Member Q&A - Calvin Lo

Tell us about your career

I graduated from the University of Hong Kong with a double degree in civil engineering and law, then went on to pursue my legal career as a solicitor. I developed an interest in private client practice, including family litigation, estate planning and trust advisory, and joined my current firm, which is specialised and well recognised in this field.

What led you into the trusts and estates field?

I started my career as a family litigation solicitor. I often need to advise on trust law, since many family disputes, especially those ‘big money’ cases, involve private trusts. I soon expanded my practice to advise clients and families on trust and estate planning, as well as mental capacity issues.

What has been your greatest professional achievement?

I am still in the early years of my career, so I would say my promotion to partnership and being awarded the STEP Excellence Award. By chance, they happened within the same month, so I felt particularly accomplished at the time.

What does receiving the STEP Excellence Award mean for you?

It is a great honour, especially since it is an award across all jurisdictions. I also feel very proud to have achieved a great result, having completed the STEP Diploma in International Trust Management in a year while balancing my time between my family, work and studies.

Tell us about your experience as a STEP student

I completed the STEP Certificate in International Trust Management as part of the Diploma. I enjoyed both a lot. The learning modules and materials are well organised and comprehensive, and they continue to serve as an excellent reference during my practice. I enjoyed the face‑to‑face tuition the most. The tutors were all seasoned professionals in the industry. They shared not only their knowledge, but also their experience and insight from their years of practice.

What would you say to those considering a STEP qualification?

A STEP qualification can benefit them and their careers greatly. As an international qualification, it is particularly useful for people who wish to connect to the global network or plan to work in other countries. Taking certificate and diploma courses is also a great way to acquire the requisite knowledge and skills for those interested in the industry.

What do you think makes a successful advisor?

Although it is a basic requirement to be knowledgeable in the areas you give advice in, having effective communication skills also assists greatly in building rapport with the client, which is essential to earn their trust and for them to have confidence in your advice.

What are some challenges facing your jurisdiction?

Apart from COVID‑19, Hong Kong is currently facing maybe one of the biggest political and social challenges since the transfer of sovereignty in 1997. The pandemic and the civil unrest have enormous impact on, among others, the business and legal sectors. In these uncertain times, we as professionals should hold our core values close to heart – be honest, reliable, responsible and quick in adapting to changes.

What made you join STEP?

STEP is a long‑standing and widely recognised professional organisation. It provides a great platform for networking and it has extensive resources available to its members. I also look forward to attending STEP conferences held in other jurisdictions when there are fewer travel restrictions.

Do you have a message you would like to share with your peers?

It has been a pleasure working with them. We share tips, experience, knowledge (and gossip), and we learn a lot from each other. I am grateful to have them alongside me.