Patrick Geortay (Linklaters LLP Luxembourg): Analyzing the Legal Agenda
“We are at the forefront of legal innovation and at the center of Luxembourg’s regulatory environment,” states Patrick Geortay, Managing Partner of Linklaters LLP, Luxembourg and Capital Markets and Banking partner. He analyses the legal trends in the market.

Can you describe your company in a few words?
Linklaters Luxembourg is a truly global firm with a clear commitment to diversity, inclusion and innovative thinking. As a leading law firm with access to a worldwide network of expertise operating in 21 countries, we bring together the sharpest minds and the widest experience. We offer clients comprehensive solutions built on knowledge, insight and a thorough understanding of their environment and goals. Operating at the heart of Luxembourg’s business center for over a century, we build cross-practice teams to develop a fully integrated and streamlined service for a wide spectrum of clients. From blue-chip names and multinationals to leading financial institutions, asset managers, sponsors and private investment companies, we offer intelligent solutions and clear strategies. We are at the forefront of legal innovation and at the center of Luxembourg’s regulatory environment. An active participant in a number of advisory committees and industry bodies, we deliver precision results with a clear vision.
“But ESG and digitalization are highly specialized areas that are set to dominate the legal agenda for some time to come”
How are the needs of your clients evolving?
Increasingly our clients are seeking a real partnership, expecting to develop a seamless link between their in-house teams and our lawyers. This approach is driven by the complex challenges and multi-jurisdictional activities with which many of our clients deal. Increasing regulation and a growing demand for greater ESG services, products and outcomes are putting in-house legal teams under real pressure. They are turning to Linklaters for the specialist knowledge needed to stay ahead of these fast-paced and ever-evolving trends. In addition to in-depth specialist advice, our clients expect a broader client experience to include more training, deeper engagement and a wider approach to knowledge sharing. Painting a bigger picture of the context in which they are operating helps our clients better understand issues such as market sentiment and the direction of travel. In short, clients are seeking a further layer of advice to complement our technical legal expertise.
What legal trends do you identify and how are you adapting to them?
We see three clear trends at the top of many client agendas – all with significant legal implications. Increasing regulation, ESG and digitalization. Our clients identify all three as key priorities. But ESG and digitalization are highly specialized areas that are set to dominate the legal agenda for some time to come. Issues such as cryptocurrencies and cybersecurity, along with increasing litigation and activism beyond the US, are creating new challenges and complexities. Drawing from across our network of talent, we have both the scope and the skills to deliver first-class solutions. The environment in which we operate is changing and we understand our clients’ needs are changing accordingly. But by working in close partnership, sharing our knowledge and expert insights, we can support our clients as they face these new challenges and opportunities.