Welcome to ILN-terviews, a series of profiles of ILN member firm attorneys, designed to give a
unique insight into the lawyers who make up our Network.

For our latest interview, we chose ILN member, Ivars Grunte of Grunte & Cers in Latvia.

In one sentence, how would you describe your practice?
We are a mid-sized, full service business and litigation firm, established in 1992.

Who would be your typical client?
I would say – full spectrum. Our clients range from multinational companies and banks to local entrepreneurs; we have advised the Latvian State and foreign individuals, represented beginners in professional sports and Stanley Cup champions as well.

What would you like clients and potential clients to know about you?
That we are a law firm with a solid reputation and our lawyers are flexible and open-minded, innovative and passionate for their work.

What has been your most challenging case? Why?
The merger of two large Finnish and Swedish retail business chains, due to the huge volume, complexity and common teamwork of three Baltic law firms. By the way, the clients were referred to us by the ILN’s Finnish member!

What has been your proudest moment as a lawyer?
I am still very proud to represent the lawyers of my country as a Head of the Latvian Delegation in CCBE. And personally, when my eldest daughter finally switched from mass media to law and started to practice as a trainee in the largest Danish law firm in Copenhagen.

What do you do when you’re not practicing law?
Golf with friends takes some time, but I am still managing to take skiing holidays with my family, to organize barbecue parties in my garden, and to have long walks with my dogs. A little hunting as well.

What would surprise people most about you?
That after playing football quite professionally, I was a pretty good goalie for 4 consecutive years on a team that played in the Latvian premiere handball league.

What has been your most memorable ILN experience?
Hmm…I will never forget the first ILN meeting we attended – it was in Rome a long time ago (1993?) and of course, the 20th anniversary meeting in NYC. Just unforgettable!

What career would you have chosen if you weren’t a lawyer?
A career of a professional football or hockey player. I realized that after playing well, or even not so well, you could improve as a coach later on! I still have a feeling that many teams do not have the best coaches!

If a movie were made out of your life, who would you want to play you?
Shia LaBeouf and “The Greatest Game Ever Played” is the reason.

How would you like to be remembered?
As fair and honest as a lawyer could be and with a wide smile.