Jan Staszak

I specialise in infrastructure law, focussing on EU and Polish legislation. Prior to joining Clifford Chance, I worked in competition law at other international law firms. However, the complexity and impact of Clifford Chance's infrastructure projects drew me to the firm, offering an opportunity to deepen my expertise and tackle more challenging legal matters or deals.

What led you to specialise in your practice area and what keeps you passionate?

I chose to specialise in infrastructure law for its tangible impact on daily life and its ever-evolving landscape. The dynamic nature of the legal challenges in the field continues to inspire my work, offering opportunities to contribute to meaningful developments.

How did your initial assumptions about being a lawyer change as your career progressed?

Initially, I assumed that being a lawyer involved predominantly theoretical work. However, I quickly came to appreciate the practical, client-focused nature of the role, where legal solutions have real-world impact. I did not anticipate that working as a lawyer in the infrastructure team would involve gaining behind-the-scenes insights into various industries and deepening my understanding of how different businesses operate.

How would you describe the culture at the firm?

The culture at Clifford Chance is collaborative and growth-oriented, with a strong emphasis on professional development. The firm excels in providing opportunities for learning and fostering an environment where teamwork is paramount.

What key skills have you developed so far ?

At Clifford Chance, I have refined my ability to conduct precise legal assessments and navigate complex legal frameworks. Critical thinking has been an essential skill and I have learned to view problems from the client’s perspective and provide "tailormade" solutions. These skills have been instrumental in addressing complex client requirements and advancing my career.

What aspect of the work brings you the greatest satisfaction?

I enjoy the intellectual challenge and the collaborative environment at Clifford Chance. It is particularly satisfying to advise on legally intricate issues and to see our solutions come to fruition. It is fascinating to witness the tangible impact of a lawyer's work on a client's business decisions.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career at Clifford Chance?

I would advise embracing the learning opportunities and engaging actively with the supportive network of colleagues for professional growth.

What has been your most exciting project so far?

I advised on a major renewable energy initiative, which aligns with my personal interests. This project not only resonated with my private convictions regarding the necessity of investing in green energy in Poland but also reaffirmed my desire to focus on this area. The experience was impactful due to its complexity and the opportunity to see the implementation of legal advice on a large scale.

What is the best career advice you have received?

The best advice I received was to always maintain precision in legal assessments. This has shaped my approach to delivering clear and effective legal solutions to clients.

How do you maintain work-life balance?

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance involves prioritising tasks and setting boundaries. Clifford Chance has been particularly supportive, showing flexibility when I experienced an injury, even though my tenure with the firm has not been long. This support has been crucial in managing career demands while ensuring personal well-being. Leveraging the firm’s supportive environment and utilising flexible working arrangements have been effective strategies for maintaining balance.