Interview with: Thierry Lauwers, Lawyer – Partner

Thierry Lauwers, founder of Lauwers tax lawyers, shares insights into how the firm is evolving to meet the dynamic needs of clients in an ever-changing legal and tax landscape.

 

1) What do you see as the main points that differentiate Lauwers Tax Lawyers from your competitors?

Lauwers Tax Lawyers sets itself apart from competitors through several key points. Firstly, our specialized focus on tax law across Belgium’s three regions distinguishes us. Additionally, our innovative approach to digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies, positions us at the forefront of understanding and addressing the intricate tax implications in this domain. Furthermore, we offer a comprehensive range of services, spanning from tax optimization to legal representation in tax disputes. Our multidisciplinary expertise empowers us to craft proactive and personalized strategies, enabling us to navigate complex tax matters efficiently and effectively. This capability sets us apart in delivering efficient tax solutions and legal support, clearly differentiating us in the market.

 

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

Over the next 12 months, we foresee substantial  growth in several practice areas, driven by evolving market dynamics and regulatory landscapes. Firstly, the tax implications of digital assets, including cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology, are expected to gain increasing prominence. This surge is fueled by the rapid adoption of these assets in both personal and corporate portfolios, alongside a shifting regulatory environment that demands nuanced tax strategies.

Additionally, international tax law is poised for expansion, reflecting the globalized nature of modern business operations. Companies are increasingly engaging in cross-border transactions, necessitating sophisticated guidance to navigate the complex web of international tax regulations and treaties. This need is compounded by ongoing efforts from governments and international bodies to update tax laws in response to economic globalization.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations are also anticipated to significantly influence tax practices. As businesses and investors place greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical operations, tax strategies that incorporate ESG principles are becoming crucial for compliance, reputation management, and financial performance.

Finally, tax litigation and dispute resolution are areas likely to see growth, as taxpayers and tax authorities adjust to new laws and interpretations. The complexity of tax legislation, coupled with the potential for significant financial implications, makes expert legal representation more important than ever for navigating audits, disputes, and negotiations with tax authorities.

These growth areas reflect broader trends in economics, technology, and societal values, underscoring the importance of agile, informed, and strategic tax law practices.

 

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

The primary change we’ve implemented at our firm, which significantly benefits our clients, is our heightened focus on digital innovation and client communication. This strategic shift enables us to deliver more efficient, transparent, and personalized tax solutions, empowering our clients with better decision-making capabilities in their tax-related matters.

 

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

Technology profoundly influences our interactions with clients and the services we provide, enhancing our efficiency and the precision of our advice. It streamlines communication, making it more immediate and accessible, and allows us to offer more sophisticated, data-driven solutions tailored to individual client needs. Additionally, technology facilitates a more dynamic, real-time approach to tax planning and compliance, ensuring that our clients benefit from the most current strategies and regulatory insights. This technological integration empowers us to deliver higher-quality, more responsive services, solidifying our commitment to client success in an evolving digital landscape.

 

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

We successfully concluded a two-year-long tax case before the court, securing a favorable outcome for a small company operating in the medical business. This achievement involved effectively addressing the deduction of costs, ultimately providing significant value to the client.

Additionally, we were able to achieve substantial tax savings for an American multinational company in the realm of local taxes. This accomplishment exemplifies our commitment to delivering tangible value and strategic tax solutions to our clients, ultimately contributing to their business success.

 

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

Clients indeed seek stability and strategic direction from their law firms, valuing partners who can navigate uncertainty and guide long-term planning. In three years, we envision our firm as a leader in adapting to legal and technological advancements, deepening our expertise in emerging areas like digital assets and ESG compliance, and maintaining a client-centric approach that prioritizes clear, strategic counsel tailored to our clients’ evolving needs. This forward-looking stance will ensure our firm remains at the forefront of providing exceptional value and strategic guidance.