Ilan Goldberg is a lawyer and adviser. He has a PhD in civil law from Rio de Janeiro State University (UERJ), masters in regulatory and competition law by Cândido Mendes University (UCAM) and postgraduate in commercial law (LLM) by Ibmec (Brazilian Institute for the Financial Market). He is a visiting professor of the Getúlio Vargas Foundation (FGV/Direito Rio), of the Rio de Janeiro School for Judges (EMERJ) and of the National Insurance School (ENS). He is a member of the editorial council for the Contemporary Civil Law Journal (RDCC).

Describe your career to date.

Besides working as a lawyer since 1999, I’ve always focused on my academic background. I believe that, at least in civil law systems, in which the interpretation of the law/contracts is key, the combination of academia with a strong practice improves the lawyer’s qualification. This is exactly what I’ve been doing throughout the years.

What makes your firm stand out from its competitors in the market? 

I would emphasise three features:

1. deep knowledge (because of strong practice and academics);
2. commitment to the case/client. A very personalised relationship;
3. a balance between reasonable fees and the clients’ budget.

How do you prepare for multinational insurance disputes?

I think that this question goes back to the first. The more I study, the “luckier” and more prepared I am.

What are the most challenging aspects of being an insurance and reinsurance lawyer in Brazil?

The complex regulatory framework combined with an old-fashioned legal structure. Our core legal statutes are old and, therefore, not prepared for the 21st century and all the technology, big data and internet of things issues.

What new trends and regulations do you see emerging in the Brazilian insurance market?

Insurtechs and open insurance, plus a less intrusive regulation for several lines of insurance business. The Brazilian insurance regulator is inclined to not interfere with parties’ autonomy. State interference shall not happen, except for in exceptional circumstances.

In your opinion, what will be the long-term effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the insurance industry?

The effects in Brazil have not been of a significant magnitude. The market will absorb and move forward.

In which direction would you like to steer your practice in the next five years?

I’m happy with my practice today. Complex consultancy, litigation and arbitration. I intend to keep doing this plus, put some effort into other areas of law – commercial, corporate law, for example.

What is the best piece of career advice you have received?

“Lawyers need to study”. If you can understand this, you will be improving every day and the market will recognise this.