Interview with: Mr Bunnasomboon (Aaron), Partner

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

As a medium sized law firm with over 15 years of experience and a network in over 10 Countries, we are confident in our advice and service. We are able to have the benefit of not only a wide variety of over 100 highly trained professions in multiple practices; but also, still able to focus and give significant attention to each and every one of our clients. This increased attention gives a more affable and personal feel to our approach to work, putting each of our clients at ease and maintaining client satisfaction at the heart of everything that we do.

Our main differentiation from other firms is the level of care and realization of unreasonable legal fees. Our large worldwide network with our other partners allows us to offer an accurate and rapid service to exceed our clients’ expectations with suitable and effective client fee structures.

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

The main practices we anticipate in the next 12 months are corporate, M&A and foreign investment. As Thailand’s political situation stabilizes, the current government is promoting infrastructure development in order to encourage investment into Thailand’s economy. As a result, this would increase the demand for corporate and M&A services.

Foreign investment is also an area we anticipate exponential growth. Thailand’s drive to become a major player in the rapidly growing worldwide industry of sustainability and clean, renewable energy is leading to new initiatives encouraging skilled international workers in STEM fields to promote innovation and become a driving force in sustainable energy. The new ‘Smart-Visa’ initiative is one such example of this, offering a number of incentives for skilled workers seeking employment in the field of sustainability. Foreigners are also being encouraged to set up and operate in Thailand, contributing to Thai economy with various benefits and tax incentives available to them for doing so. These incentives and benefits available to foreigners will result in expansion of our foreign investment department as more and more individuals and companies seek assistance from law firms to work and conduct business within Thailand.

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

Our firm has been expanding our professional network and client base exponentially, particularly in the fields of foreign investment, mergers & acquisitions and corporate law as rapidly growing areas within Thailand. By expanding alongside these fields, we are able to keep up with growing trends and changes in legislation, ensuring we provide the best and most relevant service to our clients and ensure our clients have complete faith in us as a law firm representing them.

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

Technology has played a huge part in the interaction and services we are able to provide to our clients. The most substantial change this has been able to bring is the development in long distance communication with our various partner firms and clients both within and outside the borders of Thailand. In addition to this, governmental authorities have been developing and implementing online submission systems, not only providing an easier and more streamlined service for our clients but also reducing paper consumption and overall cost reduction.

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

As a firm specializing in corporate affairs and foreign investment, we take pride in assisting clients to not only launch their business within Thailand, but also help that client develop it by providing continual support and advice. With each and every client we support, we not only give them the advice and assistance to start up a business in Thailand, but also utilize our vast professional network also assist the client in simultaneously expanding their connections to get the most out of establishing their companies in Thailand.

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

We believe that essential criterion of any business, especially a law firm is stability and strategic direction. Clients need the assurance of stability as they are placing a great deal of trust in us as a company to represent them and provide sound advice. Our clients also expect strategic direction to reinforce their trust in us to keep up to date with changing legislation giving them the assurance that the advice provided and action taken is the most relevant; ensuring that our clients’ concerns are addressed and their expectations are exceeded.

In the next 3 years’ we aim to expand into a ‘one-stop’ service for all our future clients’ needs and requirements. We see ourselves as a next generation law firm beyond the typical legal services, creating opportunities to network and develop.