Interview with…
Shlomo Levy, Partner

Hassans’ Partner Shlomo Levy explains why Hassans is the trusted advisor of choice for all Gibraltar based matters.
What do you see as the main points that differentiate Hassans from your competitors?
Hassans are by far the largest and most internationally recognised law firm in Gibraltar. This uniquely (within the jurisdiction) allows for specialist practitioners with a wealth of experience able to provide a personal, bespoke and tailored service to a client and more depth in advising.
Which practices do you see growing in the next 12 months? What are the drivers behind that?
Private Client and particularly trust structures are areas that I expect to continue to grow rapidly over the next 12 months. UHNWIs with generational wealth are more attuned to the need for estate planning. Hassans are renowned internationally in this area for their trustworthiness, creativity, expertise and great care always working with expert advisers in other jurisdictions when required.
What's the main change you've made in the firm that will benefit clients?
A lawyer must be able to anticipate that which clients will need in the future to prepare accordingly. Clients’ needs in the Private Client domain are constantly developing. I have recently assisted in making successful representations to the relevant decision makers as to further enhancements to the already robust Gibraltar offering. This will benefit the industry as a whole.
Is technology changing the way you interact with your clients, and the services you can provide them?
Absolutely, there is a gradual divergence to video calls rather than in person meetings. Whilst these are very beneficial due to the flexibility they afford, they do not and should not be a substitute for the comfort a client receives face to face.
Can you give us a practical example of how you have helped a client to add value to their business?
One of my main areas of work is cross border structuring. This involves numerous tax and legal regimes but with global clients investing internationally, this is a necessity. Armed with a global picture and knowledge of these regimes, these complexities can be used to enhance the client’s position. In these cases, we work closely with advisers in different jurisdictions. We have been able to relocate a number of substantial trusts to Gibraltar on the basis of the fact that we are a common law jurisdiction
Are clients looking for stability and strategic direction from their law firms - where do you see the firm in three years’ time?
Hassans excels at ensuring continuity, with established practitioners working alongside next generation partners ensuring a seamless client service. AI will no doubt continue to be further integrated to improve efficiency over time but at Hassans the personal touch remains a key focus and practitioners will continue to play the role of trusted advisor to their clients. I fully expect Hassans to follow its current trajectory of growth both locally and internationally.