In this feature we go beyond legal rankings and directories to profile lawyers and share their interesting stories; from stand-out deals and cases to managing office politics, and their personal sacrifices for a successful career in law.
Here, we spotlight Michael Kortbawi, senior partner and co-founder of BSA Ahmad Bin Hezeem & Associates, a top Middle East law firm.
Memorable deals
What are some of the most scandalous or stand-out deals you have worked on, involving elements that are uncommon related to the local culture?
Doing business in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) can present legal and moral challenges. In the haze of the 2008 Dubai real estate boom, one case involved a famous real estate broker who was working for a large well-known brokerage. She secretly funneled client leads to her boyfriend’s brokerage. She kept a list of every client and accidentally shared it with her employer instead of her boyfriend. This act of siphoning clients was in direct violation of her employment agreement given the massive conflict of interest and breach of trust, which could be deemed illegal and apparently, she fled leaving everything behind rather than face prosecution. She can never return to the UAE.
Another case was where an individual was entering the airport and had a small piece of marijuana stuck to the sole of their shoe. They were caught and fully prosecuted given the UAE’s zero tolerance for drugs. People are sometimes emboldened to try their luck in the UAE, either with “get rich quick” or a small amount of drugs, believing they won’t get caught or if they do it won’t be a big deal, ignorant of the extreme consequences that can await them.
Managing office politics
Decision-making in law firms can be hindered by internal politics and power games, causing delays in the overall progress of a firm. How do you navigate the negative aspects of office politics and manage its effects on the firm as a whole?
Lawyers are very self-driven. This can create a competitive environment within the firm, with individuals competing for influence and power.
Dubai’s status as a melting pot adds another layer of complexity. Lawyers from various nationalities often form power alliances, which can be a source of strength or potentially lead to internal divisions.
To manage these challenges, we leverage external perspectives. Lawyers can sometimes miss the bigger picture. By seeking outside advice, we gain a clearer view of situations and ensure decisions prioritise the benefit of the entire firm, not just personal agendas, or power struggles.
Managing a law firm in Dubai is a game of balance. We need to be aware of individual personalities, group dynamics, and the competition for power. This understanding allows us to foster a collaborative environment where the firm’s collective success takes centre stage.
My successes and sacrifices
Success often comes with sacrifice. What are some of the personal costs and potential regrets associated with a successful career in law?
Dubai is basically a big business centre; it should not come as a surprise to anyone that being a lawyer is a balancing act between work and personal life.
This comes with the job, as a big chunk relies on business development and networking outside the office. Every social event is an opportunity to consolidate new professional relationships. The people you meet outside the professional setting become quite important for your work.
Setting boundaries is a necessity as everyone in Dubai is there for business.
New lawyers especially need to learn this. Success shouldn’t mean sacrificing your personal life. Finding a healthy balance is what keeps you going strong in the legal world.
