Overview

In this exclusive article for Legal Week, Shearman & Sterling's Christophe Asselineau explains why law firms with global ambitions are now keen to conquer African legal markets.

Despite comparisons to the European race for colonies in the 19th century, Asselineau outlines what these modern 'armies' of commercial lawyers and accountants could contribute to Africa. Chief among which, would be the the knock-on effect of international lawyers better protecting the interests of their host countries leading to increased legal stability leading to more investment. Additionally, the emergence of more experienced state negotiators able to negotiate complex documentation to world standards.

Secondly, the arrival of international law firms could mean an increase in local standards of law practice and new opportunities for local practitioners to work in the local offices of these firms.

Finally, Asselineau argues that international law firms' pro bono schemes can make a useful contribution to the development of the rule of law through the training of the local judiciary, advocacy programmes and legislation review.

To read the full article, click 'View Briefing'.