Paul Marmor, who also serves as co-chair of the IBA’s Law Firm Management committee, was interviewd by journalist Margaret Taylor highlighting the challenges facing public sector legal recruitment and retention. Also contributing valuable insights were David Patient, Senior Advisor at Travers Smith in London; Carl Gardner, barrister and former government lawyer; and Paul McConnell, Director of Careers at the University of Birmingham Law School.

The growing disparity in compensation, with private sector law firms offering significantly higher salaries—often double or triple those found in the public sector—is making it increasingly challenging for government and public bodies to attract and retain high-quality legal talent. This salary discrepancy, coupled with demanding workloads and resource constraints, poses risks to the overall effectiveness and quality of public legal services.

Paul Marmor emphasised the critical importance of addressing this imbalance, suggesting strategic approaches and highlighting best practices to ensure the public sector remains attractive and competitive for talented legal professionals. He further noted the impact this widening gap could have on justice delivery, policy-making, and overall governance.

The article can be found here.

The IBA’s Law Firm Management Committee actively works as a global forum toexchange of best practices in law practice leadership and management, welcoming professionals from large global practices to mid-tier and specialist firms. We are providing a platform for the IBA and its members to help shape and influence the future of law firm management.

Through our membership and very serious involvement in organisations such as the International Bar Association (www.int-bar.org) and Alliott Global Alliance (www.alliottglobal.com), we have the world covered, in terms of our access to law firms and professionals at the highest level across the globe, at the drop of a hat.

 

For more information on our international offering, speak to our head of international, Paul Marmor, on +44 (0)20 7478 9010 or pdm@sherrards.com, or Tessa Herring, on +44 (0)20 7478 9010 or tlh@sherrards.com.

 

Paul Marmor, who also co-chairs the IBA’s Law Firm Management Committee, was interviewed by journalist Joanne Harris. His observations highlighted key trends and influential factors currently driving law firms towards mergers and strategic partnerships. In this insightful discussion, Paul’s views were complemented by those of Lisa Smith from Fairfax Associates in Washington DC, and Robert Millard, of the globally renowned advisory firm Cambridge Strategy Group.

According to Paul, despite turbulence across global markets and the broader economic uncertainty, the appetite for law firm mergers remains strong. Firms are actively exploring strategic mergers as a means of enhancing their competitive advantage, expanding into new geographical regions, and reinforcing areas of specialist expertise.

The article can be found here:

https://www.ibanet.org/Future-of-law-merger-market-for-firms-remains-buoyant-in-a-turbulent-world#:~:text=’What’s%20driving%20people%20forwards%20are,about%20it%2C’%20says%20Marmor.

The IBA’s Law Firm Management Committee, serves as a global forum for the exchanging best practices in law practice leadership and managements membership is diverse, encompassing managing and senior partners, emerging talent, allied legal professionals, and General Counsel from firms of varying sizes and specialties, including leading global entities and mid-market practices. Through this platform, committee members actively shape and influence future approaches to law firm management worldwide.

Through our membership and very serious involvement in organisations such as the International Bar Association (www.int-bar.org) and Alliott Global Alliance (www.alliottglobal.com), we have the world covered, in terms of our access to law firms and professionals at the highest level across the globe, at the drop of a hat.

 

For more information on our international offering, speak to our head of international, Paul Marmor, on +44 (0)20 7478 9010, or Tessa Herring, on +44 (0)20 7478 9010. 

Because in today’s fast-moving legal landscape, access to a truly global network is essential for staying competitive and connected.

Watch: Paul Marmor on the Power of the IBA

In this short video, Paul Marmor, Head of Litigation and International Services at Sherrards Solicitors, shares his insights on why the IBA is such a powerful platform for international legal professionals to connect, collaborate and expand their networks.

To watch the video, click the image above or click the link here. 

 

Paul has made this video in his capacity as the co-chair of the IBA’s Law Firm Management Committee, the purpose of which is to be a global forum for the exchange of best practices in law practice leadership and management.

It’s an inclusive space for professionals across the legal sector – from large, global firms to mid-market practices.

Who should join the International Bar Association?

• Senior and managing partners
• General counsel and in-house teams
• Legal operations professionals
• Future legal leaders
• Allied professionals supporting law firm success

This committee is open to all those with an interest in effective law firm management, legal innovation and strategic leadership in the legal profession.

A Truly Global Legal Network

Through our membership and active involvement in organisations such as the International Bar Association (www.int-bar.org) and Alliott Global Alliance (www.alliottglobal.com), Sherrards Solicitors have the world covered, in terms of our access to law firms and professionals at the highest level across the globe, at the drop of a hat.

 

For more information on our international offering, speak to our head of international, Paul Marmor, on +44 (0)20 7478 9010, or Tessa Herring, on +44 (0)20 7478 9010.

Combining in-depth local knowledge with practical cross-border expertise the Italian Desk is headed by Francesca Rossi, partner in our Private Wealth team. Francesca grew up near Venice, but moved to London after completing her Italian law degree and qualified as a solicitor in 2007. Working in London for the past fifteen years, Francesca has cultivated a formidable network of Italian related contacts and clients. She also sits on the board of the British Italian Law Association.

Since joining Sherrards last October, Francesca has been instrumental in developing this initiative, to add to the firms well established French and German desks. Francesca is supported by partner Greg Pooler, who specialises in commercial litigation and trainee solicitor Max Marmor, who studied Italian at university.

On the Ground in Italy

To coincide with the launch of the Italian Desk, Francesca recently travelled to Rome and Milan to meet with a range of professionals including lawyers, accountants, and representatives from the British and Italian business communities. Taking place in late February, the trip was designed to establish and strengthen relationships that will directly benefit clients with UK-Italy interests.

Some highlights of Francesca’s trip include attending the STEP Global Congress in Rome, where Francesca engaged with international private client advisers on cross-border wealth and succession planning. In Milan, she held meetings with members of the British Chamber of Commerce for Italy, as well as representatives of the British Consulate and the Department for Trade and Industry. She also met with leading Italian law firms and professional advisers, focusing on how best to support clients needing coordinated legal advice across both markets.

Cross-Border Developments and Legal Change

The launch of Sherrards’ Italian Desk comes at a key time for UK-Italy cross-border legal matters. Changes in UK and EU laws post-Brexit continue to shape the way businesses operate between the UK and EU.

Italian legislative changes are on the horizon, including reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment and updates to corporate governance and tax, which will influence how UK companies engage with the Italian market. The upcoming changes present positive news for people or companies looking to invest in Italy. In addition to this, Italy’s Non-Dom regime, the favourable inheritance tax rates and its recognition of trusts make it an attractive destination for UHNW individuals looking to relocate.

Francesca and the Italian Desk are well placed to guide clients through these developments, combining local understanding with Sherrards’ established expertise in a variety of legal sectors.

Supporting Clients Going Forward

The Italian Desk is part of Sherrards’ broader strategy to enhance our international services and build stronger connections with overseas markets. Whether Italian businesses and individuals investing in or relocating to the UK, or UK companies seeking to do business in Italy, our team can offer seamless, tailored advice to support cross-border transactions and resolve complex international issues.

We welcome enquiries from both existing and new clients who may benefit from this service, and invite anyone with interests in the UK or Italy to contact Francesca Rossi or a member of the Italian team to discuss how we can assist.

Francesca joins as a partner and Head of Italian Desk, having advised Italian clients born or domiciled in the UK over many years. Francesca has deep experience in English/Italian matters and regularly manages private wealth on complex and high value matters including working with other professionals in resolving issues involving Italian assets and their transfer by inheritance.

She advises private clients on a full range of activities involving the management of movable and immovable assets, including conditional exemption of assets and foreign aspects of estate administration. She has a particular focus on cross-border issues and inheritance and tax advice for persons with international connections.

She also advises clients on UK estate planning, trusts and estate administration. 

Nicole Marmor, Partner and Head of Private Wealth at Sherrards said “I am thrilled to welcome Francesca to the Private Wealth Team. Her extensive expertise in Anglo-Italian matters not only strengthens our department’s expertise in cross-border succession matters, as recognized by leading legal directories, but will also foster collaboration across the firm to better serve our valued Italian clients”.

Paul Marmor, Head of International commented “It’s a real coup getting Francesca on board which consolidates our European reach alongside our French and German desks. This marks a new milestone, positioning us to assist European clients—especially those from Italy—in establishing and investing in the UK. Additionally, our unparalleled international network ensures exceptional support for clients seeking outbound opportunities.”

Commenting on her decision to join the firm Francesca added “I am excited to head our Italian desk and to have the opportunity to play a role in strengthening our international capabilities by delivering tailored advice and solutions to our Italian clients”.

Francesca’s appointment comes as part of ambitious growth plans for the Private Wealth team, as well as the wider firm, with a particular focus on expanding the range of specialisms provided to our client base. Francesca joins forces with our dynamic Private Wealth team led by Nicole Marmor, and recently promoted Partner Arthur Byng Nelson.

Paul Marmor, Partner, and Head of Dispute Resolution and International at Sherrards is the Senior Chair of the LFMC, and addressed attendees, outlining ambitious plans for the year ahead and highlighting strategies to navigate the evolving legal landscape.

The mission of the IBA Law Firm Management Committee is to be a leading global forum for the exchange of best practices in law practice leadership and management through sharing and discussing concepts, experience, knowledge and trends on practice management issues and topics. 

The conference featured a series of thought-provoking panels and discussions, thanks to the brilliant organisation by Anne MacDonald and David Patient.

Collaboration Across Borders

Delegates engaged with dynamic moderators and panellists, exploring innovations and challenges shaping the global legal profession. The event concluded with a drinks reception hosted by Gary Assim and Shoosmiths, providing an excellent networking opportunity.

The LFMC invites Lawyers and allied legal professionals worldwide to contribute to shaping the future of the legal profession. If you’d like to get involved, reach out to Paul Marmor, or have a look on the International Bar Association website. 

These events offered a platform for Chinese speaking delegates from a range of sectors to explore significant developments in the cross-border business landscape and presented vital networking opportunities. Laurel’s presence at these forums reinforces Sherrards’ dedication to supporting clients through expert cross-border legal counsel, especially in an era where the UK and China are increasingly linked by trade and investment.

Road Trip Across China for the Association of Chinese Lawyers in Europe

Laurel collaborated again with the Association of Chinese Lawyers in Europe (ACLE). Following the success of Sherrards’ recent London conference on AI and law. Laurel travelled across China with the ACLE to deliver a series of seminars, titled “China-Europe Investment and Financing and Industrial Matchmaking.”

The seminars were delivered in several major Chinese cities, including Xiamen, Shanghai, Dalian, and Shenzhen. This event focused on strengthening ties between Chinese and European legal professionals, fostering direct collaboration opportunities for businesses. Heavily involved in these seminars, Laurel played a key role in presenting insights on legal frameworks governing cross-border investments, further cementing Sherrards’ position as a leader in facilitating UK-China business ventures.

Chinese Speaking Lawyers’ Convention in Qianhai, Shenzhen

In October this convention took place in the heart of Shenzhen’s financial district, gathering over 500 Chinese-speaking lawyers from across China, the Greater China region, and 40 other countries. It was supported from the Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Justice. If the scale of the conference wasn’t enough, Shenzhen the host city boasts a population of over 17 million people.

The primary focus of the attendees was on Shenzhen’s rule of law and responding to the growing demands of foreign-related legal services from individuals and businesses alike. Delegates discussed the intricacies of international legal cooperation. As global supply chains shift and fluctuate a conference of this nature presented Laurel with invaluable experience and contacts willing to embrace the China-Uk relationship.  Laurel engaged with prominent Shenzhen enterprises, drawing from her vast experience to place Sherrards firmly at the centre of such a notable event.

China International Import Exposition, Shanghai

From November 6-8, Laurel attended this event in Shanghai, hosted in conjunction with the China International Import Expo, once again considering the “Bridge of Overseas Chinese”. Organised by the China Overseas Chinese Federation and the Shanghai Government, the forum attracted a wide array of international professionals and industry leaders.

The sessions were geared towards connecting the international Chinese community with investment and innovation resources within China, reinforcing high-level international collaboration. Laurel’s involvement underscores Sherrards’ mission to guide UK companies toward successful engagement in China by aligning with the latest regulatory and commercial developments.

Relevance to UK-China Business Relations

These conferences are highly relevant to Sherrards’ UK-based clients as they provide the firm with up-to-date insights into China’s evolving regulatory landscape and its implications for foreign investors. Laurel’s active participation enables Sherrards to offer practical and informed guidance to British businesses exploring new opportunities in China’s dynamic economy. With firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities discussed at these events, Sherrards is well-positioned to advise clients on compliance, market entry, and partnership strategies that align with China’s economic and legal priorities.

For Chinese professionals and enterprises, Sherrards’ involvement signifies the firm’s commitment to building reliable legal partnerships that support cross-border transactions with the UK. Laurel continues to develop her connections with Chinese legal and industry professionals, cultivating trust and opening avenues for collaboration. Laurel’s engagement serves as a bridge between Chinese and British businesses, promoting safe, transparent, and efficient legal pathways for trade, investment, and innovation between the two.

For more information, contact Laurel Zhang. 

Recently, members of our international team attended the Alliott Global Alliance EMEA Conference in Sofia, Bulgaria, with Nicole Marmor, Head of Private Wealth, speaking on a panel on social media, and Jean-Paul da Costa, Head of Corporate and Commercial, giving the conference his insights on AI.

Paul Marmor, Head of International, recently attended an invitation-only meeting of the IBA’s leaders in Bucharest, Romania. Indeed, Paul soon takes over as the senior chair of the International Bar Association’s Law Firm Management Committee, which is one of the most prestigious and powerful sections of the IBA.  The IBA itself is an association made up of approximately 100,000 lawyers from across the world, which is seen as the voice of the global legal profession, which lobbies on important issues relating to the rule of law and human rights, and also stands as an excellent networking platform to help us expand our international reach.

Through our involvement in the AGA and the IBA, there is quite literally nowhere in the world beyond our reach, to help our clients, friends and contacts with all their legal and professional needs.

If you would like more information then please speak to Paul Marmor

 

Think International,

Think Sherrards!

In early March, Arthur Byng Nelson, Sherrards’ Head of Art & Heritage, attended TEFAF in Maastricht the leading art and antiques fair in Europe, as part of the At Business Conference.

Founded in 2014, The Art Business Conference is a leading global platform delving into pivotal topics within the contemporary art market. These one-day conferences attract senior art professionals, providing invaluable knowledge and insight for individuals involved in managing art businesses or collections.

Arthur advises clients on strategy, law and tax on all matters relating to collectibles. TEFAF is the fair to attend if you are looking to purchase museum-quality items: for example a painting by Guercino (1599-1666) see below of St. Sebastian, an ancient Egyptian relic or some highly unusual (and expensive!) jewellery. If you ever would like to attend he would be pleased to see what he can do for you.

Arthur also enjoyed the half-day Art Business Conference and made new contacts at museums in France and Belgium, as well as with a number of collectors and dealers.

See here Arthur with some of his fellow members of PAIAM (Professional Advisors to the International Art Market) and some photographs he took of works on his wishlist. 

Paul Marmor, Head of Litigation and International Services, recently visited the offices of our Alliott Global Alliance (“AGA”) correspondent law firms in Dallas and New York – Platt Richmond and Golenbock Eiseman Assor Bell & Peskoe – and gave a presentation to each on the topic of UK/USA relations post-Brexit, where Paul explained how the trading relationship has been affected in a post-Brexit world.

Paul set out the good, the bad and the ugly from all perspectives.  Paul also gave the same presentation to AGA’s North American annual meeting in Palm Springs, California, attended by over 70 members from the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Paul is pictured presenting a ceremonial gift to each law firm, with the Managing Partner of Platt Richmond, Bob Daniels, and a number of his colleague, and with Jeff Berger, the Managing Partner of Golenbocks.  Paul is presenting David Gauke’s book entitled The Case for the Centre Right, which is a collection of essays on politics in the UK at this time, with special emphasis on Brexit, including contributions from Rory Stewart, Daniel Finklestein  and Dominic Grieve and others.

For more information about our connectivity, clients and friends across the Americas, through our involvement in the AGA, the American Bar Association and the International Bar Association, and for our legal perspectives relating to Brexit, then please reach out to Paul Marmor on +44 20 7478 9010 or pdm@sherrards.com, or visit www.sherrards.com.