As the movement of people, capital and businesses between the US and UK continues to grow, so does the complexity of operating across borders. Whether establishing or growing a business presence in the UK, relocating key personnel, resolving disputes or planning for future generations, US clients need legal advisers who understand both the opportunities and challenges of the UK connection.

Our lawyers provide integrated advice across a range of practice areas that are frequently relevant to US-connected clients, including corporate and commercial matters, litigation and arbitration, employment, immigration, private wealth and UK tax. We regularly support US businesses entering or expanding into the UK market, advising on company formation, commercial contracts, regulatory considerations, workforce issues and strategic growth. We also work closely with internationally mobile individuals and families on residency, wealth structuring, succession planning and cross-border tax matters.

What sets Collyer Bristow apart is our ability to bridge the gap between the UK and US legal and business environments. We understand that differences in employment law, regulatory regimes, dispute resolution processes and business culture can create unexpected challenges for clients operating operating internationally. Our role is to simplify that complexity, providing practical, commercially focused advice that helps clients make informed decisions with confidence.

Collaboration is central to our approach. We work closely with attorneys, accountants, wealth advisers and other professional contacts in North America to ensure clients receive coordinated transatlantic advice. Through our membership of the Cross Border Lawyers Network (CBLN), we are also able to connect clients with high-quality legal expertise around the world, delivering seamless support while maintaining the personal, partner-led service for which Collyer Bristow is known. We are also active members of the American Bar Association (ABA), the International Bar Association (IBA) and the Society of English and American Lawyers (SEAL), enabling us to foster strong relationships with lawyers and professional advisers across the United States and globally.

Whether you are a US business looking to establish or grow your UK operations, an entrepreneur pursuing international opportunities, or an individual with personal or commercial interests on both sides of the Atlantic, Collyer Bristow offers the insight, experience and connections to help you achieve your goals.

Can a US company do business in the UK without establishing a UK company?

Yes. In some circumstances a US business can trade in the UK without incorporating a UK subsidiary, though regulatory, tax and liability considerations should be reviewed before doing so.

What is the best structure for a US business expanding into the UK?

The answer depends on the nature of the business, tax considerations, regulatory requirements and commercial objectives. We advise US companies on UK subsidiaries, branches and other structures.

What legal issues should a US company consider before entering the UK market?

Common areas include corporate structure, commercial contracts, employment law, immigration, tax and regulatory compliance.

How different is UK employment law from US employment law?

UK employment law generally provides employees with significantly greater statutory protections than are typically available in many US jurisdictions.

Can a US company sue in the English courts?

Yes. US companies frequently bring claims in the English courts where the dispute has a sufficient connection to England or where a contract includes an English jurisdiction clause.

We are being sued in London. What should we do?

English court procedures and deadlines differ substantially from those in the United States. Early legal advice is often important to protect your position.

Can English court proceedings be conducted remotely?

The English courts now routinely accommodate remote and hybrid hearings where appropriate.

Can a US judgment be enforced in England?

Enforcement options depend on the type of judgment and the circumstances of the case. We advise US businesses and law firms on enforcement and asset recovery in England and Wales.

What are the advantages of English litigation?

The English courts are widely regarded as offering independent judges, robust disclosure procedures and effective interim remedies.

Can the English courts freeze assets worldwide?

In appropriate cases, the English courts may grant freezing injunctions with international effect.

How does disclosure in England differ from US discovery?

There are important differences in scope, process and cost. We regularly advise US lawyers and businesses on those differences.

Can depositions be taken in England for use in US litigation?

Yes. However, evidence gathering in England is subject to specific legal requirements and restrictions. US lawyers should obtain English legal advice before arranging depositions, witness examinations or document gathering activities in England.

Do I need English lawyers to conduct a deposition in England?

Depending on the circumstances, English legal advice may be required to ensure compliance with local laws governing the obtaining of evidence for use in foreign proceedings.

Can a US court issue a Letter of Request to obtain evidence in England?

Yes. Evidence may be obtained through procedures including requests made under the Hague Evidence Convention and related English court procedures.

Can witnesses be compelled to give evidence in England for use in US proceedings?

The answer depends upon the circumstances and the particular procedural route adopted.

Can documents located in England be obtained for use in US litigation?

Potentially, though English law imposes important restrictions and procedural requirements.

We are a US law firm. Can we instruct Collyer Bristow directly?

Yes. We regularly work with US attorneys and law firms requiring English law advice or representation.

Can you act as English counsel in support of US proceedings?

Yes. We assist with English law issues, evidence gathering, enforcement, jurisdiction questions and related court applications.

Do you work alongside US trial counsel?

Yes. We regularly collaborate with US lawyers on cross-border matters.

Can you obtain injunctions in England?

We advise on interim remedies including freezing injunctions and related applications where appropriate.

Can you enforce foreign judgments or arbitral awards?

Yes. We advise on enforcement options in England and Wales.

I am a US citizen moving to the UK. What legal issues should I consider?

Key issues often include immigration, residence, taxation, estate planning and ownership of UK assets.

Can a US citizen own property in England?

Yes. However, tax and succession issues should be considered before acquisition.

How are UK trusts treated for US tax purposes?

The answer depends on the structure and the individual’s circumstances. Specialist coordinated UK and US advice is often required.

Do I need a UK will if I have assets in England?

Many internationally mobile individuals benefit from obtaining advice on whether a separate UK will is appropriate.

How can I minimise cross-border inheritance complications?

Early estate and succession planning can reduce complexity and help ensure assets pass in accordance with your wishes.