Hall Booth Smith Committed to European Business Engagement

Atlanta-based law firm Hall Booth Smith, P.C. (HBS) and its active International Business practice group has been the sponsor of Global Atlanta’s Europe Channel for several years. In this sponsored Q&A, we speak with Carsten Alting, head of the group, about why this partnership is significant and how it aligns with the firm’s international focus.

Global Atlanta: Why is it important for Hall Booth Smith to sponsor the Global Atlanta Europe Channel?

Carsten Alting: One of the main reasons we decided to sponsor the Europe Channel is because Global Atlanta consistently leads discussions on critical topics that resonate with our firm’s interests. They are always on top of international business news and developments. It’s also a valuable networking opportunity—connecting with business leaders, staying informed about trade developments and meeting new companies entering the Atlanta market.

As someone who is professionally involved in international matters and personally invested in European affairs, this sponsorship aligns perfectly with my interests. Being from Germany, I’m particularly interested in staying connected with what’s happening there, and Global Atlanta provides a great outlet for that.

Why is it important for people in Atlanta to discuss European issues?

Alting: Atlanta is an international city, a major hub for global business in the Southeast. The city has deep connections with Europe, supported by a large number of consulates and frequent international conventions and other events.

The Southeast, including Georgia, attracts a lot of foreign investment and therefore hosts a significant amount of foreign business, particularly from Europe. Atlanta’s status as a major international gateway—thanks to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport—reinforces its role as a center for European business in the region. This makes discussions around European issues in Atlanta not just relevant but crucial.

Is Hall Booth Smith working on specific initiatives with European partners?

Alting: Our focus is primarily on inbound investment—helping European companies establish and grow their presence here in the United States. Occasionally, we assist U.S.-based clients with legal matters in Europe. In particular, we can help them find competent counsel or other partners in Europe, especially in Germany. However, the majority of our international work involves supporting European businesses as they navigate the U.S. legal system.

My practice focuses on corporate and commercial work, as well as employment and immigration matters. I assist clients in forming new companies in the U.S. and advise them as they manufacture and sell products or services here. On occasion, I can advise on foreign legal issues as U.S. companies set up operations abroad, especially in cases involving Germany.

Our international business group serves clients from across Europe, with a major focus on Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, as well as the country of Georgia.

What sets Hall Booth Smith apart from other international business law firms in Atlanta, particularly in relation to Europe?

Alting: In general, our firm stands out for our breadth of services and extensive reach. With over 300 attorneys and more than 30 offices across 12 states, we can provide comprehensive legal support across the U.S. This network, combined with our 30-plus practice groups, allows us to address a wide range of legal needs that we can offer European companies operating here.

While there are other firms with a similar focus, what we think makes us unique is the depth of our connections and our ability to offer localized support through our nationwide presence. Our niche international practice allows us to offer specialized and focused expertise, particularly for clients from Europe.

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Learn more about Hall Booth Smith’s international practice and European focus.