contract negotiations within the renewable energy sector. As businesses and governments continue to invest heavily in renewable energy projects, the legal profession is expected to see continued growth in these areas.

Additionally, there’s a noticeable uptick in businesses prioritizing sustainability and green initiatives to reduce their environmental impact. This has led to a surge in clients seeking legal guidance for drafting and implementing sustainability policies, navigating green certifications and standards, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. The emphasis on sustainability has become a key aspect of our legal practice, reflecting the broader shift towards environmentally responsible business practices.

Furthermore, regulatory frameworks, particularly in regions like Europe, are evolving to address supply chain complexities, including transparency, ethical sourcing, and labor practices. This has created a demand for legal expertise in supply chain management, encompassing contract negotiations, risk assessment, due diligence, and compliance with evolving supply chain regulations.

Lastly, the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations cannot be overstated. Our legal team plays a pivotal role in helping clients develop robust ESG strategies, communicate ESG-related information effectively, ensure compliance with ESG regulations, and resolve any related disputes. This holistic approach to legal support enables our clients to navigate the complex landscape of sustainable business practices effectively.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

At EGE ÇAKIRCA, we have introduced a significant change aimed at benefiting our clients by enhancing our expertise in cross-border transactions and navigating complex legal frameworks across different jurisdictions. This change aligns with our commitment to providing services tailored to our clients’ needs, not only in the legal field but also in structuring their business models financially and technically, leveraging our deep sector knowledge for feasibility assessments.

What sets EGE ÇAKIRCA apart from others is our longstanding trust-based relationships with various market players and our access to sector-specific knowledge, allowing us to deliver tailor-made business and legal solutions. This change enables us to truly understand our clients’ objectives and personalize our legal strategies to not only mitigate risks but also capitalize on growth opportunities within the energy industry.

While several legal firms assert their involvement in energy law, a considerable number predominantly concentrate on offering corporate legal guidance to entities within the energy sector rather than energy law being their core business area. In contrast, energy law is one of our core competencies, positioning us as experts in this specialized field. This focused expertise allows us to provide unparalleled insights and solutions that directly address the unique challenges and opportunities within the energy sector.

Our team excels in identifying creative and forward-thinking strategies to address multifaceted challenges, whether it’s structuring complex transactions, advocating for policy changes, or finding sustainable approaches to renewable energy projects. We take pride in our ability to think outside the box and provide innovative solutions that drive success for our clients in the ever-evolving energy sector.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

Yes, technology is significantly changing the way we interact with our clients and the services we can provide them. We have embraced digital tools and platforms that allow for seamless communication and collaboration with our clients, regardless of their location. This includes video conferencing, secure document sharing platforms, and electronic signature capabilities, enabling us to conduct meetings, share important documents, and execute agreements remotely and efficiently.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

 In essence, the services provided by EGE ÇAKIRCA offer tangible value to the Client both in litigation follow-up, contract management, and in the establishment of new business models/structures; however, a recent administrative fine process experienced by the Client serves as the most concrete illustration of this contribution.

 Specifically, a license-exempt solar power plant established and commissioned by the Client was sealed by the local authority (municipality) following an inspection, on the grounds that it lacked a construction permit, and a substantial administrative fine was imposed on the Client. As is well known, construction and the associated permitting processes—particularly in relation to electricity generation facilities—are highly complex, technical, and involve numerous procedural steps. Similarly, the calculation of zoning fines applicable to unlicensed structures involves technical and non-legal factors such as identifying the relevant building classification and group. We would like to emphasize that elements such as the surface area forming the basis of the fine, as well as the structure’s classification and group, are of critical importance, as any inaccuracies in their determination may significantly increase the amount of the penalty—potentially doubling or even tripling the imposed fine.

 In this context, we have been involved from the very beginning of the process, working closely with the Client. We coordinated the necessary steps to complete the permitting procedures for the power plant and conducted communications with the local administration to ensure that the process proceeded efficiently and transparently. At the same time, we carried out a comprehensive review of all records, letters, official correspondence, and notifications issued in the course of the administrative proceedings. This allowed us to ensure that the actions taken against the Client were fully compliant with both legal and procedural requirements. Ultimately, we also reviewed and verified the calculation of the administrative fine imposed, to confirm its accuracy and to prevent any disproportionate financial impact on the Client.

 In light of our comparative and hypothetical assessments, it has been determined that the administrative fine had been calculated at approximately twice the amount that would have been applicable had the structure group/classification been properly identified in accordance with the applicable legislation. Accordingly, in order to safeguard the Client’s legal interests and to prevent any potential infringement of rights, EGE ÇAKIRCA initiated legal proceedings before the competent administrative court, seeking the annulment of the fine on the basis of the erroneous determination of the structure classification. The case remains pending, and our firm continues to represent the Client throughout the litigation process.

In conclusion, throughout this highly sensitive administrative process—one carrying potentially severe consequences— EGE ÇAKIRCA has provided concrete and effective legal support by: (i) preventing the demolition or suspension of operations of an already-operational facility contributing to renewable energy generation, and (ii) taking action to secure the annulment of an unjust and disproportionate administrative fine imposed on the Client.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Clients indeed seek stability and strategic direction from their law firms, and we recognize the importance of providing these elements to our clients. In three years’ time, we envision EGE ÇAKIRCA as a leading firm in the legal landscape, particularly in the energy and corporate law sectors. Our focus will continue to be on delivering exceptional legal services tailored to our clients’ needs, with an emphasis on innovation, strategic thinking, and client-centered approach. With the increasing focus on ESG criteria in investment decisions, we will provide strategic counsel to help clients align with sustainable business practices and regulatory requirements.

We aim to further strengthen our expertise in cross-border transactions, renewable energy, and regulatory compliance, leveraging technology and data analytics to enhance our services and provide proactive legal solutions. Additionally, we will continue to expand our global reach and network of partnerships to better serve our clients’ international needs. We anticipate significant growth in legal services related to EV infrastructure development, regulatory compliance, and investment opportunities in the electric mobility sector. Our firm will be at the forefront of advising clients on navigating the legal intricacies of renewable infrastructure, government incentives, and sustainable transportation initiatives.

Furthermore, we are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within our firm, ensuring that our team remains at the forefront of legal trends and best practices. By maintaining our dedication to excellence, client satisfaction, and strategic growth, we are confident that EGE ÇAKIRCA will continue to be a trusted partner for our clients, providing stability, strategic direction, and value-added legal services.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate Dimitrov, Petrov & Co. from your competitors?
Our greatest strength is the combination of deep sector expertise with truly exceptional people. Over the years we have managed to build a team of professionals who share the same values: excellence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to our clients’ success. This creates a culture of collaboration and trust that clients recognize. What also sets DPC apart is the quality of our client relationships: we see ourselves as long-term partners, not just legal advisors. We invest time in understanding each business, anticipating the relevant needs, and supporting clients during complex technological and regulatory challenges. Combined with our leading position in areas such as AI, cybersecurity, telecoms, technologies and digital regulation, this mix of expertise, values, and personal connection makes us truly unique in the market.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?
At DPC, we see technology regulation as one of the fastest growing areas. AI governance, data protection, and cybersecurity are at the forefront in the past couple of years, particularly fueled by new EU legislation like the EU AI Act, DORA, NIS2. Advising on these requires some niche technical expertise that we are known for possessing, so a significant number of local and global companies have entrusted us with their ongoing technology compliance journeys  as well as new projects involving digital transformation, innovation, AI integration, implementation of cybersecurity measures and others. I expect this trend will become even more distinct in the next 12 months. Disputes and investigations around technology and data are also increasing. Beyond TMT, ESG and IP law are expanding as they intersect with digital markets. At the crossroads of M&A and TMT, I believe that in the next couple of years there will be a lot of work revolving around FDI screening advice as the Bulgarian screening mechanism that just entered into force raises a lot of questions. The main driver is the mind-blowing development of technologies and the regulatory momentum it entails. Our increasing recognition, including the Legal 500 rankings where DPC is the only firm in our jurisdiction with 4 individuals ranked in TMT, also motivates to keep getting better.

3) What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?
In line with the legal challenges that businesses have been facing in recent years and those expected in the foreseeable future, we have recently assembled dedicated teams of experts for two new practices. Our Data Breach Response Team has already successfully provided support to numerous clients in connection with data breaches. We have also established a dedicated AI Practice Group, aimed at advising clients on the legal and regulatory challenges associated with the use of artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven technologies. As we have noted a distinct increase in the number of inquiries related to cybersecurity issues we’ve been thinking of establishing a Cybersecurity Team by the end of this year.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?
Absolutely. Over the past year, DPC has placed a strong emphasis on responsible innovation by integrating AI tools into our internal workflows and client services. Since end of 2023, we have set up a dedicated internal AI and technology task force to be able to flag and face all implications revolving around the use of AI and implementation of new technologies within the firm. We have already organized AI training sessions to ensure that our team is equipped to use such tools mindfully and ethically, with a clear understanding of their benefits and limitations in a legal context. This initiative will enable us to deliver faster, more tailored support to clients while maintaining the high standards of legal precision and judgment that define DPC.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?
Having strong legal and business knowledge of the telecom market helps us navigate complex transactions. In the past two years we have been advising several rather challenging deals whereas consulting both the buyer and seller via forming intricate structural and administrative Chinese walls with separate communications channels, internal access restrictions and more. In one of them, our input has been extremely beneficial for the clients as it helped one of the parties receive its remuneration shortly after closing, and the other – to expand its activities in accordance with its expansion plans which would not be possible without our support because of the issues surrounding the project. This shows the clients’ trust in DPC’s lawyers to work for both parties on a transaction without any compromise for the quality and the expected results. Moreover, it also reveals the added value we have in such projects in terms of keeping all sides happy, which is not that easy, especially in the TMT industry.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?
The short answer to the first question is yes. In a fast-changing regulatory and technological environment, clients seek stability, foresight, and trusted long-term partners. Short and straightforward answers is usually the form of advice clients seek, and we aim to provide that by supporting their strategic growth and decisions. And although local legislation does not help a lot in the last several years, we aim to be on the clients’ side advising them on the realities and how to go ahead with their strategy without (too much) hassle.

In three years, I see DPC consolidating its role as the go-to firm for TMT and innovation matters in Bulgaria and the wider region expanding our cooperation with our partners in various jurisdictions. I really hope the eurozone will make way for new opportunities across multiple industries – from financial services and capital markets to technology, contracts, consumer protection and regulatory compliance, cross-border transactions, new foreign investments (hopefully).

At the end, I see our firm becoming even more mature and this choice of words is not a coincidence – we will be celebrating our 30^th anniversary in 2027, and this is quite a milestone. We keep adapting to the new realities and getting stronger, while investing a significant amount of time and energy to grow a team that is actually living the mission, vision and values we preach and this pays off.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate FINREG PARTNERS from your competitors?

At FINREG PARTNERS, we focus on solving complex challenges where others hesitate. Many of our clients approach us with business models and regulatory questions that have no clear precedent – and we take pride in helping them navigate uncharted territory with innovative, practical solutions.

Our involvement in a number of pioneering projects has shaped both our expertise and the market itself. We have advised on the first PSD2 licence in the Czech Republic, secured the first crowdfunding licences under the new EU framework, and guided clients through MiCA-driven crypto-asset licensing. Beyond licensing, we have supported innovative fintech projects, structured complex cross-border M&A transactions, and helped establish entirely new investment structures and fund types. We also successfully represented a client in a landmark case before the Court of Justice of the European Union, demonstrating our ability to deliver results in high-stakes, precedent-setting matters.

In the fintech and financial services sector, we are not just advisors – we are an integral part of the ecosystem. As legal partners of the Fintechers, the leading CEE fintech accelerator, and the first regulatory fintech sandbox in the Czech Republic organized by CzechInvest, we actively help shape the innovation environment in which our clients operate. We are also members of several key industry associations, including the Czech Fintech Association, the Slovak Fintech Association (FINAS), and the Czech Capital Markets Association (AKAT), which gives us direct insight into regulatory developments and market trends.

We combine the flexibility and client-oriented approach of a boutique firm with the high professional standards and cross-border expertise of top international law firms. Many of our lawyers have backgrounds in leading global firms, which enables us to deliver advice that is both strategically insightful and commercially pragmatic.

Finally, we embrace technology as an integral part of our client service. We have helped to launch cybreg, a compliance software localized for the Czech market in collaboration with our firm, which helps our clients automate and manage regulatory obligations under DORA, NIS2, and other regulatory frameworks. Alongside that, our advanced legislative monitoring tools ensure clients always stay ahead of regulatory developments. This combination of deep expertise, innovative thinking, and technological enablement allows us to deliver faster, smarter, and future-ready solutions.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

I expect M&A activity to remain very strong. We see a steady flow of transactions, driven partly by the rapid development of private equity funds and investment structures in the Czech Republic, but also by the growth of technology start-ups that are attracting new investment. Recent tax reforms have also made employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) more attractive, and we are seeing increasing interest in using these as part of deal structures.

We also see significant opportunities in asset management and investment funds, especially in a cross-border context, where clients are increasingly exploring international solutions. Looking a bit further ahead, I believe the Czech capital markets will also become more active, particularly when it comes to equity offerings and IPOs.

At the same time, regulated sectors are evolving quickly and creating new demand. Cybersecurity is becoming a key focus with the implementation of DORA and NIS2, and the upcoming EU AI Act will affect companies across many industries. Cryptoassets remain another very dynamic area, especially with MiCA coming into force. The Czech Republic continues to be an attractive jurisdiction for crypto projects, and we regularly work with international clients looking to establish their operations here.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

Over the past year, we’ve focused a lot on expanding the ways we can support our clients beyond traditional legal advice. One of the key steps was the development of cybreg, a compliance software localized for the Czech market and built in collaboration with our firm. It helps clients manage and automate their regulatory obligations under DORA, NIS2, and other relevant frameworks more efficiently and with greater confidence.

We have also introduced new services in the area of internal audit and compliance, which we now provide as outsourced solutions for financial institutions. These services allow clients to strengthen their internal processes and meet regulatory expectations without having to build extensive in-house teams.

On top of that, we’ve significantly enhanced our legislative monitoring capabilities. Our clients receive early insights into upcoming regulatory changes and practical recommendations on how to prepare, which allows them to adapt their business models proactively rather than reactively.

Overall, these changes reflect our broader approach: we want to combine legal expertise with practical tools and services that make life easier for our clients and help them stay ahead in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

Of course, we use technology in the way that is now modern and standard for leading law firms worldwide. We work seamlessly with clients through remote communication tools, use secured AI-based solutions where appropriate, and provide secure data rooms and shared online workspaces where clients request them. Confidentiality is absolutely essential in our work, and we make sure that every technological solution we adopt fully respects that. In addition, we are also involved in developing our own tools to make our services more efficient and provide clients with added value.

At the same time, technology can never replace what we see as the core of our practice: a personal, trusted, and fully individualised approach to each client. Building long-term relationships and providing strategic advice tailored to the client’s specific needs remain at the centre of how we work, and this is something we do not compromise on.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

We have worked with a number of fintech clients and other startups where our role went far beyond providing standalone legal advice. In many cases, we start by helping them set up their business model and guiding them through the licensing process to ensure that the regulatory framework fully supports their plans. As these businesses grow, we often assist them during investment rounds, helping to structure deals and negotiate with investors. In several instances, this journey has continued all the way to a successful sale to a strategic partner, resulting in highly attractive exits for founders and early-stage investors.

These projects are typically complex, as they involve both regulatory and corporate transactional aspects. Our combination of expertise in financial regulation, corporate structuring, and M&A allows us to provide comprehensive support throughout the entire lifecycle of our clients’ businesses – from early-stage start-up to successful exit.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

I believe that more than ever, clients are looking for trusted advisors who combine legal expertise with a deep understanding of their business goals. For us, building long-term relationships has always been at the heart of our work. Many of our clients have been with us for years, and we see ourselves as their partners rather than external advisors.

Looking three years ahead, I see us continuing to grow while maintaining this personal and highly individualised approach. Our aim is to remain flexible and responsive, providing strategic advice that reflects not only the legal framework but also our clients’ broader commercial interests.

We expect our work to keep expanding across several areas – from M&A and investment structures to technology-driven business models, regulatory frameworks, and cross-border projects. But no matter how our practice evolves, our focus will stay the same: combining top-tier legal services with a close, trusted, and long-term partnership with our clients.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate [law firm name] from your competitors?

JTJB Bangkok distinguishes itself by combining regional reach with a client-focused approach. As part of the JTJB global network in 9 countries, along with membership in ADVOC – the leading international network of independent law firms in 73 countries – and IR Global, a network of quality boutique firms worldwide, we are uniquely positioned to deliver seamless cross-border expertise while maintaining the agility and personal service of a focused Bangkok practice.

Unlike larger firms where clients may feel like one of many, our partners remain personally engaged in every matter, ensuring continuity, trust, and tailored strategies to each client’s needs.

Our clients benefit from advice that is not only legally sound but also pragmatic, cost-efficient, and grounded in industry-specific knowledge, particularly in shipping, international trade, corporate law, and dispute resolution. This balance of global capability and personal care allows us to offer a service that is both highly professional and deeply attentive – a distinction that sets us apart in the Thai legal market.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

In the next 12 months, I anticipate continued growth in mergers & acquisitions, corporate restructuring, and foreign direct investment because Thailand remains an attractive investment destination in Southeast Asia due to its strategic location, regional trade agreements, and government support measures, particularly through the Board of Investment of Thailand (“BOI”) and Eastern Economic Corridor Development Plan (“EEC”).

Additionally, I expect ESG-related compliance, data privacy, and digital (AI) regulations to play a larger role. With increasing cross-border transactions, businesses are paying closer attention to sustainability obligations and regulatory risks, which will drive demand for legal services in these areas.

Finally, dispute resolution and arbitration will likely see an uptick, as more parties look for efficient mechanisms to resolve cross-border commercial disputes amid geopolitical uncertainties.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

While direct internal restructuring was not publicly detailed beyond historical merger activity, our firm continues to benefit from a strengthened structure capable of integrated, high-value client service. Following the 2023 merger with AWP & Alliance, JTJB Bangkok expanded its capabilities, widened its partner base, and increased staff strength—lifting both capital market and IP capabilities through deeper resources and cross-practice collaboration. This bolstered expertise, paired with the firm’s award-winning track record, underscores a strategic transformation towards greater industry breadth, operational responsiveness, and enhanced client alignment.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

Technology has significantly transformed the way we interact with our clients and the services we provide. On the client side, secure video conferencing and digital collaboration tools now allow us to engage with international clients seamlessly, removing traditional barriers of time and distance.

Within Thailand, the growing adoption of e-filing systems has enabled us to expedite processes, reduce paperwork, and deliver faster results at a lower cost. We have also embraced digital knowledge management systems, which enhance the speed and accuracy of our legal advice. These developments allow us to provide the same level of responsiveness and sophistication as much larger international firms while maintaining greater flexibility and efficiency.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

A practical example of how we helped a client add value to their business is our successful work with one of Thailand’s most successful start-up laundry and dry-cleaning franchises. We have been assisting this client in restructuring its subsidiary and entering into an acquisition agreement with a publicly listed company in a transaction valued at approximately THB 1.05 billion.

The restructuring involved an entire business transfer procedure (“EBT”), moving all assets, contracts, debts, and employees from the subsidiary to the parent company. This approach was carefully designed to significantly minimize the tax liabilities associated with transferring assets between the client’s subsidiaries.

Beyond the restructuring, we advised the client in negotiating with the investor and finalizing key legal documents, including the Term Sheet, Shareholder Agreement, and Share Subscription Agreement. We also coordinated with the investor’s legal team during the due diligence process.Through this work, we helped the client not only achieve a smooth and tax-efficient transaction but also position the company for sustainable growth and strategic expansion.

This project illustrates how we add tangible business value by combining legal expertise with strategic, commercially minded solutions.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Clients increasingly expect their legal advisers to provide both stability and strategic foresight in a rapidly changing regulatory and business landscape. At JTJB Bangkok, we are committed to meeting these expectations by combining cross-border capability with the continuity and trust that come from direct partner involvement.

Over the next three years, I envisage the firm consolidating its position as a leading ASEAN gateway for cross-border investments, shipping and international trade, corporate transactions, and dispute resolution for both Thai and international clients. Our focus will be on strengthening industry-focused practice groups, expanding advisory services in areas such as foreign investment, regulatory compliance, and ESG, and investing in technology and talent development to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. Additionally, we plan to deepen our integration within the JTJB global network, ADVOC, and IR Global, enabling us to deliver cross-border solutions with agility and precision.

Through these initiatives, we aim to reinforce our role as a trusted and forward-looking partner, providing clients with stability, clarity, and strategic guidance to support their long-term success.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate DTT Attorneys-at-Law from your competitors?

As part of the Deloitte Legal global network that spreads across 80+ countries and regions with 2200+ legal professionals around the world, DTT Attorneys-at-Law (Deloitte Legal Taiwan) has more resources than local law firms to offer cross-regional legal services. Our firm also collaborates closely with other Deloitte professionals not only in multinational Legal teams, but also various business units such as Tax, Audit & Assurance, and Strategy Risk and Transactions, capable to provide a “one-stop service” with comprehensive solutions for our clients. In addition, with our knowledge and experience on industries and business transactions, we are able to have a better conception of the clients’ commercial point of view and needs in order to provide practical legal solutions to support their business and decision-making (as a journey partner).

Leveraging our capabilities above, we are able to swiftly respond to evolving legal and regulatory developments.  For instance, in response to the adoption of the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), we assist Taiwan listed companies in conducting human rights due diligence to enhance their compliance with the latest international regulatory frameworks.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

We expect to see growing in the mergers and acquisitions for the next 12 months initiated by U.S. tariff policies and global supply chain sustainability trends.  Taiwanese companies are positioning themselves by both domestic and outbound investments to pursue strategic restructuring and resilient strength.  To consolidate the small and medium enterprises, Taiwan Ministry of Economic Affairs promulgated an amendment to Taiwan Business Mergers and Acquisitions Act in May 2025 to create tax incentives for encouraging establishment of industrial holding companies, so as to support corporate diversification, promote resource integration, and mitigate operational risks.

Taiwan’s high-tech sector shall continue to accelerate its expansion and growth, driven mainly by the supply chain of TSMC and the advocates of artificial intelligence application.  Offshore wind farms and green energy infrastructures in Southwest Taiwan shall continue to thrive in response to the government’s commitment to renewable energy development.  These sectors would require comprehensive collaboration with international technology partnerships and know-hows on top of inbound investment and cross-border joint ventures, highlighting another significant episode for Taiwan M&A market.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

To provide comprehensive solutions to our clients along their business journeys, we have team hired experienced and reputable litigators to expand our services of dispute resolutions, covering traditional civil and criminal litigations, constitutional and administrative proceedings, mediation and arbitration, to alternative strategy planning.  This strengthens our one-stop service to ensure our capability and diversity to fulfill evolving needs of our clients.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

In view of the technology transformation especially inspired by GenAI, we aim to provide our clients bespoke advice with faster and accurate support, and proactively invest in developing LegalTech tools such as Legal Bot to enable clients to adapt and react to the changing businesses.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

In post-COVID time, clients are seeking to rebalance for sustainable growth and resilience, and divesting assets that no longer fit the trends.  We have assisted the Taiwan listed company, Accton Technology, to foster its strategic alliance with a PRC partner, Digital China Group, via share swap and joint venture, so as to expand their market presence and create synergy.  With our assistance in negotiations for the transaction, the client better positioned its contractual arrangement thereunder; its market price almost doubled in a year after the closing.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Clients are looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms, and DTT Attorneys-at-Law is committed to leverage and integrate our global resources of Deloitte Legal network, as well as include AI enabled tools, so as to provide high quality professional services to our clients in multiple sectors, differentiating ourselves from local and traditional law firms in Taiwan.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate Aquaxis Law Office from your competitors?

Aquaxis Law Office stands out for its diversity and international expertise. Over half of our lawyers are women, which is rare for law firms in Japan, especially considering Japan’s low percentage of women lawyers (which is around 20%). Many of our team members have worked at global law firms based in Tokyo and one of the Big Five law firms, bringing extensive cross-border experience. We foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that values different perspectives and promotes high-quality legal services.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

We anticipate growth in the healthcare, technology, and transportation sectors due to their rapid growth and increasing legal complexity. Additionally, cross-border transactions, M&A, and dispute resolution are areas where we expect continued expansion. Our recent hires have strengthened our capabilities in these fields, allowing us to better serve our clients.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

We have enhanced our firm’s diversity in terms of personnel and work styles, enabling more flexible and tailored client service. The adoption of IT and AI tools has also improved our efficiency and transparency. We promote open communication through firm-wide meetings, mentoring sessions, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. Our remote work environment supports a work-life balance and allows us to attract and retain top talent.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

Absolutely. We now rely less on face-to-face meetings and more on digital communication tools such as Slack and other chat platforms. Technologies like AI-powered translation and dictation tools have significantly reduced our workload and legal fees. These innovations allow us to provide more customized and cost-effective legal advice.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

We provided strategic legal advice to a client in response to regulatory changes, including drafting new internal rules and compliance frameworks. Our practical and proactive approach helped the client adapt quickly and maintain business continuity.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Clients increasingly seek law firms that offer both stability and strategic insight. In three years, we envision Aquaxis Law Office continuing to expand its diversity of practices and personnel, leveraging technology to deepen client relationships and enhance service quality.

What do you see as the main points that differentiate SAT & Co from your competitors?

SAT & Co is part of the new generation of local law firms, combining unmatched UAE expertise with international best practices. Our partners were “cooked” in the leading UAE and international law firms, shaped by years of experience in top-tier practices, enabling us to deliver exceptional legal advice and service with the accessibility and agility of a boutique firm. Clients value our approachable style, direct access to the entire team, not just a relationship manager, and the efficiency with which we handle onboarding and ongoing matters.

We stand out for our extensive rights of audience before all UAE courts and our Dispute Resolution department’s reputation for managing high-value, complex disputes across diverse sectors, including oil & gas, banking, jewellery, real estate, insurance, telecoms, and international trade. We have particular expertise in arbitration enforcement, ensuring clients’ cross-border claims are successfully realised.

Our team of ten legal advisors, including partners and senior lawyers who work directly with clients, provides a client-focused, strategic approach. By combining high-quality legal services with cost-effective rates and broad specialisations across multiple practice areas, SAT & Co is a trusted partner for both domestic and international dispute resolution.

Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?

 We anticipate continued growth in high-value dispute resolution, particularly cross-border enforcement and complex commercial litigation. This growth is driven by the UAE’s evolving business landscape, increasing foreign investment, and the need for specialist legal expertise in sectors such as gold, commodities, real estate, and international trade. Additionally, arbitration enforcement and international commercial disputes are expected to expand as companies seek more efficient alternatives to traditional litigation. Our firm’s recent successes in enforcing multi-million-dollar foreign awards and providing influential expert legal opinions demonstrate our capability to capitalise on this trend.

What’s the main change you’ve made in the firm that will benefit clients?

Over the past year, we have introduced a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing client experience and satisfaction. We now operate from a new office, ideally located just outside Dubai’s main business centre, allowing clients to visit us without the inconvenience of navigating the overly busy financial district. At SAT & Co, we are also investing in business development and marketing to strengthen our voice as a leading local firms. An effort driven entirely by our clients’ feedback. We aim to ensure that clients not only receive exceptional, personalised legal advice but also experience the accessibility, efficiency, and strategic insight that distinguish a forward-thinking, client-centric firm.

Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?

Yes, technology is transforming our client interactions and service delivery. Our upgraded case management system ensures transparency and keeps clients informed with timely updates on their matters. In addition, our online consulting service provides real-time access to legal consultations and document reviews, offering convenience and faster response times, particularly for clients with international operations. Technology also enables our lawyers to collaborate efficiently, manage complex cases seamlessly, and deliver tailored legal strategies, further enhancing the client experience.

Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?

A recent example is our enforcement of a foreign arbitration award through UAE courts, enabling the client to recover a significant financial asset efficiently, strengthening their commercial position and facilitating further investment opportunities. Similarly, our legal opinion influencing a DIFC Court arbitration enforcement decision preserved the client’s contractual rights and provided clarity for future business operations in the region. Where other firms have not ventured before, we will go and push boundaries to achieve our clients’ goals.

Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms – where do you see the firm in three years’ time?

Clients increasingly seek legal partners who help them achieve compliance and provide strategic guidance to realise growth, but also protect their interests. SAT & Co aims to be recognised as a leading dispute resolution firm in the UAE, combining deep local expertise with international standards. In three years, we envision expanding our market presence, continuing to attract and retain top legal talent, improving client service through innovative solutions, and further solidifying our reputation for delivering high-value, results-driven legal support. Our ongoing investments in technology, diversity initiatives, and client-focused processes ensure we remain a trusted advisor for both domestic and international clients.