Kingsley Napley has strategically expanded its capacity by introducing a Tax Disputes & Investigations practice.
- Waqar Shah joins as Partner, bringing extensive experience in tax disputes across various sectors.
- Shah’s expertise includes employment, VAT, and customs/excise tax matters, avoiding court through ADR when possible.
- He joins from Mishcon de Reya and has been highly recognised in the legal field for his skills.
- His role will also involve collaboration with the firm’s Criminal Litigation team on HMRC-related tax fraud investigations.
Kingsley Napley, a prominent law firm, has fortified its capabilities by launching a dedicated Tax Disputes & Investigations practice. This strategic move sees the induction of Waqar Shah as a Partner, a decision that undeniably strengthens the firm’s contentious tax and dispute resolution portfolio.
Waqar Shah’s role will cater to high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients, addressing a spectrum of disputes and investigations conducted by HMRC. With expertise ranging from employment tax matters like IR35/off-payroll working to VAT issues and customs/excise duties, Shah is equipped to handle a variety of complex tax-related challenges.
He is particularly noted for his prowess in resolving disputes before they advance to court or tribunal hearings. Alternative dispute resolution processes are a key component of his approach, yet he is also a seasoned litigator prepared to take cases to the Tax Tribunals and potentially escalate them to the Supreme Court, including possible referrals to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
Prior to his current role, Shah was a partner at Mishcon de Reya LLP and commenced his legal career at PwC Legal LLP. His acclaimed reputation is reflected in recent recognitions, such as being named a ‘rising star’ in the Legal 500, an ‘Up and Coming’ partner by Chambers and Partners, and ‘One to Watch’ by Best Lawyers in 2023. Furthermore, Shah was listed in Accountancy Age’s ’35 under 35′ in 2019.
At Kingsley Napley, his responsibilities will extend beyond dispute resolution. Shah will work closely with non-contentious tax partners, including Matt Spencer and Laura Harper, to enhance the Tax Advisory team. His collaboration extends to the firm’s Criminal Litigation team, comprising partners David Sleight, Louise Hodges, and Nicola Finnerty, who are specialists in tax fraud investigations spearheaded by HMRC.
Commenting on Shah’s appointment, Richard Foss, Head of Kingsley Napley’s Dispute Resolution practice, expressed enthusiasm, highlighting Shah’s impressive track record and his significant role in expanding the firm’s tax capabilities amidst a rise in tax disputes affecting both individuals and businesses.
Waqar Shah’s appointment at Kingsley Napley marks a pivotal enhancement in its tax dispute resolution services, positioning the firm to address increasing sector demands.
