60 seconds interview with Hazar El-Chamaa of Penningtons Manches
Tell me about your role at Penningtons Manches?
I am an immigration partner at Penningtons Manches and have now been with the firm for 12 years. I head the private wealth immigration offering but because of the nature of my clients and my own interests I am also involved in our fashion luxury and lifestyle, sport and education sectors. Penningtons Manches is a full service law firm which is great for me and my clients as it means all their needs are covered by one set of advisors.
How has the private client industry changed?
With greater transparency and compliance requirements, clients are more aware than ever of the need for holistic advice and for a full private wealth solution.
What lesson have you learnt?
That it’s not all about immigration. I have had to become familiar with the wide array of issues that might impact my clients. Similarly my colleagues in other departments have also been known to quote the dos and don’ts of complying with investor visa rules.
Tell us about interesting client instructions.
Where to begin? Each day brings an interesting client instruction which is why I love my job. I have recently worked with the family team on a successful complex international surrogacy case in the High Court, where detailed submissions were required on domicile given the couple’s tax status as Res non-Dom.
What challenges do your clients face?
Making their circumstances fit into often nonsensical immigration requirements. Although we continue to work with the Home Office on making improvements to their rules and regulations.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
Stand by your principles.
What was the last book you’ve read?
The Burning Chambers by Kate Mosse (not the model). I love the historic detail that she goes into and I have a special affinity with the Languedoc region and her novels tend to revolve around that area.
How do you relax after a long day?
I cook (although I refer to this as food assembly). I find this to be therapeutic and I read before going to bed. I am now also trying meditation.