London-based law firm Charles Russell Speechlys has officially expanded its presence by opening an office in Milan to target ultra-high-net-worth individuals. This new office is the first office that the firm will be opening in Italy, with a view to better service the rising demand for private wealth services in the region.
Two seasoned professionals have been hired for leading the Milan office from tax boutique Maisto e Associati. Cristiana Felisi, formerly of counsel at Maisto e Associati, has joined as partner and head of the Milan office, while Giovanni Angelini has been appointed counsel. Both are experienced professionals who have had vast expertise in private client services, including succession law, family law, private wealth disputes, and residential property transactions.
The decision to open the Milan office, according to Nicola Saccardo, partner in the firm’s private client team in London and head of its Italian practice, stems from the recognition by the firm of Italy’s position as a prime location for UHNWI. “Italy is a vitally important location for us due to the significant relocation of foreign UHNWIs to Italy and the presence of wealthy Italian families with an international dimension,” Saccardo explained.
The firm’s Italian practice has grown rapidly, prompting the move to open an office in Milan as a necessary step to meet the needs of a fast-expanding client base. Saccardo, an expert in Italian tax law, will continue to lead the practice and oversee the Milan office, specializing in the taxation of trusts, estates, UHNWI, as well as the relocation of UHNWI and estate planning.
Felisi and Angelini, while both non-tax private client lawyers, complement Saccardo’s focus with their expertise in broader private wealth issues. Their combined experience is expected to strengthen Charles Russell Speechlys’ ability to address a range of client needs, from complex family matters to high-value property transactions.
The Milan office represents the firm’s fifth European office, joining existing locations in London, Paris, Luxembourg, Geneva, and Zurich. Charles Russell Speechlys also maintains teams focused on serving clients in Germany, Spain, and the Nordics, enhancing its global reach.
Managing partner Simon Ridpath emphasized the firm’s commitment to expanding its Italian capabilities, stating, “The decision to open an office in Milan reflects our strategic focus and dedication to serving our clients in the private capital space more effectively in locations where they need our support.”
