Dispute Resolution: Litigation (International Firms) - China
What the team is known for
Herbert Smith Freehills enjoys a superb reputation for handling a vast range of local and international litigation for blue-chip clients from the firm's office in Hong Kong. The firm is also well placed to serve high net worth individuals and is distinguished by the depth and experience of its bench of litigators, allowing the team to commit substantial resources to the largest and most complex cases. It is notably visible in litigation arising out of financial services litigation and shareholder disputes, as well as general commercial disagreements. Clients benefit from the firm's alternative legal services team based in Shanghai, which offers support on the review of Chinese language documents, as well as from its joint-operation local firm, Kewei. Its key clients include Bank of China International, UBS and BOCI Securities.
Strengths
"Herbert Smith Freehills' team understands the industry well and is able to provide very quick turnaround work products. We are very pleased with their service."
"The team has been very responsive to a wide spectrum of queries and reverted with succinct advice."
Work highlights
Herbert Smith Freehills successfully defended DBS Bank against a USD185 million claim of fraudulent trading, dishonest assistance and knowing receipt, across the Court of First Instance and the Court of Appeal.
Notable practitioners
Gareth Thomas is head of Herbert Smith Freehills' commercial litigation team in Hong Kong and a seasoned adviser to major corporates, financial services clients and high net worth individuals. "Gareth Thomas is still a top-tier practitioner."
Rachael Shek is known for handling a variety of commercial litigation, including asset recovery and shareholder disagreements. She also has noted experience in banking disputes. "Rachael is very responsive and always provides constructive feedback."
Jojo Fan is a rising partner whose practice spans restructuring and insolvency disputes, misappropriation claims and enforcement actions. She frequently handles litigation for a range of Chinese banking clients. "Jojo is very knowledgeable on mis-selling-related litigation and is able to provide great strategic advice by leveraging her experience in other cases." "Her experience also allowed her to provide candid advice on the experts or counsel to engage for the matter."
