Joey Chau jointly leads the team at Kirkland & Ellis alongside Brian Ho; the group is known for its vast experience in advising on the full gamut of corporate mattes, including spin-offs, privatisations, and convertible offering-related mandates. Praised by clients for her 'exceptional ability to think creatively', Chau is noted for her strong specialism in public M&A and take-private transactions. Ho is an expert in corporate finance work, particularly in relation to de-SPACs. Jesse Sheley is a key contact for SPAC clients within the tech and financial services sectors, while Peng Yu is recommended for his broad knowledge of the TMT and life sciences sectors, often advising on joint ventures and investments. Nicholas Norris left the firm in January 2024.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘This practice is unique as its partners; Brian Ho has a strong understanding of both regulatory and commercial requirements. Brian and his fellow partners at Kirkland & Ellis have a strong track record in corporate transactions and their professionalism is second to none in the Hong Kong/Greater China marketplace.’

  • ‘K&E Law Firm is familiar with both overseas and Chinese legal systems, and has provided us with very valuable services in many aspects such as the legal framework of M&A and business operation models. In particular, they have a deep understanding of the business background and can learn quickly, and the legal advice they provide is very practical.’

  • ‘Peng Yu personally took part in the projects I was responsible for. He not only checked for us at the legal level, but also played a significant role in the final successful implementation of the project with his friendly personal charm.’

  • ‘Overall, we are very satisfied with the qualities and responsiveness displaved by K&E, particularly through Joey Chau. Throughout our collaboration, K&E has consistently exhibited clear responsibilities and profesionalism. We have been particularly impressed by their expertise in the areas of M&A, capital markets, and financing.’

  • ‘Joey Chau's proficiency in HK takeover codes, among other areas, has been particularly noteworthy. Joey and her team have demonstrated the exceptional ability to think creatively, often contributing significantly to the progress of the deal. Her commitment to viewing situations from the clients' perspective sets her apart.’

Key clients

  • Webull Corporation
  • L Catterton Asia Acquisition Corp
  • The Independent Board Committee of Vinda International
  • Link REIT
  • GL Capital
  • ZG Group
  • NIO Inc.
  • NetDragon Websoft Holdings Limited
  • Wynn Macau, Limited
  • AP Acquisition Corp
  • MoneyHero Limited
  • Alibaba
  • Boyu Capital
  • CIMC Vehicles (Group) Co., Ltd.
  • Skyworth Group Limited
  • The Independent Board Committee of ENM Holdings Limited
  • Lai Sun Group
  • The LYCRA Company
  • Crescent Point Capital
  • J.P. Morgan Securities (Asia Pacific) Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Webull Corporation on its business combination with SK Growth Opportunities Corporation, a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company.
  • Advised L Catterton Asia Acquisition Corp, a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) formed by affiliates of L Catterton on its business combination with Lotus Technology, Inc.
  • Advised ZG Group on a de-SPAC Transaction in Hong Kong, by way of a business combination with Aquila Acquisition Corporation.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Joey Chau, Brian Ho

Other key lawyers

Jesse Sheley, Peng Yu