International investors, corporates, and financial institutions frequently rely on Tanner De Witt for guidance in various restructuring and insolvency matters, especially those that have cross-border implications. The team frequently taps into its close relationships and referral network across the broader Asia-Pacific region to deliver comprehensive advice, and recently has been notably focused on guiding numerous PRC property developers within the sphere of publicly listed companies. These engagements extend beyond the real estate industry, encompassing a broad spectrum of sectors, including aviation and TMC, as well as construction. Regularly sought-after by a diverse clientele that includes investors, financial institutions, insolvency practitioners, and distressed entities, the R&I team maintains a strong presence in both contentious and non-contentious matters. The team’s leadership, represented by the ‘exceptional problem solver’ Ian De Witt and Robin Darton, brings substantial expertise to managing complex insolvency-related matters and contentious matters. Witt specialises in commercial litigation and insolvency matters, while Darton is a key contact for private equity and distressed funds, asset managers, and debtors seeking guidance on various insolvency issues. Witt’s and Darton’s proficiency spans Hong Kong’s boundaries, and also embraces international landscapes, encompassing winding-up proceedings, bond restructurings, and the complexities of cross-border recognition proceedings, all with a specialised lens on off-shore matters. Another key name to note is Sunny Hathiramani, who is renowned for his representation of office holders in recognition and enforcement proceedings.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The TDW team runs a practice with the deepest knowledge in insolvency in HK. They are able to provide advice in real time, which only very few lawyers in HK are able to do.’
‘TDW is the preeminent boutique firm in the market and is widely noted for its restructuring and insolvency practice. They have a massive depth of experience and are one of the few firms with real expertise on personal bankruptcy matters.'
‘A great team to work with on both a professional and personal level. Always available to discuss any issues and very flexible in their approach. Sunny Hathiramani, Tim Au and Troy Greig are all highly regarded.'
‘A deep bench of individuals who are very good at what they do, are approachable and are conflict free.’
‘Sunny Hathiramani is very personable, hard working and always makes himself available. A great team player.'
'Tanner de Witt's team blends an array of backgrounds and skill sets to combine into a strong, independent law firm that is firmly established as the leading Hong Kong law firm providing fast, effective and reliable advice.'
'Ian de Witt is an exceptional problem solver. He combines this with decades of legal experience, and unparalleled knowledge of Hong Kong law, to deliver outstanding litigation results.'
'Few know more about insolvency and restructuring than Ian De Witt; highly competent and well organised, focussed on clients and well-liked.'

Key clients

KPMG
PwC
Kroll
Grant Thornton
Alvarez & Marsal
China Cinda (HK) Asset Management
RSM Nelson Wheeler
FTI Consulting
Teneo
Deloitte
Ernst & Young
Interpath

Work highlights

Acting for liquidators of PRC construction conglomerate China City Construction International Co. Limited which collapsed following default of the RMB2.5 bln bonds issued by it, including an ensuing complex fraud and asset recovery exercise.
Advising China Cinda Asset Management on the restructuring of its US$400m loan which involves a potential joint venture with competing creditor MBK Partners, the appointment of receivers over various parts of the group, the appointment of liquidators in other parts of the group and dealing with the regulatory aspects of financing politically sensitive onshore assets with offshore debt.
Acting for a major creditor in the restructuring of Hong Kong Airlines with negotiations and interventions to resolve outstanding issues, including those involving the Civil Aviation Department.

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