60 seconds with Private Wealth partner Richard Laignel

Recognised for his practical, relationship-driven approach, Richard has recently been promoted to partner and was named a "Key Lawyer" by Legal 500 UK 2025. He brings strong technical expertise and a collaborative mindset to his new role, now leading the Jersey side of Ogier's pan-island employee incentives and pensions (EI&P) offering alongside Guernsey partner Chris Hards.

Read more about Richard's promotion

In this short Q&A, Richard shares his perspective on building client relationships, cross-jurisdictional collaboration, and what he enjoys most about life at Ogier.

What kind of work do you support trustees with? 

Day-to-day, I focus on helping my clients with all manner of non-contentious private wealth matters including the creation, administration and reorganisation of trusts, foundations and corporate structures as well as regulatory matters and pension and employee incentive advice. Essentially, clients usually come to me for straightforward, practical guidance to help ensure everything operates smoothly. That said, if ever a matter does become contentious, Ogier has a fantastic Dispute Resolution team ready to step in and help where necessary.

How are you and Chris shaping Ogier's EI&P offering?

We work closely with our colleagues in Guernsey to make sure clients get joined-up advice across both islands. There's a lot of knowledge sharing between the Jersey and Guernsey teams and we're always aligning our efforts, so clients get the benefit of all Ogier's experience no matter which jurisdiction they're in.

How do you build long-term client relationships? 

For me, building long-term relationships with clients is all about being approachable and responsive and keeping the lines of communication open. I'd like to think that my clients always feel comfortable getting in touch, whether it's by picking up the phone or sending an email, no matter the issue. 

What do you enjoy most about private wealth? 

It's the variety of work that keeps things interesting for me. I never quite know what will land on my desk. I am lucky to have a knowledgeable and approachable team around me, so there is always someone to bounce ideas off or work through something complex together.

How has Ogier prepared you for partnership? 

Two aspects stand out to me. The first is Ogier's forward-thinking approach and openness to innovation and change, which has had a genuine impact on my professional mindset and development. The second is the opportunity I have had to work with colleagues across different practice areas and jurisdictions, which has certainly broadened my perspective and given me the skills needed for this step up to partnership.

How Ogier can help

Ogier advises trustees, family offices and private clients around the world on trusts, foundations, succession planning, and employee benefit structures. To find out more about how Ogier can help, contact Richard or your usual Ogier contact.

About Ogier

Ogier is a professional services firm with the knowledge and expertise to handle the most demanding and complex transactions and provide expert, efficient and cost-effective services to all our clients. We regularly win awards for the quality of our client service, our work and our people.

Disclaimer

This client briefing has been prepared for clients and professional associates of Ogier. The information and expressions of opinion which it contains are not intended to be a comprehensive study or to provide legal advice and should not be treated as a substitute for specific advice concerning individual situations.

Regulatory information can be found under Legal Notice