China

Review

Dispute resolution
AllBright Law Offices

With 100 partners and 300 lawyers, AllBright Law Offices’ litigation and arbitration practice is known for its work in commercial disputes. The firm is often involved in the real estate, mining and metals and financial services sectors. It is often instructed by international corporations and major domestic enterprises. Following a proven track record in litigation, the firm is also growing its presence in the international arbitration scene.

Rui Guo is a key name in the firm, acting as lead partner on the majority of cases related to the banking and financial services, construction and real estate sectors during the research period. John Liu and Wilber Wang are other lawyers to note for commercial disputes and international arbitration, respectively.

In the commercial disputes space, the firm acted for Anhui Huaan Foreign Economic Construction in an insurance contract dispute and arbitration case against Sinosure Anhui over the loss of a shareholder loan.

In intellectual property, the firm represented Hellobike, a bike-sharing online platform, in filing a lawsuit against Quannengche for infringement of Internet service trademark and unfair competition. The firm also acted for Samsung Electronics in defending a patent infringement claim filed by Haining Ningga Electronic Technology.

Shanghai Guangxin Technology Development, Tebon Securities, Yongkang Jiatai Tools and Youku Information Technology are other notable clients.

Allen & Overy

With international arbitration as a core strength, Allen & Overy’s dispute resolution team is also known for its work in commercial litigation in corporate and finance matters, particularly those involving derivatives. The firm’s geographical reach, as well as its strong Greater China practice, enables the team to take on multi-jurisdictional disputes under institutional rules including the LCIA, ICC, HKIAC and ICSID.

Commercial litigation partners Matt Bower and Fai Hung Cheung are highly respected in this space. Matthew Hodgson specialises in international arbitration, particularly active in investment treaty, energy and infrastructure disputes.

AnJie Broad Law Firm

AnJie Law Firm’s rapidly growing dispute resolution team is recognised for its work in international arbitration and commercial litigation with particular industry expertise in insurance. The firm regularly represents clients before all levels of the court and at various international arbitration institutions including the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) and the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC).

Key partners of the team include renowned international arbitration lawyer Arthur Dong, antitrust and insurance expert Hao Zhan and employment specialist Zhenghe Liu.

On the commercial and transactions front, the firm represented five co-insurers in an insurance subrogation litigation case before the Supreme People’s Court. This is the biggest fire accident claim in the history of Asia.

In a labour and employment dispute sample, the firm advised Stanley Black & Decker Precision Manufacturing on its layoff project in Shenzhen of over 1,000 employees due to its dissolution. In another notable case, the firm represented Siemens Numerical Control (Nanjing) in a labour dispute arising from termination due to violation of disciplines.

In the IP space, the firm represented pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca AB in a series of patent invalidation administrative lawsuits and secured a big win for the client. The firm also acted for global healthcare company Novo Nordisk in a patent invalidation administrative lawsuit before the Beijing High People's Court.

Employment law expert Kaitian Luo left firm in January 2021. On the IP side, partners Jing He, Steve (Kefeng) Zhao, Zou Wen and Kevin (Jinwen) Han departed to Gen Law Firm.

The firm’s major clients include Alibaba, DHL, Edan Instruments, PICC, Ping An Property & Casualty Insurance and Universal Parks & Resorts.

Client feedback

“The firm has solid capability to tailor its advice to relevant client sectors and is particularly strong in the sectors of TMT and financial institutions.” – Commercial and transactions

“Strong expertise in contract law, insurance law and aviation law.” – Insurance

“Delivers quality work with wise legal insights and clear advice.”– Intellectual property

“Professional advice on how to deal with the situation with the competitor firm.” – Labour and employment

Arthur Dong

“Arthur is a fantastic lawyer who takes time to understand the needs of his clients.”

Jun Shen

“Professional. He understands his areas. Responsive and empathic.”

Ying Song

“An excellent professional with a good attitude.”

Jia Wan

“Precise analysis of the core issues of the case, careful and professional analysis of legal relations and risk clause, accurate professional advice, smooth communication in the negotiation process, and satisfactory results of both parties.”

Li Wu

“Good understanding of the problems. Knowledgeable about the laws and regulations.”

Bing Yan

“He can always provide creative resolution to difficult problems.”

Baohua Law Firm

Labour and employment boutique Baohua Law Firm has etched itself a formidable niche in the Shanghai legal landscape with its concentration in handling contentious work arising from employment issues. Clients seek the firm for its services in labour disputes including regulatory, contracts and investigation matters. Runqing (John) Dong and Jay Chen are key contacts for labour and employment issues. The details of all cases the firm worked on during the research period remain confidential.

Client feedback

“The firm provides very professional guidance. It advises us effectively in case analysis, litigation preparation and senior management briefing.” – Labour and employment

Runqing (John) Dong

“Very experienced and innovative in case handling.”

Beijing Cyan Law Firm

Beijing Cyan Law Firm is well known for construction and infrastructure related disputes. It is lauded for its experience in advising on a range of domestic and foreign-related disputes at all levels of courts. The firm’s clients are mainly large private, public and state-owned companies.

The team is led by Wanhe Ye together with Yinli Gao, both renowned for construction and engineering disputes.

The details of all cases the firm worked on during the research period remain confidential.

The firm hired Piwei Sun as partner in September 2021. She specialises in infrastructure investment and financing.

Client feedback

“Through the in-depth cooperation between our company and the firm’s commercial dispute team, we believe that the team has rich practical experience in many fields such as construction engineering, company law, financial leasing, etc. and can solve practical problems and provide professional and executable solutions for us. The team’s partners, lawyers and paralegals are conscientious and responsible with outstanding teamwork ability. Especially in the construction machinery financial leasing arbitration case between our company and a Japanese financial leasing company, they have provided important support in many aspects, such as strategy formulation, issuing legal opinions and the whole process of legal services of arbitration. The service results have satisfied our company.” – Commercial and transactions

“The commercial dispute team of Beijing Cyan Law Firm has been providing legal services for our company for many years and it has been a very good partner. The commercial dispute team led by Ping Dai and Wei Shi has very rich practical experience and can provide comprehensive and professional legal opinions from the perspective of our company to safeguard our legitimate rights and interests to the greatest extent. Especially for many complex problems involved in the case, the team provides efficient and reasonable solutions and suggestions. It is a trustworthy and excellent team.” – Commercial and transactions

“The firm is experienced in handling letter of guarantee dispute cases, and the legal opinions issued are very professional. The team is very familiar with the case of our company and fully grasps the facts of the case, which is a big relief. They are very responsive and overall, it was a very pleasant customer experience.” – Commercial and transactions

“Staff have abundant legal experience both in theory and practice. Efficient completion of every project.” – Construction

“As a boutique law firm, Cyan has strong advantages in the field of construction engineering. The construction engineering team led by Wanhe Ye, Yinli Gao and Wei Shi provided high-quality and comprehensive legal services in many international and domestic construction engineering cases. From the perspective of a client, the team has rich experience in construction project service, can quickly and comprehensively provide legal opinions, solve many legal problems and disputes in the process of litigation/arbitration, and effectively promote the smooth progress of the projects.” – Construction

“The team, from the perspective of customer service, has rich experience in the whole process of infrastructure and PPP projects. They are quick and comprehensive when handling project contracts and disputes. They help us to handle complex project ground execution and government relations effectively.” – Construction

“The commercial dispute team of Cyan Law Firm is led by excellent partners: Wanhe Ye and Arthur Chiu. The team members not only have rich experience in international commercial arbitration, but also have solid legal skills and complex backgrounds in the field of construction engineering. The applicable law of this dispute contract is the laws of the Republic of Haiti and is under the jurisdiction of the New York Office of the International Court of Arbitration of International Chamber of Commerce. The case is very complex and difficult. The team provided high-quality and professional legal services, was able to coordinate with overseas parties, and finally reached a reconciliation with the Haitian government, safeguarding our legitimate interests. We are very satisfied with the Cyan team.” – International arbitration

Ping Dai

“The project involves a large amount of money and involves the complex interests of many companies. As the project leader, Ping Dai comprehensively controlled the situation of the case, put forward coping strategies and arbitration claims, and has fully safeguarded the interests of our company. At the same time, Dai is a senior arbitrator of the CIETAC and a counsellor of the International Commercial Affairs Research Center. She has accumulated a lot of legal practice experience. She has been engaged in in-house legal work of the company for a long time, and is well versed in contract law, international and domestic financing law, company law, etc. She is able to safeguard the rights and interests of our company from the perspective of our operation and management.”

“As the person in charge of the case, Ping Dai provides professional legal advice in many aspects. Dai is able to master the core content in the miscellaneous and cumbersome case data, accurately and efficiently formulate litigation strategies, grasp the overall situation and comprehensively safeguard the interests of our company. She is a senior arbitrator of the CIETAC with many years of arbitration experience. Meanwhile, she is familiar with company law, cross-border e-commerce, international trade and cross-border investment and financing. With solid legal knowledge and extensive industry experience, she has provided us with professional and high-quality legal opinions and solutions.”

Yinlin Gao

“Abundant legal experience both in theory and practice. Gives us professional and useful legal advice.”

Wanhe Ye

“As the litigation agent of our company, Wanhe Ye represented us in court and performed very well. He is very focused during the court debate stage. As a customer, we trust him very much.”

“Very experienced, knowledgeable and delivers solutions.”

“Professional, dedicated and efficient.”

“As the project leader, Wanhe Ye led the team and provided comprehensive legal services for the Rmb500 million lawsuit of our company in Hainan Ruyi Island. Ye is a compound expert with professional background in the fields of law and construction engineering. He always provides us with legal services adhering to the spirit of providing clients with efficient, high-quality, and professional services. Ye is not only able to handle a number of complex and difficult cases, but also solve practical problems throughout the business process. He is a very reliable senior lawyer.”

“Wanhe Ye has rich experience in PPP and infrastructure projects. He is also a core expert of the legislative drafting group of the PPP Law and a listed expert of the National Development and Reform Commission of China. Ye led a team with solid legal skills, has a large number of PPP, construction projects, infrastructure and other practical experience, to provide us with high-quality, efficient and professional legal services, including legal risk division, government procurement, negotiation strategy formulation, contract drafting and other whole process of legal services.”

“Wanhe Ye has established a good cooperative relationship with our company for many years. He provides the whole process legal services for many foreign-related projects of our company. Ye is able to quickly find the core points in many complex problems, formulate clear response strategies, respond cleverly to unreasonable demands, and provide professional legal services for our company.  He has the professional and technical qualifications including the Member Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS), National First-grade Registered Constructing Engineer and Building Economist Qualification. He is an expert in the field of construction engineering. Years of professional experience and continuous improvement of legal knowledge make him a leading lawyer in this field, and he can provide clients with high-quality and efficient legal services.”

Beijing DHH Law Firm

Beijing DHH Law Firm has a wide range of experience across commercial litigation and arbitration relating to the banking, construction and manufacturing industries. The firm is also active in multi-jurisdictional litigation and criminal disputes. The team is well versed in international arbitration and often represents Chinese clients against foreign companies.

Key individuals include Qi Jiang for commercial disputes, Xiuxiu Li for international arbitration and Hao Chen for intellectual property.

Commercial and transactions case highlights include representing Beijing Bomu International Culture & Media in an unfair competition dispute against Shanghai Siba Culture & Media Group regarding idol singer Tingting Huang’s promotion on Weibo; representing Tianjin Rural Commercial Bank in a series of financial loan contract disputes, with a total value of about Rmb1.8 billion; and acting for Chengde Zhihong Real Estate Development in a construction contract dispute against PowerChina Construction Group.

In the IP space, the firm represented Philip Morris in a patent infringement case against Shenzhen Dingzhi Communication and Huizhou Dingzhi Communication over the patent right of an industrial design.

Notable clients include Shanghai Qianshan Network Technology Development, Shenzhen Dunjun Technology and Taizhou Laisai Medical Equipment.

Client feedback

“The firm is extremely professional and its rich experiences to work with the local customs authority impress us. We are full of confidence that the firm will bring us a fair and excellent result in the end.” – Government and regulatory

Beijing Grandway Law Offices

The dispute resolution team at Beijing Grandway Law Offices has extensive experience in commercial litigation and arbitration. It regularly acts for multinational corporations, blue chip companies and financial institutions in matters relating to commercial contracts, securities compliance, investment and financing, and product liability. Gang Xie is a key partner at the firm.

Case highlights include advising Tibet Shixin Zhaoyu Investment and Beijing Shixin Dingcheng Investment Center on a Rmb1.47 billion litigation case and enforcement case against Zhonghong Zhuoye Group; advising Guangzhou Hino Motors on a litigation case against Jiangsu Sushun Express Logistics; and acting for Sichuan Faw Toyota Motor on a Rmb2 million litigation case against Qiulian Xiao and Fengmei Cao.

The rest of the clients the firm has acted for during the research period remain confidential.

Beijing Kangda Law Firm

One of the earliest law firms in China, Beijing Kangda Law Firm sees dispute resolution as one of its core strengths. It focuses on disputes in the fields of securities, equity, investment funds, real estate and labour and employment. Among others, the firm is particularly known for its expertise in government and regulatory, and criminal disputes.

Main commercial disputes partners include Yan Lian and Rongkuan Yang. For regulatory, senior partner Lina Meng is a key contact.

Case highlights include acting for Baofeng Group in an equity transfer dispute against Everbright; advising Pan-Asia Cinema Advertising (Shenzhen) on a contract dispute before the Beijing Higher People’s Court; advising Inner Mongolia Zhunxing Heavy Haul Expressway in the second instance of a contract dispute filed by Fujian Tiantu Industrial; and acting for Shandong Jinyan Technology Development in a dispute related to a land transfer and house sales contract.

In April 2021, Zhiwu Dong and Feng Xie joined the firm as partners. They previously worked at AllBright Law Offices and Fujian Yingkun Law Firm, respectively.

Key clients include China United Property Insurance, Fushun Special Steel and Tian'an Property Insurance.

Bird & Bird

With a well-established IP practice, Bird & Bird is active in a wide spectrum of dispute resolution work across financial services, life sciences, technology, and consumer goods and services. Notable members in the dispute resolution team include Allison Wong and Matthew Laight.

Bridgeon Law Firm

Bridgeon Law Firm focuses on intellectual property and is active in litigation and prosecution relating to patent, trademark as well as copyright matters. Specialisations include telecommunications, software, USB key and smart card payment systems, and electronic connector devices.

Youping Ma and Guoquan Yang are the main partners for IP litigation at the firm.

Recent IP dispute highlights include representing Goertek, a leading high-tech firm, in defending four patent infringement claims filed by a competitor; representing FTSafe and winning a patent litigation case raised by rival firm InfoSec; and representing Mobike, a fully station-less bicycle-sharing system, in two ongoing patent invalidation cases.

Broad & Bright

Broad & Bright is strong in commercial and IP disputes. Clients in the automotive, energy, industrials and manufacturing, and TMT sectors regularly seek out the firm for advice. Managing partner, IP-focused Jun Ji often leads the firm’s various dispute mandates.

In one IP dispute, the firm represented Qizhi Company in an administrative case against China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) before the Supreme People’s Court.

The firm welcomed a number of partners in 2021: Keith Yuan, Ying Yang, Fan Liang, Yijun Wen, Yufeng Han, Sijie Zhang and Wency Yu.

CCPIT Patent and Trademark Law Office

Headquartered in Beijing, CCPIT Patent and Trademark Law Office’s legacy practice boasts nearly 300 patent and trademark attorneys and lawyers. The enforcement team provides litigation, administrative enforcement and mediation services to clients relating to patent, trademark, copyright, domain name as well as unfair competition matters. Its practitioners are well-versed in the pharmaceuticals, chemicals and high-tech industries.

Trademark litigator Gang Hu is a key name at the firm and was the lead partner on several cases during the research period.

The firm kept busy representing tech giant Apple in an administrative litigation against a decision of an invalidation procedure and successfully securing the patent for the client. The firm also acted for Yunchongba in defending a patent infringement claim and successfully revoked Guangzhou High People’s Court’s first-instance judgement.

Some of the firm’s clients include Canon, ExxonMobil, Pilot and Puma.

Chang Tsi & Partners

Headquartered in Beijing, Chang Tsi & Partners has a strong reputation in intellectual property and litigation. Key figures within the dispute resolution department include managing partner Simon Tsi who focuses on IP and disputes and founding partner Spring Chang, who regularly represents major electronics, consumer goods, pharmaceutical, fashion and jewellery companies.

China Patent Agent (HK)

Founded in 1984, China Patent Agent (HK) is one of China’s pioneer IP firms. The team houses lawyers with backgrounds in electronics, chemicals and biotechnology. The firm is acknowledged for its expertise in handling patent prosecution and litigation work. Apart from its Hong Kong-based main office, the firm also has offices in Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, New York, Tokyo and Munich. 

IP specialists Yuhe Wu and Yanfeng Xiong are key names in the firm.

In one case highlight, the firm acted for Erasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam and Roger Kingdon Craig in an administrative dispute before the IP Tribunal of the Supreme People's Court of China and received a favourable second instance judgment that reversed the re-examination decision of the CNIPA as well as the first instance judgment.

In another case, the firm represented Darwin Technology International and won a patent contributory infringement lawsuit at Beijing High Court.

Key clients of the firm include Ericsson, General Motors, PanOptis and Siemens.

Client feedback

“The firm does an excellent job in the intellectual property matters we work with them on.” – Intellectual property

“Responsive with very profound legal and technical knowledge.” – Intellectual property

Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co is recognised for its work in international arbitration. Traditionally known for its sector expertise in shipping, insurance and transportation, the team is developing strengths in the oil and gas, and construction sectors. The firm is the largest user of the London Court of International Arbitration. Gilbert Kwok is a highly respected construction dispute expert. Other key figures include Simon McConnell and Patrick Perry.

In one commercial and transactions sample, the firm is acting for a Big Four accountancy firm in defending a HK$2.5 billion claim, which is one of the largest pieces of litigation currently in the Hong Kong courts.

The rest of the clients the firm has acted for during the research period remain confidential.

The firm hired partner Rosie Ng, who joined from HFW. Shanghai-based IP litigator Elliot Papageorgiou left firm and joined Gowling WLG in early 2022.

Clyde & Co had recently celebrated 40 years since it first established an office in Hong Kong, the firm's first office outside London.

Client feedback

“They provide excellent, timely advice, with measured views and clear options.” – Commercial and transactions

Christopher Short

“Gives excellent, clear advice, offering pragmatic solutions.”

CMS

Full-service law firm CMS has a growing international arbitration practice in Hong Kong and is active in commercial, construction and post-M&A disputes. The firm is substantially active in intellectual property in Beijing and Shanghai. The Hong Kong team is also sought out by clients for its significant investment and maritime disputes experience.

Based in Beijing and Shanghai, Nick Beckett and Ulrike Glueck are key figures in the life sciences and healthcare sectors. Nicolas Wiegand, based in Hong Kong, is a key contact in its international arbitration practice. Andrew Horton and Steven Wise are key contacts for shipping. Jonathan Chu is a key contact for IP.

In international arbitration, work highlights include the firm representing a Taipei-listed biopharmaceutical corporation in a dispute arising from a license agreement with an Austrian pharmaceutical company; represented a German technology corporation in an ICC arbitration seated in Hong Kong against a Chinese customer; and advising an international construction group in an United Nations Commission On International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) arbitration seated in The Hague against an Eastern European road authority regarding a road rehabilitation project.

In intellectual property, the firm acted for Baidu Online Network Technology in passing-off and trademark infringement actions concerning its mark ‘Baidu’ in Hong Kong. The firm also represented Xiaomi in defending a Hong Kong opposition application against a well-known US technology company.

In shipping, the firm is acting on behalf of a Korean terminal operator and its insurers in respect of a claim against a vessel that allied with the terminal facilities causing $100 million in damages.

The rest of the clients the firm has acted for during the research period remain confidential.

Client feedback

“Consistency in scope of advice as with their various other offices, especially in the UK.” – Intellectual property

“They can coordinate very well actions involving multiple jurisdictions.” – Intellectual property

“The firm has shown us a deep knowledge of the applicable law and the local market and regulation, and a significant experience in relevant cases. The required answers and solutions were swiftly provided, along with our replies to any questions concerning applicable law, regulatory, judicial and factual practice. The team has also duly followed-up on any developments on the cases handled.” – Intellectual property

Nick Beckett

“He is a life sciences and IP expert.”

“He has a vast high-quality international network, thus helps well in any jurisdiction.”

“Beckett responded quickly to our request for assistance and outlined in a clear manner all the possible actions that could be taken, along with their advantages and disadvantages, allowing us to provide a comprehensive advice to our client. The solutions and follow-up actions recommended were business and solution oriented, aiming to effectively protect the client's intellectual property rights. He has also provided information on actions that should be taken after the initial legal actions filed with the competent authorities, aiming at and achieving a successful overall outcome, safeguarding the client's legitimate interests. In general, he has a thorough and efficient approach against the matter at hand, and he always provides quick and effective feedback to any queries.”

Co-effort Law Firm

Headquartered in Shanghai, Co-effort Law Firm holds a fine reputation in the intellectual property space. It is especially known for its expertise in the areas of copyright infringement and trade secrets issues. The firm is frequently sought after by clients in the media and entertainment, technology and online gaming sectors.

Key practitioners include Minjian You and Gang Fu. Both of them are active in copyright infringement and unfair competition disputes with particular expertise in the technology and online gaming sector.

Commerce & Finance Law Offices

Commerce & Finance Law Offices is active in key areas of dispute resolution, especially commercial litigation. The dispute resolution team comprises nearly 100 lawyers with 20 partners. Hongji Li heads the dispute resolution team and focuses on complex commercial litigation and international arbitration. Other key names in the team include Jialu Wang and Qiang Cui.

In one case highlight, the firm represented two subsidiaries of China Vanke, Vanke Real Estate and Jiye Real Estate, in real estate litigation over the land use right of a plot of land in Qingdao.

Another case highlight saw the firm representing an individual in a shareholder dispute. This case marks the first dispute after the new regulation on reduction in shareholding issued by the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC).

Key clients include China Construction Bank, Teddy Mobile Technology and Xinhua Internet E-Commerce.

Client feedback

“The firm is very familiar with civil, commercial litigation and arbitration, and is able to analyse and utilise all available information. In particular, from the perspective of the client, the firm maximises the company's commercial interests to complete the legal objectives.” – Commercial and transactions

Qing Cui

“Cui's passion for legal affairs, responsible attitude, and pragmatic style of always pursuing the best results are the reasons why we are always willing to choose him.”

“Cui is very professional, efficient and energetic.”

DaHui Lawyers

DaHui Lawyers’ dispute resolution team is particularly known for its work in commercial litigation and arbitration, especially cross-border disputes. The firm represents large foreign corporations and domestic entities before important arbitration centres like HKIAC, ICC and SIAC. Industry leaders in the fields of aviation, energy, tech, manufacturing, IT, automobiles and finance frequently engage the firm for counsel.

Arthur Ma is noted as a key figure within the firm’s dispute resolution practice and has a particular focus on commercial litigation and international arbitration. Xing Wan is another key lawyer to note.

In the commercial and transaction space, the firm represented a renowned bond underwriter in China and won a first-instance case regarding claims of false statements of non-public directional debt financing instruments by non-financial enterprises in the interbank bond market, the first case of its kind in China. Another case shows the firm representing a Fortune 500 enterprise in a dispute related to its investment in a new energy enterprise.

In the international arbitration space, the firm represented a world-leading western chemical and pharmaceutical company in a Singapore-seated international arbitration for the resolution of a dispute arising from a joint venture agreement.

In early 2021, the firm promoted Mark Young to partner. He specialises in commercial and transactions, and international arbitration.

The firm’s impressive roster of clients includes ByteDance, Huarong Overseas SAIF Partners and Xinxing Pipes.

Davis Polk & Wardwell

Davis Polk & Wardwell is one of the strongest corporate law firms in the region, so it comes as no surprise that its strength in dispute resolution is in the financial services sector. The firm is active representing global investment banks, accountancy firms, brokers, insurance companies, as well as trading exchanges before regulators including the HKEX, SFC, SEC, DOJ and Treasury Department. The team also offers renowned and recognised capability for the handling of white-collar crime and international arbitration.

Key names in the firm’s commercial, finance and corporate disputes team include Martin Rogers, Karen Chan, Patrick Sinclair and James Wadham. Rogers, Chan and Sinclair also have particular expertise in white-collar crime and regulatory matters.

In the commercial disputes space during the research period, the firm continues to represent Luckin Coffee, a PRC-based technology-driven retail company listed on the NASDAQ Exchange, in connection with securities class actions filed in federal and state courts in New York, as well as derivative and opt-out claims that have also been filed. The firm also advised the same client in a $175 million settlement of the federal class action, which received preliminary approval from the court in October 2021. In another case sample, the firm is representing Tencent Music Entertainment Group, a PRC-based online music entertainment platform, in a securities class actions filed in federal and state courts in New York.

In the white-collar crime space, the firm successfully represented a non-executive director of Magic International Holdings in proceedings brought by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) before the Hong Kong Market Misconduct Tribunal. This is the first and test case in which the SFC have taken action against non-executive directors for the responsibility under legislation introduced in 2013 to ensure adequacy of controls to comply with continuous disclosure obligations.

Client feedback

“Very detailed and thorough advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Technically very sound and commercial.” – Commercial and transactions

Martin Rogers

“Extremely experienced, technically very sound and commercially astute.”

“Provides insightful advice and top-notch legal analysis.”

Debevoise & Plimpton

Debevoise & Plimpton is the law firm of choice when it comes to regulatory disputes. With offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Tokyo, the firm advises both regional and multinational companies in complex disputes arising out of their Asian operations, particularly involving the financial sector. Its lawyers are frequently engaged by clients for commercial litigation, white-collar investigations, regulatory disputes and international arbitration.

Specialising in commercial and regulatory disputes, Mark Johnson leads the practice. Gareth Hughes is a key contact for commercial matters.

DeHeng Law Offices

DeHeng Law Offices’ dispute resolution practice is known for its expertise in construction and labour and employment. On the construction side, the firm often acts for clients in disputes related to infrastructure projects, construction of public utilities projects, land development, real estate construction and financing. Its labour and employment practice, on the other hand, has a track record of advising on disputes arising from cross-regional lay-off of large state-owned enterprises and foreign-related labour disputes of international enterprises.

Key figures of the practice include construction and real estate partners Ganghong Sun and Xiongwei Li, and labour and employment specialist Wenwei Su, whose practice covers risk control of management, employee resettlement, and labour disputes.

One construction work sample shows the firm representing Shanghai Construction Engineering Fourth Construction Group in construction contract disputes. The firm also acted for Sanya Luhuitou Tourist Area Development and 18 other companies in the bankruptcy and restructuring project of Banshan, which is one of the most famous real estate projects in Sanya, Hainan province.

Beijing iQiyi Technology, Good Doctor Pharmaceutical Group, Guangdong Jianlang Hardware Products and Shanghai Construction Engineering Fourth Construction Group are some of the firm’s key clients.

Dentons China

The Beijing office of Dentons, known as Dacheng (大成), is widely recognised for its work in commercial disputes, particularly in the banking and finance space. The firm’s industry strength lies in financial services, technology and communications, energy, aviation and life sciences. In Hong Kong, the firm is active in the international arbitration space. As a result of active involvement in the BRI initiative, the firm handles an increasing number of disputes arising out of BRI projects and investments.

Huazhi Yuan and Zhibin Zheng are noted for their work in construction and insolvency disputes. In the Hong Kong office, key figures include Richard Keady and Allan Leung who specialises in commercial disputes and international arbitration.

Case highlights include representing a PRC state-owned enterprise and two of its general directors in defending High Court proceedings brought by a former chairman of a Hong Kong-listed company; acting for The National Trust in its application for an urgent domestic and worldwide Mareva injunction against its debtor and obligors; and acting for the joint liquidators of Ocean Sino and PBM Asset Management in pursuit of legal actions against BGA Holdings and its directors and other shareholders for recovery of valuable assets.

In international arbitration, the firm is acting for Southwest Pacific Bauxite (HK) in an HKIAC arbitration regarding a shareholder dispute. The decision was important as it established for the first time in Hong Kong that a company could not be wound up based on a debt arising out of a contract containing an arbitration clause.

Key clients include Abercrombie & Fitch, Akbank, Cheung Kei Center and Hong Kong Solicitors Indemnity Fund.

The firm has launched an interactive web-based tool that allows clients to obtain injunctive relief, temporary respite and control of a situation in case of urgent legal emergencies across multiple jurisdictions.

Client feedback

“The firm provides an excellent service to their clients in advising on the complexities of litigation and preparing thoroughly for litigation.” – Commercial and transactions

“Dentons provides succinct, on point and clear advice which allows efficient and correct decisions to be made.” – Commercial and transactions

“The firm is able to think from the counter-parties perspective. It offers a practical business approach and provides actual technical legal advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“Highly professional and deep knowledge of arbitration rules and procedure.” – International arbitration

Richard Keady

“Analyses the legal problems and arrives at clear solutions.”

“Works like a business partner who doesn't try to run up bills nor create false expectations.”

DLA Piper

DLA Piper’s team of substantial litigators in both Hong Kong and China handles a wide range of commercial disputes. The team is frequently sought out for shareholder disputes, regulatory investigations, through to more specialised cases in the areas of banking and finance, employment, IP, construction and shipping. The firm’s litigation and regulatory team is highly experienced in handling private client disputes. It often keeps busy advising ultra-high-net-worth individuals, executors, trustees, wealth advisors, fiduciaries and family offices.

Key names in commercial and transactions include partners Harris Chan, who brings more than 20 years of extensive experience in commercial litigation at all court levels in Hong Kong, as well as in arbitration proceedings, and head of the firm’s litigation and regulatory practice in Asia Kevin Chan, who focuses his practice on civil dispute resolution. Satpal Gobindpuri is another key figure.

In commercial disputes, the firm is acting for Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Asia) (ICBCA) in a Hong Kong High Court action to recover an over HK$1.5 billion defaulted loan from a subsidiary of Lerthai Group, with Lerthai Group itself and its chairman as guarantors. The firm also advised ICBCA on further proceedings in the PRC with regard to the enforcement of securities.

In another case, the firm advised investment office Sand Aire on an ongoing High Court civil action against an individual and Cre8ive Investment for their default in making payment under a settlement agreement with a settlement sum of Rmb270 million.

Key clients include Chow Sang Sang Securities, Combest Holdings, DIO Corporation and Haitong International Assets Management.

Dorsey & Whitney

Dorsey Whitney is often sought for its multi-jurisdictional contentious offerings, particularly in the commercial and transactions space. The firm is active in litigation and arbitration proceedings involving corporate acquisitions, shareholder disputes, contentious insolvencies and a wide variety of commercial matters related to investments and transactions in the PRC. The firm’s litigation group has profound industry knowledge in the areas of banking and financial services, biotechnology, manufacturing and TMT.

Partner Sirui (Ray) Liu heads the firm’s office in Beijing. He concentrates on international and commercial litigations and arbitrations, primarily those involving cross-border and extraterritorial disputes. Yiqin (Karen) Fan is a partner to note in the Shanghai office. Other key figures include Janet Wong, Lilian Shi and Katherine Cheung.

The firm represented PICC Property & Casualty Company, the largest non-life insurer in Asia, in a variety of major civil actions, product liability litigations, coverage disputes as well as regulatory consultation matters in the US and Canada. The firm has also been representing various subsidiaries of China Huarong Asset Management, the largest Chinese asset management company, in a variety of commercial dispute resolutions, related financial restructuring and capital market compliance matters in Hong Kong and other offshore jurisdictions.

In IP, the firm represented World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) in pursuing trademark infringement and anti-unfair competition claims against Taizhou World Trade Center in Taizhou, Zhejiang, China. The case was selected as one of the eight typical IP cases in Zhejiang in 2020.

Bank of China, China Construction Bank and Mayo Clinic are some of the notable clients of the firm.

Client feedback

“The firm has rich knowledge and experience in those cross-border matters. Some partners have been regularly appointed and known as expert legal counsel and advisers on the most multifaceted and challenging legal and business matters in China and the US. Overall, the firm's deep experience allows the firm to provide real-world advice that balances commercial sensibilities and risk.” – International arbitration

Sirui (Ray) Liu

“Liu is very capable of wading through complex matters to focus on workable solutions for his clients.”

East & Concord Partners

East & Concord Partners offers a comprehensive dispute resolution practice, with particular strength in arbitration. It is active in commercial disputes, notably arising from the energy, construction and infrastructure, finance and technology and telecommunications sectors. Its team is regularly sought after by both international and domestic enterprises.

Managing partner Qi Zhou is prominent in the arbitration scene, often acting as a senior arbitrator at China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC). Chaoyi Ji heads the dispute resolution practice and is active in both litigation and arbitration.

Case highlights include advising Nationsync Electrical and Machinery Equip on a Mareva injunction case and a Rmb370 million international arbitration in CIETAC against China National Machine Tool Sales and Technical Service Corporation; advising Tishman Speyer China Fund, a subsidiary of Tishman Speyer and a world-famous real estate developer, operator and Fund management company, on a Rmb150 million international arbitration in CIETAC; and advising Madam Zhang Lan, Grand Lan Holdings Group (BVI), Qiao Jang Lan Development on a $142 million arbitration judicial review case against CVC Capital.

Notable clients include Guanghui Petroleum Storage and Transportation (Zhoushan), Hangzhou Bank, Shenzhen Guanghui Petroleum Group and Zhejiang Hanggang Financial Leasing.

Client feedback

“Responsive. The firm is able to provide professional and practical advice. It understands our needs.” – Commercial and transactions

Chaoyi Ji

“Diligent, smart and pragmatic.”

Eiger in association with Shanghai Runyi Law Firm

Eiger in association with Shanghai Runyi Law Firm is particularly strong at complex labour disputes. The firm often handles senior management and compliance issues, as well as other internal fraud and business fraud-related litigation. It is also experienced in handling international shareholder disputes, mostly representing foreign investors into Asia.

Two key partners to note are Tian Xu and David Jin. Xu’s practice focuses on corporate and M&A, employment and tax, whereas Jin is an experienced commercial attorney with a strong background in disputes and legal matters concerning foreign investment, M&A, corporate governance, and intellectual property.

The details of all cases the firm worked on during the research period remain confidential.

The firm just moved into a new office in historical Kailun-Jiangnan Plaza located in Shanghai.

Client feedback

“Excellent advice and immediate support also in case of delicate questions and complicated scenarios involving various parties.” – Labour and employment

Tian Xu

“Tian Xu has a solution-based and highly-efficient approach to respond to any of client's questions. He uses his knowledge of industry to provide excellent legal advice while collecting customer data and information efficiently.”

Fangda Partners

Top-tier firm Fangda Partners continues its reign as a frontrunner, singled out for its strong track record and robust presence across the market. The firm focuses on handling high-profile, high-stakes and complex litigation with particular expertise in multi-jurisdictional disputes including international arbitration. The firm also enjoys pre-eminence in the IP, regulatory and insolvency space.

Key figures in the dispute resolution team include Alexandra Pu Yang, Helen Shi, Nuo Ji and Kate Yin who specialise in IP, international arbitration, insolvency and government and regulatory matters respectively. Benjamin Miao, Daniel Huang and Peter Yuen are other key practitioners.

The firm kept busy with a string of commercial disputes including representing Rolls-Royce, a world-leading manufacturer of aviation products, before the Beijing Chaoyang District Court in product liability cases with a total dispute amount of around Rmb430 million; acting for Jinhong Fashion Group in a series of high-value and cross-border disputes arising from a trans-border acquisition of assets and business of a famous Korean fashion brand; and representing Shanghai Jinxin Investment Advisory and Everbright Jinhui Investment Management (Shanghai) to bring a lawsuit against Baofeng Group and its actual controller before the PRC Supreme Court.

On the employment side, the firm represented Aulton New Energy Automobile Technology to initiate a breach of non-competition case against its former president. It also represented Microsoft to initiate a breach of non-competition case against one of its former senior technical employees. In another case, the firm represented Hempel in defending a wrongful termination case brought by one of its former senior sales representative.

In intellectual property, the firm is representing Apple in a series of proceedings against Zhizhen involving the ‘iRobot’ patent, including adopting aggressive defence strategies such as declaratory action and invalidation. One of the main case in the series involves the highest damages request so far in all IP fields in China. The firm also represented NavInfo, a market-leading Chinese navigation software and map company in a copyright infringement claim against three Baidu companies. The Beijing Intellectual Property Court awarded NavInfo Rmb64.5 million in damages, the highest damages award for copyright infringement cases in China to date.

In international arbitration, the firm acted for China Development Bank in a series of litigation arising from an independent bank guarantee dispute against a Russian borrower and its PRC related entities.

The firm’s dispute resolution practice has welcomed a number of new partners in June 2021, namely Guanbing Chen, Hanjie Chen, Patrick Xiao, Na Gao, Diane Peng and Howard Chan. Its IP department also added Muran Sun as partner. Melody Wang, who was previously a partner, left the firm for Allen & Overy.

China Life Asset Management, Cinda Investment, Cisco, Hypergryph, Industrial Bank, InterDigital Corporation and Sichuan Shengda Forestry Industry are the firm’s key clients.

Client feedback

“Helped us to obtain favourable result. Good communication skills with professional legal analysis of the case.” – International arbitration

“It is extremely practical, commercial and responsive. They are available to provide high-quality advice at any time. Also very personable.” – Labour and employment

“Highly reliable and very detail-oriented services.” – Real estate

“Lawyers from this firm are equipped with ample knowledge in regulatory and dispute resolution areas. The firm combines expertise in international practice and local knowledge. Their lawyers are responsive and are able to provide high-quality legal product.” – White-collar crime

“Professional and timely feedback with customised solutions.” – White-collar crime

Weiguo Yang

“Excellent communication skills. Professional analysis to the case from legal side. Practical advice.”

Kate Yin

“Very responsive with profound legal and industry knowledge.”

“Provides prompt legal suggestions and advices. Gives practical solutions.”

Bo Zhou

“Very commercial, practical, and responsive. Great to deal with. Personable and available in short notice.”

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer

Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer is the go-to firm for Chinese POEs and SOEs involved in litigation outside of China. Its dispute resolution strength lies in commercial and transactions, international arbitration and white-collar crime. The team is frequently trusted by top-tier financial institutions, including bulge-bracket investment banks and leading private equity funds, in connection with their litigation matters stemming from their transactions.

The firm houses renowned litigation stars John Choong and Georgia Dawson. Choong specialises in international arbitration, cross-border investigations and other dispute resolution matters, whereas Dawson is experienced in internal and regulatory investigations, complex multi-jurisdictional litigation, and compliance advice in relation to anti-money laundering, anti-bribery and corruption and human rights. Tim Mak and William Robinson are other key figures.

In commercial and transactions, the firm represented Tsinghua Unigroup, one of the largest semiconductor and chip designers and manufacturers in China, in defending various offshore bondholders’ claims in the Hong Kong courts. The firm also represented a European manufacturer of pet food in relation to a contractual dispute arising from the termination of distribution agreement.

In international arbitration, the firm is advising a leading Chinese preschool education group in a dispute with a global fund concerning redemption rights and associated alleged breaches. In another case sample, the firm is advising a China-based state-owned company on a high-value dispute involving an offshore oil project.

The rest of the clients the firm has acted for during the research period remain confidential.

Client feedback

“Responds promptly and meets the expected requirement.” – Government and regulatory

“It provides speedy and strategic advice. Whilst it has depth of knowledge it is very practical, and solutions driven.” – Insolvency

Gibson Dunn & Crutcher

Famous for its leading white-collar practice, Gibson Dunn & Crutcher draws on significant on-the-ground experience acting on high-profile internal and government investigations across the Asia-Pacific region. It focuses on work involving FCPA, anti-money laundering, securities and trade control laws. The firm has also expanded significantly in the commercial litigation sphere with the arrival of Brian, Elaine and their team from Clifford Chance. It advises on cutting-edge litigation on a full range of complex contentious matters including banking, insurance, contentious probate and tax.

The firm boasts renowned litigators in the market including Kelly Austin, Elaine Chen and Brian Gilchrist. Gilchrist and Chen are highly respected for their commercial disputes expertise, while Austin is prominent in the white-collar and compliance space.

Case highlights during the research period include representing one of the beneficiaries of the estate of a prominent entrepreneur and philanthropist in Hong Kong and the PRC, involving billions of assets located in various jurisdictions; representing an international trustee and successfully defending two high-profile High Court actions commenced by a settlor and beneficiary of the trust, and in another related high-profile action commenced by another beneficiary; and advising an international auction house on disputes and proceedings in relation to consignments for auction and private sales of world-class works of art.

The firm hired William Hallatt from Herbert Smith Freehills as partner in April 2021. He has extensive experience in handling regulatory investigations, particularly high-stakes enforcement matters brought by key financial services regulators. Earlier the year, Oliver Welch was promoted to partner.

Global Law Office

Global Law Office’s dispute resolution team comprises 50 partners with nearly 100 associates with solid skills and rich experience in a broad range of practices including antitrust, finance, compliance, insolvency, construction and intellectual property. It is also well-respected in the field of international arbitration, able to instruct in large-scale matters before CIETAC, HKIAC, LCIA and ICC.

Xing Xiusong and Gao Yifeng are well regarded for their international arbitration capability. Gao is also active in construction and product liability disputes. Other lawyers to note include Jingye Jiang, Zhao Li and Jiuguang Zhao.

Case highlights during the past 12 months include advising Zhongrong International Trust on an over Rmb5 billion litigation; advising TC Pharmaceutical Industries on a trademark litigation; and representing Guanghan Chuanhan Steel Pipes, Shanxi Hanzhong Iron & Steel Group, Lveyang Yangjiaba Mining and two guarantors in an equity transfer dispute against Baoye Taifeng Investment Holding in the second-instance proceedings before the Supreme Court.

On the IP side, the firm represented a famous Chinese musician LoudBoy in a controversial music copyright infringement lawsuit in Beijing. The case is expected to be a major breakthrough in music law practice as one of the rare cases that focuses on the copyright issue concerning music and film sound track specifically.

In 2021, the firm welcomed eight new partners, including Guangming Liu and Lei Niu, who joined from JunHe and Zhong Lun Law Firm, respectively. The rest of the new partners are Yuanyuan Qian, Jin Xiang, Philip (Feng) Zhang, Tong Zhang, Lujun Hou and Yongpan Sheng. The firm also promoted five partners and two counsels in the same year.

Key clients include China National Light Industrial Products, Harris & Ford, HSBC Bank, HTC Corporation, Nuctech Company and Xi’an Sailong Metal.

Client feedback

“They are very professional and efficient. Their communication skill is very good as well.” – Intellectual property

Grandall Law Firm

With more than 200 partners and over 400 lawyers in its litigation and arbitration team, Grandall Law Firm offers a wide range of dispute resolution services. The team’s major practice areas include banking and commercial disputes, construction, energy, government and technology. The firm is frequently sought after by state-owned enterprises, financial institutions and publicly listed companies.

Zhengyu Yang is one of the key partners recognised for work in commercial disputes. Jingzi Sun, Li Shen and Ningning Huang are other notable lawyers.

Guantao Law Firm

Guantao Law Firm’s litigation and arbitration department has in-depth experience in investment, equity, IP as well as commercial and financial fraud disputes. It also has deep knowledge in administrative litigation and review. The firm is particularly active in real estate and construction related disputes.

Leiming Sheng and Shaosong Sun jointly lead its disputes team with expertise in commercial and construction disputes, as well as antitrust and arbitration. Wei Jiang is also singled out for his work in the construction space.

Work highlights include the firm acting for Xiamen Weiken Commercial Factoring and other related companies in a series of corporate lending litigations; representing China Huarong Asset Management in a dispute over claims validation brought by creditor in bankruptcy proceedings; representing Kaiyuan Securities in a dispute related to the trading of corporate bonds against Gangtai Group; and acting for a subsidiary of Shanghai Pharma Group in a contract dispute against a pharmaceutical e-commerce company in Zhejiang.

Wenjun Fang, Weizhong Wu, Hubo Peng and Ailin Cai joined the firm as partners.

Key clients include Hujiang Education & Technology (Shanghai) Corporation, Shanghai Kailong Investment Management and Sinar Mas Paper (China) Investment.

Hai Run Law Firm

Founded in Beijing in 2018, Hai Run Law Firm has been formed by the merger of Beijing Hairun Law Firm and Beijing Tianrui Law Firm. Its disputes practice is active in domestic litigation including civil, commercial and criminal cases with a particular forte in securities, investment funds as well as IP issues. Key figures in the firm include Ming Yao, Jinlong Zhou and Zhenzu Zhang.

One of the cases saw the firm advise China Nuclear Investment on a more than $156 million case of financial loan contract dispute against China Nuclear (Pingtan) Science and Technology Park Investment Partnership Enterprise, Beijing Shunhua Real Estate Development and Bank of Beijing.

The firm also advised Huainan People’s Government on a contract dispute against San’an Optoelectronic, Fujian San’an Group, Suncore Photovoltaic Technology Co, Xiamen Suncore Energy and Qinghai Suncore Energy.

The firm hired Huanwei Zhang, Longyuan Jiang and Mei Fang from Anli Partners as partners, all specialised in asset management.

China Minsheng Bank, Hwabao Trust and Jiangsu Nantong Erjian Group are some of the firm’s key clients.

Han Kun Law Offices

Han Kun Law Offices’ dispute resolution practice is known for its high-quality work and regularly advises clients in commercial, intellectual property, antitrust and labour and employment issues. The firm is particularly praised for its work in IP disputes in the telecommunications, healthcare and chemical sectors.

Eric Liu, partner and member of the dispute resolution team, is noted for his work in the commercial and transactions field. IP specialist Yan Wang is also a recognised name. Other key names include Denning Jin, Andy Liao and Yaxing Zhang.

In the past 12 months, highlights include representing Bitmain Technologies in a series of disputes over corporate control of well-known chip company Bitmain Group; representing Pepsi (China) in defending an application filed by Burger King (Shanghai) Restaurant for setting aside a Shanghai International Arbitration Center (SHIAC) arbitral award before Shanghai No. 2 Intermediate People's Court; and representing the members of Guizhou Maotai Winery Group Technology Development, a domestic alcohol industry group company, in responding to a dispute involving its 19 shareholders.

In the IP space, the firm acted for Sanan, a leading LED manufacturer in China, in patent infringement cases. The case drew a great attention in the LED industry because it is the first case claiming high damage in this industry. In another IP dispute, the firm represented HP in four patent infringement cases against two local companies manufacturing and selling ink cartridges compatible with HP printers.

The firm’s IP team lured Jian Zhang to its bench from Liu Shen & Associates as partner.

Notable clients include Dsquared 2, SandvikSino-Maple (Jiangsu), Ubox and Wuliangye Great World (Beijing) Trading.

Client feedback

“While providing legal advice, they would give full consideration to a company's business requirements. Reminding us that there are always workable solutions to legal risks. Professional lawyers, professional services and strong sense of responsibility.” – Commercial and transactions

“The firm works closely with clients and dives deep into the details of the case. The lawyers provide practical advice with good communication skills.” – International arbitration

“Clear and fair fee structure in accordance with international standards. They give practical and cogent advice and really think about the issues from the client's perspective. They know the law.” – Government and regulatory

“Practical advice on PRC employment law and litigation issues.” – Labour and employment

“Down-to-earth advice suitable for local practice. Efficient feedback in a timely manner.” – Labour and employment

“Very responsive and adaptable at communicating across time zones and geos.” – Labour and employment

“Patient and meticulous working attitude. Ability to work professionally and efficiently. More comprehensive and long-term thoughts and provided more comprehensive, extended legal advisory services. They are not only our legal consultant, but also our trusted partner.” – Trade and customs

Will Huang

“He has good knowledge of the employment law landscape in China and can highlight the important issues very quickly. He is also solid and experienced litigation lawyer who has a great deal of experience with employment disputes.”

“Excellent responsiveness and practical problem-solving skills.”

Yaxing Zhang

“He always gives us workable advice and solutions in connection with commercial disputes. Strong sense of responsibility, timely feedback, and overall and strong risk management ability.”

“Experienced lawyer in multi-industries, outstanding communication skills and grounded advice which could help us solve problems.”

“Zhang is really experienced in litigation and arbitration. He is highly detailed oriented with excellent insights. Quick reaction enables him to offer the best representation in the hearing. We totally rely on his analysis for those important cases.”

“Provides sound and practical advice after having considered all angles from client's perspective, at very reasonable rates.”

“Efficient feedback in a timely manner. Down-to-earth advice. Fast responsiveness to queries. Balanced approach towards situations.”

“Communicates frequently and always provides feedback in time. Excellent manner and professional skills.”

Hengdu Law Firm

Beijing-headquartered firm Hengdu Law Firm is recognised for its dispute resolution capability in the commercial and transactions area. The firm’s business and commercial litigation department is often engaged in various types of disputes, such as contract disputes, corporate disputes, property rights disputes and ownership disputes.

Some of the key partners to note are Fayuan Mu, who heads the commercial and litigation department, director of Nanjing office Chao Xi and director of Shenzhen office Antian Wang.

Work highlights include representing Feifan Media Technology in a media platform promotion cooperation contract dispute against Hangzhou Weimi Network Technology; representing Tianjin Lishen Battery Joint-stock in a sales contract dispute against Sichuan YEMA Automobile; and representing Qingdao Hongrun Construction Group in a dispute over the transfer of land-use rights against Qingdao Jinhuiquan Real Estate Group.

In the past 12 months, the firm has hired a significant number of partners, including Hanwen Hu, Ke Liu and Yuhui Zhu from Yingke Law Firm, Wanshu Li from Beijing DHH Law Firm, Xuanfeng Li from Guangsheng & Partners Law Offices, Juan Liu from Beijing Docvit Law Firm, Lin Wang from Longan Law Firm, Shuai Wang from East & Concord Partners, Zhuoying Wang from Hylands Law Firm and Hongxiang Zhao from W&H Law Firm.

Huadian Power International, Jiangsu Skyrun Foods Technology, Nanjing Hongxiang Glass Industry, Qingdao Haorui Real Estate and Shandong Zhaojingyuan Investment Development are key clients.

Antian Wang

“Wang's practice spans construction projects and real estate disputes. He has handled numerous complex and remarkable cases.”

Herbert Smith Freehills

Enjoying a first-class reputation in the market, Herbert Smith Freehills maintains a vast range of domestic and international disputes capability covering the full spectrum of contentious advice across Asia-Pacific. The firm stands out in commercial disputes, international arbitration and white-collar crime among other areas. It also has the largest dedicated arbitration team in Greater China with offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. Apart from legal expertise, the firm is also recognised for its strategic and commercial approach to handling cases.

Dominic Geiser and Gareth Thomas are key names for commercial litigation. May Tai and Justin D'Agostino are particularly famous in the international arbitration space, whereas Kyle Wombolt is the dominant player in white-collar crime. Other notable lawyers include Simon Chapman and Kathryn Sanger. Partner Rachael Shek joined the firm in January 2022 from Clyde & Co.

During the research period, the firm successfully defended DBS Bank in a substantial High Court action brought by the liquidators of Galleria (Hong Kong), a multi-national furniture business. It is also acting for both UBS AG and UBS Europe SE in defending proceedings commenced by the liquidators of China Metal Recycling in the court of first instance in respect of liabilities arising out of its sponsorship work for the IPO of China Metal Recycling.

Another case highlight saw the firm represent Bank Julius Baer & Co in its defence against mis-selling and misrepresentation allegations by a former client in respect of over 140 highly complex structured investment products. The case features complex regulatory issues as regards the conduct of private banking accounts, suitability of complex structured investment products and the assessment of the alleged losses.

In the international arbitration space, the firm continues to represent Sinopec International Petroleum Exploration and Production Corporation (SIPC) and Addax—subsidiaries of the Sinopec Group—in the largest fraud claim ever filed with the SIAC valued in excess of $5.5 billion. This concerns the 2012 purchase by SIPC and Addax of a significant upstream business in the North Sea, which is now a multibillion-dollar liability. 

Notable clients include Axiata Group, Collins Aerospace, Credit Suisse, Star Petroleum Refining Public Company and Toll Group.

HHP Attorneys-At-Law

HHP Attorneys-At-Law is recognised for its work in financial disputes. The team has represented clients in disputes relating to trust and wealth management, securities, merger and acquisitions, shareholder’s rights, and corporate governance. Industry expertise ranges across the real estate, machinery manufacturing, and automobile sectors.

Senior partners Jingdong Xu and Yao Rao are key names in general commercial disputes.

Case highlights include acting for a leading commercial bank on disputes regarding structured financial assets management products; advising commercial bank on a Rmb800 million trust dispute; advising a leading trust company on a RMB1.9 billion contract dispute in relation to its investment platform in a restructuring project; and representing a renowned financial institution in handling an Rmb1.1 billion loan dispute in a real estate project.

The rest of the clients the firm has acted for during the research period remain confidential.

Client feedback

“The firm’s thorough legal analysis and solid legal knowledge helped my company. They solidified our position and convinced the counterparty's attorney to agree with our arguments.” – Commercial and transactions

Yao Rao

“He is a true solution provider with solid legal expertise.”

HongFangLaw

HongFangLaw’s practice is exclusively dedicated to intellectual property. The firm is especially active in litigation for clients in the automotive, communications, construction, energy, pharmaceuticals and software industries. Xu Zhang is the main contact in the firm.

Case highlights include acting for BMW in trademark and patent infringement case against Zhejiang Baokang Wheel Manufacturing over the infringement of several vehicle wheel hubs; representing Treasure Wine Estates (Shanghai) Trading in trademark and patent invalidation against a design patent titled ‘Wine Bottle’; and representing 3M in a criminal case arising from the discovery of a batch of counterfeit 3M respirators being sold to Wuhan Hanyang Hospital.

Some of its most important clients include Bandai Namco Entertainment, Castrol, Innisfree, NXP and WD-40.

Client feedback

“Proactively communicates with law enforcement authorities and right holders in dealing with IP infringement cases.” – Intellectual property

“Understands the brand protection well from both the business and legal perspectives. Very efficient actions. Very impressive results.” – Intellectual property

Xu Zhang

“Strong influencing skills. Knowledgeable and experienced in IP.”

“Apart from his comprehensive legal knowledge, he also knows a lot about the energy industry, especially the downstream.”

Hunan Tiandiren Law Firm

Established in 1993, Changsha-based law firm Hunan Tiandiren is recognised for its dispute resolution practice in the commercial and transactions space. The firm is the first special general partnership law firm in Hunan province and the only member of Sino-Global Legal Alliance (SGLA) in Hunan. Yuhua Zhai, Xuefeng Tang, and Ming Li are key figures.

Case highlights include representing Agricultural Development Bank of China (Yuanjiang branch) in a financial loan dispute against Yuanjiang Jucheng SME Service; and representing the management committee of Changsha High-Tech Industrial Development Zone in an investment and capital attraction dispute against Hunan Shenzhou Photoelectric Energy. The firm also acted for Hunan Jiulong Economic and Trade Group and its more than 70 subordinate companies in a debt dispute and bankruptcy reorganisation. This is by far the largest bankruptcy case in Hunan province.

Key clients include Hunan Jiulong Economic and Trade Group.

Hylands Law Firm

Founded in 1997, Hylands Law Firm is particularly known for IP disputes across the media and communications, entertainment, sports and machinery sectors. The firm is also active in the areas of commercial and insolvency disputes.

Key partners include Yu Xu for commercial disputes and Michael Liu for intellectual property.

During the research period, the firm represented Tahone Investment Management (Kunshan) on a Rmb1 billion corporate bond transaction dispute against Shaoxing Zhongfu Holdings and Jinggong Group. The firm also acted for Shanghai Pangzeng Investment Management Center in a contract dispute case against Guangzhou Ruifeng Group.

Beijing Construction Engineering Group, Huzhou Ronghui Jiaheng Finance Leasing, Suzhou Gold Mantis Construction Decoration and Xinyi Investment Management Consulting (Tianjin) are key clients.

Client feedback

“Since Hylands Law Firm was included in the roster of bankruptcy administrators, our court has entrusted the firm to handle dozens of bankruptcy cases. The firm has a professional bankruptcy team as its support, with all-round and multi-level professional knowledge and skills, it smoothly promotes the court's work in the field of bankruptcy, and better promotes the optimization of the business environment in Wenzhou.” – Insolvency

Xiao Han

“Xiao Han actively cooperates with our court and handles cases conscientiously. Our court highly recognises her work ability and work level. Under her leadership, the bankruptcy team of Hylands Law Firm has also obtained outstanding work performance and extremely high external reviews.”

Jia Yuan Law Offices

Founded in January 2000 with offices in Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Xi’an, Jia Yuan Law Offices’ dispute resolution practice is active in commercial and transaction, particularly in the China's securities and financial services area.

Some of the key partners to note are Weiping He, Yingchuan Yang, Jingwen Wang and Chencheng Cai.

The firm represented CRRC golden Securities Investment in filing a civil case regarding securities misrepresentation against listed companies over illegal information disclosure. This case was selected as one of the Top 10 commercial cases by the Supreme People's Court. In another case sample, the firm acted for China Nonferrous Metals Construction in a contract dispute against China Minsheng Bank (Ningbo branch) before the Zhejiang Higher People's Court and successfully saved Rmb71 million amount of potential loss for the client.

JianLingChengDa Law Firm

Founded in 2010, Shanghai-based firm JianLingChengDa’s dispute resolution specialty lies in the areas of construction, project and infrastructures. It is the go-to firm for disputes arising from real estate and construction. A key partner to note is Jigao Zhou, who has a track record of handling more than 600 cases in the fields of construction, real estate, investment and financing. Min Wang and Lingjun Wang are also key partners.

Case highlights include successfully representing a subsidiary of Metallurgical Corporation of China (MCC) in a Rmb545 million dispute related to the delay in cost settlement arising from a logistics city project; and representing a backbone subsidiary of MCC and winning several cases in a municipal road construction serial disputes.

The firm lost partner Liang Xiao to Tahota Law Firm in September 2021.

The firm has also grown in its geographic footprint as well in October 2021 with a new office in Nanchang to seek deeper collaborations with local enterprises.

Jincheng Tongda & Neal

Jincheng Tongda & Neal represents both domestic and international clients before local courts and arbitration tribunals in a vast array of practice areas, including commercial, intellectual property, antitrust, construction and real estate. Guozhong Shao is one of the key figures at the firm.

Jingtian & Gongcheng

Jingtian & Gongcheng’s well-established dispute resolution team houses a sizeable team of experienced counsels and litigators. It is highly regarded for its expertise in handling corporate, regulatory, securities, intellectual property and insolvency disputes. State-owned enterprises, financial institutions and foreign corporations often instruct the firm for complex international arbitration matters.

Chungang Dong is a notable contact for commercial and arbitration work. Other key names include IP specialist Ye Zhao and government and regulatory practitioner Siyuan Liu.

Case highlights in the general commercial space include acting for state-owned shipping enterprise GNG Ocean Shipping in a series of domestic and foreign litigation and arbitration cases; acting for a large domestic real estate enterprise in equity disputes over company shares in Singapore and Cambodia; and representing Guangzhou South China Coal Trade Center in disputes arising from bills of lading against a shipowner.

In intellectual property, the firm represented OPPO Japan in a standard-essential patent licence dispute against Sharp and ScienBizip. This case sets a milestone for China as it clarifies for the first time that the Chinese court has jurisdiction over global licensing fees for standard-essential patents.

On the labour and employment front, the firm represented the Tianjin subsidiary of a well-known Japanese company in the automotive industry in a series of labour dispute cases against four employees.

During the research period, the firm welcomed a number of new partners: Mingxiu Wu, Jiefeng Lu, Xinqian Li, Yingying Li, Tiejian Nan, Jing Chen, Lingqin Wang, Tao Yang, Fei Chen, Chunfeng Xi, Guanghui Zhu, Kehua Zhang and Liwei Jiang.

Joint-Win Partners

Based in Shanghai, Joint-Win Partners has comprehensive coverage in the commercial disputes field. The firm is active in matters involving capital markets, corporate, government and IP. It has rich experience in dealing with government agencies with a strong track record in handling various administrative lawsuits.

One of the key figures at the firm includes Yueguang Zhu who is a veteran commercial disputes lawyer with a particular focus on finance, administrative and IP law. Ling Ling and Zhenming Guan are other senior lawyers to note.

Key work highlights over the last 12 months include acting for the Shanghai Songjiang District Sub-branch of Postal Savings Bank of China on a series of disputes against a borrower who transferred a mortgaged property without authorisation; and acting for Huarong Securities in an arbitration case regarding its dispute with Jinlong Holdings Group over pledge-based stock repurchase.

Some of the firm’s key clients include BOC Consumer Finance, Shanghai Jiuya Medical Beauty Hospital and Shanlin Financial Company.

Joius Law Firm

Established in 2013, Joius Law Firm is headquartered in Shanghai with offices in Warsaw and Taipei. It also has offices across the world including the US, Germany, Singapore and the Cayman Islands. Its dispute resolution team is led by Deying Ding who is experienced in banking and finance and government and regulatory related disputes.

During the research period, the firm represented Taishin International Commercial Bank in a contract dispute before the Supreme People's Court of China against an individual.

Ge Yan, Xiaoyan Yu and Yun Dong joined the firm as partners.

JunHe

JunHe is highly regarded for its work in commercial, construction and intellectual property disputes.  The dispute resolution team houses nearly 90 lawyers including more than 20 partners. With extensive experience before courts at various levels and renowned arbitration centres, its litigators provide clients with an in-depth understanding of the legal system and judicial practice in China and overseas. The majority of the team members are dual qualified as well as multilingual in Chinese, English, French and Japanese, offering high-quality international dispute resolution services.

Prominent figures include commercial dispute specialist Yang Liu, construction experts Yu Qin and Elvis Zhou, as well as labour and employment practitioner Hongjuan Bai.

Representative cases include acting for Amazon and winning two administrative litigations regarding the infringement of essential patents in the communications field before the Beijing Intellectual Property Court; acting for Oceanwide Holdings in a case regarding liability disputes against ShenZhen Nanyou and other principle shareholders for damaging the interests of creditors of the company; and successfully representing a wholly-owned subsidiary of a state-owned listed company in contractual disputes in relation to the equity transfer of four franchised projects.

The firm’s IP team hired Jiedong (Donnie) Wang from Liu Shen & Associates.

Key clients include Meiji Shanghai, Mendes and Shangri-La Group.

Client feedback

“The firm’s performance throughout the legal proceedings of securing the defendant’s assets in China are impressive.” – International arbitration

Yongqiang Yu

“Good at communication and managing the legal team.”

K&L Gates

K&L Gates’ dispute resolution practice is active in commercial and transactions. The firm has experience handling debt restructuring, fraud, professional liability, and contentious employment matters, as well as construction, securities and investment company litigation. In addition, it has been handling an increasing number of technology and intellectual property related disputes.

Key partners include two Hong Kong-based partners Christopher Tung and Sacha Cheong. Tung is active in construction, environmental law, clean energy, and carbon finance. Cheong, on the other hand, specialises in commercial cases, white collar crime, employment and construction. Jay Chiu is another key contact.

The firm is assisting Idemitsu Chemicals, a publicly listed company on the Japanese Stock Exchange, in relation to a litigation matter before the Hong Kong High Court concerning the recovery of $35 million resulting from a sophisticated fraudulent scam. The firm has secured refunds and judgments against 24 of the 32 defendants, and there are on-going steps against the remaining eight defendants.

One IP dispute highlight shows the firm acting for Luxshare Precision, one of the biggest and most well-known connector companies in China, and its subsidiaries, in ITC litigation against US company Amphenol.

Some of the new clients of the firm are American Express International, China Silver Asset Management, CS Asia Opportunities Master Fund, Idemitsu Chemicals (Hong Kong), Wuyi Bairong Electric Appliance and ZTE Corporation.

Client feedback

“The partners are approachable and attentive to clients' needs. K&L Gates offers pragmatic and sensible advice to clients with resolving client's problems rather than unnecessarily inflating bills as the ultimate goal.” – Commercial and transactions

“Knowledgeable and providing effective solutions swiftly.” – Insolvency

Sacha Cheong

“Cheong responds to queries very quickly, which is rare for a partner. He gives frank and pragmatic advice at the early stages of litigation, so that the client will not have unrealistic expectations. On the other hand, he has solid knowledge and experience in litigation to back up his advice. A very nice person to work with.”

Eugene Yeung

“Very connected in the market. Eager to interact with clients proactively and think for the best solutions.”

Kangxin Partners

Kangxin Partners is focused exclusively on intellectual property disputes including those related to IP rights, trade secrets, unfair competition, and technology transfer. The IP enforcement team has specialists in electronics, life sciences, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and communications as well as computing technology. IP litigator, Samson Yu heads the firm.

King & Wood Mallesons

One of the dominant players in the region, King & Wood Mallesons boasts a deep bench of experienced litigators in China and Hong Kong, offering clients broad coverage in Asia-Pacific supported by a wide international network. The firm represents clients before all levels of court and various arbitration tribunals, including CIETAC, HKIAC and ICC. It is predominantly active on cross-border dispute resolution matters, with a particular focus on disputes arising from the BRI Initiative. In addition, the firm especially stands out for corporate securities, international arbitration, financing and commercial contracts as well as construction-related disputes.

Key names in the commercial and international arbitration space include Yuwu Liu and Ariel Ye in China and Paul Starr in Hong Kong. Beijing-based Zhongsheng Li and Jing Xu are notable in IP disputes and Kuncheng Zhao is known for insolvency. Edmund Wan in Hong Kong is a key name for construction. Regulatory expert Haitao Liu and employment lawyer Juquan Yin are other names to note in China.

Kirkland & Ellis

Kirkland & Ellis has an exceptionally well-respected team for insolvency and white-collar crime work, with extensive expertise in fraud investigations, asset recovery and tracing, fund and shareholder disputes. With offices in Shanghai and Beijing, the firm has a substantial PRC-based disputes practice handling cross-border litigation issues involving China.

Neil McDonald and Kelly Naphtali are key figures for insolvency, while Cori Lable and Richard Sharpe in Hong Kong and Tiana Zhang in Shanghai are highly regarded in the field of white-collar crime and investigations.

Insolvency cases include the firm advising Car Inc, one of the largest car rental companies in China, on its successful completion of consent solicitation for amendments to change of control related terms existing US and Rmb notes; and advising Committee of creditors of China Fishery Group in relation to defaults under the $300 million notes and $650 million club loan facility guaranteed by China Fishery Group and the subsequent chapter 11 proceedings commenced by China Fishery Group and its affiliates.

The firm is acting for Xiaomi, the world’s fourth-largest smartphone manufacturer, in defending patent infringement claims brought by Sisvel International SA and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation in the UK for infringement of allegedly standard essential patents (SEPs) relating to 3G and LTE technologies. In another case sample, the firm is representing TCL Corp in defending a high-profile patent lawsuit brought by Philips, one of the world's large standard essential patent (SEP) holders and an experienced licensor.

The firm’s litigation practice welcomed David Harrington as partner in March 2021. Later in the year, restructuring and insolvency partner Daniel Margulies left firm.

Key clients include CWT International, Dewan Housing Finance Corporation, HNA Group (International) Company, IL&FS Transportation Networks and TCL Corp.

Client feedback

“Knowledgeable, friendly and responsive.” – Commercial and transactions

“The firm is tenacious, thorough, and creative when it comes to problem solving. It understands internal sensitivities within the business and ensures that it treats everyone with respect while still working hard to get to the heart of the allegations.” – White-collar crime

Neil McDonald

“Gravitas, with in-depth knowledge and gives practical advice.”

Tiana Zhang

“Takes control of the matter and ensures that no issue slips through the cracks. She will not rest until the matter is resolved.”

Lanbai Law Firm

Labour law specialist firm Lanbai Law Firm has more than a decade long history in corporate HR compliance and employment legal services in China. From risk defence to risk treatment, it covers every aspect of labour and employment law with solid experience on both the contentious and non-contentious sides. Bin Zhang and Minghui Qian are the practice’s main partners.

Lantai Partners

The team at Lantai Partners is experienced in handling all manner of commercial disputes including bank loans and guarantee issues, contractual default, construction and product liability matters. The firm is regularly entrusted by governments, domestic and foreign companies, financial institutions and tech companies. It is especially noted for its capability in banking and financial disputes.

Guang Yang and Xiaomin Yao are key partners at the firm who are noted for their commercial disputes expertise. Partner Tian Shaoqing is active in construction disputes.

Work highlights during the research period include advising on financial loan contract disputes between the China CITIC Bank (Xiamen Branch) and Xiamen Yuansheng Real Estate; representing CITIC Securities in a stock pledge repurchase transaction contract dispute; and acting for Langfang Junzheng Real Estate Development in a construction contract dispute against Beijing Construction Engineering Group.

Notable clients include China Development Bank, Gaoxin Investment Development, Sinopec Pipeline Storage and Transportation and Tianjin Jinan Heavy Industry.

Lawjay Partners

Leading IP law firm Lawjay Partners specialises in IP related disputes involving IP rights, unfair competition, trade secrets and technology. The firm has sector strengths in fashion, IT and electronics. Managing partner James Luo is well-versed in trademark, unfair competition and copyright disputes.

LexField Law Offices

Led by star patent litigator Hongyi Jiang, LexField Law Offices is one of the strongest patent disputes firms in the market. The firm has established a solid reputation through handling cases that have a widespread impact in China and set new standards in IP law. The firm has deep expertise in the technology, pharmaceutical, chemical and manufacturing industries.

Lifang & Partners

Lifang & Partners’ core strength lies in intellectual property and it enjoys a stellar reputation in the telecommunications, industrial manufacturing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and alternative energy and new media spaces. Guanbin Xie is a key contact for IP disputes.

Llinks Law Offices

Shanghai-based law firm Llinks Law Offices is lauded for handling complex commercial and construction disputes. The firm is active on the full spectrum of finance, investment, and general business-related disputes. Charles Qin and Peiming Yang are recommended for both commercial disputes and international arbitration. Patrick Zheng is another lawyer active in many of the firm’s notable cases.

Key commercial and transactions cases include advising Everbright Securities Company on a dispute over breach of contracts in margin financing and securities lending transactions with several debtors; advising Advised Ping An Annuity Insurance on the revoking rights in bankruptcy disputes with the Administrator of Shandong Shengtong; and advising Penghua Asset Management on a corporate bond transaction dispute with Peking University Founder Group.

On the international arbitration side, the firm acted for Hyosung Corporation and Hyosung Spandex (Jiaxing) Company in an arbitration case before HKIAC concerning shares transfer.

China Securities, Glory Sun Credit, Orient Securities Asset Management and Zhongju Finance Lease are the firm’s notable clients.

In March 2021, the firm hired James Wang as partner from Shanghai United Law Firm. His practice covers dispute resolution and IP.

Lung Tin Intellectual Property Agent

Headquartered in Beijing with branch offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen, IP firm Lung Tin Intellectual Property Agent provides IP services including litigation, counselling, and mediation in the areas of trademark, copyright, trade secrets and unfair competition. The firm’s industry sector strengths lies within the engineering, machinery, biochemistry, and pharmaceutical fields.

A key IP practitioner to note is partner Qinghong Xu, who is a patent attorney with explicit knowledge in the automotive, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and renewable energy sectors. Partners Jacob Zhang, Yan Huang and Deland Wu are also key figures.

Some of the IP disputes include representing Family Mart in a trademark opposition case; advising Tencent Technology (Shenzhen) on a trademark opposition case concerning a graphic logo of a well-known game developed by its affiliated company; and acting for Black Gun Coffee Company, a well-known American tactical and cultural coffee brand, in trademark opposition.

Key clients include Balanced body, GS Yuasa International and HSD.

Recently, the firm has also expanded its services to trade secrets protection, patent portfolio, due diligence in the IP field and patent monetization to better serve its clients.

Mayer Brown

Mayer Brown is among the largest and longest-standing law practices in the market. The firm is frequently sought out for its work in general commercial, construction, insolvency and financial services regulatory disputes. The team is also developing a niche in emerging technology matters including electronic transactions and data privacy.

Nicholas Hunsworth and John Hickin are key names in commercial and transactional litigation. Alan Linning is singled out for contentious regulatory work, while Gabriela Kennedy and Menachem Hasofer are recommended for IP and construction work respectively.

The firm has been representing two members of leading private property developer Eton Properties Group in defending a claim brought by Xiamen Xinjingdi Group in purported enforcement of an arbitral award made by CIETAC in Beijing.

The firm continues to represent various leading real estate developers in Hong Kong in compulsory sale application, one of which includes representing a leading Hong Kong real estate developer in its successful compulsory sale application with respect to the State Theatre Building located in North Point, Hong Kong’s largest compulsory sale application in term of redevelopment value at over HK$4.7 billion.

At the time of publication, partner Thomas So had left the firm.

Key clients include Gaw Capital, Huiyuan Juice, Malayan Banking, Swire Properties and The Hong Kong Jockey Club.

Client feedback

“Restructuring and Insolvency team is well established and known in the region.” – Insolvency

“Mayer Brown is incredibly proactive and a very trustworthy and responsible firm who can easily handle any aspect of intellectual property application, registration, protection and defence. The firm is also extremely experienced with arbitration and litigation cases in Hong Kong.” – Intellectual property

Amita Haylock

“Haylock is extremely experienced, acutely intelligent and an exceptionally lovely personality. She works extremely hard and efficiently. To date, she has won every case that the foundation has entrusted to her.”

John Marsden

“Marsden has bundles of experience and regional know how which is vital in this type of work.”

“Tenacious and adept at looking through complex matters to identify the core issues.”

Merits and Tree Law Offices

Merits & Tree Law Offices’ dispute resolution practice is active in insolvency and intellectual property. Its assets and bankruptcy restructuring team has extensive experience in representing asset management companies, financial institutions and social investors in a large number of litigations and execution business related to non-performing assets disposal. Its IP practice, on the other hand, has a track record of handling dispute settlement in the TMT, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, medical devices, artificial intelligence, chemicals and materials fields.

Key partners include Zunsi Liu, Leiming Li, Sheng Jiang and Wenliang Zhang. IP experts Lihui Zhao, Wei Deng, Jing He and Karen Hu are also notable partners of the firm.

Case highlights include representing an investor in the bankruptcy reorganising project of Tsinghua Unigroup with an investment target of about Rmb80 billion; representing Cinda Financial Leasing in the bankruptcy and reorganisation projects of ST Antong, Quanzhou Ansheng Shipping Company, and Antong Logistics; and representing the creditor and reorganisation investor in the bankruptcy and reorganisation project of Kangde Composite Materials.

In the IP space, the firm represented Xiaomi in response to the application for retrial of the trademark infringement and unfair competition dispute submitted by Zhongshanbenteng company before the Supreme People's Court, and successfully sustained the compensation of Rmb50 million in the second instance. This case is selected as one of the typical punitive damages cases by the Supreme People's Court in 2021.

Beijing Zcool Network Technology, CMIG Leasing Holdings, Doushen Education Technology (Beijing), Shenzhen Shentou culture Investment, Zhongzhi New Energy Vehicle are some of the firm’s notable clients.

The firm’s dispute resolution team hired Bin Lin, Jean Zhu, Chang Cheng, Wenhao Chen, Zheyuan Jin, Chun Shen and Yi Wang as partners. It also promoted Kai Liu to partner in the same year.

Client feedback

“The firm has done very well in terms of service quality, service speed and service attitude.” – Commercial and transactions

“Merits & Tree has not been limited by the words of laws and regulations, and can think deeply about the actual situation of the business from the perspective of the client.” – Labour and employment

“Lawyers are able to provide the whole range of labour dispute settlement services, instead of being limited to simple litigation.” – Labour and employment

Lei (Ryan) Chen

“He certainly demonstrates high-quality and professional work with satisfying results delivered.”

Wenhao Chen

“Prompt and clear advice with quick turnaround.”

MinterEllison

Australian law firm MinterEllison expanded its contentious offering with the addition of a strong bench of seasoned litigators experienced in banking and financial services, regulatory and investigations—as well as fraud and joint venture disputes. The firm also regularly represents domestic and international developers, contractors, engineers and public bodies in large construction disputes.

David Morrison is highly regarded for his financial and regulatory disputes expertise. Steven Yip is a key name for construction, and Steven Birt is known for his work in IP.

Morgan Lewis & Bockius

Morgan Lewis & Bockius is sought out for commercial litigation and arbitration work. The firm’s clients include China-based firms from various industries including real estate, private equity, banking, energy, e-commerce, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals. Charles Mo is a notable figure on the commercial disputes side, while Lesli Ligorner advises on labour and employment and white-collar crime disputes. Shaobin Zhu is noted for his IP litigation expertise.

One employment dispute shows the firm advising a global life sciences conglomerate on the strategy to defend more than 35 legal proceedings brought by a former senior executive for unpaid equity grants.

The remaining case highlights submitted for the research remain confidential, but the firm acted in various cases involving complex contractual claims, trade secrets, debt recovery and investigations matters.

Client feedback

“Highly responsive and timely in a fast-moving matter. Gives practical and business-focused advice.” – Intellectual property

“They are top notch. The matters are confidential, but I get timely response and excellent work product.” – Technology and telecommunications

Morrison & Foerster

Supported by a highly capable litigation and arbitration practice, Morrison & Foerster is acknowledged for its strength in cross-border disputes across the region. The firm provides corporate investigation and enforcement capabilities backed by a fully integrated regional practice across five offices in Asia. It operates across a broad range of sectors including energy, chemicals, construction, manufacturing, real estate and technology and telecommunications.

Managing partner Timothy Blakely heads the firm’s Hong Kong litigation department. His practice focuses on government investigations, complex commercial litigation and international arbitration matters. Another key partner to note is Sarah Thomas.

In commercial and transactions, the firm advised SoftBank Group (SBG) on obtaining documentary and testimonial evidence in Hong Kong and China in aid of a litigation filed by WeWork in the Delaware Chancery Court. The litigation related to SBG’s investment in WeWork has attracted significant public attention because of WeWork’s global footprints, the unusual withdrawal of the anticipated IPO, and the allegations of wrongdoing against its founder.

The rest of the cases submitted during the research period remain strictly confidential, but the firm kept busy working on matters related to government investigations, shareholders’ agreements, and a number of HKIAC and ICC arbitration.

Timothy Blakely

“Have worked with Blakely on a highly complex litigation for 10 years. He is very responsive, reliable, and experienced. Clients can trust him with any work.”

Norton Rose Fulbright

Recognised for its dispute resolution expertise especially in the commercial and transaction space, Norton Rose Fulbright has an excellent track record of managing large and complex transactions, projects, and disputes in China and internationally. The firm also regularly advises clients on IP related disputes, with a particular niche in the technology and life sciences sector.

Partners Camille Jojo and Alfred Wu are two reputable dispute resolution stars from the firm. Jojo handles a wide range of complex finance disputes, whereas Wu often advises clients on an extensive range of general commercial litigation and arbitration.

Case highlights include the firm defending a former independent non-executive director of Freeman FinTech Corporation, a company listed on the main board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong (HKSE), against the petition of the Securities and Futures Commission in the High Court seeking disqualification orders against him and nine other former directors of Freeman for breaching their director duties in the acquisition and the subsequent disposal of shares in Liu’s Holdings in 2011 by Ambition Union (a subsidiary of Freeman); and acting for Zhaoheng Hydropower in defending a High Court action in relation to a contractual claim lodged by Tailong Group, a hydroelectric business in the PRC.

In the private client space, the firm is acting for one of the executors of the Fok Estate on disputes relating to a settlement agreement. This case is one of the most prominent tycoon estate disputes in Hong Kong, receiving wide-spread coverage in the press since 2015.

The firm promoted Kevin Hong to partner in January 2021. He advises domestic and multinational corporations on fraud and asset recovery and in resolving joint venture, shareholders, shipping, sale of goods, product liability, insurance and other contractual disputes. Counsel Daniel Ng has also been promoted to partner in early 2022. He focuses his practice on commercial litigation, particularly on advising and representing banks, financial institutions and corporates on contentious matters.

Notable clients include Asia Allied, Champ Prestige, ChinaCast, Gammon Construction, GFG Alliance and Paloma Company.

Client feedback

“This firm is excellent at meeting the expectations of its clients.” – Commercial and transactions

“Calmly getting on with managing matters, providing solid and timely legal advice as requested with sound commercial reference points and insights, safeguarding clients' interests with determination and rigour.” – Family and matrimonial

Camille Jojo

“He is very hands on in case management and always has excellent rapport with the client.”

O'Melveny & Myers

O'Melveny & Myers is recognised for its international litigation and arbitration practice. The firm works on high-profile M&A, joint venture, insurance, financial services and IP disputes. Managing partner, Denis Brock, is recognised for his work in the commercial and arbitration space. Kieran Humphrey is another lawyer to note.

International arbitration case highlights include representing a US telecommunications company with counterclaims against Mainland Chinese controlled entities in an HKIAC arbitration; representing an international pharmaceutical company in ICC arbitration against an Eastern European distributor; and representing a leading Asian biopharmaceutical company in an HKIAC arbitration case.

The rest of the clients the firm has acted for during the research period remain confidential.

Client feedback

“Very strong on strategic advice, detailed analysis with regard to the commercial goals.” – Commercial and transactions

“Excellent strategic advice on complex matters, while still providing practical and cost-effective advice.” – Intellectual property

Denis Brock

“Excellent knowledge and ability to deploy it strategically. Very solutions based to get the best commercial outcomes.”

Kieran Humphrey

“He listens carefully and then provides answers are solutions which show a thorough understanding of the law, but which also take into account the relevant circumstances and what is possible. We always feel highly confident with his advice and feel he has understood what we are trying to achieve.”

River Delta Law Firm

Established in 2004, outstanding employment law boutique River Delta Law Firm is the go-to law firm for international and domestic corporations. The firm handles both contentious and non-contentious issues involving all range of labour law and HR related matters. Jingbo Lu and Xiaorong (Cathy) Qu are key individuals in this field.

In the past 12 months, the firm has been busy on a series of employment disputes involving contract termination, workplace injuries and compliance investigations.

In one case highlight, the firm acted for a Fortune 500 electronic company in a labour contract dispute arising from the termination of its employee. The firm won the case at the stages of arbitration, first instance, second instance and retrial instance.

Other notable clients include Columbia Sportswear, Nouryon Chemicals (Ningbo) and TrigoChina.

The firm is a member of Innangard Global, an international labour and employment law firm network, and is also a member of the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai.

Ropes & Gray

Ropes & Gray is best known in Hong Kong and China for its white-collar expertise handling international investigations, anti-corruption matters and regulatory compliance. The firm is the choice for clients operating in some of the most highly regulated sectors in the region including life sciences, private equity, financial services, real estate, technology and consumer goods. It has been expanding the areas of expertise including insolvency.

Partners Andrew Dale, Geoffrey Atkins and David Zhang are recognised in the white-collar crime sphere.

RPC

With decades of Hong Kong dispute resolution experience, RPC is best known for its dispute matters related to banking and finance, insurance, technology and regulatory. The firm’s diverse arbitration practice has profound knowledge across various industry sectors, some of which are banking and financial services, fintech, insurance, retail and technology. The team has extensive experience acting in disputes under a variety of arbitral rules, including ad hoc arbitrations and administered arbitration under the HKIAC, ICC, UNCITRAL, SIAC and CIETAC rules in particular.

Key figures of the firm are litigation star Charles Allen and Antony Sassi, the firm’s managing partner in Asia.

In commercial and transactions, the firm is acting for BDO in defending a $1.95 billion claim commenced by the Sino-Forest Corporation Litigation Trust. This ongoing claim is one of the largest and highest-value litigations currently going through the Hong Kong courts. In another case sample, the firm also acted for BDO and successfully defended a Rmb6.5 billion claim commenced by the provisional liquidators of China Lumena New Materials Corp.

The firm is also representing the victim of the largest telephone and mobile phone app scam in Hong Kong history, in recovering sums lost in the fraud.

In international arbitration, the firm is representing Noble Prestige in a multi-jurisdictional arbitration and court dispute over the non-payment of sums due under a loan facility agreement.

In early 2021, the firm welcomed renowned employment lawyer Andrea Randall from Gall as partner to set up a local employment practice.

SD & Partners

Established in 2002, SD & Partners is headquartered in Shenzhen with offices in Beijing and Qianhai. The firm is active in the areas of civil and commercial disputes as well as international arbitration. Its specialty lies in disputes relating to construction and engineering, real estate and banking and finance.

Key partners at the firm include Yongjing Wang, Wei Li and Xingming Kou. They are all adept in financial and corporate matters as well as construction and real estate disputes.

Case highlights include representing China Securities in an Rmb1.2 billion arbitration case against Shanghai Beiyu Information Technology over a breach of contract; acting for Export-Import Bank of China (Shanghai branch) on a financial loan contract dispute against OptimumNano Energy and Belivex Technology; and representing Suzhou HJ Information Technology Group, Shaanxi TJ Automobile, Hunan TD Enterprise Management and SU in an equity transfer dispute.

Key clients include Anke Robotics, JSSR Clean Energy, New Sea Union Technology Group and Shenzhen Huaqiang High-Tech Industrial Park Investment Development.

The firm hired Bincheng Yang and Li Jiang as partners from TiangTong Law Firm and Junyan Law Firm, respectively. It had also promoted Kai Huang, Sili Wang, Xiong Li, Jianfa Hong, Jinfeng Chen, Jing Wang, Wen Yuan and Yuqing Chen to partners. Another three partners, namely Zhihe Ao, Xiuling Chen and Liming Lai, departed from the firm.

Shearman & Sterling

Shearman & Sterling is recognised for its work in white-collar crime with a team where every attorney who works on China investigations is fluent in Mandarin. The firm is particularly active in China-related compliance and investigations, acting for clients across pharmaceuticals, media, financial services, consumer goods, energy and insurance sectors. The firm also has an established international arbitration team on the ground.

Brian Burke oversees Asia-Pacific matters and splits his time between China and the US. Burke is well regarded in the areas of corporate investigations, anti-corruption and FCPA enforcement relating to China. Nils Eliasson is an international arbitration expert who splits his time between Singapore and Beijing. He regularly acts on investment treaty arbitrations, project development and construction-related disputes.

Shihui Partners

Shihui Partners’ dispute resolution team is active in commercial and transactions. It often represents clients in commercial dispute resolution cases in courts at all levels, including the Supreme Court and local high courts. It also advises clients on dispute matters related to equity investments and commercial transactions. Key partners of the practice include Mingze Jiang, Jiayu Zhang, Yulong Lai, Jiaying Wang and Mingjiang Weng.

Some notable commercial disputes include representing a liquidator of a New York Stock Exchange- listed company in dealing with a series of legal disputes; acting for a subsidiary of Shanghai Media Group in equity investment disputes; representing Suning in several factoring contract disputes; and representing Shimao Property, Baosteel and Cabot in several sales contract disputes.

Sidley Austin

Sidley Austin regularly represents clients in cross-border disputes and regulatory and enforcement actions. With a growing international arbitration practice, the firm is frequently called upon to advise on complex arbitration matters, both in commercial and investor-state arbitrations. The firm is adept in handling major multi-jurisdictional investigations and FCPA matters across the region, particularly sought after by clients in the energy, PE funds, fintech and financial services sectors.

Yuet Ming Tham is recognised for her white-collar crime work while Friven Yeoh is reputable in the commercial litigation and international arbitration space.

The details of all cases the firm worked on during the research period remain highly confidential, however, the firm has been acting for clients before HKIAC, CIETAC and ICC concerning joint venture, sales and purchase agreements, post-M&A and other various contractual issues. The firm was also active with criminal and internal investigations as well as implementing compliance programmes.

Client feedback

“It is very good in managing internal politics. the legal analysis itself, and being transparent in its pricing.” – Commercial and transactions

“It is reliable and provides practical realistic advice on all aspects of the subject areas, not just reciting principles or being too conservative in its advice.” – Labour and employment

“Provides pragmatic advice, and manages complex issues efficiently and cost effectively.” – White-collar crime

Yuet Ming Tham

“She is excellent at client service, ensuring the right person is working on my matter with the required knowledge and expertise. She is also transparent with the billing, and we get excellent outcomes.”

“She understands the local market and legal issues with legal expertise and provides practical solutions.”

“Everything. I use her exclusively in APAC.”

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett offers deep expertise in disputes arising from white-collar crime including criminal bid-rigging and price-fixing, securities and financial fraud, FCPA and anti-corruption violations and government and internal investigations. With partner Adam Goldberg who is fluent in both English and Chinese, the team is able to provide in-depth local experience and understanding of the region. The firm is experienced in representing financial institutions, multinational companies, professional services firms and senior executives. The firm also often assists clients with structuring corporate compliance programmes. Goldberg is the key figure and contact for disputes.

Case highlights include acting for Korean telecommunications company KT Corporation in an US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) FCPA investigation; acting for a global pharmaceutical manufacturer in a anti-corruption investigation focused on alleged misconduct in multiple jurisdictions; and representing a telecommunications company and individual officers in an anti-corruption investigation by the Hong Kong Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).

The firm welcomed several new partners in 2021: Antonio Bavasso, Martin Bell and Marc Berger. Meaghan Kelly and Noritaka Kumamoto were promoted to partners.

Client feedback

“Commercial advice, proactive and constructive suggestions to improve programme design.” – White-collar crime

“Analysis of sensitive US-law issues as they relate to enforcement and investigation matters in China.” – White-collar crime

Adam Goldberg

“Excellent commercial and practical legal and business advice.”

“He provides practical advice and guidance on sensitive matters.”

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom

Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom provides clients with expert advice on a range of high-value and complex commercial litigation and arbitration matters, including finance, securities and shareholder disputes. Key clients span industries such as manufacturing, technology and telecommunications, financial services and healthcare. The firm also has a strong anti-corruption and white-collar crime practice.

Key names in the litigation and arbitration department include Bradley Klein and Rory McAlpine. Steve Kwok is singled out for his regulatory compliance and white-collar crime expertise.

Case highlights include advising Chinese classified advertisements website 58.com on a shareholder dissenting appraisal action; and representing a group of Bermuda trust companies established by a Taiwanese Conglomerate in a dispute arising from the handling of assets of a Taiwanese individual, the owner of The Formosa Plastics Group who died in 2008.

Client feedback

“The Hong Kong and China staff are very experienced, knowledgeable and responsive in assisting clients to understand the legal and regulatory issues around the situation they are facing, and respond effectively to regulators.” – Government and regulatory

Steve Kwok

“Kwok is very knowledgeable and adept at educating clients on the regulatory issues they are facing, and explaining the practical situation and nuances.”

“He has in-depth knowledge of US laws and regulations in white collar investigations.”

Stephenson Harwood

Stephenson Harwood has a solid record advising clients on disputes related to insolvency, employment, IP and regulatory issues. The firm is regularly instructed by banks and commodity trading companies to handle international trade finance disputes. Leveraging its traditional forte in the shipping sector, the firm also has a significant presence in the international arbitration arena.

T&C Law Firm

Headquartered in Hangzhou, T&C Law Firm is the largest and among the leading law firms in Zhejiang province. With about 400 attorneys and specialists, the firm’s practice spans all fields of law across a variety of industries. Dispute resolution is the firm’s core practice and it is active in domestic disputes, international arbitration and foreign-related commercial litigation.

Linyong Fu is a key partner at the firm whose practice is rooted in international arbitration and litigation with rich experience in cross-border investment, compliance, administrative investigation and litigation.

Work highlights over the past 12 months include acting for Simei Media in an equity transfer dispute against Zhoushan Yide Investment Partnership and an individual; representing Wanxiang Trust against Ruili Bay Tourism Development and the third party Ruili Bayside Tourism Development in another equity transfer dispute; and acting on behalf of Nanjing Yinjiayuan Enterprise Management and Lin'an Yixiang Real Estate Development against the Lin'an branch of Lin'an Kangtong Small Loan in a dispute over the creditor’s right of withdrawal.

Key clients include China Export & Credit Insurance Corporation (Ningbo branch) and Zhejiang Pinghu Jiulongshan Tourism Resort Management Committee.

T&C Law Firm is one of the founding members of the Sino-Global Legal Alliance (SGLA). SGLA is the first legal alliance in China consisting of Hogan Lovells and a select group of PRC firms across key regions in China.

Client feedback

“T&C Law Firm is the primary contact of the local Chinese client. The firm is doing very well in communicating and coordinating with the client, and all the other domestic and international legal counsels.” – Commercial and transactions

Linyong Fu

“Fu is an excellent co-counsel to work with. He is very intelligent, efficient and persuasive, and a likable person to team up with.”

Tian Yuan Law Firm

Tian Yuan Law Firm regularly acts on a wide range of commercial and financial disputes representing major listed companies and state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The firm is commended for its experience in handling disputes relating to corporate, commercial, IP and employment matters. The firm is also active in both domestic and international arbitration work.

Lihua Wang who focuses on commercial litigation and arbitration leads the firm’s dispute resolution team. Other notable partners include Zhuo Chen and Mei Xu for commercial disputes and Yan Sun for intellectual property.

TianTong Law Firm

Committed to building the most trusted and specialised dispute resolution law firm, TianTong Law Firm houses a deep bench of practitioners with considerable expertise in civil and commercial dispute matters. The firm has a strong winning track record before the Supreme Court with more than 30 cases being selected by core publications as guidelines for civil and commercial trials. The firm is also strengthening its insolvency and international arbitration capabilities.

Yaoquan Chen is a key contact who focuses on commercial and transactional disputes.

Commercial and transactions cases include the firm representing Caixin Securities in a private equity investment dispute before the Shenzhen Intermediate People's Court; acting for The Geological Exploration Institute of First Bureau of China National Administration of Coal Geology in defending a lawsuit over a breach of contract filed by Zhenxing Group; and representing Fugu County Huineng Coal Mine in an equity transfer dispute against an individual.

In the insolvency space, the firm advised Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China on Peking University Founder Group’s restructuring case. In another case sample, the firm represented Jilin Liyuan Precision Manufacturing in its restructuring case. This case was selected as one of the top ten typical cases of civil and commercial trials in Jilin province in 2020.

China National Trade Financial & Leasing, Hebei Rongsheng Real Estate Development, Hengshi Dachang Technology, Ping An Trust and Shenzhen Vanke Development are key clients.

Yiru Sun, who specialises in security compliance and litigation, joined firm as a senior partner from Anhui Chenyi Law Firm in April 2021.

Client feedback

“They really understand what a client wants. The process of argumentation is rigorous and result oriented.” – Commercial and transactions

“The lawyers of Tiantong Law Firm are able to analyse the best solution for the client, and are willing to take any action to maximise the interests of the client regardless of cost and hard work, which is very trustworthy.” – Commercial and transactions

“The firm has studied the background and theory of the credit insurance policy. During the discussion with our lawyers, we are sure that we are perfectly prepared. They could always answer our questions and deal with our concerns.” – Commercial and transactions

Yulong Cao

“Cao is not only a reliable lawyer, but also an excellent commercial dispute resolution consultant. He is able to make all preparations for the rapid resolution of disputes before they occur. He is a ‘trouble-solver’.”

“Cao is very professional. He is a dedicated lawyer, always trying hard to provide solutions for the company.”

Weihong Chi

“Chi understands the intention and core of the transaction and business very well. He always gives accurate advice on legal issues for us and helps us overcome all difficult matters. Also, he has a good command of team organisation.”

Wanhuida Intellectual Property

Highly reputed for trademark disputes, Wanhuida Intellectual Property is one of the strongest firms in IP disputes. The team boasts nearly 100 lawyers specialised in IP litigation and enforcement with an emphasis on anti-counterfeiting work. Led by IP specialist Gang Bai, the team is active in sectors including consumer goods, e-commerce, luxury goods, machinery, pharmaceuticals as well as travel and leisure. Hui Huang is another key contact.

In one key case, the firm represented German manufacturer Stihl in bringing an incidental civil action during criminal proceedings against the counterfeiter before the Court of Yuyao in Zhejiang province. The case was selected as one of the exemplary IP protection cases by the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Procuratorate, and one of the exemplary IP criminal cases by Yuyao Court.

In another case, the firm represented French luxury fashion house Chanel in an unfair competition suit against a copycat fragrance imitating the brand’s iconic trade dress. The judgment of the first instance was selected as one of the ten exemplary IPR cases in 2020 by Xi’an Intermediate Court.

The firm’s significant clients include Fendi, Lacoste, Martell & Co and Tommy Hilfiger.

In June 2021, the firm hired Zegang (Bruce) Ye as partner from Harnest & Garnert. He heads the firm’s East China litigation practice.

In addition to the firm’s offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Chongqing, it had set up a new office in Ningbo in September 2021, which is the firm’s sixth office.

Client feedback

“Good technically. Very good at communication and budget management. Very responsive and committed.” – Intellectual property

“The firm responds quickly, and their advice is very good (not too long though) in very good English and they handle our cases very well. Since we are a big client, they also inform us about trends. This helps us shape our soft IP strategy.” – Intellectual property

Watson & Band

Watson & Band, one of China’s oldest intellectual property service providers, provides agency and consulting services concerning trademarks, patents and copyrights, as well as enforcement and litigation services, and commercial IP-related legal services. Its industry specialty lies in the fields of chemistry, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, electronics, telecommunications, metallic materials and semiconductors.

Managing partner Jean Yang is based in the firm’s office in Shanghai. She specialises in trademark and copyright applications and litigation concerning anti-counterfeiting. Liming Zhang, Jianguo Huang, Cathy Wu, Joe Liu and Xiaobo He are other key partners.

In one IP dispute, the firm advised a well-known Japanese pneumatic equipment company in an invention patent infringement case against a pneumatic equipment company in Yueqing and a hardware tooling company in Shanghai. This case was selected into the 2020 annual report on IP cases published by the Supreme People’s Court.

In another case, the firm advised World Trade Center Association in a cross-class trademark enforcement action, winning the court’s support for full-amount statutory damages for the infringement.

CT Tech Corp, Shanghai Jindu Construction (Group), Shimadzu Corporation, TOTO and Tristar Products are some of the firm’s clients.

Winston & Strawn

The litigation practice of Winston & Strawn advises clients on commercial disputes including joint venture disputes, shareholders’ disputes and investment treaty disputes. The firm is also active in patent litigation as well as regulatory defence. It has strength in key industries such as energy, financial services, telecommunications, and utilities.

Former US federal prosecutor, Steve Grimes, leads the Asia litigation practice. Other key names include Terence Wong and Gino Cheng who are regarded for their specialisms in international arbitration and IP respectively.

All cases the firm worked on during the research period remain highly confidential. It has been observed that the firm has been busy handling anti-corruption risk assessment, commercial bribery issues, compliance framework, fraud investigations and misconduct related matters. The firm also took on various international commercial arbitration work.

The firm hired Yachiao Chang from Yuanda China Law Offices as partner. Christy Leung was promoted to the partnership.

Withers

Withers’ family and matrimonial practice positions itself as a formidable player in the market with the largest dedicated team in Hong Kong. The team includes specialist accredited Hong Kong lawyers, trained collaborative lawyers and English family law specialists. It has profound experience acting for high net-worth individuals with international trusts and complex corporate assets. The firm also expanded its general litigation and international arbitration practice by hiring experienced partners and teams. Its newly established team covers a wide range of disputes across the construction, commodities, energy, financial services, healthcare and technology industries.

There was a flurry of moves during the research period. The firm hired Joseph Chu and Michael Chik as partners, who joined from Simmons & Simmons and Bird & Bird, respectively. Partner Soo Khim Keoy departed and joined Clifford Chance. In early 2022, family and divorce specialist Rita Ku left firm and established her own eponymous boutique firm, Rita Ku & Solicitors. She was joined shortly after by family and divorce law doyenne Sharon Ser.

In the family and matrimonial space, case highlights include the firm acting for an individual on a ground-breaking LGBT rights case; successfully setting aside two consent summonses signed on divorce settlement; and representing an individual and acting on disputes arising from the issue of 'habitual residence' in the context of the jurisdictional basis for a divorce of a Japanese nationals couple.

Yingke Law Firm

Yingke Law Firm is known for construction engineering and real estate disputes. Key partners include Luhai Lin and Yiming Li. Lin has extensive experience in the formulation of laws and regulations, judicial interpretations and operating guidelines in the fields of construction and real estate. Lin and Li are both very active in contentious-construction matters.

During the research period, the firm had acted on a number of labour disputes. One of the case highlights includes acting for Beijing Public Orange Century Media Technology in a series of labour arbitration cases.

Key clients include Beijing Meigete Technology, Beijing Sengong Food, Shihong Tourism Consulting (Beijing) and Zhonghongxin International Auction.

YuandaWinston

YuandaWinston enjoys a stellar reputation in the government and regulatory space, particularly known for anti-corruption and compliance expertise. Based in Shanghai, the team consistently demonstrates a remarkable track record of acting on complex corporate investigations and shaping internal compliance procedures. It is a go-to firm for various multinational corporations and large Chinese enterprises for high-stake enforcement cases. Apart from regulatory disputes, the firm is also active in general commercial and IP matters.

Key figures include John Huang and Leon Liu who are often sought for high-profile investigations work including FCPA investigations. James Jiang is another partner to note.

In one IP case highlight, the firm represented a well-known American baby products company in an administrative lawsuit in the first instance before the Beijing Intellectual Property Court and successfully retrieved the client’s registered trademark.

The firm hired two new IP partners in 2021, including Jieyun Cai joining from Fangda Partners, and Lynn Cheng, who joined from Unitalen Attorneys at Law. Partner Wendy Wu left firm and joined Baker McKenzie FenXun in March 2021.

Yuanda China Law Firm has a strategic alliance with Winston & Strawn to provide comprehensive services to Chinese and global entities including litigation and transactional matters as well as risk management and compliance support.

Zhong Lun Law Firm

Premium full-service law firm Zhong Lun has a solid track record in handling a wide range of domestic and overseas litigation and arbitration matters. The team houses a highly reputable group of practitioners with expertise spanning a range of industries including banking and financial services, energy, real estate and manufacturing. Prominently active in significant cross-border dispute cases, the firm is also known to have appeared in the largest number of cases before the Supreme People’s Court of China. The firm also provides a top-tier international arbitration service seated across the globe.

Key figures include commercial disputes star Lijun Cao, insolvency lawyer Shengfeng Xu, regulatory expert Gary Gao, international arbitration specialist Huawei Sun, employment focused Carol Zhu and construction lawyer Yueping Zhou. Other notable lawyers include Changyu Fu, Baosheng Zhang and Wei Bao.

In the commercial space, the firm represented WUYIGE Certified Public Accountants in misrepresentation civil suits. This case is China’s first case of a civil compensation dispute over fraudulent issuance of company bonds and the first case applying representative litigation system in securities misrepresentation disputes. In another case, the firm represented Qingdao West Coast Development (Group) in a contract dispute against Beijing Huiju Technology Industry Development.

In construction, the firm represented Nanjing GCL-Gas Thermal Power in a construction contract dispute against a power construction company of China Energy Construction Group. The firm also acted for Zhejiang Kangyu Real Estate in a series of pre-sale contract disputes against an individual and 21 other owners.

In the government and regulatory space, the firm provided comprehensive compliance legal services for Gopher Asset Management, the top private equity funds management under Noah Holdings. This case is the first regulatory supervision case after the promulgation and implementation of the government’s regulations on strengthening the supervision of private investment funds.

In insolvency, the team is advising Nanjing Construction Industry Group, the largest private construction group in Nanjing, and its 24 affiliated companies in their substantive merger and insolvency reorganisation. This case is the first pre-insolvency reorganisation case of a large-scale private enterprise group and one of the largest substantive merger and insolvency reorganisation cases accepted by the Nanjing Intermediate People’s Court.

In international arbitration, the firm represented CPMC Investment Company, a subsidiary of Chinese state-owned food processing holding company COFCO, in two HKIAC arbitration cases against the joint venture in Guangdong province and two affiliates of JDB group in Hong Kong.

Notable clients include China Development Bank, Hubei Road & Bridge Group, Ping An Bank, Shenzhen Feima International Supply Chain, Vale Minerals China and Xinyin Wealth Management.

Client feedback

“Lawyers of the firm are kind, patient and professional. They always provide explicit suggestions which solve the problems sufficiently. Meanwhile, the customer experience of the firm is really good. Whenever our company is in need, we can always count on the lawyer to give timely feedback.” – Commercial and transactions

“This firm is dedicated, earnest and meticulous, and works fast and well.” – Commercial and transactions

“In this case, the firm made a detailed explanation of the limits and value of property preservation through various means of legal visualization, which left a deep impression on us and the court. The firm also actively mobilised its resources to sort out and complete the evidence materials and other work in this case, and implemented the preservation of the properties of all five defendants…Finally, in the enforcement process of this case, we believe that the firm still upholds its spirit of excellence, and has properly completed the enforcement of the property, including the stocks of listed companies and civil aircraft, under the very complicated situation of the properties, and through this it also reached a number of the firsts in Sichuan Province, setting an example for other law firms and companies and courts to enforce similar properties.” – Commercial and transactions

“This case involves complex and professional asset management disputes, covering almost all disputes that fund managers may face in asset management disputes. Zhong Lun Law Firm has established a professional team for financial disputes. In the process of representing us in this case, the firm has demonstrated outstanding professional ability, rich experience and teamwork spirit, and finally helped us obtain a winning judgment in first instance.” – Commercial and transactions

“They developed an excellent strategy, worked tirelessly on it, and delivered amazing results.” – Commercial and transactions

“Zhong Lun Law Firm represented two litigation cases related to partnership disputes. In both litigation cases, the firm assisted us in organising and submitting relevant evidence and lawsuit documents in the fastest and most efficient manner after receiving our presentation of the case. The firm also communicated with us in a timely manner on the basis of independent and rigorous litigation considerations. Because the partnership agreement involves both civil code and partnership law, the firm also conducted litigation visualization work during the preparation and trial of the lawsuit, so that the judge could understand the litigation ideas most intuitively. In particular, in the second case, we sued the court to set aside the arbitration decision, and the judge needed to understand the background of the case and the problems with the decision as quickly as possible, and we believe that the firm did a good job of doing this. In its due diligence service, the firm continues its excellent service quality and enthusiasm. It is able to accomplish all research in a complete, efficient and error-free manner.” – Commercial and transactions

“The case is a loan dispute, but the merits of the case are more difficult. The most valuable security measure in this case is the pledge of equity, but the pledges were made by three Caymanian companies, and the pledged shares were the shares of Hong Kong listed companies. Therefore, it involved more complicated legal application issues, especially the pledge contract explicitly agreed to apply Hong Kong law. By mobilising its internal resources, Zhong Lun Law Firm completed the study of the issues related to Cayman law and Hong Kong law and determined the litigation ideas in a very short period of time, and its business ability was excellent. It is hard for us to imagine that we can find such high-quality service in the Sichuan area.” – Commercial and transactions

“Zhong Lun Law Firm is always on our side when providing our company with legal services whether it is due diligence, financing, or permanent legal services, and always defends our company's interests and suggests all kinds of risks in the process of the project. The firm pays attention to details in the implementation process and offers a high quality of service. What other law firms do not have is the ability to understand our business objectives and strategies based on our years of working with them, and to tailor a complete package of services and litigation strategies. It has a very good structure in terms of seniority; no matter the level, they're very competent in terms of language skills and legal knowledge.” – Commercial and transactions

“The lawyers are very professional and have done a good job. They have safeguarded the interests of our company to the greatest extent.” – Commercial and transactions

“The service provided by the firm is very professional and has solved the problem for us very well.” – Construction

“Disputes concerning construction contracts are highly professional and tedious, involving a large number of engineering technology, engineering management and financial issues. The lawyers demonstrated their professionalism in legal and engineering management well.” – Construction

“This law firm has a professional team in the construction area, which can provide professional legal advice regarding our company's different situations and make us as winners in a set of legal disputes and litigations.” – Construction

“The lawyers of the firm are very professional. They have rich experience in securities regulatory cases. They are very responsible to this case. They sorted out the complicated facts and found an effective response plan. Through their perfect work, I am the only person against which the CSRC changed the finding and penalty in this case.” – Government and regulatory

“They do well in all the aspects of intellectual property rights and disputes resolution.” – Intellectual property

“The firm is very experienced in IP issues in China, and always can deliver good outcomes with high quality.” – Intellectual property

“Excellent knowledge base in specialist areas, as well as litigation skills.” – Intellectual property

“Zhong Lun Law Firm has always been able to complete the relevant defence and fulfil our needs as soon as possible when new circumstances arise in our complex and intricate case, and we are very satisfied with its performance in each procedure. Although the case is still in the execution stage, the firm has handled all the obstacles with high quality, and we believe that the case will be smooth in the future due to the firm’s efforts.” – International arbitration

“The law firm provided professional advice and different options for us to choose from the beginning of the engagement. The follow up service and action are very efficient and clear too.” – International arbitration

“Very client-driven and business-driven.” – International arbitration

“Extremely professional service. Always patient to my case. The result was satisfying.” – International arbitration

“The case involves whether the parties could claim overpayment of the project when they have already made cumulative monthly progress settlement in the engineering case. In this case, to clarify the current situation of the payment, Zhong Lun Law Firm confirmed the actual amount of construction work by sorting through the construction drawings and changing the visas of both parties in the engineering case. The case also involved complex engineering appraisal issues and arbitration proceeding issues, and all of these problems were well resolved by the firm, and it has effectively prevented the case from being unduly prolonged.” – International arbitration

“Rich experience, smooth communication, positive and responsible working attitude.” – International arbitration

“They are excellent in every task. Partners and lawyers plan and arrange in an orderly manner, actively promote the progress of the project, have a strong sense of responsibility and professional business level; the efficient cooperation and complementary advantages of the team members have laid a solid foundation for the smooth implementation of the project base. In addition, the firm’s internal offices work closely together to meet our legal service needs across China, as well as at home and abroad.” – Real estate

Xinfan Chen

“I am very satisfied with Chen’s services. He successfully helped me to cope with the owner's schedule claim in this case, and formulated a negotiation plan and represented me in the settlement negotiation with the owner, which ultimately helped me to create great benefits. In fact, he has also been providing legal services for our company, and his professional ability and reputation are obvious to all. We can say that as long as he helps us to intervene in disputes, there is a great possibility of success. We trust Zhong Lun Law Firm very much.”

Yonghong Wang

“Professional competencies.”

Fangrong Wu

“Highly professional with good communication skills.”

Kun Wu

“The lawyer has safeguarded the interests of our company to the greatest extent, with great professional skills and virtue.”

Yiheng Xu

“When providing legal services for this case, this attorney was always able to closely follow the progress of the court and the defendant's movement, provide timely feedback to our company, and propose timely response plans and legal analysis. During the proceedings, the attorney was well prepared for the trial and was able to take into account all the key points of the trial to convince the judge to accept our arguments.”

Mingcheng Yan

“He follows up our case in very detail.  Response time was quick and provide clear work and innovative solution to us.”

Baosheng Zhang

“In response to the complex and cutting-edge legal issues in this case, Attorney Zhang and his team conducted meticulous facts combing and in-depth legal research, formed effective defence ideas, and performed well in court trials. Attorney Zhang and his team have the ability to quickly grasp core issues, and have demonstrated superb professional skills, rich experience, efficient response capabilities and a high sense of responsibility. They helped us successfully obtain the winning judgment in first instance and resolved the crisis for the company.”

“Zhang is one of the best lawyer in securities regulatory area in China. He has rich experience and could grasp the core question. He is creative and put up some critical suggestions in response to this case. The satisfactory results of this case are inseparable from his law firm’s work.”

Shengjie Zhang

“Deep understanding of the law, accurate grasp of the market.”

“Well controlled in all the paces of the dispute resolutions and helped us succeed in all cases.”

Zhong Yin Law Firm

Zhong Yin Law Firm has extensive experience in bankruptcy reorganisation and liquidation. It is particularly skilled at handling dissolution and liquidation, bankruptcy liquidation, reorganisation, reconciliation, enterprise restructuring, debt restructuring and resettlement of employees of state-owned enterprises and relevant legal business.

Partner Xinjian Yuan is the director of the firm’s bankruptcy department. Other key partners include Zhenyu Liu, Zetao Wu and Penghe Yan.

Key insolvency highlights include representing Hongye Chemical Industry Group and other 28 enterprises in their merger and bankruptcy reorganisation cases; representing Shandong Baisheng Biotechnology in its pre-reforming case; and acting on behalf of Beijing Tianrui Xiaguang Technology Development in its bankruptcy liquidation case.

Shandong Yucheng Huaxin Investment. Shenji Group Kunming Machine Tool, Tangshan Fuqiang Real Estate Development, Zhonghang Shixin Energy Saving Technology (Beijing) are some of firm’s key clients.