Law firm looks East after exchange visit | 14 July 08

LEADING North law firm Ward Hadaway is looking to strengthen its links with the Middle East following a recent visit to Jordan.

The firm is aiming to boost ties with Amman-based commercial law practice Zaru Associates after Ward Hadaway commercial litigation partner Paula Myers spent time there as part of a British Council-funded project.

Paula (left) headed to Jordan with three other North-East businesswomen – Si Bales, founder and director of Newcastle-based PR and marketing company bgroup, Catherine Marchant from Young Enterprise North East and Alison Jackson from Newcastle’s Central High School – under a scheme designed to encourage female entrepreneurship in the country and foster business links between Jordan and the UK.

Whilst in Amman, Paula gave training to lawyers at Zaru Associates on various aspects of law firm management and practice.

Ward Hadaway is now looking at ways to develop the link-up and possibly provide further training for Zaru’s lawyers and clients.

Paula said: “It was really interesting to see how the law is practised in Jordan and to see the similarities between us as well as the differences.

“A lot of their work with clients is done in English so it was easy to talk to them and to share some of our ways of doing things.

“Hopefully, we will be able to build on what we have already done and strengthen our links with Zaru Associates and with Jordan.”

Zaru Associates’ managing partner, Tala Al Mauge, had visited Paula at Ward Hadaway in November last year in the first leg of the exchange programme.

Paula said: “Tala seemed to really enjoy her time at Ward Hadaway last year and it was great to see her again and find out more about her firm.

“We also have quite a bit in common as we both have two children and both have to juggle home life with our business lives.”

During her visit, Paula went to the Jordanian investment board and met the country’s Trade and Industry Minister.

She also attended a series of British Council dinners and visited destinations including Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea.

Paula said: “It’s a fascinating country and one which is currently enjoying rapid growth and investment. I hope we can continue our links with Jordan and Zaru Associates in the coming years.”