Interview with: Dr Maria P. Deguara, Senior Partner

InariLaw, Senior Partner Dr. Maria P. Deguara” on firm’s approach towards clients’ changing needs and markets.”

 

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

 We set ourselves apart as a boutique firm by design, intentionally cultivating client relationships that reflect our values and vision. This deliberate approach enables us to concentrate on matters where we can give meaningful contribution and add value.

Our firm is driven by the energy, dedication, and expertise of our team. We take the time to understand our clients’ businesses so that our advice strengthens and supports their objectives, rather than constraining them.  By working closely with clients, we help them navigate the complexities of diverse laws, rules, and regulations, ensuring that our tailored guidance enables them to achieve their business objectives.

 

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

 Over the next 12 months, we expect significant growth in practices connected to technology, particularly those shaped by the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. The legal implications of AI will continue to drive demand in areas such as intellectual property, data protection, and regulatory compliance, as businesses adapt to new opportunities and challenges arising from technological change.

The fintech sector continues to expand rapidly, driven by new digital payment solutions, blockchain applications, and regulatory developments, presenting both opportunities and complex compliance challenges. M&A and transactional work will continue to be strong, supported by emerging business opportunities.

Meanwhile, Malta’s maritime and aviation sectors continue to grow, with the jurisdiction reinforcing its position as a key player in the industry.

Across all these areas, our focus remains on providing clients with strategic, practical advice that enables them to capitalise on opportunities whilst addressing challenges proactively.

 

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

 We are increasingly taking the lead on our clients’ projects across multiple jurisdictions. By cultivating long-term relationships based on trust and a deep understanding of their business objectives, we ensure that the expertise and value we have developed are consistently applied wherever our clients operate. This trust allows them to rely on us not only for work within our jurisdiction but also to guide initiatives abroad, managing the legal and regulatory aspects so they can focus confidently on the commercial side of their transactions.

 

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

 Advances in technology enable us to operate efficiently in today’s fast-paced environment, providing prompt action while respecting our clients’ time. They also allow us to be highly flexible, addressing clients’ needs wherever they are located and ensuring seamless management of multi-jurisdiction projects, even when we are not physically on site. Despite these tools, we remain committed to direct, personal engagement, as understanding our clients’ businesses and cultivating strong relationships is what truly adds value.

 

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

Our role extends far beyond providing guidance on legal principles and regulatory requirements. We adopt a comprehensive approach, serving not only the entrepreneur but their broader team as a trusted advisor who supports sustainable growth while addressing legal and regulatory challenges. With our experience and proactive approach, we aim to be a reliable strategic partner in our clients’ day-to-day business. We recognize that the contracts we draft and the structures we advise on today will shape business outcomes for years to come, making a deep and precise understanding of each matter essential.

 

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

 Clients increasingly look for a trusted strategic partner who can guide them across the legal and regulatory intricacies of their diverse business operations. They value this partnership, as it allows them to capitalize on opportunities with confidence, knowing that other matters are being diligently overseen. We believe that meaningful contribution is only possible through a deep understanding of our clients’ goals and priorities. We are increasingly spearheading key projects and transactions, and we expect this role to continue growing, further establishing ourselves as the strategic partner of choice across a widening spectrum of client relationships.