Multinational and Hong Kong-based corporates frequently seek advice from Lewis Silkin on a wide range of employment law issues, including HR data privacy, structuring incentive and share schemes, and M&A employment support. On the contentious front, the firm has been highly engaged in litigation related to internal investigations, taking the team to labour tribunals and the High Court. Notably, the firm also possesses expertise in immigration matters and has recently been advising employers on various issues, including global working rights and visas, as well as on multi-jurisdictional projects spanning other Asia Pacific regions. At the helm of the team stands Catherine Leung, highly sought after by clients from industries including financial services, luxury retail, and technology, who seek guidance on a wide range of employment issues, including discrimination and hiring and firing. Other key figures at partner level include Jezamine Fewins, who specialises in areas such as restrictive covenants, the misuse of confidential information, and trade secrets. The team’s capabilities have recently been bolstered by the addition of senior consultant Matthew Durham, along with associates Karen Chu and Emily Chow. Kathryn Weaver is no longer at the firm and moved to Seyfarth Shaw LLP in January 2023.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The firm provides very professional employment law services.'
- 'Catherine Leung and Gladys Ching were very professional and efficient and it was a pleasure working with them. The firm provides very professional employment law services.'
- 'Their highly knowledgeable team possesses a deep understanding of labour and employment law, enabling them to provide expert advice.'
- 'A key strength is their client-centric approach. They prioritise understanding specific needs and aligning advice and solutions with business objectives. Compared to other firms, Lewis Silkin's reputation as industry leaders shines.'
- 'Their proven track record and strong client base demonstrate expertise, an innovative mindset, and commitment to client satisfaction.'
- 'Lewis Silkin’s expertise and knowledge in labour and employment law set them apart from competitors. The qualities that I have valued in the individuals at Lewis Silkin include their responsiveness, proactive mindset, and excellent communication skills.'
- 'Catherine Leung is prompt in addressing concerns and goes above and beyond to anticipate potential challenges. Her ability to explain legal concepts in a clear and understandable manner has been invaluable in making informed decisions.'
Work highlights
- Assisted Hannover Rück SE with applying to strike out its ex-employee’s claim on the basis that by commencing the claim in the High Court there was an abuse of process at the Labour Tribunal that had exclusive jurisdiction over a claim of money arising from the breach of a term of an employment contract.
- Assisted Global Hospitality Investment Ltd with seeking an injunction against its ex-employee to prevent a continued breach of the terms of his employment contract.
- Assisted Alcohol Countermeasure Systems (HK) Limited and Alcohol Countermeasure Systems (Dongguan) Limited with its claim against its employee for fraudulent misrepresentation in respect of expenses he alleged he incurred and for which he was reimbursed during his employment.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Catherine Leung