1. Can you share your journey and what inspired you to become a lawyer?
The reason for going for this choice of study is my passion for acquiring knowledge as it is endless. Each human being is a student in some way or other and they should gain some new piece of knowledge each day. Legal profession was always on the top of my career plans and my journey to become a lawyer began at a very early age. The lawyer’s role in a developed society always fascinated me and I vehemently believed that much could be done to the society by choosing this career and I realised it true, now. Unlike many other routine jobs, this profession can always make a change to the public and a lawyer’s profession is not like other professions because it demands creativity and perseverance. My view is to see things in a different perspective and probably that inspired me to become a lawyer. Above all it is a noble profession and could be a way towards becoming a respected scholar. In order to become a good lawyer, there should be good reflex and a deep knowledge base which should be up to date.
2. What areas of law do you specialize in, and how do they relate to the legal landscape in Qatar?
I am a general services legal practitioner running a full services law firm; however, I have expertise in Sports Law and I sit as an arbitrator in many Sports Arbitration Panels including CAS/TAS Switzerland. Prior to Qatar hosting the World Cup, I had enrolled for and completed two Masters in Sports Law including the Masters I already had in public law, acquired a Diploma in International Arbitration. I authored a book on sports bidding titled “Taking Lessons From The Past: A Study On Countries’ Legal Frameworks While Hosting Sports Events.” and is currently the chairperson of the Qatar Anti-doping hearing panel and is listed as an arbitrator on the Qatar Sports Arbitration Tribunal (QSAT). I can proudly say that I am an authority in sports law in Qatar and beyond. I have made my mark in legal practice in Qatar, having built my almost 11 years old firm, Dr Ghada M. Darwish Karbon Law Firm which has gained grounds and has clients spread across different sectors.
3. Qatar has been undergoing significant legal reforms in recent years. How have these changes impacted your practice, and what do you see as the most important legal developments in the country?
I go with the tide as I need to keep my practice in tune with the current realities. The legal reforms especially in the labour laws and the fast tracking of cases in employment disputes and family matters is a very good development. The recently established Investment court with peculiar procedure for its filings and proceedings is a great move in separating certain commercial disputes and ensuring that they receive expert hearing.
4. Qatar places importance on gender equality and women's empowerment. How do you think this has influenced the legal profession in the country, especially for female lawyers like yourself?
The State of Qatar has laws that protect the right of everyone including the women and that is worth commending. Previously, the legal profession in Qatar had more men in it than women but at the moment, the disparity is no longer significant as everyone irrespective of gender is given a level ground to thrive. What I would want to see in the future is more women being trusted to handle core positions both within the State of Qatar and Internationally.
5. Can you describe a particularly challenging case you've worked on, and how you navigated the legal complexities involved?
Every case has its peculiar challenges and it is hard to rate one above the other. However, in navigating the legal complexities, I give utmost priority to preparing for the cases and providing the clients with timely feedback to further ease their doubts and boost their trust in my capabilities as earning their trust gives a boost to my confidence in facing every challenging case.
6. In the context of international business and investment, what are some key legal considerations that companies should be aware of when operating in Qatar?
For every business sector there are governing laws, from the financial to health to labour and employment and companies seeking to do business in Qatar should endeavour to see that their business activities and even internal policies are not in conflict with the provisions of the laws in Qatar. It is best to use the services of legal professionals while setting up and for reviewing documents, contracts and policies to advise on their legality.
7. How do you stay updated on the latest legal trends and changes, both domestically and internationally, to provide the best counsel to your clients?
I read, I research and the internet has made it easier to get information on latest trends and changes. I attend industry events both locally and internationally and have a regular supply of the official gazettes; this way I stay updated on the current laws as well as operational frameworks.
8. Qatar is known for its multicultural society. How do you handle legal matters involving different cultural perspectives and expectations?
My dealings with my clients are guided by contract and it is encompassing of all perspectives further to our negotiations and exchange of views. I also try to put myself in the shoes of my clients to better understand their case from their point of view while narrowing it down to the best options in law as it relates to their case. It also helps that I have a team made up of professionals from different backgrounds and nationalities that bring in their experiences while dealing with each case.
9. What advice would you give to aspiring female lawyers in Qatar who aspire to follow a similar career path?
I will advise from my personal experience; my advice is that they should believe that impossibility is nothing. Once they have a target/goal, they should focus on it and keep pushing towards achieving it notwithstanding the challenges they may face. My advice to them is to always challenge yourself and go that extra mile. Set a good strategy for achieving the set goal. You will face many difficulties in life and occasionally may fail. But through each difficulty you must learn how to stand up and keep trying. And remember that “You will never fail until you give up trying”. For example, Thomas Edison attempted over a thousand time before he invented the light bulb that brought great benefit to humanity. Consider mentors as you grow in the career and feel free to change the mentors as your interests and path change. Of course, the beginning will always be difficult but the challenge will be to stand and be brave and strong, do not be afraid of failing.
10. Balancing a demanding legal career with personal life can be challenging. How do you manage work-life balance and self-care?
I will say my ability to maintain a work-life balance is captured under the four cardinal points of time management, sectionalizing, delegation and prioritizing.
12. Are there any role models or mentors who have guided you in your legal journey, and what lessons have you learned from them?
I had my first taste of mentorship through my parents especially my father who had and still guides me in the course of my career. I have some of my colleagues that I look up to and have been directly and indirectly mentored by them. I also do a review of my mentors as I progress in my career. Through them I have learned tenacity and how to navigate the diverse legal market and the ever-evolving legal landscape.
13. What do you enjoy most about practicing law in Qatar, and what aspects of your work do you find most rewarding?
I am a Qatari lawyer, licensed to represent clients up to the cassation courts and it feels great practicing in your country and contributing my own quota in developing the laws and procedures in the country. It is also rewarding getting appreciated by my clients for the work and efforts I put into providing them efficient and efficient representation.
14. Outside of your legal career, what are some of your hobbies or interests that help you unwind and recharge?
I enjoy drawing, painting and sports both playing and watching sports.
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