Alexandra Epure LL.M., Epure Lohmann SCA

What experiences and approaches have shaped your career as a lawyer, particularly in navigating complex regulations and building relationships with clients across different cultures?

My journey through my studies and practical experiences in Germany has been incredibly valuable, shaping my entire career. I thoroughly enjoyed exploring corporate and commercial law, as well as gaining a comparative perspective on European legal systems. Through this, I've learned to navigate complex regulations and adapt tailored solutions for clients across various jurisdictions.

After returning to Romania, I began working with clients from German-speaking countries. Gradually, I've built a diverse portfolio of cases, collaborating with clients from different industries. This process took time—nothing happens overnight! Over the years, I have deepened my understanding of the unique challenges and requirements that each sector presents, along with honing my advocacy and negotiation skills.

First and foremost, I genuinely enjoy working with people and naturally provide a sympathetic ear to my clients. My interest in different cultures has led me to travel extensively over the past decade, enhancing my intercultural communication skills. I've realized that grasping not only the legal language but also the nuances of various business cultures is crucial in building trusting relationships with clients.

Additionally, my participation in transnational projects that require collaboration between firms from Romania and German -speaking countries has taught me how to manage the complexities of cross-border regulations. I'm grateful for these opportunities, as they add significant value to my clients.

Integrity and transparency have always guided me, both personally and professionally, shaping my interactions with clients and colleagues alike. These experiences have helped me develop a holistic approach to legal practice, where I prioritize customized solutions tailored to my clients' needs while maintaining a deep understanding of the international context in which they operate.

You've advised companies of all sizes on mergers and acquisitions. What unique challenges do small businesses face during M&A transactions compared to larger corporations?

I’d love to share some insights on the unique challenges small businesses face during mergers and acquisitions (M&A), especially compared to larger corporations.

One of the major hurdles for small businesses is limited resources. Unlike bigger companies, they often don’t have large teams dedicated to the M&A process. For this reason, it is essential to have experienced professionals to assist them with negotiation and regulatory compliance.

Another thing to consider is the strong dependency on key personnel. Many small businesses rely heavily on a few key individuals for success. If these folks decide to leave during the transition, it can really shake things up and affect operations and company culture. Therefore, we must ensure that we retain individuals during the transition period.

Then there’s the challenge of cultural integration. Merging two distinct cultures can be tough—especially for small businesses where personal relationships and traditions play a big role. Aligning values and practices takes time and understanding!

We also have to keep in mind the market position vulnerability. Small businesses often depend on a handful of major customers. If their strategy changes during the M&A process, they risk losing these critical clients, which can be detrimental.

Don’t forget the emotional factors at play! Small business owners often have a personal stake in their companies. This emotional investment can complicate negotiations, as decisions might be influenced more by relationships than by cold, hard numbers.

When it comes to valuation, small businesses can face difficulties here too. They may not have the detailed financial records larger corporations have, making it harder to come to an accurate valuation which can lead to some negotiation challenges.

Additionally, regulatory hurdles might arise. Larger corporations typically have compliance teams in place, while small businesses may struggle to know what’s required, potentially causing delays in the process.

Lastly, access to capital can be a real challenge. Smaller firms might find it tough to secure financing for an acquisition, limiting their ability to seize favorable opportunities.

So, as you can see, while M&A can offer exciting prospects for small businesses, there are distinct challenges that make the journey a bit more complex. In the end, it's great to see the synergy and how they can benefit from expansions that provide them with more resources and opportunities.

With your expertise in IT law and data protection, how do you see the evolving landscape of data privacy impacting international business operations?

In IT law and data protection in Romania, I've had a front-row seat to the remarkable evolution of the data privacy landscape over the past decade. Reflecting on my experiences since 2006, I recall a time when our legal framework consisted of a single law, primarily reactive to international directives. The absence of a dedicated data protection authority led many practitioners, including myself, to navigate uncertain compliance waters, often finding humor in our shared confusion.

The advent of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) marked a pivotal transformation in Romania's data protection environment. Initially, its implementation posed several challenges and sparked confusion. However, businesses have progressively embraced the importance of integrating data protection principles into their operational frameworks, recognizing that compliance is not just a regulatory obligation but a vital component of their reputation and operational efficiency.

Despite these advancements, the rapid technological evolution introduces dynamic challenges in the realm of data protection. The continually shifting landscape compels us to seek innovative legal solutions to ensure compliance with carefully evolving data privacy principles.

For both national companies and international businesses entering the Romanian market, it is essential to understand this landscape and the associated local legal obligations, as navigating these complexities can significantly impact their operational success.

Having worked in international German law firms from 2005 to 2014, what key lessons did you bring to your practice in Romania?

My experiences in both Germany and Romania, especially within the context of international firms, have provided me with invaluable insights. The rigorous compliance standards characteristic of the German corporate environment emphasized the importance of doing things right from the outset. This strong German work ethic has profoundly influenced my professional approach and has been essential to my personal growth, as well as the development and success of my law practice.

What are some of the most common contract law mistakes businesses make, and how can they safeguard against them?

As we navigate the exciting world of entrepreneurship, it's important to stay vigilant about common pitfalls in contract law. While making quick decisions can be vital, the entrepreneur should be cautious, as rushing can sometimes lead to unexpected legal challenges.

To avoid any mix-ups, it's crucial that contracts use clear and straightforward language. A thorough review of all terms before we sign on the dotted line is essential, and having our agreements documented in writing helps us avoid any enforcement issues down the road.

Including important clauses like payment schedules, guarantees and termination provisions can save us from future disputes. A handy checklist can be a great tool in this respect! We should also be mindful of any possible changes that could impact the agreement, keeping the contracts as clear and simple as possible to ensure everyone is on the same page. Caught in the excitement of closing a deal, some parties may overlook abusive clauses or fail to sufficiently analyze the associated risks. It is our responsibility to analyze and consider the worst-case scenarios.

In today’s digital landscape, what proactive steps should companies take to protect their intellectual property?

To effectively protect intellectual property (IP) in today’s digital landscape, companies must adopt proactive measures that include understanding their business potential and securing IP rights from the outset. It's essential to utilize non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to safeguard sensitive information shared with employees and partners, alongside registering copyrights, trademarks, and patents for legal recognition and enhanced enforcement capabilities.

Robust digital security measures are vital to prevent theft and unauthorized access to IP, and ongoing monitoring for infringement is necessary to identify any unauthorized use. Companies should also be ready to enforce their rights legally, whether through cease-and-desist letters or litigation if needed.

Employee education on the importance of IP and best protection practices is crucial, as is leveraging technology to track and manage IP assets effectively. Staying informed of market changes and evolving legal landscapes ensures that companies remain vigilant in their IP protection efforts. By implementing these strategies, organizations can better safeguard their innovations and maintain a competitive edge.

Outside of law, what hobbies or activities help you unwind and maintain a work-life balance?

Outside of my work as an attorney, I truly enjoy traveling with my family and friends. It provides a wonderful sense of discovery, challenge, and personal growth, allowing me to satisfy my curiosity and experience the world from different perspectives. I really love learning about modern and contemporary art, and I try to visit as many museums as possible when I'm abroad.

Additionally, I have a keen interest in both physical and mental health. I make it a point to engage in sports, and I stay up-to-date with recent findings in health and longevity. These activities help me unwind and maintain a healthy work-life balance.