Founded in 1977, Gallant is a full-service law firm in Hong Kong with 40 lawyers. The firm offers services covering various aspects of commercial, corporate and property-related activities both contentious and non-contentious. The firm is also recognised for its banking and finance strength. A key figure to note is co-managing partner Philip Wong, who leads the firm’s commercial department. The firm welcomed Andrew Chin as a partner for dispute resolution and restructuring related work in 2023.
Client feedback
“The firm is the most well-known independent local firm in Hong Kong with many experienced solicitors. They provide high-quality legal services with a professional attitude and offer comprehensive legal services to meet our needs and solve our issues. They are professional, responsive and attentive. Whenever we have any doubts or legal assistance demands, they always solve our problems efficiently and explain to us in the simplest and the clearest way. Their lawyers are bilingual in Chinese and English. They treasure the relationship built with us.” – Banking and finance
“They followed through all claims and defences for us meticulously and explained well all the pros and cons of every response we considered. They were very professional in seeking and handling medical and barristers' advice and reports. Finally, they helped settle the case peacefully through mediation.” – Construction
“Gallant conducted extensive research and looked into various options in handling the case.” –Dispute resolution
“In conducting litigation proceedings for us, Gallant gives reliable, timely and professional advice to us consistently. We have been using Gallant's legal services for more than 20 years and in those 20 years, it has always given us unfailing legal support.” – Dispute resolution
“They listen to client's views and offer advice appropriate to situations.” – Real estate
“Thoughtful advice, speedy actions and competitive quote.”– Restructuring and insolvency
Frederich Li
“Fred is always willing to explore options beyond client’s expectation of the case and is very diligent. He keeps the client well informed and is always on top of the case.”
“Responsive and helpful advice.”
Annie Wong
“Good knowledge and can provide comprehensive analysis and quick response.”
Emily Chick
“Emily has excellent legal knowledge and extensive experience in a wide range of commercial disputes. She always provides thorough case analysis, timely advice and practical solutions, not only in legal perspective but also covering business practicality. She always understands what her clients need and provides excellent customer service.”
“Emily is our highly reliable litigator and problem-solver. In handling our various litigation proceedings for over 20 years, Emily has been consistently meticulous and devoted to sorting out the best approaches for us to conduct our proceedings. Emily's work has always been of high quality and timely, such that we could always rely on her. With Emily's help, we could save a lot of our work and time in handling the proceedings.”
“Ms. Emily Chick is a professional, experienced, nice, reliable, hard-working lawyer. She handles clients' cases with a careful attitude and deep insights. When we were undergoing the trademark litigation process, she provided us with very clear, sensible, professional and comprehensive opinions for the client, taking care of us in every step of progress, and helping us to make wise, correct and reasonable decisions.”
Work highlights
Advised the Hong Kong branch of a PRC national commercial bank on a sustainability-linked loan facility of up to HK$700 million ($89 million) to a Hong Kong subsidiary of a listed leading international conglomerate.
Advised a Macau bank on an acquisition financing of up to HK$450 million to an exempted limited partnership established in the Cayman Islands.
Advised the Macau branch of a PRC bank on an inter-financial institutional loan facility of up to RMB1 billion ($137 million) or its HKD equivalent to a Hong Kong subsidiary of a PRC state-owned bank.
Boutique law firm Charltons specialises in corporate finance. The firm is experienced in representing domestic and international clients on cross-border transactions, IPOs, securities and funds as well as cryptocurrency matters. Julia Charlton, Clinton Morrow and Calvin Ho are key partners at the firm specialising in corporate, finance and capital markets.
Client feedback
“Commercially aware and good mix of finance, corporate and regulatory expertise, very responsive.” – Banking and finance
“Knowledgeable and attentive.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very responsive and professional. Julia is extremely knowledgeable.” – Investment funds
Julia Charlton
“Very clever.”
“Knowledgeable, attentive to client needs, excellent reputation.”
“Julia has great depth of experience in the HK market, which she combines very effectively with wide expertise across corporate, corporate finance, banking and regulatory matters. She is able to bring her expertise to bear in a focused and commercially aware manner.”
“Very knowledgeable, very professional and very responsive.”
Work highlights
Currently advising the sponsor on the proposed listing of Chengdu Xingyuechenshi Culture Development on GEM or the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong.
Currently advising Halcyon Capital and Eddid Capital on the proposed listing of a telecommunication and wireless network service provider offering network support services, network engineering and maintenance services, ICT integration services and sales of network support software in the PRC on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong.
Key clients
Alliance Capital Partners, Contel Technology Company, Hanson Robotics, Wing On Company International.
A new entry in asialaw this year, Eric Chow & Co. in Association with Commerce & Finance Law Offices covers a wide range of practice in the financial markets. It consistently represents leading international and Chinese financial institutions as underwriters and sponsors in connection with equity transactions. Managing partner Eric Chow is the key contact of the firm. He specialises in corporate finance with a strong expertise in sectors including pharmaceuticals and life sciences and technology and telecommunications. Other notable practitioners in the firm include partner Priscilla Lee and Brandon Chow. The firm welcomed Chirsty Leung as a dispute resolution partner in June 2022.
Client feedback
“Commercial perspectives and top-notch service.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm is efficient and is often able to provide pragmatic resolutions towards matters.” – Corporate and M&A
“Understand the business objectives of the client and maintain good communications.” – Corporate and M&A
Brandon Chow
“Timely responses.”
Eric Chow
“Good leadership, handles client well and provides clear direction to his team.”
Christy Leung
“Christy is an experienced litigation lawyer and is able to handle litigation matters in a commercial and practical way.”
Work highlights
Advised Pu’er Lancang Ancient Tea on its proposed listing and IPO on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Advised Firstar Holdings Group on its proposed listing and IPO on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Key clients
CCB International, China Everbright, CITIC Securities.
PRC law firm Fangda Partners opened its office in Hong Kong in 2012. The Hong Kong office advises on the full range of commercial matters. 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.
Client feedback
“The services provided are professional for the company to make timely and adequate decision.” – Capital markets
“Very responsive, commercial. They have good understanding of the key issues and work hard to resolve them in practical ways.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful.” – Regulatory
Raymond Chan
“Chan is very responsive, and always thinking about resolving problems for clients. Chan is also pragmatic and flexible on billing.”
Christina Fu
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful and thorough.”
“Christina has always been attentive and thoughtful to client's needs. She will try every possible way to help solve problems and provide prompt advice and recommendations.”
Work highlights
Advised Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank on its sustainable development bond issuance.
Acted as Hong Kong counsel to Shenwan Hongyuan Hong Kong in relation to the listing by way of introduction of Huaxin Cement.
Advising Profit Win R&D Tech Holdings on its proposed listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Key clients
CPE Advisors, Crédit Agricole, Deutsche Bank, Chaoju Eye Care Holdings, Jinxin Fertility Group, WuXi Biologics.
LC Lawyers is the Hong Kong member firm of EY Law. The firm has extensive experience representing private equity and venture capital firms on their investments and operations in Asia. Managing partner Rossana Chu actively advises on corporate restructuring, wealth management, insolvency and debt restructuring, venture capital investments, as well as on legal and regulatory compliance matters in relation to Hong Kong-listed companies. Kareena Teh, a dispute resolution partner, left the firm this year.
Client feedback
“They are responsive and responsible. The partner of LC Lawyers, Rossana Chu, is very experienced and has strong technical skills.” – Corporate and M&A
Rossana Chu
“Rossana is a highly seasoned corporate finance partner. She is extremely responsive and helpful, and she provides high-quality legal services at a reasonable cost.”
“We have been working with Rossana for more than six years. She is always responsive and responsible. She has great commercial senses and can provide advice based on the client's needs. She is very experienced with strong technical skill.”
Work highlights
Advised Alliance International on the $86 million placing of new shares and issuance of new shares to identified investors.
Advised Fullshare Holdings on the $38 million placing of new shares representing 15% of the issued share capital of the company
Advised Majestic’s IPO and application for admission to trading on the Aquis Stock Exchange of the UK.
Key clients
Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings, Fullshare Holdings, Windmill Group.
Stevenson Wong & Co provides corporate legal services supporting clients in commercial law in Hong Kong and China. The firm’s corporate finance practice was established through its association with PRC firm, AllBright Law Offices. A key figure to note is partner Hank Lo, who heads the firm’s corporate finance practice. He specialises in capital markets, corporate finance and M&A.
Work highlights
Advised Zunyi Road and Bridge Construction on its offshore USD bonds issuance.
Acted as the Hong Kong legal advisers to Zhong Yang Financial Group on its successful listing on Nasdaq.
Acted for Guizhou Shuanglong Airport Development and Investment as its international counsel in its successful listing and issuance of $18.2 million 7.0% credit enhanced bonds.
Boutique law firm Charltons specialises in corporate finance. The firm is experienced in representing domestic and international clients on cross-border transactions, IPOs, securities and funds as well as cryptocurrency matters. Julia Charlton, Clinton Morrow and Calvin Ho are key partners at the firm specialising in corporate, finance and capital markets.
Client feedback
“Commercially aware and good mix of finance, corporate and regulatory expertise, very responsive.” – Banking and finance
“Knowledgeable and attentive.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very responsive and professional. Julia is extremely knowledgeable.” – Investment funds
Julia Charlton
“Very clever.”
“Knowledgeable, attentive to client needs, excellent reputation.”
“Julia has great depth of experience in the HK market, which she combines very effectively with wide expertise across corporate, corporate finance, banking and regulatory matters. She is able to bring her expertise to bear in a focused and commercially aware manner.”
“Very knowledgeable, very professional and very responsive.”
Work highlights
Currently advising Liquid Capital Markets on its sale of the entire registered capital of Liquid Capital Software Consulting (Chengdu) to Mako Group Holdings.
Advising NSP on possible reorganisation options and the validity of a shareholders agreement in connection with a joint venture legal entity from a Hong Kong law perspective.
Advised Net Technologies on its restructuring involving a reduction in capital and distribution of assets in preparation for its proposed deregistration from the Companies Registry.
Key clients
Dah Sing Bank, Galileo Platforms, Good Taste, International Underwriting Administration.
A new entry in asialaw this year, Eric Chow & Co. in Association with Commerce & Finance Law Offices covers a wide range of practice in the financial markets. It consistently represents leading international and Chinese financial institutions as underwriters and sponsors in connection with equity transactions. Managing partner Eric Chow is the key contact of the firm. He specialises in corporate finance with a strong expertise in sectors including pharmaceuticals and life sciences and technology and telecommunications. Other notable practitioners in the firm include partner Priscilla Lee and Brandon Chow. The firm welcomed Chirsty Leung as a dispute resolution partner in June 2022.
Client feedback
“Commercial perspectives and top-notch service.” – Corporate and M&A
“The firm is efficient and is often able to provide pragmatic resolutions towards matters.” – Corporate and M&A
“Understand the business objectives of the client and maintain good communications.” – Corporate and M&A
Brandon Chow
“Timely responses.”
Eric Chow
“Good leadership, handles client well and provides clear direction to his team.”
Christy Leung
“Christy is an experienced litigation lawyer and is able to handle litigation matters in a commercial and practical way.”
Work highlights
Advised Beijing State-owned Capital Operation and Management Company on its acquisition of 22.3% equity interests in Shoucheng Holdings.
Advised International Alliance Financial Leasing in an acquisition of 70% of interests in Yantai Nanshan University, from Nanshan Holdings for a consideration of Rmb566 million ($77.8 million), which constitutes both an extreme transaction and a connected transaction under the Hong Kong Listing Rules.
Advised Hubei Port (Hong Kong) International as the offeror in the HK$1.98 billion ($252 million) acquisition of 74.81% of the total issued share capital of China Infrastructure & Logistics Group.
PRC law firm Fangda Partners opened its office in Hong Kong in 2012. The Hong Kong office advises on the full range of commercial matters. 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.
Client feedback
“The services provided are professional for the company to make timely and adequate decision.” – Capital markets
“Very responsive, commercial. They have good understanding of the key issues and work hard to resolve them in practical ways.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful.” – Regulatory
Raymond Chan
“Chan is very responsive, and always thinking about resolving problems for clients. Chan is also pragmatic and flexible on billing.”
Christina Fu
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful and thorough.”
“Christina has always been attentive and thoughtful to client's needs. She will try every possible way to help solve problems and provide prompt advice and recommendations.”
Work highlights
Represented Apollo Future Mobility Group in its reverse takeover of the EV business owned and operated by WM Motor Holdings.
Assisting China Huarong International Holdings, China Huarong (Macau) International Company Limited and Huarong International Financial Holdings in their proposed disposal of 32 portfolios of distressed assets.
Represented CTG Development in its HK$130 million ($16.6 million) acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Kai Fu Property Services (Hong Kong) Company.
Key clients
Alibaba, Boyu Capital, China Resources Property, Kingsoft Cloud Holdings, Primavera Capital, Softbank Vision Fund.
Founded in 1977, Gallant is a full-service law firm in Hong Kong with 40 lawyers. The firm offers services covering various aspects of commercial, corporate and property-related activities both contentious and non-contentious. The firm is also recognised for its banking and finance strength. A key figure to note is co-managing partner Philip Wong, who leads the firm’s commercial department. The firm welcomed Andrew Chin as a partner for dispute resolution and restructuring related work in 2023.
Client feedback
“The firm is the most well-known independent local firm in Hong Kong with many experienced solicitors. They provide high-quality legal services with a professional attitude and offer comprehensive legal services to meet our needs and solve our issues. They are professional, responsive and attentive. Whenever we have any doubts or legal assistance demands, they always solve our problems efficiently and explain to us in the simplest and the clearest way. Their lawyers are bilingual in Chinese and English. They treasure the relationship built with us.” – Banking and finance
“They followed through all claims and defences for us meticulously and explained well all the pros and cons of every response we considered. They were very professional in seeking and handling medical and barristers' advice and reports. Finally, they helped settle the case peacefully through mediation.” – Construction
“Gallant conducted extensive research and looked into various options in handling the case.” –Dispute resolution
“In conducting litigation proceedings for us, Gallant gives reliable, timely and professional advice to us consistently. We have been using Gallant's legal services for more than 20 years and in those 20 years, it has always given us unfailing legal support.” – Dispute resolution
“They listen to client's views and offer advice appropriate to situations.” – Real estate
“Thoughtful advice, speedy actions and competitive quote.”– Restructuring and insolvency
Frederich Li
“Fred is always willing to explore options beyond client’s expectation of the case and is very diligent. He keeps the client well informed and is always on top of the case.”
“Responsive and helpful advice.”
Annie Wong
“Good knowledge and can provide comprehensive analysis and quick response.”
Emily Chick
“Emily has excellent legal knowledge and extensive experience in a wide range of commercial disputes. She always provides thorough case analysis, timely advice and practical solutions, not only in legal perspective but also covering business practicality. She always understands what her clients need and provides excellent customer service.”
“Emily is our highly reliable litigator and problem-solver. In handling our various litigation proceedings for over 20 years, Emily has been consistently meticulous and devoted to sorting out the best approaches for us to conduct our proceedings. Emily's work has always been of high quality and timely, such that we could always rely on her. With Emily's help, we could save a lot of our work and time in handling the proceedings.”
“Ms. Emily Chick is a professional, experienced, nice, reliable, hard-working lawyer. She handles clients' cases with a careful attitude and deep insights. When we were undergoing the trademark litigation process, she provided us with very clear, sensible, professional and comprehensive opinions for the client, taking care of us in every step of progress, and helping us to make wise, correct and reasonable decisions.”
Advising a state-owned enterprise in its potential rescue of another PRC state-owned enterprise group involving a Hong Kong listed company and licensed corporations.
Advised a listed company on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong in their proposed disposal of 49% of their total issued shares.
Founded in 2018 by former Oldham Li & Nie partners Adam Hugill and Alfred Ip, Hugill & Ip is best known for its expertise in corporate and M&A and labour and employment. The firm is experienced in advising local, regional and global organisations on public and private M&A transactions and restructuring and regularly acts for clients in connection with complex legal, regulatory and transactional issues. Its corporate and commercial team is headed by partners Christopher Hooley, Gary Wong and Jade Tang. Co-founding partner Hugill acts for corporate and private individuals on all aspects of employment law. The firm welcomed Fiona Chan as a partner for dispute resolution in 2023.
Client feedback
“Excellent follow-up and professional.” – Dispute resolution
“Generally responsive and willing to make an effort to suit your particular needs.” – Dispute resolution
“They are professional and focus on strategies that improve client outcomes. Their advice is direct and clear, and they handle clients exceptionally well.” – Private client
“Efficient. Knows the needs of clients and effectively structures a plan to achieve the key objectives for the client. In so doing, Hugill & Ip takes very detailed client instructions which allow for effective assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the case.” – Private client
“I was very impressed with the level of service I received from Hugill & Ip. They were extremely knowledgeable, responsive and professional, and helped me navigate some complex probate issues with ease. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.” – Private client
Jade Tang
“Responsive and willing to actively manage cost.”
Alfred Ip
“Alfred is probably the most knowledgeable probate and estates solicitor in the jurisdiction. He has a strategic and aggressive mind that allows him to solve the unsolvable. He understands business better than any of the other family lawyers and can arrange an effective team to execute. He has unparalleled technical ability and experience across the different areas of private client law that make him incomparable.”
“Alfred is effective, persuasive and clear in logic and analysis.”
“Excellent working attitude.”
“Alfred Ip is an exceptional solicitor with a wealth of experience in a variety of legal areas. He is extremely knowledgeable and provides clear and concise advice to his clients. His professionalism and integrity are second to none, and he is dedicated to providing the best possible service to his clients. Alfred's ability to speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English fluently is a huge asset, and his empathy and understanding of legal issues surrounding the LGBT community and marriage equality set him apart. He has been recognised by several legal publications for his accomplishments, which is a testament to his expertise and dedication. I would highly recommend Alfred Ip to anyone seeking legal advice in Hong Kong.”
“It is no exaggeration to say that Alfred Ip is the pre-eminent practitioner in the area of private client, trusts, and contentious probate work in Hong Kong. Many of his cases have cross-border elements.”
Work highlights
Advising New Saxon on sale of equity to Hengtong, part of Huawei Group.
Advised Mizuho Bank on its purchase of around 5% shares in Silvrr Technology.
Advised J-Star on its acquisition of 100% equity in SFBI.
Key clients
AEON Credit Service (Asia) Company, Central Venue Management, Chinney Alliance Engineering, Hon Kwok Land Investment Company, Rubicon Media.
LC Lawyers is the Hong Kong member firm of EY Law. The firm has extensive experience representing private equity and venture capital firms on their investments and operations in Asia. Managing partner Rossana Chu actively advises on corporate restructuring, wealth management, insolvency and debt restructuring, venture capital investments, as well as on legal and regulatory compliance matters in relation to Hong Kong-listed companies. Kareena Teh, a dispute resolution partner, left the firm this year.
Client feedback
“They are responsive and responsible. The partner of LC Lawyers, Rossana Chu, is very experienced and has strong technical skills.” – Corporate and M&A
Rossana Chu
“Rossana is a highly seasoned corporate finance partner. She is extremely responsive and helpful, and she provides high-quality legal services at a reasonable cost.”
“We have been working with Rossana for more than six years. She is always responsive and responsible. She has great commercial senses and can provide advice based on the client's needs. She is very experienced with strong technical skill.”
Work highlights
Advising Li Ning on the $152 million acquisition of a Shanghai property from a state-owned company – Shanghai Chenhong Real Estate Development.
Advised Fullshare Holdings on the $630 million disposal of 43% equity interest in Nanjing High Speed Gear Manufacturing.
Advised Yunnan Water on the $43 million disposal of its entire equity interests in the Target company.
Advised Parkson Retail Group on the $41 million disposal of the properties in Qingdao City.
Key clients
Bisu Technology Group International, Fullshare Holdings, Sun Entertainment Group.
Another debut firm on asialaw this year, Ravenscroft & Schmierer, founded in 1985 by mediator and notary public David Ravenscroft, finds its niche in cross border corporate and M&A-related work. It covers a wide range of sectors including finance, technology, supply chain and real estate. Stefan Schmierer, the firm’s managing partner, is well versed in commercial, tax and dispute resolution matters, the latter being led by Anna Lau. The firm strengthened its family office law offering with the joining of Samantha Bradley. It is also gearing up for Hong Kong’s virtual asset push with the hiring of Louie Lee, a former associate director of the Securities and Futures Commission.
Work highlights
Reviewed and revised the general terms and conditions used worldwide by the holding group for a leading international auto maker from the perspective of Hong Kong law.
Advised the client on internal restructuring of a group of companies engaged in the business of cryptocurrency and the operation of exchanges for the trading of cryptocurrency.
Stevenson Wong & Co provides corporate legal services supporting clients in commercial law in Hong Kong and China. The firm’s corporate finance practice was established through its association with PRC firm, AllBright Law Offices. A key figure to note is partner Hank Lo, who heads the firm’s corporate finance practice. He specialises in capital markets, corporate finance and M&A.
Work highlights
Acted for International Alliance as one of its Hong Kong legal advisers in relation to its acquisition of 70% equity interest in Yantai Nanshan University.
Advised Real Hero Ventures on its acquisition of 48.98% of the total issued share capital of 1957 & Co.
Founded in 2004, corporate and litigation law firm Timothy Loh is known for its expertise in the banking and financial services sector. The firm is experienced in representing clients in cases before the regulators and legislative bodies. Managing partner Timothy Loh has particular expertise in M&A involving regulated financial institutions.
Work highlights
Advising a leading US-based middle-market private equity firm on Hong Kong issues arising from its acquisition of a majority stake in the target business.
Advised an SFC-licensed investment advisory and asset management firm on Hong Kong law issues in connection with the client’s participation as a member of a syndicate investing in a HKEX-listed company engaged in the manufacture, sales and service of technology accessories. Other members of the syndicate included three MENA-based sovereign wealth funds.
Woo Kwan Lee & Lo is a venerable law firm in Hong Kong. The firm was founded by four named solicitors in 1973. Over the years, it has expanded into a strong team with more than 70 lawyers including 32 partners, 15 consultants and 33 assistant solicitors, providing a complete range of legal services for large commercial entities as well as individuals through its three major departments (corporate and commercial, conveyancing, and litigation) and its PRC division.
Client feedback
“The partners of the firm are responsive and very professional with expertise in M&A, regulatory compliance, real estate and leasing, and are able to provide practical and timely legal solutions to transactions with high time pressure.” – Corporate and M&A
“WKLL exhibited comprehensive knowledge on Hong Kong laws and regulations and ensured the timely compliance of the company with applicable regulatory requirements. Furthermore, WKLL prepared the legal documentation in an efficient manner and demonstrated flexibility taking into account the interests of different stakeholders as well as the commercial interest of the company. In view of our long-term cooperation, WKLL is well aware of the company’s core values and business objectives. Thus, they are able to provide the company with feasible plans to achieve desired outcomes. The above makes WKLL stand out from other firms.” – Corporate and M&A
Carmelo Lee
“Mr. Lee exhibited comprehensive knowledge of the local laws and regulations and extensive experience in corporate and commercial M&A transactions. He demonstrated professionalism in advising the company of legal risks and approval requirements from Hong Kong law perspectives and was able to assist the company in ensuring the compliance of applicable regulations. Moreover, he was capable of timely providing the company with practical advice and feasible plans to achieve desirable legal outcomes in the face of an ever-changing commercial environment.”
Kelvin Tam
“Kelvin is experienced in corporate laws and the regulatory framework of REITs, able to provide a one-stop-shop solution. He is a good client manager, able to communicate well with clients. He is also reachable outside office hours and responsive to questions on an urgent basis.”
Work highlights
Acted for CK Asset Holdings in relation to the disposal by its subsidiaries of equity interest in companies holding the development known as “21 Borrett Road” situated at No. 21 Borrett Road, Hong Kong.
Acted for EcoCeres in relation to an equity investment by Bain Capital Private Equity.
PRC law firm Fangda Partners opened its office in Hong Kong in 2012. The Hong Kong office advises on the full range of commercial matters. 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.
Client feedback
“The services provided are professional for the company to make timely and adequate decision.” – Capital markets
“Very responsive, commercial. They have good understanding of the key issues and work hard to resolve them in practical ways.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful.” – Regulatory
Raymond Chan
“Chan is very responsive, and always thinking about resolving problems for clients. Chan is also pragmatic and flexible on billing.”
Christina Fu
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful and thorough.”
“Christina has always been attentive and thoughtful to client's needs. She will try every possible way to help solve problems and provide prompt advice and recommendations.”
Work highlights
Represented SAIF Partners, the China-based private equity fund, in its proceedings brought by a former partner of SAIF Partners over breach of agreement.
Advising HKT in defence of court proceedings commenced by a local data centre operator for alleged outstanding payments in respect of services rendered to HKT for its use of the data centre facilities and associated managed services.
Represents the CC Group and SF Group in a multitude of claims of an aggregate value of more than HK$3 billion issued by affiliates or subsidiaries of Chinese real estate developer companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and an international financial institution with an established presence in Hong Kong and China.
Key clients
China Create Capital, Holborn Rose, Perfect Growth, State Frontier.
Gall is a dispute resolution boutique with five dedicated disputes partners, one consultant and six associates specialising across all forms of litigation, arbitration and mediation. Senior partner Nick Gall leads the firm’s litigation practice. He has extensive experience in dealing with multi-jurisdictional fraud and international asset tracing litigation.
Client feedback
“Professional and efficient.” – Dispute resolution
“Gall is reliable, dedicated and provides a quick turnaround time. It is good value for money.” – Dispute resolution
“They give good, sound advice to clients rather than repeat what the client wants to hear. They ‘play fair’, which many in this line of work do not. They keep the welfare of the children involved in the case as a priority, instead of fighting for arrangements which are clearly against the interests of the children. They do not resort to bickering with the other side.” – Private clients
“Gall's family law team are very experienced. Their advice is always on point and highly strategic. They produce impressive work and get results for their clients.” – Private clients
“In-depth analyses of situations, pragmatic advice.”– Restructuring and insolvency
Kajal Aswani
“Kajal has an excellent strategic mind, she is always thinking ahead and putting her clients in the best possible position.”
Evelyn Chan
“Very responsive and professional.”
Caroline McNally
“Gives good clear advice, whether it is what the client wants to hear or not.”
Chris Wong
“Chris is always very helpful and keen to help. I recommended him to a friend of mine who needed assistance on litigation, and he was very generous with his time even when he was not formally engaged.”
Work highlights
Acting for Lui Che Woo, the seventh richest man in Hong Kong, in relation to his mis-selling claims against JP Morgan and another asset management fund.
Acts for Softbank in applications for recognition of letters of request granted by the Delaware Courts seeking document production and testimony from Hony Capital, Gaw Capital, Trustbridge and certain individuals.
Key clients
Agricultural Bank of China, China Shandong Hi-Speed Capital, VIG Partners.
Founded in 1977, Gallant is a full-service law firm in Hong Kong with 40 lawyers. The firm offers services covering various aspects of commercial, corporate and property-related activities both contentious and non-contentious. The firm is also recognised for its banking and finance strength. A key figure to note is co-managing partner Philip Wong, who leads the firm’s commercial department. The firm welcomed Andrew Chin as a partner for dispute resolution and restructuring related work in 2023.
Client feedback
“The firm is the most well-known independent local firm in Hong Kong with many experienced solicitors. They provide high-quality legal services with a professional attitude and offer comprehensive legal services to meet our needs and solve our issues. They are professional, responsive and attentive. Whenever we have any doubts or legal assistance demands, they always solve our problems efficiently and explain to us in the simplest and the clearest way. Their lawyers are bilingual in Chinese and English. They treasure the relationship built with us.” – Banking and finance
“They followed through all claims and defences for us meticulously and explained well all the pros and cons of every response we considered. They were very professional in seeking and handling medical and barristers' advice and reports. Finally, they helped settle the case peacefully through mediation.” – Construction
“Gallant conducted extensive research and looked into various options in handling the case.” –Dispute resolution
“In conducting litigation proceedings for us, Gallant gives reliable, timely and professional advice to us consistently. We have been using Gallant's legal services for more than 20 years and in those 20 years, it has always given us unfailing legal support.” – Dispute resolution
“They listen to client's views and offer advice appropriate to situations.” – Real estate
“Thoughtful advice, speedy actions and competitive quote.”– Restructuring and insolvency
Frederich Li
“Fred is always willing to explore options beyond client’s expectation of the case and is very diligent. He keeps the client well informed and is always on top of the case.”
“Responsive and helpful advice.”
Annie Wong
“Good knowledge and can provide comprehensive analysis and quick response.”
Emily Chick
“Emily has excellent legal knowledge and extensive experience in a wide range of commercial disputes. She always provides thorough case analysis, timely advice and practical solutions, not only in legal perspective but also covering business practicality. She always understands what her clients need and provides excellent customer service.”
“Emily is our highly reliable litigator and problem-solver. In handling our various litigation proceedings for over 20 years, Emily has been consistently meticulous and devoted to sorting out the best approaches for us to conduct our proceedings. Emily's work has always been of high quality and timely, such that we could always rely on her. With Emily's help, we could save a lot of our work and time in handling the proceedings.”
“Ms. Emily Chick is a professional, experienced, nice, reliable, hard-working lawyer. She handles clients' cases with a careful attitude and deep insights. When we were undergoing the trademark litigation process, she provided us with very clear, sensible, professional and comprehensive opinions for the client, taking care of us in every step of progress, and helping us to make wise, correct and reasonable decisions.”
Work highlights
Advising a Hong Kong company on the cross-border recovery of a loan advanced to a US company.
Advising a client in a shareholder dispute to compete for control over a Hong Kong private company which is a substantial shareholder of a Hong Kong listco.
Advising a Hong Kong money lender (being a member of a group of companies held under family trust) on the recovery of mortgage loan advanced to a beneficiary of the family trust.
Founded in 2018 by former Oldham Li & Nie partners Adam Hugill and Alfred Ip, Hugill & Ip is best known for its expertise in corporate and M&A and labour and employment. The firm is experienced in advising local, regional and global organisations on public and private M&A transactions and restructuring and regularly acts for clients in connection with complex legal, regulatory and transactional issues. Its corporate and commercial team is headed by partners Christopher Hooley, Gary Wong and Jade Tang. Co-founding partner Hugill acts for corporate and private individuals on all aspects of employment law. The firm welcomed Fiona Chan as a partner for dispute resolution in 2023.
Client feedback
“Excellent follow-up and professional.” – Dispute resolution
“Generally responsive and willing to make an effort to suit your particular needs.” – Dispute resolution
“They are professional and focus on strategies that improve client outcomes. Their advice is direct and clear, and they handle clients exceptionally well.” – Private client
“Efficient. Knows the needs of clients and effectively structures a plan to achieve the key objectives for the client. In so doing, Hugill & Ip takes very detailed client instructions which allow for effective assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the case.” – Private client
“I was very impressed with the level of service I received from Hugill & Ip. They were extremely knowledgeable, responsive and professional, and helped me navigate some complex probate issues with ease. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.” – Private client
Jade Tang
“Responsive and willing to actively manage cost.”
Alfred Ip
“Alfred is probably the most knowledgeable probate and estates solicitor in the jurisdiction. He has a strategic and aggressive mind that allows him to solve the unsolvable. He understands business better than any of the other family lawyers and can arrange an effective team to execute. He has unparalleled technical ability and experience across the different areas of private client law that make him incomparable.”
“Alfred is effective, persuasive and clear in logic and analysis.”
“Excellent working attitude.”
“Alfred Ip is an exceptional solicitor with a wealth of experience in a variety of legal areas. He is extremely knowledgeable and provides clear and concise advice to his clients. His professionalism and integrity are second to none, and he is dedicated to providing the best possible service to his clients. Alfred's ability to speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English fluently is a huge asset, and his empathy and understanding of legal issues surrounding the LGBT community and marriage equality set him apart. He has been recognised by several legal publications for his accomplishments, which is a testament to his expertise and dedication. I would highly recommend Alfred Ip to anyone seeking legal advice in Hong Kong.”
“It is no exaggeration to say that Alfred Ip is the pre-eminent practitioner in the area of private client, trusts, and contentious probate work in Hong Kong. Many of his cases have cross-border elements.”
Work highlights
Acted for the plaintiffs Eternal Wealth Holdings, GPL Shipping and Brian Yeung Ming Tat to claim against the defendants for the breach of service contracts and contract in relation to the purchase of one vessel.
Act for the defendant Yung Woon Kwai of Chun Yip Plastics and Chun Yip Industrial Holding in a High Court action in relation to one share sale and purchase agreement and the second respondent in the winding-up proceedings.
Key clients
BRW Group, Cornwall Agency Company
Full-service law firm Oldham Li & Nie is particularly known for its dispute resolution practice. Gordon Oldham, Richard Healy and Anna Chan are main partners for dispute resolution, while Tracy Yip is a key partner for corporate and M&A. Oldham’s practice covers corporate finance, joint ventures and real estate structuring as well as commercial litigation. It often deals with high-net-worth clients and finance aspects of matrimonial disputes.
Client feedback
“Provides practical advice which solves the issue in hand efficiently.” – Corporate and M&A
“OLN could always provide timely response and relevant advice to our questions. Very helpful.” – Corporate and M&A
“Easy to work with, professional and competent.” – Dispute resolution
“It does well on developing creative, non-conventional solutions that are not textbook-like, for the clients to explore new opportunities and insights to resolving issues presented. They are also self-driven in finding ways to help assist the client, whether it is designed or incidental.” – Intellectual property
“Professionalism. Good communication and timely feedback and professional advice.” – Labour and employment
Anna Chan
“Very helpful and responsive. Could always provide good advice on a timely basis.”
Eunice Chiu
“Easy to work with as part of a legal team of solicitors and barristers, professional and competent.”
Richard Poon
“Sympathy, supportive and proactive.”
Vera Sung
“Very willing to listen to new ideas and attempts to understand business context prior to proposing solutions upfront.”
Simon Wong
“Patient with queries and very thorough with the discharge of his work.”
Work highlights
Represented Taihei Dengyo Kaisha, which is one of the largest engineering services providers listed in Japan and fell victim to a sophisticated imposter fraud, in obtaining the injunction order against the scammer.
Representing Asia Pacific Investment Partners in an HKIAC-administered arbitration in which the claimants seek damages for an alleged breach of a document called a “deed” which would do away with previous loan agreements between the parties but only after the deed has been satisfactorily performed.
Key clients
Borqs Technologies, Natural Seasoning International, Tokić.
Wilkinson & Grist is best known for its expertise in dispute resolution, intellectual property and restructuring and insolvency, where the firm maintains its ‘Outstanding’ berth. The firm’s dispute resolution practice is led by partner Ivan Chu. He has substantial experience in a wide variety of civil litigation ranging from insolvency, contractual disputes, construction matters, contentious probate and shareholders disputes to disciplinary matters. Keith Ho and Florence Chan are other key figures for dispute resolution and private client matters.
Client feedback
“On-time delivery of services and advice.” – Dispute resolution
Paul Liu
“On-time delivery.”
Work highlights
Represented Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation in successfully resisting the judicial review proceedings and contest an appeal from the decision of the Court of First Instance dismissing the judicial review.
Woo Kwan Lee & Lo is a venerable law firm in Hong Kong. The firm was founded by four named solicitors in 1973. Over the years, it has expanded into a strong team with more than 70 lawyers including 32 partners, 15 consultants and 33 assistant solicitors, providing a complete range of legal services for large commercial entities as well as individuals through its three major departments (corporate and commercial, conveyancing, and litigation) and its PRC division.
Client feedback
“The partners of the firm are responsive and very professional with expertise in M&A, regulatory compliance, real estate and leasing, and are able to provide practical and timely legal solutions to transactions with high time pressure.” – Corporate and M&A
“WKLL exhibited comprehensive knowledge on Hong Kong laws and regulations and ensured the timely compliance of the company with applicable regulatory requirements. Furthermore, WKLL prepared the legal documentation in an efficient manner and demonstrated flexibility taking into account the interests of different stakeholders as well as the commercial interest of the company. In view of our long-term cooperation, WKLL is well aware of the company’s core values and business objectives. Thus, they are able to provide the company with feasible plans to achieve desired outcomes. The above makes WKLL stand out from other firms.” – Corporate and M&A
Carmelo Lee
“Mr. Lee exhibited comprehensive knowledge of the local laws and regulations and extensive experience in corporate and commercial M&A transactions. He demonstrated professionalism in advising the company of legal risks and approval requirements from Hong Kong law perspectives and was able to assist the company in ensuring the compliance of applicable regulations. Moreover, he was capable of timely providing the company with practical advice and feasible plans to achieve desirable legal outcomes in the face of an ever-changing commercial environment.”
Kelvin Tam
“Kelvin is experienced in corporate laws and the regulatory framework of REITs, able to provide a one-stop-shop solution. He is a good client manager, able to communicate well with clients. He is also reachable outside office hours and responsive to questions on an urgent basis.”
Work highlights
Acting for two ex-directors of China Shanshui Cement Group in a dispute in which the company claims against the clients (among other ex-directors) for alleged breach of fiduciary duties owed to the company as well as alleged conspiracy with other co-defendants (as ex-directors and shareholders respectively) with intention to harm or injure the company.
Acting for the Competition Commission in an enforcement action against three textbook publishers and an individual at the Competition Tribunal for alleged price fixing, market sharing and/or bid-rigging behaviours in breach of the First Conduct Rule under the Competition Ordinance.
Zhong Lun Law Firm’s practice in Hong Kong collaborates smoothly with its China-based lawyers as an integrated team to handle China-related matters, advising on commercial legal proceedings that take place collectively in the China and Hong Kong courts. The firm is the exclusive Hong Kong member of TerraLex, which is a global network of over 155 leading independent law firms with more than 19,000 lawyers in 100 countries. Its litigation and dispute resolution team in Hong Kong is recognised for handling high-value and complex commercial disputes with a specific interest in China-related matters, cross-border disputes and disputes arising from participation in the Belt and Road initiative. Partners Frederick Hui, Dorothy Siron, Gilbert Leung and Mark Bedford are key figures of the firm.
Client feedback
“Zhong Lun's greatest strength is their capability to advise on a wide range of complex cross-border matters including wills, trusts, securities, matrimonial, tax and information exchange matters. Their ability to provide a one-stop-shop service as well as innovative yet pragmatic advice is highly valued.”– Private client
“Professional, knowledgeable and easy to work with – the cases they deal with are particularly interesting and complex with many issues at play.” – Private client
“Prompt and good advice.” – Real estate
Chloe Leung
“I highly recommend Chloe Leung. She is responsive, diligent and client-centric. She is always willing to provide guidance and share her knowledge even when the case is only at a preliminary stage – a great pleasure to work with!”
“Chloe is proactive, knowledgeable and approachable. She is quick to respond and provides strategic and innovative solutions to legal problems. One of the finest private client advisers in town!”
“Risk-aware, reliable and efficient.”
“A very brilliant, competent and dedicated lawyer who always has her client's best interests in mind.”
Clifford Ng
“Clifford Ng as the head of the team is a well-known market leader with excellent reputation in the private client field.”
Clifford Ng and Chloe Leung
“The partners Clifford Ng and Chloe Leung are excellent private client advisers who always think in the best interests of their clients. They are able to provide holistic solutions and I have no hesitation to recommend them to my clients.”
Work highlights
Acting for Kaisa Group Holdings and Chang Ye Investment Company for an interim Mareva injunction in aid of proceedings commenced before the Supreme Court of the State of New York County of New York.
Acting for more than 10 companies founded by a tycoon and philanthropist, the late Dr. Henry Fok Ying-tung in a series of litigation proceedings brought by the family members of Dr. Fok.
Key clients
China Asia Group (HK), FTI Consulting (Hong Kong), Gold Brilliant Investment, Hongkong Zhengrong Energy Conservation Investment, Seeky International.
Christine M Koo & Ip has a long history of solid insurance practice in Hong Kong. Its insurance practice ranges from advising on policy terms of a broad range of insurance policies to defending insurance companies against claims brought under all types of insurance policies. Principle partner Christine Koo has over 30 years of experience gained from government and private sectors in Hong Kong and overseas, as well as from working in-house for an international insurance corporation.
Work highlights
Advising a PRC insurance group on the setup of an insurance subsidiary in Hong Kong to comply with the regulatory requirements of the Insurance Authority of Hong Kong.
Appointed by the Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation to review life insurance policies and to advise on whether the life insurance policies can be accepted as additional collateral under the reverse mortgage programme in addition to the mortgagor’s properties.
Key clients
Actuarial Society of Hong Kong, Insurance Institute of Hong Kong.
Founded in 1977, Gallant is a full-service law firm in Hong Kong with 40 lawyers. The firm offers services covering various aspects of commercial, corporate and property-related activities both contentious and non-contentious. The firm is also recognised for its banking and finance strength. A key figure to note is co-managing partner Philip Wong, who leads the firm’s commercial department. The firm welcomed Andrew Chin as a partner for dispute resolution and restructuring related work in 2023.
Client feedback
“The firm is the most well-known independent local firm in Hong Kong with many experienced solicitors. They provide high-quality legal services with a professional attitude and offer comprehensive legal services to meet our needs and solve our issues. They are professional, responsive and attentive. Whenever we have any doubts or legal assistance demands, they always solve our problems efficiently and explain to us in the simplest and the clearest way. Their lawyers are bilingual in Chinese and English. They treasure the relationship built with us.” – Banking and finance
“They followed through all claims and defences for us meticulously and explained well all the pros and cons of every response we considered. They were very professional in seeking and handling medical and barristers' advice and reports. Finally, they helped settle the case peacefully through mediation.” – Construction
“Gallant conducted extensive research and looked into various options in handling the case.” –Dispute resolution
“In conducting litigation proceedings for us, Gallant gives reliable, timely and professional advice to us consistently. We have been using Gallant's legal services for more than 20 years and in those 20 years, it has always given us unfailing legal support.” – Dispute resolution
“They listen to client's views and offer advice appropriate to situations.” – Real estate
“Thoughtful advice, speedy actions and competitive quote.”– Restructuring and insolvency
Frederich Li
“Fred is always willing to explore options beyond client’s expectation of the case and is very diligent. He keeps the client well informed and is always on top of the case.”
“Responsive and helpful advice.”
Annie Wong
“Good knowledge and can provide comprehensive analysis and quick response.”
Emily Chick
“Emily has excellent legal knowledge and extensive experience in a wide range of commercial disputes. She always provides thorough case analysis, timely advice and practical solutions, not only in legal perspective but also covering business practicality. She always understands what her clients need and provides excellent customer service.”
“Emily is our highly reliable litigator and problem-solver. In handling our various litigation proceedings for over 20 years, Emily has been consistently meticulous and devoted to sorting out the best approaches for us to conduct our proceedings. Emily's work has always been of high quality and timely, such that we could always rely on her. With Emily's help, we could save a lot of our work and time in handling the proceedings.”
“Ms. Emily Chick is a professional, experienced, nice, reliable, hard-working lawyer. She handles clients' cases with a careful attitude and deep insights. When we were undergoing the trademark litigation process, she provided us with very clear, sensible, professional and comprehensive opinions for the client, taking care of us in every step of progress, and helping us to make wise, correct and reasonable decisions.”
Work highlights
Representing the plaintiff, a famous property development, investment and management company in Hong Kong operating a high-end shopping mall with online shopping services, in a High Court action against a major online shopping mall operator for trademark infringement and passing-off.
Advising and acting for a parallel importer of electrical appliances against claims of trademark infringement, passing-off and copyright infringement by a European electrical appliance manufacturer.
Boutique law firm Charltons specialises in corporate finance. The firm is experienced in representing domestic and international clients on cross-border transactions, IPOs, securities and funds as well as cryptocurrency matters. Julia Charlton, Clinton Morrow and Calvin Ho are key partners at the firm specialising in corporate, finance and capital markets.
Client feedback
“Commercially aware and good mix of finance, corporate and regulatory expertise, very responsive.” – Banking and finance
“Knowledgeable and attentive.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very responsive and professional. Julia is extremely knowledgeable.” – Investment funds
Julia Charlton
“Very clever.”
“Knowledgeable, attentive to client needs, excellent reputation.”
“Julia has great depth of experience in the HK market, which she combines very effectively with wide expertise across corporate, corporate finance, banking and regulatory matters. She is able to bring her expertise to bear in a focused and commercially aware manner.”
“Very knowledgeable, very professional and very responsive.”
Work highlights
Advised Oceanus Asia Opportunity Fund on the change of the fund administrator and related matters.
Acted for Victory Asset Management as the proposed investment manager in respect of establishing and launching VAM Global Master Fund OFC and a sub-fund VAM Global Multi Asset Investment Fund.
Advised Oceanus Asia Opportunity Fund LP on the change of sub-advisor for a Cayman Islands exempted limited partnership fund.
Key clients
Caelus Asset Management, LongRiver Investment Partners, Seres Asset Management
Gall is a dispute resolution boutique with five dedicated disputes partners, one consultant and six associates specialising across all forms of litigation, arbitration and mediation. Senior partner Nick Gall leads the firm’s litigation practice. He has extensive experience in dealing with multi-jurisdictional fraud and international asset tracing litigation.
Client feedback
“Professional and efficient.” – Dispute resolution
“Gall is reliable, dedicated and provides a quick turnaround time. It is good value for money.” – Dispute resolution
“They give good, sound advice to clients rather than repeat what the client wants to hear. They ‘play fair’, which many in this line of work do not. They keep the welfare of the children involved in the case as a priority, instead of fighting for arrangements which are clearly against the interests of the children. They do not resort to bickering with the other side.” – Private clients
“Gall's family law team are very experienced. Their advice is always on point and highly strategic. They produce impressive work and get results for their clients.” – Private clients
“In-depth analyses of situations, pragmatic advice.”– Restructuring and insolvency
Kajal Aswani
“Kajal has an excellent strategic mind, she is always thinking ahead and putting her clients in the best possible position.”
Evelyn Chan
“Very responsive and professional.”
Caroline McNally
“Gives good clear advice, whether it is what the client wants to hear or not.”
Chris Wong
“Chris is always very helpful and keen to help. I recommended him to a friend of mine who needed assistance on litigation, and he was very generous with his time even when he was not formally engaged.”
Work highlights
Representing the Employees Compensation Assistance Fund Board, a statutory body established to manage the Employees Compensation Assistance Fund in accordance with the Employees Compensation Assistance Ordinance, Cap. 365 to contest quantum in this personal injury action where the plaintiff sustained severe injuries in an industrial accident.
Representing a statutory authority in statutory intervention of high-value personal injuries cases involving disputes on insurance policy coverage.
Advising a publicly funded university on the postponement of reappointment and termination of employment of its teaching staff during the Covid-19 pandemic and on the recovery of staff quarters and car parking space allocated to the teaching staff upon termination of employment.
Founded in 2018 by former Oldham Li & Nie partners Adam Hugill and Alfred Ip, Hugill & Ip is best known for its expertise in corporate and M&A and labour and employment. The firm is experienced in advising local, regional and global organisations on public and private M&A transactions and restructuring and regularly acts for clients in connection with complex legal, regulatory and transactional issues. Its corporate and commercial team is headed by partners Christopher Hooley, Gary Wong and Jade Tang. Co-founding partner Hugill acts for corporate and private individuals on all aspects of employment law. The firm welcomed Fiona Chan as a partner for dispute resolution in 2023.
Client feedback
“Excellent follow-up and professional.” – Dispute resolution
“Generally responsive and willing to make an effort to suit your particular needs.” – Dispute resolution
“They are professional and focus on strategies that improve client outcomes. Their advice is direct and clear, and they handle clients exceptionally well.” – Private client
“Efficient. Knows the needs of clients and effectively structures a plan to achieve the key objectives for the client. In so doing, Hugill & Ip takes very detailed client instructions which allow for effective assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the case.” – Private client
“I was very impressed with the level of service I received from Hugill & Ip. They were extremely knowledgeable, responsive and professional, and helped me navigate some complex probate issues with ease. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.” – Private client
Jade Tang
“Responsive and willing to actively manage cost.”
Alfred Ip
“Alfred is probably the most knowledgeable probate and estates solicitor in the jurisdiction. He has a strategic and aggressive mind that allows him to solve the unsolvable. He understands business better than any of the other family lawyers and can arrange an effective team to execute. He has unparalleled technical ability and experience across the different areas of private client law that make him incomparable.”
“Alfred is effective, persuasive and clear in logic and analysis.”
“Excellent working attitude.”
“Alfred Ip is an exceptional solicitor with a wealth of experience in a variety of legal areas. He is extremely knowledgeable and provides clear and concise advice to his clients. His professionalism and integrity are second to none, and he is dedicated to providing the best possible service to his clients. Alfred's ability to speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English fluently is a huge asset, and his empathy and understanding of legal issues surrounding the LGBT community and marriage equality set him apart. He has been recognised by several legal publications for his accomplishments, which is a testament to his expertise and dedication. I would highly recommend Alfred Ip to anyone seeking legal advice in Hong Kong.”
“It is no exaggeration to say that Alfred Ip is the pre-eminent practitioner in the area of private client, trusts, and contentious probate work in Hong Kong. Many of his cases have cross-border elements.”
Work highlights
Advising Stuart Andrew Taylor in respect of claims commenced against him for breach of contract in the Labour Tribunal. Subsequently acting for him in respect of claims and counterclaim once the matter was transferred to the High Court.’
Advised former traders of Citigroup’s cash equities desk in a dispute in connection with wrongful termination and unlawful forfeiture of deferred compensation.
Full-service law firm Oldham Li & Nie is particularly known for its dispute resolution practice. Gordon Oldham, Richard Healy and Anna Chan are main partners for dispute resolution, while Tracy Yip is a key partner for corporate and M&A. Oldham’s practice covers corporate finance, joint ventures and real estate structuring as well as commercial litigation. It often deals with high-net-worth clients and finance aspects of matrimonial disputes.
Client feedback
“Provides practical advice which solves the issue in hand efficiently.” – Corporate and M&A
“OLN could always provide timely response and relevant advice to our questions. Very helpful.” – Corporate and M&A
“Easy to work with, professional and competent.” – Dispute resolution
“It does well on developing creative, non-conventional solutions that are not textbook-like, for the clients to explore new opportunities and insights to resolving issues presented. They are also self-driven in finding ways to help assist the client, whether it is designed or incidental.” – Intellectual property
“Professionalism. Good communication and timely feedback and professional advice.” – Labour and employment
Anna Chan
“Very helpful and responsive. Could always provide good advice on a timely basis.”
Eunice Chiu
“Easy to work with as part of a legal team of solicitors and barristers, professional and competent.”
Richard Poon
“Sympathy, supportive and proactive.”
Vera Sung
“Very willing to listen to new ideas and attempts to understand business context prior to proposing solutions upfront.”
Simon Wong
“Patient with queries and very thorough with the discharge of his work.”
Work highlights
Represented the estate of Sir David, a high-profile individual in Hong Kong, in defending multiple tribunal claims.
ONC Lawyers is ranked highly in banking and finance, capital markets and corporate and M&A. Managing partner Sherman Yan heads the firm’s litigation and dispute resolution practice. He is experienced in handling commercial disputes, securities regulation and matters related to shipping and logistics. Construction partner Justin Lo departed the firm in March 2023.
Work highlights
Acting for the former CFO of a startup in a complex employment claim.
Advising a corporate employer on the dismissal of a senior executive with a potential disability discrimination claim
PRC law firm Fangda Partners opened its office in Hong Kong in 2012. The Hong Kong office advises on the full range of commercial matters. 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.
Client feedback
“The services provided are professional for the company to make timely and adequate decision.” – Capital markets
“Very responsive, commercial. They have good understanding of the key issues and work hard to resolve them in practical ways.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful.” – Regulatory
Raymond Chan
“Chan is very responsive, and always thinking about resolving problems for clients. Chan is also pragmatic and flexible on billing.”
Christina Fu
“Very professional, knowledgeable, insightful and thorough.”
“Christina has always been attentive and thoughtful to client's needs. She will try every possible way to help solve problems and provide prompt advice and recommendations.”
Work highlights
Advising the offeror, an investment vehicle of Boyu, on its voluntary conditional general cash offer for all the offer shares in Jinke Smart Services Group, one of China’s leading property management services companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Advised Shangqi Capital in connection with its investment in the pre-IPO financing of Ruipu Energy involving an aggregate investment amount of Rmb2.2 billion ($302 million).
Represented China state-owned enterprise Mixed Ownership Reform Fund to participate in the cornerstone placing of the listing of CTG Duty-Free on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong.
Key clients
APlus Partners, CICC, IDG, Lightspeed China Partners, PAG, TPG.
Woo Kwan Lee & Lo is a venerable law firm in Hong Kong. The firm was founded by four named solicitors in 1973. Over the years, it has expanded into a strong team with more than 70 lawyers including 32 partners, 15 consultants and 33 assistant solicitors, providing a complete range of legal services for large commercial entities as well as individuals through its three major departments (corporate and commercial, conveyancing, and litigation) and its PRC division.
Client feedback
“The partners of the firm are responsive and very professional with expertise in M&A, regulatory compliance, real estate and leasing, and are able to provide practical and timely legal solutions to transactions with high time pressure.” – Corporate and M&A
“WKLL exhibited comprehensive knowledge on Hong Kong laws and regulations and ensured the timely compliance of the company with applicable regulatory requirements. Furthermore, WKLL prepared the legal documentation in an efficient manner and demonstrated flexibility taking into account the interests of different stakeholders as well as the commercial interest of the company. In view of our long-term cooperation, WKLL is well aware of the company’s core values and business objectives. Thus, they are able to provide the company with feasible plans to achieve desired outcomes. The above makes WKLL stand out from other firms.” – Corporate and M&A
Carmelo Lee
“Mr. Lee exhibited comprehensive knowledge of the local laws and regulations and extensive experience in corporate and commercial M&A transactions. He demonstrated professionalism in advising the company of legal risks and approval requirements from Hong Kong law perspectives and was able to assist the company in ensuring the compliance of applicable regulations. Moreover, he was capable of timely providing the company with practical advice and feasible plans to achieve desirable legal outcomes in the face of an ever-changing commercial environment.”
Kelvin Tam
“Kelvin is experienced in corporate laws and the regulatory framework of REITs, able to provide a one-stop-shop solution. He is a good client manager, able to communicate well with clients. He is also reachable outside office hours and responsive to questions on an urgent basis.”
Work highlights
Acted for an investor in the purchase of the commercial accommodation and shops of a development in Tai Po.
Boutique law firm Charltons specialises in corporate finance. The firm is experienced in representing domestic and international clients on cross-border transactions, IPOs, securities and funds as well as cryptocurrency matters. Julia Charlton, Clinton Morrow and Calvin Ho are key partners at the firm specialising in corporate, finance and capital markets.
Client feedback
“Commercially aware and good mix of finance, corporate and regulatory expertise, very responsive.” – Banking and finance
“Knowledgeable and attentive.” – Corporate and M&A
“Very responsive and professional. Julia is extremely knowledgeable.” – Investment funds
Julia Charlton
“Very clever.”
“Knowledgeable, attentive to client needs, excellent reputation.”
“Julia has great depth of experience in the HK market, which she combines very effectively with wide expertise across corporate, corporate finance, banking and regulatory matters. She is able to bring her expertise to bear in a focused and commercially aware manner.”
“Very knowledgeable, very professional and very responsive.”
Work highlights
Advised CD&R Galaxy UK Opco on registration requirements in connection with the offer to sell common shares or the grant of equity incentive awards to employees and consultants in Hong Kong.
Advised KPMG Luxembourg on marketing compliance.
Advised Seres Asset Management on the offshore relocation of business of a Hong Kong SFC-licensed entity.
Key clients
Comcast Cable Communications Management, Luminous Asset Management, Mishcon de Reya.
Founded in 2004, corporate and litigation law firm Timothy Loh is known for its expertise in the banking and financial services sector. The firm is experienced in representing clients in cases before the regulators and legislative bodies. Managing partner Timothy Loh has particular expertise in M&A involving regulated financial institutions.
Work highlights
Advising a leading global operator of a cryptocurrency exchange with spot and derivatives trading, DeFi, NFT and Web3 features with more than $8 billion of daily digital asset trading volume and 10 million users on SFC investigations and the new SFC licensing regime for virtual asset trading platforms operators.
Advised a Fortune Crypto 40 company (which is a leader in digital entertainment, blockchain and gamification focusing on the advancement of digital property rights and the establishment of the open metaverse) on regulatory issues in connection with the establishment of fund vehicles to raise capital for Web3-related investments, and on obtaining regulatory licences in connection with the establishment of a growth equity fund focused on investing in later-stage Web3 and blockchain companies.
Gall is a dispute resolution boutique with five dedicated disputes partners, one consultant and six associates specialising across all forms of litigation, arbitration and mediation. Senior partner Nick Gall leads the firm’s litigation practice. He has extensive experience in dealing with multi-jurisdictional fraud and international asset tracing litigation.
Client feedback
“Professional and efficient.” – Dispute resolution
“Gall is reliable, dedicated and provides a quick turnaround time. It is good value for money.” – Dispute resolution
“They give good, sound advice to clients rather than repeat what the client wants to hear. They ‘play fair’, which many in this line of work do not. They keep the welfare of the children involved in the case as a priority, instead of fighting for arrangements which are clearly against the interests of the children. They do not resort to bickering with the other side.” – Private clients
“Gall's family law team are very experienced. Their advice is always on point and highly strategic. They produce impressive work and get results for their clients.” – Private clients
“In-depth analyses of situations, pragmatic advice.”– Restructuring and insolvency
Kajal Aswani
“Kajal has an excellent strategic mind, she is always thinking ahead and putting her clients in the best possible position.”
Evelyn Chan
“Very responsive and professional.”
Caroline McNally
“Gives good clear advice, whether it is what the client wants to hear or not.”
Chris Wong
“Chris is always very helpful and keen to help. I recommended him to a friend of mine who needed assistance on litigation, and he was very generous with his time even when he was not formally engaged.”
Work highlights
Advised a private client on a winding-up petition against a major subsidiary of a Hong Kong listed company.
Advised EY Transaction on the recovery of misappropriated assets of a company in liquidation by liquidators.
Full-service law firm Oldham Li & Nie is particularly known for its dispute resolution practice. Gordon Oldham, Richard Healy and Anna Chan are main partners for dispute resolution, while Tracy Yip is a key partner for corporate and M&A. Oldham’s practice covers corporate finance, joint ventures and real estate structuring as well as commercial litigation. It often deals with high-net-worth clients and finance aspects of matrimonial disputes.
Client feedback
“Provides practical advice which solves the issue in hand efficiently.” – Corporate and M&A
“OLN could always provide timely response and relevant advice to our questions. Very helpful.” – Corporate and M&A
“Easy to work with, professional and competent.” – Dispute resolution
“It does well on developing creative, non-conventional solutions that are not textbook-like, for the clients to explore new opportunities and insights to resolving issues presented. They are also self-driven in finding ways to help assist the client, whether it is designed or incidental.” – Intellectual property
“Professionalism. Good communication and timely feedback and professional advice.” – Labour and employment
Anna Chan
“Very helpful and responsive. Could always provide good advice on a timely basis.”
Eunice Chiu
“Easy to work with as part of a legal team of solicitors and barristers, professional and competent.”
Richard Poon
“Sympathy, supportive and proactive.”
Vera Sung
“Very willing to listen to new ideas and attempts to understand business context prior to proposing solutions upfront.”
Simon Wong
“Patient with queries and very thorough with the discharge of his work.”
Work highlights
Provided advice and assistance to the largest shareholder of the group who is also a secured creditor in connection with the restructuring of the group assets to permit certain unprofitable divisions to be closed.
Wilkinson & Grist is best known for its expertise in dispute resolution, intellectual property and restructuring and insolvency, where the firm maintains its ‘Outstanding’ berth. The firm’s dispute resolution practice is led by partner Ivan Chu. He has substantial experience in a wide variety of civil litigation ranging from insolvency, contractual disputes, construction matters, contentious probate and shareholders disputes to disciplinary matters. Keith Ho and Florence Chan are other key figures for dispute resolution and private client matters.
Client feedback
“On-time delivery of services and advice.” – Dispute resolution
Paul Liu
“On-time delivery.”
Work highlights
Assisting the joint and several liquidators of Prosperous GlobalChina Holding (PGCHK) in arranging to sell the assets of PGCHK.
Zhong Lun Law Firm’s practice in Hong Kong collaborates smoothly with its China-based lawyers as an integrated team to handle China-related matters, advising on commercial legal proceedings that take place collectively in the China and Hong Kong courts. The firm is the exclusive Hong Kong member of TerraLex, which is a global network of over 155 leading independent law firms with more than 19,000 lawyers in 100 countries. Its litigation and dispute resolution team in Hong Kong is recognised for handling high-value and complex commercial disputes with a specific interest in China-related matters, cross-border disputes and disputes arising from participation in the Belt and Road initiative. Partners Frederick Hui, Dorothy Siron, Gilbert Leung and Mark Bedford are key figures of the firm.
Client feedback
“Zhong Lun's greatest strength is their capability to advise on a wide range of complex cross-border matters including wills, trusts, securities, matrimonial, tax and information exchange matters. Their ability to provide a one-stop-shop service as well as innovative yet pragmatic advice is highly valued.”– Private client
“Professional, knowledgeable and easy to work with – the cases they deal with are particularly interesting and complex with many issues at play.” – Private client
“Prompt and good advice.” – Real estate
Chloe Leung
“I highly recommend Chloe Leung. She is responsive, diligent and client-centric. She is always willing to provide guidance and share her knowledge even when the case is only at a preliminary stage – a great pleasure to work with!”
“Chloe is proactive, knowledgeable and approachable. She is quick to respond and provides strategic and innovative solutions to legal problems. One of the finest private client advisers in town!”
“Risk-aware, reliable and efficient.”
“A very brilliant, competent and dedicated lawyer who always has her client's best interests in mind.”
Clifford Ng
“Clifford Ng as the head of the team is a well-known market leader with excellent reputation in the private client field.”
Clifford Ng and Chloe Leung
“The partners Clifford Ng and Chloe Leung are excellent private client advisers who always think in the best interests of their clients. They are able to provide holistic solutions and I have no hesitation to recommend them to my clients.”
Work highlights
Advising one of the largest property developers in China on its debt restructuring and winding-up proceedings.
Advising (1) a subsidiary of Hong Kong listed-companies in issuing two winding-up petitions against two companies in the opponent group, and (2) the said subsidiary and its associated company in opposing two winding-up petitions issued by a Bangladesh company from the opponent group.
