Category: News

The Impact of AI on Jobs: Navigating the Future of Work and Employment Law

The Impact of AI on Jobs: Navigating the Future of Work and Employment Law

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the workplace, automating tasks, and introducing efficiencies that were unimaginable just a few years ago. However, with these advancements come significant concerns about job displacement and the future of work. As AI continues to evolve, it raises critical questions for both employers and employees about how to adapt to this new reality within the framework of employment law.

The Rise of AI and Its Impact on Employment Law

AI’s ability to perform tasks ranging from data analysis to customer service is reshaping industries. While AI can increase productivity and reduce operational costs, it also threatens jobs that involve routine, repetitive tasks. For example, AI-powered chatbots are increasingly handling customer inquiries, reducing the need for human agents. Similarly, in manufacturing, AI-driven robots are taking over assembly line jobs.

This transformation poses significant implications for employment law. As AI takes on more roles traditionally held by humans, employment law must evolve to address issues such as job security, the definition of employment, and workers’ rights in an AI-driven economy.

Balancing Efficiency with Employment

The key challenge for businesses is to balance the efficiency gains from AI with the potential impact on their workforce while remaining compliant with employment law. Companies need to consider how to reskill and upskill their employees to work alongside AI rather than be replaced by it. This includes investing in training programs that focus on developing skills in AI management, data analysis, and other areas that complement AI capabilities.

Employers must also be aware of the legal implications of AI implementation, particularly concerning workers’ rights. Employment law will increasingly need to address questions such as: How are AI-driven job losses handled? What protections are in place for workers whose roles are automated? How should employment contracts be adapted to reflect these changes?

The Role of Government and Policy Makers in Employment Law

Governments also have a role to play in managing the transition to an AI-driven economy. Policies that promote lifelong learning and provide support for workers displaced by AI will be crucial. Additionally, there is a need for regulation that ensures AI is implemented ethically, with considerations for privacy, security, and the broader societal impact within the context of employment law.

Employment law must also adapt to address the potential for AI to perpetuate biases in hiring and management processes. Governments and policymakers will need to establish frameworks that protect workers from discrimination and ensure that AI is used responsibly in the workplace.

Looking Ahead

As AI continues to shape the future of work, it is essential for businesses, employees, and policymakers to work together to navigate this transition within the framework of employment law. By focusing on reskilling, ethical AI implementation, and legal compliance, it is possible to harness the benefits of AI while minimising its negative impact on employment.

If your business is facing challenges related to AI implementation or you have concerns about the implications of AI on employment law, our team of experts at GSC Solicitors is here to help. Contact us for guidance on navigating the complexities of AI in the workplace and ensuring compliance with evolving employment laws.

Standing International Forum of Commercial Courts (SIFoCC)

SIFoCC’s history

SIFoCC was established in 2016 under the leadership of Lord Thomas, former Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, to encourage collaboration among national commercial courts of different jurisdictions. The inaugural meeting in London on 4-5 May 2017 gathered senior judges from 25 different jurisdictions. It aimed to enhance the rule of law worldwide and promote international legal services. Since its inception, SIFoCC has expanded to encompass 58 Member Jurisdictions and conducted regular meetings in New York in 2019, Singapore in 2021, Sydney in 2022, and Doha in April 2024.

SIFoCC’s key objectives

SIFoCC tackles global challenges by encouraging Alternative Dispute Resolution (“ADR”) methods and by enabling knowledge exchange among commercial courts of different jurisdictions.

Its main goals are (i) serving users by sharing best practices to keep up with rapid commercial changes, benefiting businesses and markets; (ii) enhancing the rule of law by fostering global court collaboration in order to contribute to legal stability; and (iii) supporting developing jurisdictions by improving attractiveness to investors.

The cooperation, encouraged by SIFoCC, improves standards, ensures fair access to justice, and strengthens the rule of law, while providing predictability and boosting investor confidence.

SIFoCC’s work

SIFoCC is committed to advancing global legal standards by sharing best practices, producing detailed reports, and disseminating knowledge through publications and speeches.

Promoting legal development

In October 2022, SIFoCC held its Fourth Full Meeting, hosted by the Federal Court of Australia and the Supreme Court of New South Wales. This meeting resulted in the publication of a significant report addressing the key topics discussed during the meeting:¹ Integrated dispute resolution systems, managing increasingly complex disputes, future challenges in corporate legal responsibility, and international jurisdictional conflicts.

The report highlights SIFoCC’s dedication to fostering a globalised commercial justice system, encouraging the harmonisation of national commercial laws worldwide, and treating international commercial law as a cohesive system rather than a collection of isolated regulations.

Construction and energy disputes across jurisdictions

SIFoCC strongly focuses on disputes related to energy, construction, and infrastructure, and members frequently contribute through speeches and publications on these topics.

For example, the Honourable Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon of the Singapore Supreme Court, a distinguished SIFoCC member, recently emphasised the role of International Commercial Courts in managing complex construction disputes.² International Commercial Courts  are recognised for their procedural flexibility, the rights they grant to foreign counsel, and their ability to include third parties. They also ensure high-quality decision-making with internationally renowned judges.

Given the transnational aspects that often characterise  construction and energy projects and relating disputes, SIFoCC regularly publishes comparative law memoranda to address multi-jurisdictional issues.

In March 2024, SIFoCC released its Multilateral Memorandum on Enforcement of Commercial Judgments for Money,³  offering an in-depth analysis of enforcement practices in over 30 jurisdictions, including South Korea, Brazil, Uganda, China, Australia, Germany, Singapore, Canada, and England. This memorandum explores how these jurisdictions can enforce each other’s commercial judgments, thereby advancing global legal cooperation and resolution of disputes.

SIFoCC and ADR

ADR methods heavily rely on the support of judicial courts in order to ensure their efficiency and enforceability. SIFoCC is committed to promoting the development and integration of ADR mechanisms with active backing from national courts. SIFoCC’s strategic partnership enhances the credibility and effectiveness of ADR processes, making them more reliable and accessible for resolving commercial disputes.

SIFoCC released the “International Best Practice in Case Management” during its 5th Full Meeting in Doha on 20 April 2024 as part of its ongoing efforts.* This document analyses how national courts across various jurisdictions support ADR mechanisms and defines best practices for managing complex disputes effectively.

The degree to which commercial judges engage with ADR methods varies in each jurisdiction. However, incorporating ADR into judicial practices can offer significant value by facilitating settlement of disputes in appropriate cases. Case Management Conferences (“CMCs”) may play a crucial role in providing a platform to explore settlement opportunities. CMCs should be considered an integral part of ADR rather than separate from it. Judges can play a vital role by referring cases to formal ADR processes when a settlement seems likely. However, this referral should be carefully monitored to ensure it is not merely a delaying tactic but a genuine effort to resolve the matter.

SIFoCC advocates for the establishment of uniform rules to promote consistency and fairness in ADR practices across jurisdictions. Standardising ADR procedures helps eliminate discrepancies between jurisdictions and ensures a predictable and stable environment for businesses operating in multiple countries.

Construction and energy projects, known for their complexity and frequent cross-border nature, are particularly susceptible to lead to disputes. These projects often face challenges such as contractual disagreements and delays. By fostering collaboration among national courts and promoting standardised ADR practices, SIFoCC enhances legal certainty and provides robust support for resolving construction and energy disputes through CMCs and ADR methods.

In summary, SIFoCC’s initiatives to support ADR methods through judicial collaboration and establishing uniform rules significantly enhance ADR decisions’ predictability, efficiency, and enforceability. These initiatives are especially beneficial in complex and cross-border disputes disputes, which often derive from infrastructure projects, where reliable dispute resolution is essential for maintaining smooth operations and ensuring a stable investment environment.

Conclusion

SIFoCC fosters cooperation among national commercial courts, facilitates the exchange of best practices and contributes to building a unified and effective global commercial justice system. By tackling the complexity of our interconnected world, SIFoCC is crucial in defining legal standards, guaranteeing access to justice, and bolstering global economic stability and growth.

Please visit SIFoCC’s official website (https://sifocc.org/resources/) to learn more about its activities, its reports, publications, and published speeches.

Sources:

Best Practice in Case Management presented at the 5th Full Meeting in Doha on 20 April 2024: https://sifocc-events.org/sifoccs-5th-full-meeting#programme

¹ Available at https://sifocc.org/sifocc_documents/sifocc-memorandum-on-enforcement-2nd-with-international-working-group-commentary/

² Available at https://sifocc-events.org/sifoccs-5th-full-meeting#programme

³ Available at https://sifocc.org/sifocc_documents/report-on-the-4th-full-sifocc-meeting/

* Available at https://sifocc.org/sifocc_documents/the-role-of-commercial-courts-in-the-management-of-complex-disputes/

New Salary Requirements for Skilled Worker Visas: How to Prepare Your Business

In 2024, the UK government is implementing significant changes to the salary thresholds for skilled worker visas, increasing the earning threshold by nearly 50%. This change poses challenges for businesses that rely on foreign talent to address domestic labor shortages.

New Salary Threshold:

The salary requirement for skilled worker visas will rise from £26,200 to £38,700 starting in spring 2024. This substantial increase aims to reduce the number of skilled worker visa applications and address concerns over immigration levels.

Impact on Businesses:

  • Talent Acquisition: The new salary requirements may make it more challenging to attract and retain skilled foreign workers, especially in industries where domestic labor shortages are prevalent.
  • Increased Costs: The higher salary requirements will lead to increased labor costs, impacting budgets and financial planning.
  • Operational Adjustments: Companies may need to reassess their staffing strategies and explore alternative solutions to meet their talent needs.

Preparation Strategies:

To prepare for these changes, businesses should:

  • Review Compensation Packages: Ensure that current and prospective employees meet the new salary thresholds to maintain eligibility for skilled worker visas. For more information on how to structure competitive and compliant compensation packages, visit GSC Solicitors’ Employment Law Services.
  • Budget Adjustments: Allocate additional funds to cover the increased labor costs associated with the higher salary requirements.
  • Explore Alternative Talent Pools: Consider alternative sources of talent, such as domestic workers or other visa categories, to mitigate the impact of the new regulations.

By proactively addressing these changes, businesses can better navigate the evolving immigration landscape and continue to attract the talent necessary for their growth and success. For assistance with employment share initiatives, compensation packages, and other employment law services, GSC Solicitors offers comprehensive support tailored to your business needs. Learn more about our offerings here.

The Rise of Fintech: Legal Considerations for Startups and Investors

An overview of the legal landscape for fintech startups and the considerations for investors

The financial sector is witnessing a transformative wave driven by the rapid growth of fintech, which merges technology with financial services to enhance or automate financial processes. For startups venturing into this field and the investors backing them, understanding the legal landscape is crucial to navigate the complexities and opportunities effectively. Fintech is a general term which can apply across many sectors including online payment services, peer-to-peer lending, e-money, robo-investment advice, AI, blockchain and crypto assets. The UK Government recognises that fintech is an important sector for the economy  and actively implements measures to encourage this sector while balancing consumer and wider stakeholder protection. Fintech has revolutionised the way that financial services are offered compared to traditional methods – such as banks – including cheaper and innovative business models, new products and services and easier payments. This blog overviews some key legal considerations for fintech startups and their investors in the UK.

Regulatory Compliance

One of the primary legal challenges facing fintech startups revolves around regulatory compliance. Financial services are among the most heavily regulated sectors, with regulations varying significantly across jurisdictions. Fintech organisations must navigate a complex framework of laws designed to ensure consumer protection, data security, and financial stability.

Key areas to consider include:

Regulatory oversight. In the UK much of the regulation is carried out by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). As well as being regulators, they have an Innovation Hub to support innovator businesses in the financial sector and also offer a regulatory sandbox to assist testing for startups and new products.

Anti-money laundering (AML) laws require fintech companies offering banking, payments, or investment services to implement robust systems to prevent money laundering.

Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements are related to AML and critical for verifying customers’ identities to help prevent fraud. New technologies have been developed to assist in meeting these regulatory obligations and customers are increasingly seeing this in practice (for example verifying identities via uploading a short video); this is sometimes referred to as ‘regtech’.

Data protection regulations, these vary widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and in the UK  it primarily the Data Protection Act 2018 which imposes strict rules on data handling and privacy. When cross border data transfers take place or data is processed for individuals overseas, laws of other countries are likely to be relevant.

Consumer Protection laws – the UK has detailed legislation relating to consumer protection and this applies to fintech businesses. Often there will also be specific regulatory areas that need to be dealt with such as provision of information about charges and having proper complaints procedures in place.

Multiple Jurisdictions  – because of the often global nature of fintech, the legal position in other countries will often need to be considered.

Ongoing Review –  laws are changing all the time so it os essential to keep compliance under continual review.

Intellectual Property Protection

Innovative technology is at the heart of any fintech venture, making intellectual property (IP) a valuable asset that needs protection. Companies should look to secure their IP rights – properly protected IP can increase valuation which is crucial for attracting investment.

IP Strategies include:

Patenting innovative technologies, where patent protection is available .

Obtaining trade marks for names and brand elements to protect brand identity. Often this can be very important is differentiating similar products and services from each other. Being first to market is not always a guarantee of success; sometimes it is brand identity that is more important. International treaties such as the Madrid Protocol can assist with global trade mark strategies.

IP law differs from country to country. For example, while patent protection may not be available in one territory, it may be available in another.

Financial Promotion and Advertising Law –offering financial products and services is usually subject to regulation under various laws and regulations.

 

Funding and Investment

Securing funding is usually a key phase for all startups. Legal considerations linked to fundraising activities can significantly influence the company’s structure and future operations. Investors will often undertake due diligence on a company’s compliance with laws and regulations.

Investors and startups should be aware of:

Investor agreements and articles of association: these will set out the rights and obligations of the various stakeholders.

Compliance with financial promotion law: compliance with laws around offering and promoting investments is essential.

 

Emerging Areas: Cryptocurrency and Blockchain

Fintech innovations like blockchain and cryptocurrencies bring additional layers of legal complexity. Regulatory frameworks in these areas are still evolving, and so the legal issues and compliance can be particularly challenging.

Legal aspects to consider:

Regulatory changes: keeping abreast of international and local regulatory developments that could impact business processes and compliance.

Smart contracts: Legal recognition and enforceability issues that may arise with blockchain implementations continue to be a developing area.

The fintech landscape presents exciting opportunities but also significant legal challenges that require careful navigation. For startups, a proactive approach to legal issues—from regulatory compliance and IP protection to data privacy and fundraising—can pave the way for a successful business. Investors will want to conduct careful legal due diligence before committing capital to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.

Fintech startups and investors should work closely with legal experts to tailor to protect their business, ensure compliance and position themselves in an advantageous position in a competitive market landscape.

Embracing the Significance of World Population Day

The combination of births, deaths, and net international migration increases the U.S. population by one person every 24.2 seconds. The projected world population on Jan. 1, 2024, is 8,019,876,189, an increase of 75,162,541 (0.95%) from New Year’s Day 2023.*

As our population expands, the world becomes more interconnected, with each individual’s actions influencing the global landscape. Human growth, akin to technological advancement, is a key factor in shaping the future global economy. However, it’s crucial to note that the overall global population is currently declining, a trend that could significantly impact the future global economy.

The issue is not whether or how the population is growing or declining; the major concern is whether we are ready to create a cleaner, safer, and better environment for future generations.

We live in a different era, but our forefathers must not have imagined the current global crisis.

Numerous reasons for this are due to the decline in the fertility rate, and they distinctly state that the increased cost of living and significant gains in life expectancy have been achieved in recent years.

International Migration is a much smaller component of population change than births or deaths. However, in some countries and areas, the impact of migration on population size is significant, namely in countries that send or receive large numbers of economic migrants and those affected by refugee flows. 

According to a study by the United Nations, on 15 November 2022, the world’s population reached 8 billion people, a milestone in human development that underscores the gravity of the global population issue. While it took the global population 12 years to grow from 7 to 8 billion, it will take approximately 15 years—until 2037—to reach 9 billion, a sign that the overall growth rate of the global population is slowing. Yet levels of fertility remain high in some countries. Countries with the highest fertility levels tend to have the lowest income per capita. Global population growth has, therefore, become increasingly concentrated among the world’s poorest countries, most of which are in sub-Saharan Africa.

Countries like India and China, with their large populations, rank as the most populated countries and contribute significantly as leading manufacturers worldwide, showcasing the influence of population on economic power.

However, the figures in Europe are shrinking, and several countries are expected to see their populations decline by more than 15 percent by 2050, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Republic of Moldova, Romania, Serbia, and Ukraine. Fertility in all European countries is now below the level required for total replacement of the population in the long run (around 2.1 children per woman). In the majority of cases, fertility has been below the replacement level for several decades.

A twist in the human race’s development is the fast growth of the African Continent. Over half of global population growth between now and 2050 is expected in Africa. Africa has the highest rate of population growth among significant areas.

Source: https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/

Source: https://www.un.org/en/

UK Immigration Law Changes 2024: Key Updates and Their Impact on Businesses

The UK government has introduced several significant changes to immigration laws in 2024, which will impact businesses that rely on foreign talent. Key updates include an increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) from £624 to £1,035 per year, substantially raising the cost of securing visas for foreign workers. Additionally, fines for employing illegal workers will triple, with first offenses now attracting penalties of £45,000, and repeated breaches facing fines of up to £60,000.

Skilled Worker Visa Salary Requirements:

The salary threshold for skilled worker visas will increase from £26,200 to £38,700. This significant rise is intended to reduce the number of skilled worker visa applications and address concerns over immigration levels. However, it will also pose challenges for businesses that rely on overseas talent to address domestic labor shortages.

Impact on Businesses:

  • Increased Costs: The higher IHS and fines mean businesses will face increased costs when hiring foreign workers. This could impact budget allocations and financial planning.
  • Talent Acquisition Challenges: The increased salary requirements may make it more difficult for businesses to attract and retain skilled foreign talent, particularly in industries experiencing domestic labor shortages.
  • Compliance Pressures: Ensuring compliance with the new regulations will be critical to avoid hefty fines and legal complications. This will require rigorous internal audits and possibly consulting with immigration experts to navigate the complexities of the new laws.

Preparation Strategies:

To prepare for these changes, businesses should reassess their hiring practices and budget allocations for immigration-related expenses. Reviewing and adjusting compensation packages to meet the new salary thresholds will be essential. Additionally, exploring alternative talent pools, such as domestic workers or other visa categories, can help mitigate the impact of the new regulations.

Staying informed and proactive in adapting to these changes will be crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and compliance in 2024 and beyond.

Welcome Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the International Private Client Department

GSC Solicitors LLP Welcomes Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the International Private Client Department

London, UK – May 22, 2024 – GSC Solicitors LLP is pleased to announce the appointment of Shahrzad Atai as a Partner in the esteemed Private Client Department. With a wealth of experience and an impressive portfolio, Atai joins the firm to strengthen further its capabilities in serving International High-Net-Worth clients.

Atai has extensive expertise in advising high-profile individuals and entities, particularly in the banking sector. Her nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding international wealth management, multi-jurisdictional assets and estate planning makes her an asset to the firm and its clientele.

“We are delighted to welcome Shahrzad Atai to our team,” said

Saleem Sheikh, Senior Partner of GSC Solicitors LLP. Her exceptional track record and deep understanding of the needs of International High-Net-Worth clients align perfectly with our commitment to delivering top-tier legal services.

Shahrzad’s joining marks an exciting chapter for our Private Client Department, and we are confident that her contributions will further elevate our capabilities.”

Atai’s appointment underscores GSC Solicitors LLP’s dedication to providing comprehensive and tailored legal solutions to its diverse client base. With her joining, the firm aims to expand its reach and deliver exceptional value to clients seeking sophisticated wealth management and estate planning counsel.

Before joining GSC Solicitors LLP, Atai held prominent positions where she successfully navigated intricate legal landscapes, earning recognition for her strategic insights and client-focused approach. Her appointment solidifies the firm’s position as a leading destination for bespoke legal services in London’s legal landscape.

“I am happy to rejoin GSC Solicitors LLP and contribute to their exceptional work,” said Mrs. Atai. “I look forward to collaborating with the talented team here and leveraging our collective expertise to deliver unparalleled service and results to our clients.”

Shahrzad Atai’s appointment signifies GSC Solicitors LLP’s ongoing commitment to attracting top-tier legal talent and furthering its reputation as a premier destination for legal services in the heart of London.

A New Fixed Costs Regime

A new Fixed Costs Regime is coming into force on 1 October 2023 for most claims worth between £25,000 and £100,000, where the trial would last no more than three days. This will be known as the Intermediate Track.

Currently there is no limit on the amount of the costs that a successful party may recover from the losing party for such claims, other than that they must be proportionate and reasonably incurred. This generally means that the costs will not be permitted to exceed the value of the claim.

For claims in this bracket issued after 1 October 2023, the successful party will only be able to recover the fixed costs which have been set by the Ministry of Justice. These fall into four bands, depending on the complexity of the case.

London weighting of 12.5% will be added to the fixed costs where the party lives or has a business in London or within the jurisdiction of the Bromley, Croydon, Dartford, Gravesend, and Uxbridge County Court hearing centres.

So for example, under the new regime, a claim allocated to Complexity Band 3 that reaches a two day trial where judgment is given at the end of the trial, the Claimant is awarded the sum of £60,000. And, where Counsel has drafted the Particulars of Claim, advised in writing, and attended the trial, the fixed costs that are recoverable from the losing party will be £42,800 (or £48,150 with London weighting).

Potential Claimants are therefore encouraged to consider whether they should start to pursue any existing claims now so that they are ready to issue court proceedings before 1 October 2023, after having complied with any pre-action procedure as required by the Civil Procedure Rules. This will avoid having their recoverable costs limited by the new fixed costs regime.

Should you have any questions, please please do not hesitate to contact Michael Shapiro directly on: [email protected] or 0207 822 2246.

© 2023 GSC Solicitors LLP. All rights reserved. GSC grants permission for the browsing of this material and for the printing of one copy per person for personal reference. GSC’s written permission must be obtained for any other use of this material. This publication has been prepared only as a guide to provide readers with general information on recent legal developments. It is not formal legal advice and should not be relied on for any purpose. You should not act or refrain from acting based on the information contained in this document without obtaining specific formal advice from suitably qualified advisors.

 

 

GSC SOLICITORS ADVISES CARETECH ON £200M SALE & LEASEBACK INVESTMENT BY CIVITAS INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

Press Release 

City law firm GSC Solicitors LLP is delighted to announce that it advised longstanding client CareTech on a £200m property portfolio sale and leaseback investment by the Civitas Investment Management (CIM), the UK’s largest specialist care investor.

The portfolio comprises special schools, children’s homes and adult specialist care homes and follows the £1.1bn public to private acquisition of CareTech by its co-founders, Farouq and Haroon Sheikh in September 2022.

Founded in 1993, CareTech provides specialist social care services to 5,000 adults and children with a range of complex needs in more than 550 schools, residential services, hospitals and day centres. It employs more than 11,000 staff in the UK and internationally.

CIM is the UK’s largest investor in specialist care with over £3.5bn under management in community healthcare and social infrastructure in the UK and Europe. It manages over 1,200 properties across the UK, providing homes for more than 10,000 people, with support provided by over 120 operators in a combination of supported housing and residential care homes.

Commenting on the deal GSC senior partner Saleem Sheikh said: “This transaction illustrates the long-term demand for high quality specialist care properties in the UK and will form part of CareTech’s strategy to grow in the UK, investing in digital technologies and international markets.’

The GSC team was led by senior partner Saleem Sheikh and included commercial real estate partners, Harvey Posener and Matthew Phillips, corporate partner Clive Halperin and international private wealth partner James Cohen. Civitas was advised by Norton Rose Fulbright.

© 2023 GSC Solicitors LLP. All rights reserved.  GSC grants permission for the browsing of this material and for the printing of one copy per person for personal reference. GSC’s written permission must be obtained for any other use of this material. This publication has been prepared only as a guide to provide readers with general information on recent legal developments. It is not formal legal advice and should not be relied on for any purpose. You should not act or refrain from acting based on the information contained in this document without obtaining specific formal advice from suitably qualified advisors.

 

GSC Solicitors LLP’s higher rankings in the Legal 500 2023

We are proud to announce another year of continuous achievement in the Legal 500 United Kingdom 2023 rankings. We are especially delighted to see that GSC’s Property Finance team has moved one tier up the tables.

In addition, this year more lawyers are mentioned by name in Legal 500 UK commentary for their standout contribution to respective practices. Also, another achievement this year was that Harvey Posener who heads Commercial Property team has been listed in the Elite ‘Leading Lawyers’ Group, a category that essentially is a badge of honour given to a few lawyers in the UK.

Consistent with last year, our work has been praised by a large number of clients, current and new ones, domestic and international.

Our already highly ranked Commercial Property team was mentioned as ‘cutting edge legal thinking combined with commercial savvy experts’ . Practice head Harvey Posener provides an ‘unparalleled service’ with his extensive experience in advising large corporate occupiers on leasing and acquisitions. He is described by clients as an expert who ‘provides an unparalleled service in terms of legal advice, strategic thinking, commercial application and responsiveness.’  Peter Belcher who heads Property Finance team is ‘extremely well-reputed’ for his focus on the hotel, banking, leisure, and healthcare sectors regarding commercial property transactions, and is ‘well respected amongst financial institutions which gives banks the comfort they need’.

We are also proud of our Private Client team that was distinguished as a ‘well established and diverse’ team ‘with various specialists under the one roof’. One of their clients referred to ‘the key strength of GSC’ as ‘its commercial approach to problems when dealing with the full array of private client matters ranging from international ultra-high-net-worth clients through to significant owner of blue-chip companies’. Saleem Sheikh who heads the ‘highly responsive team‘ team is ‘a great strategic adviser’ with an ‘outstanding commercial and professional approach’. James Cohen is endorsed as an ‘one of the most professional ethical and authentic lawyers who listens, understands the needs when providing his service’. He has also been noted as ‘a knowledgeable individual’ who ‘acts with gravitas’. 

Headed by Michael Shapiro, ‘a commercial and contractual and shareholder disputes expert’, the Commercial Litigation department routinely acts for clients in complex litigation matters, including cases in the Commercial Court, as well as in other business and property courts, and the Court of Appeal. Clients recognise Michael’s ability to ‘be successful in all cases’ while leading the team with ‘exceptional star quality who know how to win a case’. Senior Consultant Barry Samuels is continuously referred to as ‘a living legend in the market who does not stop working until he gets results’. He is also is recommended as a ‘brilliant and approachable’ litigator who ‘was born to litigate’. GSC’s Litigation Rising Star Sana Sheikh who is a Senior Associate in the team, is also mentioned in the guide as ‘a real future star in the making, exceptionally bright and will go far’.

Recommended purely on its personalised service, merit and client-focus, our Real Estate Finance team active in refinancing mandates for clients in the retail, hospitality and care home sectors, as well as for high-net-worth individuals with extensive residential portfolios. Peter Belcher sits at the helm of the practice, advising on acquisition and development finance matters while Matthew Phillips is also of note for his ‘work in secured lending for fast food franchise owners and commercial tenants’. Carole Joseph who works alongside Peter Belcher, has also been noted for her ‘great availability’ and who ‘clients love to work with’ and who is ‘commercially oriented and shows incredible productivity and professionalism in day-to-day support.’ In general, the team is acknowledged for its ‘problem solving’ style, ‘personalised service and availability, commercially focused, and long-term relationships built.’

IP, Media & Entertainment is continuously noted for its music industry expertise including their active work with large music industry bodies such as the Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL), Video Performance Limited (VPL) and the Performing Right Society (PRS), whereas ‘other clients come to the firm for its expertise in advertising and branding’. Justin Goldspink ,who leads the team with ‘exceptional skillsets’, ‘leverages his expertise as a barrister to represent clients in music, copyright, and branding litigation’. Both, Justin and Ross Waldram are described by clients as ‘incredible in providing invaluable advice and guidance on copyright infringement cases’. Clive Halperin described by a client as an expert ‘with knowledge second to none’ who ‘stands above the crowd’, ‘takes the time to fully understand business and what they are trying to achieve’.  The team has been singled out for its ability to ‘respond immediately to any queries’ as well as to go ‘above and beyond in supporting with complex referrals and always having time for the client, a great example of creating harmonious client relations’.

Finally, we are pleased that our Corporate Commercial department with its M&A work has been noted in the Guide once again, for its ‘niche expertise in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, healthcare, and technology sectors’. Team head Clive Halperin, a qualified pharmacist, ‘has a particular interest in technology and artificial intelligence’ whilst David Nathan has ‘particular expertise in the hospitality and care home sectors.’

Commenting on the 2023 rankings, Senior Partner Saleem Sheikh said: “The Legal 500 is a leading independent guide into the best law firms in the UK. In its 36th year, it is widely acknowledged as the world’s largest legal referral guide. We are delighted that GSC is consistently recognised for our key specialisms including commercial litigation, real estate, personal tax, trusts and probate, Media & Entertainment and our Corporate practice. It is especially rewarding to see our rankings moving up as well as the genuine and exceptional testimonials given to us by our clients. With the strong client base that comes from the five continents globally, solid and longstanding client relationship remains our most valuable asset.’

© 2022 GSC Solicitors LLP. All rights reserved.  GSC grants permission for the browsing of this material and for the printing of one copy per person for personal reference. GSC’s written permission must be obtained for any other use of this material. This publication has been prepared only as a guide to provide readers with general information on recent legal developments. It is not formal legal advice and should not be relied on for any purpose. You should not act or refrain from acting based on the information contained in this document without obtaining specific formal advice from suitably qualified advisors.