You have had an Israel Desk and team for some time, what was the driving force behind that and how does it fit in with the firm’s overall strategy and focus?

The establishment of Phillips Nizer’s Israel Practice Group was a natural evolution resulting from our existing workload.  As a mid-sized full-service firm (at least by New York standards), with a strong focus on inbound work from international businesses and entrepreneurs, we pride ourselves on providing sophisticated legal services to our clients.  As the scope of our work from Israeli clients increased, it made perfect sense to create the Israel Practice Group as a focal point.

What are the challenges that you face as you look to expand and grow the Israel Desk? How do you manage them?

The combination of speedy electronic communications and the pandemic have altered the practice of law.  Phillips Nizer has incorporated technological advantages into how we practice law today.  At the same time, we place a high value on establishing personal relationships with clients and colleagues.

What industries or areas do you look to emphasize and develop in the coming year(s), with regards to your Israel Desk?

Phillips Nizer brings its domestic strengths to our Israel Practice Group.  In the real estate field, we focus on joint ventures between Israeli and U.S. partners, ground-up real estate development, and tax-advantaged real estate and business investment opportunities such as qualified opportunity zone projects.  We also see our famed intellectual property practice as a priority for growth.  We assist our clients in establishing, promoting and enforcing intellectual property rights in every area, from traditional trademark and copyright work to patent litigation to the latest technologies, including non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

What kind of strategies, mindset or understanding are required for the head of Israeli desk?

Leading our Israel Practice Group effectively means bringing together three key elements:  first, excellence in legal representation; second, creativity in identifying opportunities; third, a commitment to doing the hard work needed to turn opportunities into successes for our clients.

Click here to read more about Phillips Nizer and its Israel practice.