Interview with: Dr. Panos Kontogeorgakopoulos, Partner

Partner Dr. Panos Kontogeorgakopoulos of KRP Law Firm delves into how our firm is evolving in response to the ever-changing needs of our diverse clientele.

 

1) What do you see as the main points that differentiate KRP Law Firm from your competitors?

What sets KRP Law Firm apart is our rich legacy blended with modern adaptability. Emerging from the merger of two seasoned law offices, each with over half a century of legal prowess, we bring a depth of experience and a fresh, dynamic approach to legal issues. Our distinct edge lies in our deep-rooted expertise in sectors like M&A, corporate law, and cross-border transactions, paired with a hands-on, personalized approach for each client. This fusion of traditional wisdom with agile, modern strategies enables us to deliver uniquely tailored solutions that go beyond standard legal advice.

 

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

Looking ahead, we foresee substantial growth in our M&A practice, driven by the increasing trend of cross-border transactions and the expanding global market. With businesses seeking more integrated, international strategies, our expertise in this area is more relevant than ever. Additionally, we anticipate a surge in environmental law practices, especially given our continuous involvement in waste management and environmental projects. KRP Law Firm has an evolving presence in Middle East, having been engaged in various environment related project. Currently KRP Law Firm provides legal services in UAE in connection with the landmark Tadweer-Polygreen-Aldar circular economy project, which aims to transform significant territories of Abu-Dhabi to a zero waste communities, reflecting a global shift towards sustainability. As Greece emerges as an increasingly attractive investment destination, we anticipate a heightened demand for specialized legal services in these areas. Our objective is to expand our international presence, continuously adapting to the latest legal trends.

 

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

We’ve strategically enhanced our approach to client engagements, particularly in due diligence and risk assessment. By integrating more sophisticated analytical tools and methodologies, we now offer deeper insights and proactive solutions. This shift not only streamlines the transaction process but also equips our clients with a clearer understanding and mitigation of potential risks, ultimately leading to more secure and fruitful business outcomes. Moreover, leveraging our extensive experience, we often extend beyond traditional legal advice, offering strategic business guidance. This holistic approach ensures that our clients are not only making legally sound decisions but are also considering the broader business implications of their actions. By doing so, we help them achieve secure, well-rounded, and ultimately more profitable business outcomes. Our commitment to providing this dual-layered counsel – blending legal and business advice – truly sets us apart, fostering a deeper, more strategic partnership with each client we serve.

 

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

Technology has undoubtedly transformed our client interactions and service delivery. We leverage state-of-the-art digital platforms for seamless communication and collaboration, especially vital in our international dealings. Additionally, our investment in legal tech for processes like contract analysis and compliance checks has significantly improved our service efficiency and accuracy, allowing us to respond more swiftly to client needs.

 

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

A standout instance of how we’ve added value to a client’s business is our advisory role in Kariera.gr SA’s acquisition of CareerBuilder’s European and Asian businesses relating to job-posting, job-advertising and other employment/recruitment services. In this intricate, cross-border transaction, our firm played a critical role in navigating through complex legal terrains involving multiple jurisdictions. We provided strategic legal advice on the acquisition process, ensuring compliance with international regulations and laws, and effectively negotiating terms that aligned with Kariera.gr SA’s business objectives. This acquisition was not just about expanding Kariera.gr SA’s geographic footprint; it was a strategic move to diversify their service offerings and enhance their competitive edge in the global job market. This transaction exemplifies our firm’s ability to not only facilitate complex M&A deals but also to contribute to our clients’ strategic business growth and expansion, showcasing our commitment to delivering results that extend well beyond the traditional scope of legal services.

 

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

Clients today are in search of legal partners who not only offer stability but also possess the strategic agility to navigate a rapidly changing business world. In the next three years, KRP Law Firm aspires to be at the forefront of innovative legal services, with a strong focus on international corporate transactions and environmental law.  We envision KRP Law Firm as not just a legal advisor but a strategic ally to our clients. By combining our deep understanding of the global business environment with our local insights, we aim to provide comprehensive solutions that are both innovative and grounded, ensuring our clients are well-equipped to thrive in this evolving landscape. This dual focus positions us uniquely to meet the increasing needs of our clients in Greece and beyond, as we navigate the complexities and opportunities of the global and local business environments.