Interview with Katarzyna Gorzkowska - Tecra's lawyer #ChainMeNow

#ChainMeNow is a series of interviews created by the Tecra team, featuring representatives from the blockchain world. They will present this market from different perspectives. Each interview ends with a couple of quick questions and answers. Today we invite you to an interview with Tecra's lawyer - Katarzyna Gorzkowska.

Let's start at the beginning - where did you get the idea for a career in law? What were the beginnings of your career?

I started my professional career in court, where I worked as an assistant judge, among other things. Undoubtedly, it was very helpful in terms of my development, and it allowed me to gain valuable, practical experience. 

Why did you choose to work in the blockchain world?

Because it is a very promising technology with a lot of potential. It is worth expanding your knowledge and invest time to learn about new technologies. Beyond cryptocurrencies, there is a lot of interest in blockchain and there is a lot of legal issues to solve.

What are the biggest legal difficulties in this sector?

The biggest difficulty is the lack of regulations. It took a very long time before Polish institutions published any stands regarding cryptocurrencies, but also regarding blockchain. In our projects we had to rely on foreign models, standards and legislation. 

What personally frustrates you the most about this industry?

A large number of projects with questionable quality and scammers.

According to the legal community, what will the future of cryptocurrencies look like?

Everything indicates that it will be a tightly regulated activity, restricted to a narrow inner circle.

What are the plans to regulate the cryptocurrency market?

Plans are moving towards the oversight of trading and issuance. The new Polish law on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing introduces mandatory registration of entities trading in virtual currencies. Additionally, there are plans for EU regulations that also apply to the issuance of cryptocurrencies.

Will cryptocurrencies ever become a means of payment in Poland?

Undoubtedly. 

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And is Polish law adapted to digitalization?

Definitely no. There is a lack of national regulation and lack of goodwill among policymakers.

In your opinion, why do so many Polish cryptocurrency projects choose to escape abroad?

Due to lack of regulation and negative attitude of policymakers and institutions.  

What would be your advice to people who are just starting out in their legal careers in the blockchain world? What should they particularly focus on?

On broadening their knowledge about technology.

What is the competition like in this market? Is it hard for young lawyers to "break through"?

The market is quite particular. Because of the need for technological expertise, the pool of specialists is small. Whereas it is hard for young lawyers to break through regardless of specialization. 

What are the salaries for lawyers in this industry? What do they depend on?

The salary depends on the number and value of projects.

If you could change something in Polish legislation concerning cryptocurrencies - what would it be?

First, I would create the “legislation”. 

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