English-first, China-capable
You receive advice and documents in clear English, while the Chinese filings, correspondence and negotiations are handled within the same matter.
Why Shengwo
A firm built around the way international clients work.
You need to understand the position, make a decision and keep moving. Our role is to make that possible in a legal system that may feel unfamiliar.
What working with us looks like
Six practical differences.
These are not slogans. They are the working habits that matter when a matter involves China, another country and a deadline.
One desk across matters
Commercial, employment, property, family and dispute questions can be coordinated by one firm, with the context carried between them.
Direct communication
You deal with the lawyer handling the work. We agree how often you will receive updates and who to contact when something changes.
Shanghai execution
We work with the courts, authorities, landlords, employers and counterparties that shape how a matter actually moves in this city.
Scope and fees in writing
Before substantive work begins, we set out what is included, the assumptions and the fee basis, so you can decide with clarity.
Reachable when it matters
The telephone line is answered 7×24. Urgent deadlines are identified at the first call and escalated to the lawyer handling the matter.
Our commitments
What you can expect from us.
Clear expectations make for a better working relationship. These commitments apply to every new matter.
We will tell you if you do not need a lawyer at this stage.
We will set out the scope and fee basis in writing.
We will explain a document before asking you to sign it.
We will flag deadlines and material risks as soon as we see them.
We will not promise an outcome we cannot control.
We will tell you when another adviser needs to be involved.
From enquiry to engagement
A measured start.
A first conversation should leave you better informed, whether or not you instruct us.
01
Initial call
We listen to the situation, identify urgent dates and ask for the documents needed to understand the matter.
02
Conflict check
We confirm that the firm can act and identify any conflict before confidential information is shared.
03
Scope & fee proposal
You receive a written proposal setting out the work, the assumptions, the team and the fee basis.
04
Work begins
Once engaged, a named contact coordinates the steps and updates you at the agreed points.
Common questions
Questions international clients ask.
If your question is not covered here, call the client desk or send a short message.
Do you advise clients in English?
Yes. Our client desk works in English. Meetings, advice, drafts and updates are provided in English, while Chinese-language filings, correspondence and negotiations are handled within the same matter. Our team also works in Mandarin.
I am outside China. Can you still help?
Yes. Many matters begin with a video call and documents sent remotely. Certain filings or court steps require a local presence or original documents; where that applies, we explain the requirement and handle what can be done under a power of attorney.
How are your fees calculated?
We confirm the scope and fee basis in writing before substantive work begins. A scheduled in-person consultation is charged by the hour, with the hourly basis and the expected duration confirmed beforehand; a short call to the 24/7 line is free. Depending on the matter, fees may be fixed for a defined piece of work, charged hourly, or set on a retainer. Disbursements such as official fees, translation or notarisation are identified separately. The consultation section explains how this works.
Do I need a Chinese lawyer for a China-related matter?
Where a matter involves Chinese law, a Chinese entity, a filing or a court, advice from PRC-qualified counsel is generally necessary. Shanghai Shengwo Law Firm is based in Shanghai and handles PRC-law matters. Where a foreign-law question arises, we can coordinate with your advisers in that jurisdiction.
How quickly will I hear back?
Telephone calls are answered 7×24. Written enquiries are reviewed on the next business day. If a deadline is imminent, call the line rather than relying on the form.
Is my enquiry confidential?
We treat enquiries with discretion. A lawyer–client relationship is only formed when engagement terms are agreed and conflict checks are complete. Please do not send confidential documents or sensitive personal data until we confirm that we can act.