Hong Kong SAR

Boase Cohen & Collins is widely distinguished for its capability in family and matrimonial and white-collar crime. It has an experienced and versatile team that handles all aspects of matrimonial law including divorce and separation, childcare and custody, pre- and post-nuptial agreements and surrogacy and parental orders. Its criminal law team is best known for handling cases involving fraud, financial irregularities, SFC investigations, anti-corruption and other general corporate crimes.

Co-founder Colin Cohen has vast experience in commercial litigation, securities regulatory issues and complex corporate and financial crimes. Usha Casewell has a long-standing reputation in the family law space.

Clyde & Co is recognised for its work in international arbitration. 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 case, the firm is acting for a Big Four accountancy firm in defending a HK$2.5 billion ($318 million) 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.

In May 2022, the firm lost partner Anthony Woo to Hauzen.

Client feedback

“The handling partner is experienced in the aviation industry. The team provides efficient and professional advice.” – Commercial and transactions

“The scope of their coverage advice is sufficient to cover issues concerned. They can provide immediate and accurate advice/responses on various enquiries.” – Commercial and transactions

Peter Coles

“He is experienced in the aviation industry and provides useful advice in aviation litigation cases.”

“Familiar with aviation.”

Matthew Lam

“He cares for his clients and handles cases skilfully.”

Jessica Lee

“She always provides immediate and accurate responses.”

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 very 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.

One IP case sees the firm’s IP team advising a US pharmaceuticals company on performing multiple freedom-to-operate (FTO) analysis and investigations into competitor companies and their relevant patent estates in China. The firm is also advising a vitamins and nutrition beauty manufacturer on trademark infringement in China.

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 collided with the terminal facilities, causing $100 million in damages. In another case, the firm is acting for a disponent owner in relation to disputes arising from a voyage charter for non-payment of freight, issuing of bills of lading, alleged deviation and arrestment in Kenya.

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

Jonathan Chu

“He has in-depth market knowledge and is easy to work with.”

Boutique firm Cocking & Co provides a full spectrum of construction-related legal services in Hong Kong and internationally. The firm assists clients across the entire project life cycle, including environmental impact assessment study, procurement methods, contract administration and dispute resolution. The firm frequently instructs contractors, public and private employers, insurers and subcontractors.

Founding partner Ian Cocking is recognised as one of the leading construction specialists in Hong Kong, with more than 30 years’ experience. Gilbert Kwok is highly experienced in construction disputes across arbitration, litigation and mediation. Dennis Wong handles various complex commercial disputes.

Construction case highlights include advising a construction company in a High Court litigation concerning a dispute over a property development in Hong Kong; advising a PRC private client on an Rmb20 million ($2.9 million) international arbitration case and High Court proceedings against a group of Hong Kong companies; and acting for Long Faith Engineering in a High Court action against Siemens Logistics for breach of contract in relation to the baggage handling system.

Key clients include Chubb Hong Kong, Jones Lang LaSalle, Keyman One Development, Projexasia, Republic by Dimensions and The Bank of East Asia.

Client feedback

“The firm demonstrates a high level of industry knowledge, skill and judgment, as well as approachability.” – Construction

Gilbert Kwok

“Legally knowledgeable and skilful; also experienced with big cases and difficult clients.”

Davis Polk & Wardwell is one of the strongest corporate law firms in the region, so it is 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 and insurance companies, as well as trading exchanges before regulators – including the HKEX, SFC, SEC, DOJ and Treasury Department. The team also offers 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 has continued 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 in derivative and opt-out claims that have also been filed. The firm advised Luckin Coffee on a $175 million settlement of the federal class action, which received preliminary approval from the court in October 2021 and final approval from the Federal Court in July 2022. This is the first-ever US securities class action settlement negotiated in the context of a Cayman provisional liquidation.

The firm’s recent client roster includes Asia Cement Corporation, DouYu, Lizhi, Sunlands Technology Group, X Financial and Zhangmen Education.

One of Hong Kong’s premier litigation firms, Deacons maintains its coveted dominance in the city’s dispute resolution community, a position it has held for decades. The firm maintains top tier in almost all categories, including commercial disputes, IP, insolvency and private client. It comprises a long-established client base across a wide range of industries, including blue-chip businesses, governments, banks and tech giants. The firm’s growing family law practice team is experienced in handling a wide range of family-related issues, including financial disputes and children matters, maintenance, and financial provisions for special needs children and cohabitees.

Key players include commercial litigators Joseph Kwan, Robert Clark and Peter So alongside IP disputes star Charmaine Koo and labour specialist Elsie Chan.

In commercial and transactions, the firm acted for the second son of the late Henry Fok, a prominent figure in Hong Kong and mainland China, in substantial and high-profile actions brought by three of his siblings involving one of Fok’s estates located in China. In another ongoing commercial dispute, the firm is acting for an individual in a multi-billion shareholders dispute, which generated numerous sets of proceedings in Hong Kong.

In intellectual property, the firm is acting for Alibaba in IP infringement proceedings commenced in Hong Kong by a cosmetics supplier against three Alibaba companies – Zhejiang Tmall Network, Zhejiang Tmall Technology, and Taobao China Holding – and two mainland China third-party sellers on the www.tmall.com and www.taobao.com platform. This is the first Hong Kong case dealing with online platform operator’s liability.

In another IP dispute, the firm obtained a preliminary injunction on behalf of a global leader in genomics against a China-based company in patent infringement proceedings relating to genetic sequencing and pre-natal genetic testing technologies.

The firm’s recent client roster includes Beijing Runfeng Capital Management, Hummingbird Music, Jacob & Co and Progetto Jewellery.

Client feedback

“Deacons has provided timely legal advice on each critical step during the litigation process. They are also able to get senior counsels’ clarifications swiftly for the formulation of litigation strategy.” – Commercial and transactions

“Very comprehensive analysis and recommendations. Good drafting of terms and policies.” – Intellectual property

Charmaine Koo

“Charmaine is very helpful and professional. She is very innovative and knowledgeable in Web3 and IP matters and is able to provide very comprehensive and business-focused solutions.”

Paul Kwan

“Paul is responsive and is reachable even outside business hours. He is able to deal with a client’s instructions by giving good advice on pros and cons. He is also able to negotiate with senior counsel for flexibility on fees.”

Peter So

“Responsive, available, practical and cost effective.”

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 is known for its multi-jurisdictional work, 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 in-depth 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.

In an ongoing commercial and transactions matter, the firm is acting for a Hong Kong-based investment management company and fund in a claim of more than $350 million for breach of guarantee and indemnity. Another case sees the firm acting for the former director and officer of a Hong Kong-listed company in a commercial dispute concerning a financial arrangement and assurance made during a hostile takeover and claim for unjust enrichment.

In IP, the firm is acting for one of the world’s leading luggage manufacturers and retailers in a number of enforcement and litigation matters, including responding to an allegation of breach of contract in Hong Kong and advising on copyright ownership issues involved in the same dispute.

The rest of the clients the firm has advised on during the research period remain confidential.

Client feedback

“Dorsey and Whitney is a professional legal service firm and a trustworthy, people-focused, and friendly organisation. Many of us have benefited a great deal from our long-term relationship. The firm has been consistently committed to diversity and collaboration – they often work with clients and other entities to offer programmes that build a bridge among individuals, the law firm, and corporations. The firm is also working on matters and resolving clients’ concerns ‘quietly’, which is greatly appreciated. We found their fees are very reasonable compared with other peer firms, and there are no hidden costs or ‘surprises’. It is a very cost-effective firm.” – International arbitration

Sirui (Ray) Liu

“Ray Liu is known as an expert legal counsel and adviser on the most multifaceted and challenging legal and business matters in China, the US and the EU. Ray and his colleagues in China and the US are more than capable of wading through complex matters to focus on solutions for their clients. Beyond being experts in international disputes and corporate matters, Ray and his colleague’ deep experience allows them to provide real-world advice that balances commercial sensibilities and risk. They regularly demonstrate an ability to communicate effectively with all stakeholders, articulating sophisticated legal and business matters in a manner that is accessible and understandable for non-expert clients.”

Prominent PRC law firm Fangda Partners opened its office in Hong Kong in 2012. Supported by the firm’s leading practices in corporate and M&A, private equity and capital markets, its dispute resolution team in Hong Kong advises on complex commercial disputes, particularly in respect of cross-border investments and cases involving entities from various jurisdictions.

Partner Peter Yuen is the head of the firm’s dispute resolution practice. His practice covers international and regional arbitration, China-related commercial arbitration and commercial litigation. Other key figures are Andrew Skudder, Olga Boltenko and Howard Chan.

In one commercial dispute, the firm is advising Hong Kong-listed telecommunications powerhouse Hong Kong Telecommunications (HKT) in defence of court proceedings commenced by a local data centre operator for alleged outstanding payments from the use of the data centre facilities and obtaining injunctive relief for HKT. Another dispute sees the firm representing SAIF Partners, a leading China-based private equity fund, in proceedings against a former partner over breaches of a separation agreement. The firm is also representing a group of individuals with beneficial interest in the Uni-Royal group of companies in a cross-border dispute to restrain nefarious corporate conduct in the distribution of about $50 million out of a Hong Kong company in breach of a contractual arrangement and without authority.

Fullerton Healthcare Group, Holborn Rose, LIXIL Corporation, Perfect Growth, Sodrugestvo Group and State Frontier are some of the firm’s litigation clients.

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

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.

Entering the Hong Kong chapter for the first time this year, PRC firm Haiwen & Partners is particularly known for its expertise in commercial and transactions. It is also well versed in arbitration, bankruptcy reorganisation, IP litigation, anti-monopoly and anti-unfair competition litigation. Its clientele covers industries such as finance, manufacturing, real estate, retail, energy, media, medicine, technology and transportation.

Hong Kong-based partner Edward Liu is a key figure. He has substantial experience in international arbitration and commercial litigation. He is also well known for his shipping expertise, with considerable experience in dry shipping, including claims under charterparties, bills of lading, long-term contracts of affreightment, sale of second-hand vessels and marine insurance.

In an ongoing commercial dispute, the firm is acting for the main contractor of a residential development project and commencing arbitration against the project employer for extension of time and variation orders. The firm is also advising two individuals – an amateur artwork collector and the owner of a painting – in court actions against an auction house for breach of duties and breaches of agreement.

Details of other cases the firm has advised on during the research period remain confidential.

Edward Liu

“Very professional and convincing; good at litigation and disputes resolution.”

Premium Hong Kong independent law firm Howse Williams offers an extensive scope of litigation expertise. The firm handles complex multi-jurisdictional commercial disputes involving shareholders, joint ventures, financial and corporate regulatory, clinical negligence, employment, family and probate, and insurance. The firm is also known for professional indemnity and shipping disputes.

Senior partner Chris Howse is a key name for commercial disputes, insurance and shipping matters. Kevin So is recognised for his expertise in commercial disputes and contentious private client work. Other key members include family and matrimonial disputes stars Linda Heathfield and Stacey Devoy and employment focused Michael Withington.

Jonathan Mok Legal is an independent boutique law firm focusing on family disputes and private wealth-related matters for Hong Kong tycoons and ultra-high-net-worth families. The firm is particularly known for advising high-net-worth clients in disputes arising from divorce, custody and financial claims, as well as inheritance.

The firm is led by principal partner Jonathan Mok, who focuses on high-profile family disputes as well as criminal defence, regulatory compliance, and debt recovery litigation.

Owing to the sensitive nature of its work, all cases submitted are highly confidential.

The firm ceased practice in November 2022 and has merged with Karas So in association with Mishcon de Reya, a disputes and investigations practice focusing on matters arising from corporate collapses, audit and other professional negligence, shareholder disputes and commercial fraud. It will also build a private wealth practice, leveraging expertise from Mishcon de Reya’s highly respected private offering.

Counsel Elaine Sum departed to Haldanes in August 2022.

Client feedback

“They provide reasonable advice to clients and fight for their best interests.” – Family and matrimonial

Carmen Cheng

“She is very experienced in her area of practice. She can provide the most suitable advice to the client.”

Jonathan Mok

“Very responsive and clear in explaining various options. Willing to listen to the clients’ needs.”

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.”

LC Lawyers, a member of the EY global network of law firms, specialises in dispute resolution and compliance and investigations. Its team is led by Kareena Teh, who is recognised for her strong commercial litigation experience. The firm is best known for its solid strategies, effective advocacy and commercial and pragmatic approach in resolving complex cross-border disputes. The firm is also active in mainland China-related disputes and enforcement actions.

Case highlights in the past 12 months include representing Daimler in opposing an application for an inquiry into damages allegedly suffered because of an interim injunction; acting for Justice Without Borders and a migrant domestic worker in claims for compensation for unfair dismissal; and representing Chiho Environmental Group and its operating subsidiary in Hong Kong, defending claims relating to convertible bonds and pre-listing loan for payment of trade debts.

The rest of the clients the firm has advised on remain confidential.

Kareena Teh

“She is meticulous. She thinks ahead and considers all aspects of the case.”

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.”

Oldham Li & Nie is active in commercial and transaction-related disputes. The firm is also known for its work in IP and family and probate disputes. The firm frequently acts for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, serial entrepreneurs and corporates. Key names in the firm include commercial litigation partner Richard Healy and family and probate specialist Stephen Peaker.

Commercial dispute cases include representing Natural Seasoning International (HK) in a shareholder dispute for breach of agreement; acting for a prominent Hong Kong distressed asset fund in committal proceedings brought by a claimant in relation to an injunction in aid of the arbitration and a receivership order; and representing two minority shareholders in seeking and rectification of an agreed shareholding in a group of companies located in Hong Kong, PRC and the US.

Key clients include Alphalink Communication, Borqs Technologies, Jacobs China and Tokić.

Client feedback

“The firm is concise, prompt, honest and provides accurate information for a client to make a decision.” – Commercial and transactions

Richard Healy

“Mr Healy is a very thought-provoking and direct barrister. He provides information that I can use immediately to make decisions.”

Founded by Gregory Payne, Payne Clermont Velasco is a litigation-focused boutique established in Hong Kong. The firm serves local and international clients and has strength in civil and commercial litigation, criminal, family and matrimonial disputes. Other than Payne, Adam Clermont and Jaerey Velasco are key members of the firm.

The details of the cases the firm worked on during the research period remain confidential, but the firm has been handling primarily commercial disputes as well as family and matrimonial proceedings in the past 12 months.

Client feedback

“Responds very well and swiftly. They prepared the required documentation very fast.” – Family and matrimonial

“Most of the work they carried out for me was done in an excellent manner as far as my limited knowledge of this field can tell. I was extremely pleased with the result.” – White-collar crime

Jaerey Velasco

“She is an all-round high achiever.”

“Very down to earth, knowledgeable and practical.”

Rita Ku & Ser generated an immediate buzz upon its formation a year ago. The firm has some of the best-known family law talent in Hong Kong, covering all areas of family and matrimonial law, including divorce suit, jurisdictional, financial and custody disputes. The team also possesses expertise in death and incapacity matters and family legacy, as well as estate and succession planning, and can provide holistic solutions to clients.

Former Withers partners Rita Ku and Sharon Ser lead the firm’s family and matrimonial practice. They are both highly regarded family law veterans with years of experience in advising high-net-worth individuals and families, entrepreneurs and professionals.

The firm advised an internationally known high-profile socialite to strike out and dismiss a claim against her on the alleged misuse of funds of HK$13.7million on ground of, inter alia, Henderson abuse of process.

Among ongoing family disputes, the team is acting for a husband in divorce proceedings concerning ancillary relief, seeking a 50:50 division of all matrimonial assets, excluding his post-separation income and accruals. This divorce case involving matrimonial assets is worth a staggering HK$1 billion. In Hong Kong, there have been only a handful of reported ancillary relief cases involving matrimonial assets of this scale.

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.

The firm acted on a range of white-collar crime cases involving investigations, fraud, anti-corruption, compliance and sanctions, although all cases provided during the research period remain highly confidential. The firm also represented several cross-border general commercial litigation and arbitration matters such as shareholders’ disputes, joint venture disputes and contractual disputes.

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 is acting for BDO in defending against 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.

Shearman & Sterling is best known 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.

Work highlights in the past 12 months include acting on global and regional anti-corruption compliance and investigations matters for clients in the technology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, energy, oil and gas and automobile sectors.

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.”

Shipping specialist Tang & Co operates in association with Singapore international law firm Helmsman. The firm’s Hong Kong office specialises in shipping and commodities disputes and transactional work, insolvency, shareholders disputes and general commercial litigation. Managing partner Chong Jun Tang is a key figure.

Among shipping disputes, the firm is advising Index-Cool Marine & Industry in an action to recover payment for ship-repair services rendered to the cruise ship Ocean Dream. This ship-repair claim is being heard before the Hong Kong District Court. In another case, the firm is assisting Glory Future Shipping (HK) with preparation of loan and mortgage documentations to finance the ongoing costs of salvage for vessel Glory Future.

The firm hired Una Khng as director from the Singapore Supreme Court in October 2022.

Key clients include Elim Spring Marine, PT Indobaruna Bulk Transport, Rudder Shipbroker and Star Harbor International Travel Company.

With more than 30 years’ experience, Vivien Chan & Co has built a strong reputation in general disputes and intellectual property. The firm is frequently seen working with in-house counsel of multinational companies as well as high-net-worth individuals. Senior partner Vivien Chan oversees the practice. Partner Owen Tse is a key contact for arbitration and construction matters. For IP disputes, Anna Mae Koo is a well-regarded practitioner.

Case highlights include advising a leading European fashion company and its shareholders in defending a claim for transfer and licensing of the trademark portfolio in China and monetary claim exceeding Rmb400 million ($58 million); advising a leading subsea power equipment manufacturer on potential arbitration against a Chinese state-owned oil engineering company for a dispute over an equipment purchase agreement; and acting for a famous French fashion house on its trademark prosecution and brand protection in greater China, including Hong Kong.

The rest of the clients the firm has advised on during the research period remain confidential.

Boutique law firm William KW Leung & Co is active in corporate litigation, including shareholders disputes, derivative actions, restructuring, and cross-border proceedings. The firm’s IP team handles all aspects of trademark, design, patent and domain name registration, licensing and distribution rights, including computer contracts, IP consultancy, and infringement matters. William KW Leung is a key contact.

Case highlights include acting for a corporate on a contractual dispute over investment agreement; representing a Hong Kong Company in making an application of evidence preservation to the PRC Court via Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC); advising a group of individuals on a Mareva injunction commenced by investor-shareholders against the managing shareholders in aid of arbitration proceedings; and acting for a Russian corporate on a claim of damages arising out of a contractual dispute.

Client feedback

“The firm provided efficient and complete instructions, which facilitate an efficient discharge of my responsibilities.” – Commercial and transactions

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.

Working closely with its 12 offices in China, the Hong Kong office of Zhong Lun Law Firm handles high-value and complex commercial cases, with a specific interest in cross-border disputes with a strong PRC and Hong Kong element and disputes arising along countries taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative. The litigation powerhouse hosts a stable of litigators who have proved adept in a diverse spectrum of business disputes in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong-based partner Frederick Hui specialises in criminal law, white-collar crime, corporate crime and regulatory investigations. Gilbert Leung and Jonathan Wong are other key partners to note.

Work highlights include advising one of the largest property developers in China on its debt restructuring and winding-up proceedings; and advising the subsidiary of a Hong Kong-listed company in issuing two winding-up petitions against two companies in the opponent group,

CMI Financial Holding Company, FTI Consulting (Hong Kong) and Hongkong Zhengrong Energy Conservation Investment are some of the firm’s key clients.

Client feedback

“The firm possesses a high level of client management, solid legal skills and great commercial sense.” – Commercial and transactions