Marta and Paul mapped out the key essentials to include in an international joint venture agreement, and what steps should be taken to protect shareholders, and if things go wrong, Paul and Marta also explained a number of remedies that could be obtained an a British Court in terms of injunctive relief (such as worldwide freezing orders), as well as discussing alternative dispute resolution procedures such as arbitration and mediation. Ekaterina commented: “Our audience really greatly appreciated getting a view from London on the British perspective of handling international joint venture partnerships and what can happen when directors or investors go rogue, which is relevant to what we have to do in terms of following the money, so to speak.” Marta commented as well: “Providing insights from both the Russian and British perspective is what I do, and hopefully I can provide a bridge between the two cultures, on both a business and a professional level.” Paul added: “Having this global reach is vital for our clients, and having the expertise on the ground in Moscow, Russia, really provides us with first-class connectivity.  Our thanks to ASB Consulting for hosting this lunch event and inviting us to speak to such a wonderful audience.” Sherrards Solicitors has got to know ASB Consulting through the Alliott Group international alliance of independent law and accountancy firms, which provides Sherrards with a global reach to like-minded firms, where we are able to provide our clients, contacts and friends of the firm with connectivity just about anywhere in the world – not to mention providing one-stop legal services and support, particularly when it comes to multi-jurisdictional disputes.

The LGBT+ Lawyers Division was established in 2016 and aims to bring LGBT+ lawyers together to improve their experiences in the profession.  Kirsty will sit alongside other legal professionals in the group, who will work together sharing best practice and addressing current issues and challenges in a supportive environment. Kirsty says “I’m honoured to have been offered a position on the committee.  I’ve been always been passionate about providing my peers with support and guidance and welcome this opportunity to use my voice to advocate for others.  We’re in uncertain times at the moment, when our colleagues may require more support than ever, and I’m keen to be able to provide that support to them.”  

Audalis, Alliott Group’s multidisciplinary member in Germany, attach great importance to their international relations, with all staff being encouraged to take part in their employee exchange and internship programmes. The exchanges the firm undertakes with those within the Alliott Alliance is especially important as clients can benefit directly from contacts made during the visits. Alexander Marmor, son of Paul Marmor, Partner at London law firm member Sherrards Solicitors, was the last secondee that audalis hosted and during his internship he was able to gain deep insights into the working processes at the firm and improve his German language skills. In return Maximilian Block, son of Martina Block, completed an internship at Sherrards in March. A physics student, this was a great opportunity for Maximilian to get to know the country and its people, and a chance to exchange ideas with his peers on an international level. During his time in London, Maximilian networked at a “young professionals” event on the topic of “Wellbeing” and listened to a talk by Anthony Julius, a well known lawyer in the UK, who had presided over the divorce from Princess Diana. Maximilian said: “This visit confirmed my decision to pursue my education abroad. I am very grateful to the opportunity that audalis and Sherrards Solicitors have given me. I would recommend a visit to London for all students and those starting their career.”

The forum was supported by the Ministry of Justice in China. Minister Fu Zhenghua, spoke alongside Vice Ministers Xiong Xuanguo and Liu Zhiqiang. The chairman of the All China Lawyers Association, Wang Jungfeng also attended the forum. As well as this, all officials from the 33 provinces of China were in attendance. Laurel was chosen to attend alongside 599 other globally recognised professionals which is a huge accolade to her. “It was an honour to be invited and attend such an exclusive event” said Laurel Zhang, “with increasing opportunities in China, these exchanges are vital for doing business between China and the UK and it is fantastic that Sherrards are at the forefront of this”.