Challenge of keeping up with continuous tax law changes

The potential introduction of a tax general anti-avoidance rule (GAAR) is likely to be one of the biggest changes to affect tax professionals.

An anti-avoidance rule aimed at aggressive and artificial tax planning would be wel-comed.

The challenge is to ensure that the GAAR does not inhibit tax planning as part of entirely commercial arrange- ments.

What law would you like to see changed?

As a tax lawyer one of my biggest challenges on a day to day basis is keeping up with the continuing changes in tax law and practice without seeking new ones.

The volume of tax legislation has grown significantly during my career.

What is the most exciting work you’ve ever done?

I recently acted on one of the first private equity investments in a law firm under the Legal Services Act.

The transaction was very complex and gave rise to a number of challenging tax issues. For a tax adviser it doesn’t get more exciting than that.

There is likely to be a lot more activity under the Legal Services Act in the coming months.

Who in the legal world do you most admire?

Those legal professionals who devote themselves to protecting others, particularly children.

After a bad day in the office it can be hard to switch off, it must be impossible when you are dealing with children and their futures.

What advice would you give someone starting out in the profession?

Qualify into an area of law which you enjoy.

Research the different areas carefully and try to gain experience in a variety of specialisms to find one which suits you.

Never be afraid to ask questions.