Sigma - Stirling Ackroyd Legal

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S T I R L I N G

A C K R OY D

L E G A L

Global Reach, LOCAL KNOWLEDGE ALDGATE | TOWER BRIDGE | CITY OF LONDON | CLAPTON BATTERSEA | SOUTHAMPTON | PORTSMOUTH | BIRMINGHAM ITALY | BRUSSELS | DUBAI | KUWAIT | QATAR | SINGAPORE

W

elcome to Stirling Ackroyd Legal.

It is with sincere privilege that I am writing this message to introduce the inaugural issue of Sigma, Stirling Ackroyd Legal’s first in-house magazine.

This publication is inspired by our clients and aims to enable a system for connecting you with our team at Stirling Ackroyd Legal. It is our intention to place our stakeholders at the heart of what we do and forge ethical and rewarding business relations.

We hope you enjoy our story.

Emon Ahmed, CEO Stirling Ackroyd Legal

CONTENTS Introducing our services 08

Commercial & Residential Property

10

IP and Mergers & Acquisitions

14

Corporate & Business

16

Startup to Stock Market

18

Private Clients

20

Litigation & Disputes

24

Global Mobility & Immigration

26

Employment

Introducing us 30

60 seconds with our CFO

32

Our Family

34

Our Offices

36

The Hub

“One of the FASTEST GROWING LAW FIRMS in the UK” 28

ANDREW HOLMES Lloyds Bank PLC

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16

STARTUP TO STOCK MARKET

SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES

36

In the community

20

40

Every Person Matters

42

In Memory of James Goff

Litigation & Disputes

44

Our History

45

Solicitors in the community Caroline Dale 05

Introducing

OUR SERVICES

Commercial Property

06

Residential Conveyancing

Property Litigation

Family & Divorce

Wills, Probate & Estate Planning

Civil Litigation

We combine the expertise from a group of specialist law firms, bringing together a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Our goal is centred around delivering outstanding and effective legal work that is focussed on providing the best service to our clients.

Corporate Law

Employment Law

Criminal Law

Global Mobility & Immigration

Business Law

International & Investment

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COMMERCIAL PROPERTY We offer an integrated network of pioneering real estate lawyers and are renowned for our forward thinking and commercial approach.

Emerging from a background in property development and chartered surveying, we grew into the provision of legal services and established a reputation as stellar property law specialists.

Offices We have acted for various clients ranging from small businesses to multi-national corporations in the sale and purchase of their offices. Our team of specialist commercial property lawyers have over 50 years of experience, often in relocating companies with few personnel to those with more than 100 employees.

Hospitality Acting for over 100 hotels worldwide, we offer bespoke legal services to a wide spectrum of clubs, developers and designers. We have an unrivalled track record in advising on acquisitions and sales, asset management, financing and commercial contracts.

Industrial Our work includes advising some of the largest industrial and logistical operators in both acquiring and dealing with their industrial needs. You can rely on our property specialists to advise you on the commercial spaces that your business depends on.

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RESIDENTIAL CONVEYANCING In recent months, the Client Services Team have completely revamped the client experience and onboarding journey.

The focus is now on a smoother and more efficient process with the team understanding that speed and convenience are two important factors for home movers.

We are able to provide instant quotes within minutes and have a conversation to explain the fees and process to our clients.

“

UK house prices have defied the Brexit gloom by racking up their biggest monthly increase since records began in 1983.

THE GUARDIAN

�

The introduction of an independent network of RICS surveyors, valuers and removals companies further highlights the desire to innovate and provide an end-toend experience for the client.

Listed in the top

1%

for conveyancing completions in the UK 2018 HM Land Registry Requisitions 09

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY As one of the capital’s leading IP firms, we identify and enable clients to capitalise upon the commercial value held in IP assets.

Working together, we will protect and exploit these rights, increasing both profitability and brand identity.

We have helped

150+ companies merge with or acquire other companies

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS With our unrivalled expertise in mergers and acquisitions, we have quickly risen to the top of our game, achieving 100% client satisfaction this year.

Our integrated team of specialists corporate lawyers are experts in cross border transactions, MBOs and MBIs, investment management, restructurings and private equity transactions.

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Tax Law Our tax law specialists are leading the market in providing advice and support in all aspects of taxation and tax planning, across the capital, throughout the UK and internationally.

We are renowned for our unrivalled level of service in delivering creative, effective solutions to clients across all industry sectors. We will negotiate this complex and ever-evolving regulatory landscape on your behalf, analysing risk and identifying the right opportunities to achieve the most tax-efficient solutions for you and your business.

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Helping you reach your business goals Whether you are a corporate client or a start-up, we would love to be part of your journey.

“

Stirling Ackroyd Legal has supported me throughout my business ventures.

They offer the perfect balance between pragmatism & innovation and have truly delivered every single time.

KAFEEL KHAN Major franchisee of Costa Coffee chains

�

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We can help you with: • Insolvency & Restructuring • Mergers & Acquisitions • Corporate Disputes • Shareholders Agreements • Intellectual Property • Business Setup

BUSINESS & CORPORATE From sole traders to high-profile multinationals, we are a leading provider of business advice and legal services.

We act for start-ups from inception onwards, providing them with the same level of service as our more established organisations. Whatever the size or nature of your business, we will take the time to understand your objectives and will work with you to help capitalise upon opportunities and increase profitability.

We are often regarded as the in-house legal department for our clients, supporting them through good times and bad, helping to fulfil their business objectives.

Our client base includes small businesses, established companies, high-profile firms and multinationals. We offer clients a unique and personal service, looking after their interests and ensuring that their commercial objectives are met.

We are extremely proud of the long-term relationships we have developed with our business clients. We are equally proud to have accompanied many of them on their business journey and of playing a small a part in their success.

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S TARTU P TO S T OC K MA R K E T

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Private Client FAMILY AND DIVORCE Family law is a specialist area requiring sensitivity and care.

We are always on your side in protecting what is important.

This includes matters involving divorce and children. We provide ongoing advice and practical support ensuring that we achieve the right outcome.

Our dedicated team of experts in divorce will firmly represent your interests when it comes to your entitlement and the arrangements for your children.

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We fully understand the difficulties that surround divorce, especially when issues become contentious. Whatever the situation, we will take the time to understand your needs and consider what is in the best interests of your children.

“

We have an excellent record in reaching the right result in family matters, achieving successful outcomes in over 90% of divorce cases.

LOUISA GOTHARD Head of Family

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WILLS AND PROBATE Protecting your wealth and assets is essential, throughout life and even in death. Ensuring that your affairs are in order will allow you to continue to provide for your loved ones and generations to come.

A Will is a legally binding document that sets out how you want your estate to be administered when the time comes.

We provide a full range of Wills and Probate services, including making or amending your Will or Probate. We also offer advice on

Lasting Power of Attorney to cover you during your lifetime.

Our specialist team will ensure that these processes are stress-free and that your objectives and intentions are fully represented.

We will also identify the most tax-efficient ways to preserve an inheritance for maximum benefit.

If you are excluded from a will, or an inheritance dispute arises, our solicitors will offer you pragmatic and informative advice.

We will guide you on the best course of action and support you along the way.

If you would like to speak to a solicitor to get advice or have any questions, feel free to call us today on 0203 058 3365

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Litigation & Dispute Resolution Whether you are seeking to settle a small dispute or you require support through complex national investigations, the scope of our knowledge is extensive.

The English legal system is distinguished as a centre for high-value disputes. At Stirling Ackroyd Legal, we work diligently to maintain its prestigious reputation and support our clients every step of the way.

We have an exceptional record of achieving full client satisfaction with swift resolution in civil, commercial and property litigation proceedings.

“

Over the last few years, the company has established a stellar reputation within the field of litigation and disputes. The department benefits from having expert in-house counsel as well as young ambitious litigation solicitors.

This has given us the perfect balance for every business or individual requiring hands-on proactive advice.

HITEN PATEL Head of Compliance

�

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You take care of the big jobs

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WE’LL MAKE LEGAL WORK A LITTLE ONE

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GLOBAL MOBILITY Global mobility remains crucial to our economy. In the case that you need to bring skilled talent from overseas to work for you in the UK, we can help.

We advise on all aspects of UK sponsorship and the related requirements, including ensuring that your duties as a UK sponsor are fully met. You can trust in us to secure the right outcome for you and your business.

We have helped

3,000+ clients in attracting international talent.

IMMIGRATION FOR YOU If you or someone close to you would like to come to the UK, we will provide a full range of immigration services designed to help your journey.

Whether you are travelling in order to study or to work, we offer practical advice on how to achieve your goals and will assist you with your visa application to ensure that the process is smooth and stress-free.

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We can help you with: • Naturalisation • Business Immigration • Sponsor Licenses • Indefinite leave to remain • Visit Visas

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Dashing& Brave Having volunteered in North Korea, Bola is well-equipped to handle complex matters.

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EMPLOYMENT LAW

WE ACT FOR BOTH SIDES

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UK unemployment rate drops to lowest level since 1974

Constant changes to legislation have made managing a business and its workforce more and more challenging.

That is why we provide expert legal advice covering a full spectrum of employment law.

Whether it is contentious or non-contentious, breach of contract or advice on internal procedures, our lawyers are among some of the finest in the field.

Although most cases are resolved before reaching an employment tribunal, we will be by your side, with an exemplary success rate of over 85% in tribunal cases.

Acting for both employers and employees, we often advise start-up businesses as well as well-established corporations on their employment contracts.

- FINANCIAL TIMES

“

My experience at Stirling Ackroyd Legal has been very dynamic and hands on. Our employment department works diligently on every case and has a proven track record of excellence BOLA KIM

”

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Unlocking

POTENTIAL WE SPEAK TO YOU IN

καλως

ΗΡΘΑΤΕ

Hoşgeldiniz

Bienvenido

어서 오세요

Welkom

Bine ai venit

to ਂਨੂੰ nu ਇਆ e nv ੀ ਆ Be ਜ

Bi xêr hatî

迎

सव ् ागत हे

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ยินดีต้อนรับ

Herzlich Bienvenu(e) willkomm Καλώς en ορίσατε Merhaba

Bine ati venit வரவேற்பு 환영 akwaaba

Bem vinda

Selamat datang

Witamy

DIFFERENT LANGUAGES We unlock potential and celebrate the achievements of our incredible team.

9,500+ 300 files opened in the last year with cases from over 10 departments.

years of combined legal experience in all areas of English & International Law

150+

lawyers within the Stirling Ackroyd Legal family

60 seconds with our CFO

Why not pop in

Our Family

Our Offices

Supporting local businesses

Marketing Hub

seconds

with our CFO

MARKUS MALIK ESQ. MBA, JD, LLM, CFO

What was your first job?

My first job was before the internet was invented at Electronic Data Systems (EDS) which later merged with CSC. My job was to market satellite & communications technology and service specifically aimed at narrowcasting.

What tips would you give to an aspiring solicitor?

I would say qualifying as a lawyer does not mean you are limited to only practicing law.

Understanding the legal system gives you the freedom to explore a multitude of different professions but it does set you up to spot issues and to deal with problems creatively.

How was your first year at Stirling Ackroyd Legal? And what are the highlights?

My first year at Stirling Ackroyd Legal was exciting as we are one of the fastest growing legal firms around. What we have achieved though has been exceptional – we have acquired a number of companies to grow the group – achieving a grow rate of almost 60%. We have looked into new market segments and a new way of acquiring and delivering legal services. We continue to look for other law firms that want to join us on this journey into the new legal landscape developing in England and Wales.

Do you see Brexit impacting SMEs? Simply put - if the wider economy is negatively affected then it will have a knock-on impact on call companies irrespective of size. That being said, whatever happens, the business and economic landscape is always changing – whatever the impact those that adjust will grow and thrive. We stand ready to advise all our clients through this challenging time ahead.

WHY NOT POP IN? At Stirling Ackroyd Legal, we are always open to new ideas, opportunities and ways in which we can help our local communities. Follow us on social media or sign up to our newsletter to find out how you can attend our events below.

Coffee and a chat Every Friday Morning, we open our doors to local businesses and the local community. We host a friendly coffee morning where people can both network and seek impartial advice from our legal advisors. If you have any questions, feel free to pop in and speak to us to find out how we can help.

Property Seminars Our property seminars are open spaces for discussing the latest legal changes in property. Whether you are considering investing for the first time or are an experienced investor, our seminars will enlighten you with all the important information on how to capitalise on the market.

New Business Lab We believe that start-ups are the driving forces of economic prosperity. Our Business Lab brings together business and creative leaders for conversations around the potential presented by emerging markets.

Future Lawyers Getting into Law is competitive. That’s why we run a Future Lawyers event that gives undergraduates the opportunity to ask those all-important questions by networking with our lawyers, trainees and even senior partners!

CONNECT WITH US:

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Our Family A D A M S L AW

ROYCE

& CO

Verbatim

PROPERTY SOLICITORS

Stirling Ackroyd Legal is widely recognised as one of the fastest growing law firms in the UK. Having started as property specialists, we have grown to offer a wide spectrum of legal services and have built dedicated teams for the specialised niches of law.

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OUR OFFICES London Our headquarters are located at the heart of the City of London. We have five offices across London, all easily accessible and teaming with multi-specialised Solicitors.

Aldgate | Tower Bridge | City of London | Clapton | Battersea

Nationwide We are constantly growing and have set up offices outside London to meet client demand.

Southampton | Portsmouth | Birmingham

Europe We have built a dedicated team of experts for our first office in Italy. As the journey continued, we also opened an office in Brussels, Belgium.

Italy | Brussels

Middle East With our long-established offices in the Middle East, our Solicitors can advise you on areas such as finance and investment.

Dubai | Kuwait | Qatar

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Headquarters - The City 402-404 Commercial Road London E1 0LB 35

Supporting Local Businesses

“

Laboratorio Pizza

Stirling Ackroyd Legal have been key to my success.

From purchasing a commercial lease to advising me on my employment contracts, they have been with me every step of the way.

Ivan Simeoli Owner of Laboratorio Pizza

”

Ivan Simeoli was labelled crazy by his own staff to even attempt opening an Italian restaurant with his head chef, Enzo Gustiniani, in an area dominated heavily by curry houses.

When you think of Brick Lane, immediately the senses revert to the colourful tastes and smells of restaurants bustling with swaths of people, simply looking for good food and a great atmosphere.

Ivan, who has cooked for some high profile celebrities such as Al Pacino and has provided the catering on the official opening of the National Gallery is no stranger to providing a personalised culinary experience for each of his customers.

Laboratorio Pizza is set to take London by storm with it’s up and coming pasta restaurant in Pinner. We cannot wait to see its progress!

Marketing Hub As our marketing team continues to grow from strength to strength, we are working as hard as ever as we continue to expand our services.

At the heart of our marketing department is the drive to create interesting, engaging and up-to-date services for everyone, including developing websites, producing magazines and showcasing events for our clients and partners alike.

Our up-to-date news centre is designed to provide our clients with an interactive hub of insights into current topics and the latest debates that could impact upon the important decisions they may be making with us.

However, we don’t just stop there…

Stirling Ackroyd Legal’s marketing lab has been working non-stop to help raise the profiles of some highly worthwhile causes, including Beani Bazar Cancer & General Hospital.

“

We do not want to think of ourselves as just a law firm.

We strongly believe in creating a message and vision that every person can resonate with.

PJ Singh Marketing Director

”

Connect with us today for regular updates on the latest legal developments and all the news from the Stirling Ackroyd family.

Visit: www.stirlingackroydlegal.com/media

Stirling Ackroyd Legal

IN THE COMMUNITY Our team works hard to support good causes that help disadvantaged people within London and throughout the UK. We will continue to build connections with local communities to help young people to succeed and make the most of their opportunities.

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Every Person Matters

In memory of James Goff

Our History

Solicitors in the Community Caroline Dale

Your Journey is our Journey.

GIVING BACK Supporting our public services We recognise the efforts and contributions of our exceptional public services in supporting our communities and improving the quality of our lives. The team at Stirling Ackroyd Legal are working hard to ensure this is never taken for granted.

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Global Philanthropy We work on an international level supporting those affected by conflict and disaster. Our Bangladesh Initiative intends to revolutionise the provision of medical care in the country by connecting disadvantaged families with medical experts in Europe.

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IN MEMORY OF JAMES GOFF

Forever in our hearts 1961 - 2016 Founder, Friend & Mentor

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NEVER FORGET YOUR ROOTS P rop er ty L aw Sp ecialists

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OUR HISTORY

2016 - Now

2nd J a n 2 0 1 6

JUL 2018

OCT 2018

Day 1: Our first step was to buy a printer for the office

Expanded to the Middle East, opening offices in Dubai, Kuwait and Qatar.

Opened a Sales Department

4th M A R 2 0 1 6

MAR 2018

Acquired Royce & Co LLP in Fulham

Appointed Markus Malik as CFO

JUN 2016

FEB 2018

Won a conveyancing contract that secured over 70 cases a week

Adams Law LLP joins the Stirling Ackroyd Legal family

AUG 2016

OCT 2017

Relocated to 60 Commercial Road

Verbatim Property Solicitors joins the Stirling Ackroyd Legal family

N OV 2 01 8

SEPT 2016 Added new talent to our workforce

MAR 2017

OCT 2016

ML Law joins the Stirling Ackroyd Legal family

David Ebert LLP joins the Stirling Ackroyd Legal family

FEB 2017

DEC 2016

Opened department in Family Law

Awarded Conveyancing Network of the Year award.

JAN 2017 Opened department in Wills & Probate

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Relocated to 402-404 Commercial Road and opened an office in Tower Bridge JAN 2019 Published as one of the Land Registry’s top 500 Law Firms for completions

FEB 2019 Opened a Marketing department

MAR 2019 Preparing acquisition of Italian firm

SEPT 2019 Gordon Daniel LLP joins the Stirling Ackroyd Legal family

SOLICITORS IN THE COMMUNITY

Caroline Dale

Charities we have worked with

Caroline Dale is a senior consultant of the firm and a key member of our team.

She continues to raise awareness and features in various blogs, newspapers and well-known magazines including Women and Home Magazine.

She advises in relation to all aspects concerning residential property including financing, leasing, development and acquisition.

Her next project is one of her most creative yet!

Caroline is planning to put together a concert early next year to raise funds for different cancer charities.

After being diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, she began taking part in many projects with different cancer charities and raised £1000s through her participation in Race for Life and other events.

As an ambassador for CRUK, Caroline has liaised with her local MP, Mims Davies and attended Westminster on several occasions.

Her tireless efforts towards helping the early detection of cancer don’t just end there!

Caroline has dedicated years to building long-lasting relationships between organisations and converting goodwill into support for cancer patients in every stage of their treatment.

“

It’s a pleasure working at a company where charity is at the core of their philosophy.

CAROLINE DALE

”

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YOUR JOURNEY IS OUR JOURNEY.

We have built long-standing partnerships with key banks, brokers, insurance companies, estate agents and property surveyors and would like to welcome you to our family.

Find out how you can partner with us today www.stirlingackroydlegal.com/partners

Our success is a testament to the calibre of our team and vibrant culture at Stirling Ackroyd Legal.

We are always looking for people to join us, whether it be as paralegal, trainee, associate or partner.

To register your interest, please send your CV to enquiries@stirlingackroydlegal.com

I S S U E N O.1

S T I R L I N G

A C K R OY D

L E G A L

www.stirlingackroydlegal.com 020 3058 3363