Etihad Law Firm > Baghdad, Iraq > Firm Profile

Ahmed Hankawi, Managing Partner

1) What do you see as the main points that differentiate Etihad Law Firm from your competitors?

• Specialization: Etihad Law Firm “Etihad” focuses on the specialized areas of law, provides specialized expertise that distinguishes it from firms with a broader scope of practice.
• Quality of Service: Etihad prioritizes providing high-quality legal services, including personal attention to clients, thorough research and effective communication.
• Industry Knowledge: Etihad has a deep understanding and experience in specific industries or sectors, allowing it to provide customized legal solutions and strategic advice.
• Client-Centered Approach: Prioritize understanding the client’s needs and goals, provide proactive guidance, and maintain transparent and responsive communication throughout the legal process.
• Value-Based Pricing: Offering flexible pricing structures or alternative fee arrangements makes their services more convenient and attractive to clients compared to the traditional billing methods.
• Ethical standards: Etihad is committed to high ethical standards and professional integrity, which enhances trust between clients and stakeholders.
• Innovative Solutions: Etihad is distinguished by providing innovative legal solutions, whether through creative solutions to issues, alternative methods of resolving disputes, or forward-thinking strategies.
• Reputation and Track Record: Positive reviews, client testimonials and a track record of successful cases or transactions further distinguish Etihad as a trusted legal partner.

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

• • E-commerce and Digital Transactions: Etihad has seen growth in areas such as drafting and negotiating e-commerce contracts, advising on digital payment regulations, and resolving disputes related to online transactions.
  • Financial Regulation and Compliance: With increased regulatory scrutiny and enforcement in the financial services sector, Etihad has become more involved in services related to financial regulation and compliance. This includes advising financial institutions on regulatory compliance, conducting compliance audits, representing clients in regulatory investigations or enforcement actions.
  • FinTech and Payments: FinTech industry is experiencing rapid innovation and growth, leading to legal challenges and opportunities. Etihad has become a specialist in financial technology and electronic transactions due to the increase in demand for services such as regulatory compliance, financial technology licensing, payment processing agreements, and financial technology investments.
  • Technology and Data Privacy: Due to increasing reliance on technology and data, there is an increasing demand for legal services related to data privacy compliance, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. The drivers behind this growth include laws and instructions that have been issued or are still under consideration by the competent authority, increased awareness of data protection issues, and the ongoing digital transformation of companies across industries.
  • ESG Compliance: As sustainability and corporate responsibility become more prominent considerations for companies, there is an increase need for legal advice on ESG compliance, sustainability reporting, and environmental regulations. Drivers include investor pressures, regulatory requirements, and changing societal expectations regarding corporate behavior.
  • Infrastructure and Construction: As the Iraqi government and private sectors invest in infrastructure development projects to stimulate economic growth, there are opportunities for legal services related to infrastructure financing, construction contracts, and regulatory compliance. Driving factors include government spending on infrastructure, urbanization trends, and sustainability initiatives.

In Iraq, drivers behind the above practices include:

• Increasing Internet penetration, youth’s inclination towards technology, and urbanization,
• Being strengthened to rebuild investor confidence, align with international standards
• Ensure stability amid challenges.
• Technology development create potential for growth in fintech and electronic payments especially in areas with limited access to traditional banking services.
• ESG focus on sustainability
• Infrastructure and construction based on the government plan and program to improve the region of Iraq and encourage investors.

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

• • Customized Solutions: Priority is given to understanding the unique circumstances and goals of each client, allowing to provide more personalized and targeted legal solutions that align with the client’s goals.
  • Proactive Engagement: Instill a culture of proactive engagement within the firm, encouraging lawyers to anticipate client needs and provide proactive advice and support, rather than simply responding to client requests.
  • Transparency and Accountability: Clients can now benefit from increased transparency regarding the legal fees, timelines and potential outcomes of their cases. Measures have been implemented to ensure accountability within the firm, holding lawyers accountable for achieving results and maintaining high standards of service.
  • Client Feedback Mechanisms: Formal mechanisms have been established to collect clients feedback and act upon it, allowing them to continuously improve their services based on client preferences and satisfaction levels.
  • Enhanced Communication: Strengthened communication channels and improved practices to ensure clients are kept informed at each stage of their legal matters, which included regular updates, prompt responses to inquiries, and clear explanations of legal procedures.

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

Yes, technology is already changing the way law firms like Etihad interact with clients and the services they can provide. Technology has affected the following aspects:

• Communication: Technology has facilitated more efficient and convenient communication between Etihad and its clients as it allows for the rapid exchange of information and updates reducing the need for in-person interactions.
• Access To Data: Clients now have access to the legal information and resources through online databases.
• Remote Services: Technology enables the Etihad to provide legal services remotely, allowing clients to access legal advice and representation from anywhere with an Internet connection and is particularly beneficial for clients who are unable to meet in person due to distance, travel restrictions or health concerns.
• Document Management: A digital document management system was created at Etihad, which simplified the process of storing, organizing and retrieving legal documents, contracts and case files, including storing documents securely and making it accessible to authorized employees and clients when needed.
• Data Security and Privacy: Etihad invests in cybersecurity measures to protect client’s information from unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyber threats.
• Automation and Efficiency: Technology has enabled Etihad to automate repetitive tasks, such as drafting documents, reviewing contracts, and case management, freeing up time for lawyers to focus on more complex legal issues, which has improved efficiency and reduced human errors in legal processes.
• Client Experience: Technology-driven innovations improve the overall client’s experience by providing convenient self-service options, real-time status updates, and personalized interactions. Etihad leverages client’s relationship management systems to track client preferences, history and feedback, allowing it to provide more personalized and responsive services.

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

Case: Structuring the merger for expansion

Background: Etihad’s client is a medium-sized company specializing in technology Techniques. The client has experiencing growth but identified the opportunity for accelerated expansion through strategic mergers and acquisitions.

Challenge: The client identified a smaller, complementary company in the same industry that offered innovative technology solutions and had a strong market presence. However, the client lacked experience in structuring M&A deals and navigating the legal complexities involved in merging two companies.

Solution

1. Strategic Planning: Etihad’s legal team worked closely with the client to understand their growth goals, market positioning, and long-term strategic vision. Together, they developed a comprehensive plan to integrate the two companies while strengthening synergies and reducing risks.
2. Due Diligence: Etihad conducted comprehensive due diligence on the target company, assessing its financial condition, legal compliance, intellectual property, and potential liabilities. This careful assessment provided the client with a clear understanding of the value of the target and any potential obstacles to the merger.
3. Structuring Mergers and Acquisitions: Based on the results of due diligence and the client’s strategic objectives, Etihad advised on the optimal structure of the merger, taking into consideration the factors such as tax implications, regulatory requirements, shareholder agreements, and post-merger integration plans. The necessary legal documents were drafted and negotiated, including merger agreements, asset purchase agreements, and turnaround plans.
4. Regulatory Compliance: Etihad ensured compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements governing relevant mergers and acquisitions in Iraq, coordinating with regulatory authorities and obtaining necessary approvals to facilitate a smooth and legally compliant transaction.

Results

1. Expanded Market Presence: The merger facilitated by Etihad allowed the client to significantly expand its market presence and geographic reach, giving it access to new client’s segments and distribution channels.
2. Technology Integration: By merging with a company specializing in complementary technology solutions, the client was able to integrate innovative products and capabilities into its existing offerings, which strengthened its competitive position and differentiation in the market.
3. Operational Efficiency: Through careful planning and post-merger integration efforts, Etihad assisted the client to achieve operational efficiencies, cost synergies, optimize resources and increase profitability.
4. Value Creation: The successful merger organized by Etihad added significant value to the client’s business, resulting in revenue growth, expanded market share, and increased shareholder value.

Overall, Etihad’s experience in M&A structuring and legal consulting enabled the client to execute a strategic merger that accelerated its growth trajectory and positioned it for long-term success in the technology industry.

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

Yes, clients often seek stability and strategic direction from their law firms, especially in an ever-changing business environment and legal landscape. They look for firms that not only provide excellent legal services, but also provide long-term partnership and guidance to help overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

As for what Etihad Law Firm expects within three years based on its strategic objectives, market trends and client needs:

1. Expansion and Growth: Etihad aims to expand its presence at the regional and international level, establish new offices or strategic partnerships to provide the best service to clients in key markets. This includes hiring additional attorneys with experience in high-demand practice areas or industry sectors.
2. Diversification of Services: Recognizing the evolving needs of the clients, it has diversified its service offerings beyond traditional legal services. This includes expanding into areas such as advisory services and alternative dispute resolution methods to provide comprehensive solutions to the complex challenges faced by clients.
3. Technology Adoption: Etihad continues to leverage technology to enhance service delivery, improve efficiency, and meet client expectations. This includes further investments in legal technology solutions, automation tools, and digital platforms to streamline operations and improve client interactions.
4. Client-Centric Approach: Etihad prioritizes strengthening client relationships and providing exceptional client experiences. This includes implementing feedback mechanisms, enhancing communication channels, and developing personalized service offerings to ensure clients feel supported and appreciated throughout their dealings with the company.
5. Diversity and Inclusion: focus on initiatives within the company, including recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce, promoting equity, and fostering an inclusive work culture.
6. Community Involvement and Corporate Social Responsibility: Etihad participates in community outreach programs, Support small medium projects, pro bono work, and CSR initiatives as part of its commitment.