Sorainen

Real Estate & Construction; Competition & Regulatory Compliance Data Protection

Senior Associate

As an attorney, Zane Akermane' specialism lies in real estate as well as regulatory matters and data protection. The first rule for any good lawyer is to understand the client’s needs first and make sure that any solution that you put on the table is custom-made to suit those needs.

Environmental liability and waste management. I have deep knowledge of the sometimes difficult-to-navigate natural resources tax and general waste management regime in Latvia. 

I have assisted in several high-profile cases regarding pollution and other failures to comply with applicable environmental regulations. I have represented clients in disputes before state environmental authorities as well as in court. I have also assisted clients in the context of criminal proceedings initiated on the basis of environmental breaches.

My services also include representing clients’ interests in environment-related lobbying activities. In a recent case our work resulted in a successful pushback against proposed changes to the applicable regulations that would have cost our client several million euros lost from its core business.

I also regularly advise international clients, whose supply chains cover multiple jurisdictions, on how best to address their waste management needs and ensure compliance. I also advise clients on general aspects of environmental liability, such as in construction.

Data protection requiring creative solutions. I have carried out several GDPR implementation projects, including for companies with an average annual turnover exceeding EUR 60 million and with over 500 employees. The work required an in-depth business analysis to identify all relevant data streams, data processing practices and the risks involved for the company. Creative solutions were often needed, ensuring compliance with legislation without placing an unreasonable burden on the clients.

I also provide day-to-day advice on how best to ensure GDPR compliance in their business.

Latvian, English

Latvian Bar Association

University of Latvia, Latvia (LLB, LLM) Utrecht University, the Netherlands (Erasmus)