Howard Kennedy has an international scope and good connections.
Chambers & Partners 2024
Our market specialists assist in navigating new cultures, regulations, and accessing local expertise. With over a quarter of our revenues generated from cross-border legal matters, our global experience allows us to meet your international needs.
Whether you're looking to expand a business internationally or address cross-jurisdictional legal challenges, we support UK-based clients both overseas and in handling cross-border issues, as well as international clients seeking English legal advice.
Our approach remains the same, whether domestic or international. We provide a full range of legal services for international businesses and individuals, helping you get from where you are to where you want to be. As well as being technical experts, our lawyers are actively engaged in various markets and take the time to understand the different nuances of doing business overseas.
Our ability to support internationally is strengthened by our membership of two non-exclusive leading international legal networks, Meritas and LAW, where we are the sole English member.
Our well-established relationships with international law firms ensure we can provide access to the best-placed expertise in each market, aligned to your needs. We are happy to interpret and coordinate advice for you, and our independent approach serves you—wherever you are.
Global growth brings legal challenges - from setting up abroad to protecting IP, managing tax, hiring, and resolving disputes - our experts help you navigate every step.
What are some key legal considerations when expanding a business internationally?
International expansion requires careful navigation of local entity formation, partnerships, regulatory compliance, and entry requirements. You’ll need to account for visa regulations, foreign investment policies, and international tax law obligations. Our team has hands-on experience helping businesses expand across borders, offering tailored insights to mitigate risks and optimise opportunities in new markets.
How can businesses protect their intellectual property in foreign markets?
Securing IP rights means more than just registering patents or trade marks—it involves navigating each country’s enforcement mechanisms and preparing to minimise potential counterfeiting risks. By working with our cross-border legal team, you can implement effective global intellectual property protections and licensing agreements that defend your brand’s value across international markets.
What are the common challenges of cross-border mergers and acquisitions?
Cross-border M&A presents unique challenges, from navigating competition regulations and reflecting exchange rate differences to integrating diverse corporate cultures. Conducting thorough due diligence to identify compliance gaps and structuring deals for tax efficiency are key steps. Our team’s experience in cross-jurisdictional M&A ensures you can approach complex transactions with confidence and avoid costly setbacks.
How do international tax laws impact cross-border business activities?
Navigating international tax laws is essential for maintaining profitability. Issues like transfer pricing, VAT, and double taxation can significantly impact cash flow and compliance. By leveraging our expertise, businesses can tap into strategies that minimise tax exposure, take advantage of applicable treaties, and align with local tax regulations.
What should companies consider when hiring employees in a foreign country?
Hiring abroad requires understanding diverse employment laws, wage structures, and benefit entitlements, along with cultural differences in workplace practices. Crafting employment contracts that respect local standards while protecting company interests is essential. Our team provides guidance on adapting to these requirements and creating employment policies that keep your business compliant and your workforce secure.
What are the best practices for managing cross-border disputes?
Resolving cross-border legal disputes requires a clear strategy, often involving international arbitration or mediation. Understanding the enforceability of foreign judgments and setting up neutral venues can facilitate smoother outcomes. Our team specialises in cross-jurisdictional dispute resolution, helping you address complex cases swiftly while protecting business relationships.
Acting successfully for the former Deputy Finance Minister of Mozambique in a $2 billion dispute regarding state guarantees and bonds, involving allegations of serious corruption.
Advising clients in both written and spoken Japanese on a wide range of intellectual property matters.
Advised Gate Ventures and Global Group Entertainment on the production of 42nd Street and Sunset Boulevard in London and Broadway.
Acting for a German virtual reality experience company and its director defending a claim for recruitment fees.
Acting for India's largest hospitality and food service group on their overseas expansion into the UK.
Advising Israeli family office asset advisers on the tax implications for their provision of services to high net worth investors in the UK.
Advising Gate Ventures on the investment in the US Broadway Production of Sunset Boulevard by Foot in the Door LLC.
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