Special Interest Groups
Special Interest Groups (SIGs) are collaborative forums within the AEL where member firms' expert lawyers gather to focus on specific legal areas of interest or expertise. These groups provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking, and professional development, ultimately enhancing the collective capabilities of our member firms.
SIGs hold regular online meetings throughout the year, culminating in an annual in-person gathering at SIG Day. This conference, hosted in summer by a different member firm each year, brings together legal professionals from across Europe. The event features expert speakers on a range of topics and breakout groups for in-depth discussions and feedback. Join us at the next SIG Day for a day of learning, collaboration, and networking with peers in the legal field.
Explore All Special Interest Groups
Deepen your expertise in specialised legal areas.
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Commercial Dispute Resolution
The Commercial Dispute Resolution SIG is convened by Keith Smith of Arthur Cox. Lawyers in this group have experience in litigation, arbitration and mediation in all areas of commercial dispute.
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Competition
The Competition SIG is convened by Richard Ryan of Arthur Cox. Lawyers in this group have experience in competition law, public procurement and state aids. The SIG seeks to educate its members in competition law and to encourage referral of work and exchange of information on the way in which the rules are interpreted in the different jurisdictions.
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Tax
The Corporate Tax SIG is a group of lawyers from member firms throughout Europe. The SIG is convened by David Kilty of Arthur Cox. The SIG is committed to offering corporate tax expertise on all aspects of international advisory and transactional matters deriving from its members’ technical excellence, ability to provide commercial and pragmatic solutions and structuring experience.
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M&A/Corporate
The Corporate SIG is a group of lawyers from member firms throughout Europe. The SIG is convened by Risto Vahimets of Ellex Raidla. Lawyers in this group have experience in private and public M&A, venture capital and private equity transactions and joint ventures and other business alliances.
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Employment
Lawyers in the group advise on all aspects of employment and labour law, from non-contentious drafting of contracts and policies and advising on day-to-day employment issues, to representing clients in employment litigation, whether that relates to contractual disputes, dismissals or discrimination claims. The SIG is convened by Ben Smith at Charles Russell Speechlys.
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Intellectual Property/IT
The IP/IT SIG serves as a dynamic forum for lawyers from member firms to collaborate and discuss significant developments in IP and IT law throughout Europe. It provides an excellent opportunity for members to share updates on key legal changes within their respective countries and to gain insights into regulatory trends across the continent.
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Restructuring and Insolvency
Restructuring and Insolvency SIG covers all aspects of turnaround and restructuring advice in the context of financial distress and insolvency. Through an exchange around financial restructuring, industry specific crisis topics, restructuring and insolvency schemes and distressed M&A we cover a variety of topics where our well experienced experts from different countries share their best practices, case studies and keep up with new developments.
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Private Client
The Private Client Special Interest Group was launched to bring together like-minded European lawyers who focus on advising individuals in relation to tax, family businesses, estate planning and other private client matters.
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Business Development & Marketing
The BD&M SIG brings together law firm business development and marketing professionals to discuss best practice on a broad range of issues and create new touchpoints across the network’s member firms.
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Why Join an SIG?
At the AEL, we provide a wide range of services and support to our member firms. By joining our network, you gain access to collaborative exchanges of expertise, participation in annual seminars and knowledge-sharing events, and will become part of a community of successful firms.
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Expertise Enhancement
Participating in SIGs allows you to deepen your expertise in specific legal areas by collaborating with expert lawyers from other member firms. By sharing insights and best practices, you can stay updated on industry trends and developments, ultimately enhancing your capabilities as a legal professional.
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Networking Opportunities
SIGs provide a platform for networking with peers who share similar interests and expertise. Building relationships with fellow members can lead to valuable professional connections, referrals, and opportunities for collaboration, both within and outside your firm.
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Professional Development
Engaging in a SIG's activities – such as regular conference calls, in-person meetings, and collaborative initiatives – offers opportunities for ongoing professional development. By actively participating in discussions and initiatives, you can broaden your knowledge, skills, and leadership capabilities.
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Contribution to the Network
As a SIG member, you have the opportunity to contribute to the success of the overall AEL network by sharing your expertise, insights, and experiences with fellow members. Your individual contributions help to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence within our network.