ISOLAS LLP > Gibraltar, Gibraltar > Firm Profile

ISOLAS LLP
PORTLAND HOUSE, GLACIS ROAD
Gibraltar

Gibraltar > Banking and finance Tier 1

ISOLAS LLP is renowned for a strong advisory practice, spanning corporate and structured finance, real estate finance and regulatory issues. The team is also well-regarded for legislative drafting, acting for His Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar. Christian Hernandez advises leading international banks in a range of corporate finance matters, Christian Caetano specialises in insurance and financial services and James Montado ‘delivers high quality representation’ in regulatory and contract matters. In October 2023, Albert J Isola CBE returned to the firm as senior partner, following a sabbatical as Minister from 2013 to 2023.

Practice head(s):

Christian Hernandez; Christian Caetano; James Montado

Other key lawyers:

Albert J Isola CBE; Peter Isola

Testimonials

‘The firm has a very good banking and finance practice.’

‘Peter Isola is the managing partner of the firm and is a class act. He is full of experience and confidence and knows the banking and financial services business in Gibraltar extremely well. ’

‘Christian Caetano is incredibly responsive and detail oriented. He is a pleasure to work with!’

‘The team is a reliable go-to firm for advice on technical and complex financial services legal queries – and is a solid partner for any contract negotiation we enter into by their side.’

‘James Montado is articulate, aligned and delivers high quality representation.’

Key clients

The Ardonagh Group

HM Government of Gibraltar

Valaris PLC

Specialist Risk Group (SRG)

Kingstar UK Ltd

Mansion (Gibraltar) Ltd

I Squared Capital

Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Dispute resolution Tier 1

Praised as ‘client focused, combining legal expertise with a focus on business objectives’, ISOLAS LLP‘s recent caseload encompasses contentious public sector, cryptocurrency, and employment matters. The practice is jointly headed by Neil Costa, Samantha Grimes, Mark Isola, and James Montado, and Grimes is notably experienced in Employment Tribunal claims, Isola is a key port of call for the Gibraltar Health Authority, while Montado often handles civil litigation. Costa is lauded as a ‘highly intelligent and professional individual’, Danielle Victor is proficient in insolvency disputes, and Nicholas Isola is a key support. Other notable practitioners include David Garcia and Kyle Bautista.

Practice head(s):

Neil Costa: Samantha Grimes: Mark Isola: James Montado

Testimonials

‘The team at Isolas LLP is client focused, combining legal expertise with a focus on business objectives. The team has an ability to provide high-level legal advice and practical solutions that help us successfully resolve any challenges which may arise across multiple areas.’

‘Neil Costa and his team deliver a highly personalised, hands-on approach. As clients we, are not just treated as case files—we are seen as long-term partners taking the time to understand our challenges and goals, providing solutions that align with our legal needs.’

‘At all times, Neil Costa has demonstrated that he is a highly intelligent and professional individual, who always displays an excellent grasp of the legal and administrative issues surrounding the areas we rely on him for advice. I have also been very impressed by his availability and flexibility.’

‘Having worked with Neil Costa for the last four years, his wealth of knowledge on the public sector is constantly apparent, having served in His Majesty’s Government as an Honourable Minister, including as the Minister for Social Security. This has brought an invaluable understanding of the relevant policies, procedures, and of course legislation that apply to the public service.’

‘Neil Costa is an asset to Isolas LLP, and I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Neil to anyone who may require his services.’

‘Neil Costa: for the extensive experience, knowledge, understanding and excellent professional and interpersonal skills he brings in abundance. ’

‘Quick to respond to queries. They always provide sound advice promptly. The team is friendly and personable.’

‘I have worked with Neil Costa and his team and have always found them to be helpful and professional. Between them they cover a very wide range of skills and expertise, in particular when it comes to assisting me in re-drafting legislation.’

Key clients

Kingstar UK Ltd

Mansion (Gibraltar) Ltd

Director of Public Prosecutions for Gibraltar

His Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Fintech Tier 1

The ‘well connected’ team at ISOLAS LLP harnesses extensive experience in the fintech sector, with particularly robust regulatory expertise. A key focus for the team involves advising industry groups dedicated to the development of the regulatory and commercial framework for DLT companies, as well as acting on behalf of clients seeking regulatory authorisation. This expertise is bolstered by the return of senior partner Albert J Isola CBE, following his tenure as Minister from 2013 to 2023, during which time he introduced the legislation for the regulation of the DLT industry. Isola leads the team alongside Jonathan Garcia, a specialist in the financial services, corporate advisory, regulatory and DLT practice areas. Stuart Dalmedo and Shakira Marsh-Finch are other key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Garcia; Albert J Isola CBE

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Very good knowledge of the Gibraltar market and very well connected with government and the regulator.’

‘Jonathan Garcia and The Hon Albert Isola CBE: Very knowledgeable and very helpful. Always available. Strategic advisors as well as very good lawyers.’

Key clients

SSW Alpha Rock Fund PCC Limited

IOV Labs Limited (RSK)

BTSE Holdings Limited

Bullish Global

Xapo

Systema Fund PCC Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted as legal advisers to SSW Holding GmbH in relation to the establishment of SSW Crypto Trading Limited (a Gibraltar private limited company) as a private fund.
  • Acting for IOV Labs Limited (RSK) – RootstockLabs on various other legal matters related to the operation of the Gibraltar business, including corporate governance indemnities, reviewing of commercial contracts, agreement with Gibraltar Government on integration of blockchain into Government systems and board restructure
  • Advising BTSE Holdings Limited on the regulatory implications of establishing a distributed ledger technology business in Gibraltar for the purpose of operating a crypto assets wallet service, spot trading exchange, derivatives trading exchange, OTC market and earn program.

Gibraltar > Private client Tier 1

The leading private client practice at ISOLAS LLP offers the full gamut of services to high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals and families, with a ‘pragmatic’ approach to succession planning, wealth preservation, trusts and family office matters. Senior partner Peter Isola leads the team, whilst Emma Lejeune is regarded as a leading figure in Gibraltar’s private client arena. Adrian Pilcher and Stuart Dalmedo are also key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Peter Isola

Testimonials

‘Committed, informed and responsive.’

‘Attentive to detail and will go the extra mile.’

‘Diverse and resourceful as a firm with a keen sense of finding solutions in a pragmatic way.’

‘James Montado (an astute and practical practitioner) and Adrian Pilcher (very thorough in all areas of corporate and probate/trust) immediately spring to mind as immediate go-tos. Also Stuart Dalmedo and Peter Isola.’

‘A leading team in Gibraltar. They are creative and solutions-based in their approach to matters and easily win the trust of the client.’

‘Emma Lejeune is a leading partner in the practice and therefore Gibraltar when it comes to private client matters.’

‘Super pragmatic.’

Key clients

His Majesty’s Government of Gibraltar

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Tax Tier 1

Highly regarded for its ‘personal approach’, ISOLAS LLP offers a bespoke yet comprehensive tax practice to assist major individual and corporate clients in the full gamut of tax matters. Stuart Dalmedo comes highly recommended, assisting HNWIs on the establishment of tax efficient structures and cross-border planning, as well as advising on all tax matters arising in corporate restructuring and financing matters. Adrian Pilcher advises notable clients on wealth and succession planning and family governance. Senior partner Peter Isola and Emma Lejeune are also key contacts, whilst Louise Anne Turnock is noted as ‘a truly up and coming star in the legal sector’. Senior partner Albert J Isola CBE returned to the firm, following 10 years as a Government Minister, where he was responsible for all financial services portfolios in Gibraltar.

Practice head(s):

Peter Isola; Albert Isola CBE; Emma Lejeune; Adrian Pilcher; Stuart Dalmedo

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘For any individual seeking personalised, expert tax advice in Gibraltar, I cannot recommend Isolas LLP enough. What really stands out is their personal approach. I felt like a truly valued client and the advice given was not only technically sound but also aligned with my objectives.’

‘Stuart Dalmedo is an outstanding professional. His expertise in Gibraltar’s tax laws has been invaluable to me. Stuart’s technical knowledge and ability to simplify complex issues, providing clear and practical advice, makes him stand out. His attention to detail provides reassurance of achieving the best outcome in each situation. Stuart is always incredibly responsive and available to address my concerns, providing support beyond legal advice, offering peace of mind during otherwise complicated processes.’

‘At Isolas LLP you will find that clients seeking specific expertise in complex matters can rely on the firm’s in-depth knowledge and experience. We believe that Isolas prioritises personalised client service, ensuring that each client feels valued and understood. Regular communication and a commitment to responding helps client relationships.’

‘We believe that individuals at Isolas bring a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields, particularly in areas like corporate law, commercial disputes, and regulatory matters. This specialisation sets them apart from competitors who may take a more general approach.’

‘Adrian Pilcher and Stuart Dalmedo are both two exceptional legal professionals. Within their team Louise Anne Turnock is a truly up and coming star in the legal sector.’

‘Stuart Dalmedo and team: availability, time conscious, a pro-active approach, detailed and well reasoned advice.’

‘Highly professional team with extensive knowledge of Gibraltar corporate and personal tax matters.’

‘Stuart Dalmedo and Adrian Pilcher are our main contacts at the firm on tax matters. They are highly knowledgeable, offer practical and pragmatic solutions and have good relationships with local authorities. ’

Work highlights

Gibraltar > TMT Tier 1

The highly regarded ISOLAS LLP leverages the deep sector expertise of its team to assist major telecommunication and gaming companies, as well as advising HM Government of Gibraltar on gaming legislation and licensing regulations. The team is led by senior partner Peter Isola, widely recognised as a leading figure in Gibraltar’s gaming sector; e-gaming expert Steven Caetano; and Jonathan Garcia, a specialist in financial services, corporate advisory, regulatory and DLT matters. Albert J Isola CBE has returned as senior partner, following a 10 year tenure as a Government Minister, notably responsible for financial services and gaming from 2013 to 2023.

Practice head(s):

Peter Isola; Steven Caetano; Jonathan Garcia

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

SSW Alpha Rock Fund PCC Limited

BTSE Holdings Limited

Bullish Global

Xapo

Systema Fund PCC Limited

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 2

ISOLAS LLP is well-equipped to advise on a range of commercial matters, harnessing notable expertise in gaming licensing, insurance and general corporate matters, as well as the DLT/fintech space. Senior partner Peter Isola is heavily involved in corporate governance matters, Jonathan Garcia leads in the funds and fintech sector, whilst Christian Caetano is a key contact for insurance and cross-border M&A matters. Steven Caetano comes highly recommended, with a strong reputation in the gaming and M&A arenas. In October 2023, Albert J Isola CBE returned to the firm, following a sabbatical serving as a Government Minister from 2013 to 2023.

Practice head(s):

Peter Isola; Steven Caetano; Christian Caetano

Other key lawyers:

Albert Isola CBE; Jonathan Garcia

Testimonials

‘Flexible billing, regulatory expertise, close relations to the relevant authority yielding relevant and accurate results, responsive, good collaboration with clients.’

‘From my dealings with Isolas LLP, it is a boutique legal firm where a strong relationship is formed with the client. They are hands on and always available.’

‘Steven Caetano: He turns around work very quickly, is always willing to help, goes the extra mile and always offers his services. He is a pleasure to work with. ’

‘Quick and accurate responses to legal and regulatory queries are provided.’

‘Steven Caetano is our main contact and his knowledge and connections with the right people in Gibraltar continue to support our business in the most efficient and professional manner.’

Key clients

I Squared Capital

Specialist Risk Group (SRG) and HGGC

Intermediate Capital Group (ICG)

Bullish Global

Systema Fund PCC Limited

Xapo

IOV Labs Limited (RSK)

Valaris PLC

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Gambling law Tier 2

The 'substantial' full-service gambling law practice at ISOLAS LLP counts both governmental entities and industry bodies among its clientele, with the team regularly advising on licensing matters, commercial issues, and regulatory work. Practice co-heads Peter Isola and Steven Caetano are described by clients as 'top of the game', with Isola advising on governmental legislation and regulations, and Caetano regularly acting for leading industry companies. The duo is joined by new co-head and experienced barrister Albert J Isola CBE, former government minister for financial services and gaming, who returned to the firm in October 2023.

Practice head(s):

Peter Isola; Albert Isola; Steven Caetano

Testimonials

‘Isolas has a substantial gambling law practice acting for some of the main operators. They deal with regulation, licensing and litigation in the sector and are no doubt one of the top firms in the area.’

‘Steven Caetano and Peter Isola are both top of the game.’

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Investment funds Tier 2

The team at ISOLAS LLP advises on a number of investment fund applications in the jurisdiction, as well as actively contributing to the development of the regulatory and commercial framework supporting Gibraltar’s funds sector. This is reflected in the recent appointment of practice head Jonathan Garcia as Chair of the Gibraltar Funds & Investment Association (GFIA). Senior partner Albert J Isola CBE returned to the practice in 2023, following his tenure as Minister from 2013 to 2023.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Garcia; Albert Isola CBE

Key clients

SSW Alpha Rock Fund PCC Limited

Systema Fund PCC Limited

Mediterra Capital

22.7 L.P.

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Real estate and construction Tier 2

Esteemed for its ‘deep specialisation and commitment to innovation’, ISOLAS LLP is well-equipped to advise on both commercial and residential landlord and tenant work, as well as major construction projects. Mark Isola KC leverages an extensive network, alongside a unique background in commercial law and dispute resolution, to act on behalf of major developers and property management groups in property and landlord and tenant disputes. Samantha Grimes advises landlords of major commercial developments and Sarah Bray offers conveyancing and property development expertise. Nicholas Isola and Katrina Isola are also key contacts.

Practice head(s):

Peter Isola; Mark Isola KC; Samantha Grimes; Sarah Bray

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Very experienced individuals with a wealth of wider knowledge regarding Gibraltar and Spanish legal and property market matters. Very good personal service with fast turn around times for advice.’

‘Mark Isola is very hands on and gives excellent advice on a wide range of legal and property market matters. He has a very detailed grasp of the nuances of Gibraltar’s legal system and is well connected within that community. Nicholas Isola is also similarly disposed.’

‘This practice stands out through its deep specialisation and commitment to innovation across several dimensions. Key to its uniqueness is a blend of industry expertise and a client-centered approach, which ensures each client receives tailored advice and strategies aligned with their goals.’

‘The team’s strengths lie not only in its technical skills but also in its collaborative, cross-disciplinary approach, which brings diverse perspectives and deeper insights into complex issues.’

‘The individuals I work with stand out for their dedication, expertise, and a collaborative spirit that consistently drives outstanding results. What truly differentiates them from competitors is their commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs and crafting highly personalized strategies. This team doesn’t just work on behalf of clients—they work alongside them, fostering a level of trust and partnership that is rare in our field.’

‘I have valued their integrity, responsiveness, and willingness to go above and beyond, as well as their ability to leverage diverse perspectives to enhance outcomes. These qualities make them invaluable partners who not only meet but often exceed client expectations.’

Key clients

HM Government of Gibraltar

Gibraltar Naval Trust

Work highlights

Gibraltar > Shipping Tier 2

Led by ‘first class’ shipping law expert Christian Hernandez, ISOLAS LLP is highly regarded for its strong admiralty and shipping law practice, advising a range of leading P&I clubs, banks and shipowners. Hernandez leads on notable ship arrest matters, supported by Shakira Marsh-Finch.

Practice head(s):

Christian Hernandez

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They’re thoroughly competent but at the same time very nice people and good to work with.’

‘Christian Hernandez is first class.’

Work highlights

The firm: ISOLAS is a leading international law firm with its headquarters in Gibraltar. Established in 1892, it is Gibraltar’s oldest law firm. Truly independent, it offers clients the benefits of commitment, continuity and the close personal interest expected of a long-established firm. ISOLAS has a reputation for combining expert legal advice with commercial pragmatism. The firm is known to be practical and confident in the advice it gives. It is consistently ranked as one of the leading law firms in the jurisdiction by the major international legal directories. Isolas acts for international clients, including most of the major UK, European and US banks, as well as multinational insurers and reinsurers.

Areas of practice
International banking and finance: the firm is a leading player and has specialist lawyers who deal with all aspects of banking and finance. The firm’s specialist team is led by Christian Hernandez, who is acknowledged as one of the leaders in the jurisdiction.

Admiralty and shipping: whilst Gibraltar boasts a large number of law firms, there are very few that have a specialist, highly experienced Admiralty department. Credit to the firm’s experience and expertise in Admiralty matters is the fact that the firm is continuously involved in the majority of shipping disputes in Gibraltar, as well as receiving instructions from many London shipping law firms.

Commercial and litigation: ISOLAS has developed one of the leading and most successful commercial and trust litigation departments in Gibraltar. The firm’s expertise ranges from (general) commercial litigation, to established specialisation in telecommunications, insurance, banking and financial services, international trade, and private international and EU law. In addition, the firm has established expertise in a very wide range of personal and corporate insolvency issues, including receivership, administration, liquidation, arrangements with creditors and debt recovery in general. The civil aspects of commercial fraud (invariably in an insolvency or insurance context) are also an aspect of work undertaken by the firm, which includes tracing remedies, search and seize orders and freezing injunctions. ISOLAS is also widely regarded as having the best, most-experienced employment team in the jurisdiction.

ISOLAS has been at the forefront of developments in financial services and insurance having been instructed on both the first part VII transfer of insurance business out of Gibraltar and with the establishment of Gibraltar’s first insurance linked securities manager.

ISOLAS is a market leader in the fintech sector, having worked closely with the government of Gibraltar and the Gibraltar Financial Services Commission on various niche areas within this space. The firm has been instrumental, through its participation in government-established working groups, in shaping discussions and regulations in the context of DLT financial activity, maintaining its contribution to the further development of this space.

The firm recently acquired boutique family office firm Legacy Consulting Limited, bolstering its offering in the private client space with the addition of Emma Lejeune.

Gaming: ISOLAS has been at the forefront of developments in the local gaming industry which accounts for 12% of employment in Gibraltar. Steven Caetano is a regular advisor to Gibraltar licensed online gaming companies on all relevant areas of that practice.

Department Name Email Telephone
Banking litigation Mark Isola KC [email protected] +35020001892
Banking litigation James Montado [email protected] +35020001892
Corporate and structured finance Christian Hernandez [email protected] +35020001892
Banking, financial services Joey Garcia [email protected] +35020001892
Banking, financial services Christian Hernandez [email protected] +35020001892
Litigation Mark Isola [email protected] +35020001892
Litigation James Montado [email protected] +35020001892
Tax and online gaming Peter Isola [email protected] +35020001892
Tax and online gaming Steven Caetano [email protected] +35020001892
Private client Peter Isola [email protected] +35020001892
Private client Adrian Pilcher [email protected] +35020001892
Telecommunications Steven Caetano [email protected] +35020001892
Employment Samantha Grimes [email protected] +35020001892
Employment Mark Isola KC [email protected] +35020001892
Pensions and trusts Emma Lejeune [email protected] +35020001892
Pensions and trusts Adrian Pilcher [email protected] +35020001892
Company management Peter Isola [email protected] +35020001892
Company management Christian Caetano [email protected] +35020001892
Fintech Joey Garcia [email protected] +35020001892
Fintech Jonathan Garcia [email protected] +35020001892
Admiralty and maritime Christian Hernandez [email protected] +35020001892
Insurance Christian Caetano [email protected] +35020001892
Insurance Steven Caetano [email protected] +35020001892
Bankruptcy and insolvency Mark Isola KC [email protected] +35020001892
Bankruptcy and insolvency James Montado [email protected] +35020001892
Property and real estate Sarah Bray [email protected] +35020001892
Commercial Peter Isola [email protected] +35020001892
Commercial Mark Isola KC [email protected] +35020001892
Personal injury Mark Isola KC [email protected] +35020001892
Personal injury Danielle Victor [email protected] +35020001892
Funds Joey Garcia [email protected] +35020001892
Funds Jonathan Garcia [email protected] +35020001892
Construction Samantha Grimes [email protected] +35020001892
Construction Mark Isola KC [email protected] +35020001892
Banking litigation Mark Isola KC [email protected] +35020001892
Banking litigation James Montado [email protected] +35020001892
Private Client Emma Lejeune [email protected] +35020001892
Number of lawyers : 30
English
French
German
Italian
Portuguese
Spanish
ADVOC

Christian Hernandez, Partner

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

An unwavering commitment to provide the best legal services whilst remaining pragmatic in order to secure the best possible outcome. At ISOLAS we ensure that all matters are partner led and that clients always have immediate access to all team members to assist them with any queries.

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

Refinancings to take into account the changing financial landscape resulting from increasing interest rates.

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

We have full remote working capability across all lawyers to ensure that clients are always able to access our full range of legal services whatever the circumstances.

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

Yes. We have full remote working capability across all lawyers to ensure that clients ae always able to access our full range of legal services whatever the circumstances.

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

Regularly advice banks and lending institutions on latest developments in the law and market practice to ensure that the lending and documentation follows best practices so as to strengthen their security from borrowers and guarantors.

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

Yes. As the oldest law firm in Gibraltar but at the same time the most innovative and forward thinking, we offer clients the stability that comes from having been in business for 131 years with the direction and guidance required in today’s fast paced and changing business space.