What the work covers

Arbitration clauses are often drafted quickly and tested years later. The institution, the seat, the language and the number of arbitrators all affect cost and enforceability, and a defective clause can send the parties to court instead.

We draft and review clauses, conduct arbitrations with Chinese elements, and handle interim measures and the enforcement of awards in China.

  • Arbitration clause drafting and review
  • Proceedings before CIETAC, SHIAC, HKIAC, SIAC and other institutions
  • Evidence, document production and witness preparation
  • Interim measures through the Chinese courts
  • Award enforcement and set-aside applications
  • Coordinated proceedings in more than one jurisdiction

When clients call us

  • A contract with an arbitration clause has broken down and a notice of arbitration is being considered.
  • A party needs interim relief in China while an overseas arbitration continues.
  • An award has been issued and the losing party has assets in China.

Preparing for a first consultation

Bringing the documents below to the first meeting usually makes the time more productive. If some are missing, send what you have and we will identify the gaps.

  • The contract and the arbitration clause.
  • The notice or correspondence that triggered the dispute.
  • The factual record and the documents supporting the claim or defence.
  • The tribunal, seat and language already agreed, if any.

How consultation fees work

A short call to the 24/7 line is free and is used to identify the next step. If you need more than that, we arrange a scheduled consultation. In-person consultations at our Jing’an office are charged by the hour; the hourly basis and the expected duration are confirmed in writing before the appointment.

In-person consultation

Billed by the hour

  • Review of the documents you send in advance
  • The in-person meeting, up to the time booked
  • A written summary of the main points and next steps

The hourly rate, the expected duration and the scope of the consultation are confirmed in writing before the appointment. VAT, official fees, translation, notarisation and other disbursements are charged separately. Matter work that follows a consultation — drafting, filings, negotiation or court work — is scoped and quoted separately. How consultations work.

Questions we are asked

Which arbitration institution should we choose?

It depends on the parties, the likely disputes and where enforcement may be needed. We compare the practical differences rather than recommending an institution by default.

Can a Chinese court assist an arbitration seated abroad?

A Chinese court can in some circumstances grant preservation measures in support of arbitration, including foreign-seated arbitration. The application has to be made in the right form and forum, and timing matters.

General information. This page describes the scope of our practice and does not constitute legal advice. The basis on which time is charged is confirmed in writing before work begins. No outcome can be guaranteed.