Publication date: 05.02.2026
Serhiy Filonenko is a Legal Counsel with experience in supporting businesses in the UK and international jurisdictions. I specialize in opening and structuring companies, tax planning, commercial contracts, GDPR compliance and regulatory support for the gaming business. My key advantage is a personal approach and working not as an external consultant, but as part of the client's team. I provide open communication, detailed explanations of each legal step and support from the first consultation to the full implementation of the project.
In 2026, a fast-growing Ukrainian-founded technology startup approached me, attorney Serhii Filonenko, seeking legal support for business relocation and corporate restructuring in the United Kingdom. The founders planned to expand into the UK and European markets but faced complex challenges related to company incorporation, tax structuring, intellectual property protection, and regulatory compliance. Without a clear legal framework, the startup risked operational delays, unnecessary tax exposure, and difficulties in securing investor confidence.
Client's core challenges:
— Unclear corporate structure for UK market entry;
— Risk of inefficient tax planning for cross-border operations;
— Lack of properly drafted commercial agreements with partners;
— Intellectual property registration concerns in the UK;
— Need for GDPR compliance before launching services in Europe;
— Regulatory uncertainty in the gaming-related business segment.
Strategic Legal Approach for UK Business Expansion
My first step was to conduct a detailed legal assessment of the client’s business model, planned UK operations, and existing contractual framework. The review confirmed that the startup required a comprehensive restructuring strategy aligned with UK corporate law, tax regulations, and compliance standards. In parallel, the founders needed guidance on safeguarding their intellectual property and preparing documentation suitable for investor and partner negotiations.
I developed a tailored legal roadmap based on the following key pillars:
- Structuring the company incorporation in the UK with optimized tax planning for IT operations.
- Implementing safe harbour planning to reduce exposure to unexpected corporate tax liabilities.
- Drafting a full set of commercial agreements to support partnerships and service delivery.
- Registering intellectual property rights with the UK IPO to secure brand and technology assets.
- Establishing GDPR compliance policies aligned with UK ICO requirements.
- Advising on gaming regulatory compliance and future licensing strategy.
Implemented Solutions and Legal Measures
During the implementation phase, I provided full legal support for the startup’s relocation and operational launch in the UK. This included both strategic planning and hands-on drafting of essential legal documentation.
- Formation and registration of the UK corporate entity with investor-ready structuring.
- Drafting commercial contracts, including service agreements, partnership terms, and licensing documentation.
- Supporting the registration of trademarks and IP assets through the UK Intellectual Property Office.
- Developing GDPR compliance frameworks, privacy policies, and internal data protection procedures.
- Advising the founders on regulatory obligations related to gaming business activities.
- Providing ongoing legal counsel as part of the client’s internal team to ensure smooth scaling.
Results and Benefits Realized
- Successfully launched UK operations with a legally secure corporate structure.
- Reduced potential tax risks through proactive safe harbour and structuring measures.
- Protected the startup’s intellectual property with UK IPO registrations.
- Ensured GDPR compliance, enabling smooth entry into European markets.
- Strengthened investor confidence with professional legal documentation and governance.
- Provided a clear regulatory roadmap for future gaming licensing and international growth.
Client review
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question
Why is proper tax structuring important when relocating a business to the UK?
Answer
Proper tax structuring helps businesses avoid unexpected liabilities, ensures compliance with UK regulations, and allows companies to operate efficiently while minimizing unnecessary tax exposure.
Question
How does IP registration benefit startups entering international markets?
Answer
Registering intellectual property in the UK protects key assets such as trademarks and technology, increases investor trust, and prevents competitors from misusing the company’s brand or innovations.
Question
What role does GDPR compliance play in business expansion across Europe?
Answer
GDPR compliance is essential for any company processing personal data in Europe, ensuring legal security, customer trust, and protection from regulatory fines or enforcement actions.
Thanks to a comprehensive legal strategy, the client successfully established a strong corporate foundation in the United Kingdom, protected its intellectual property, and implemented full compliance frameworks for international operations.
This case demonstrates how expert legal counsel can support Ukrainian entrepreneurs and startups in navigating UK corporate, tax, and regulatory landscapes while building a secure platform for growth in 2026 and beyond.
