Deacons Rankings
Deacons has been ranked as TOP-TIER in 5 practice areas and been recommended in 14 further practice areas in The Legal 500 Asia Pacific: Greater China - 2025 Edition edition
- 5
Hall of Fame
- 10
Leading Partners
- 5
Next Generation Partner
- 1
Leading Associates
Top Tier
This table shows only the practice areas that are ranked Tier 1.
| Hong Kong > Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | 1 |
| Hong Kong > Intellectual property | 1 |
| Hong Kong > Investment funds | 1 |
| Hong Kong > Labour and employment | 1 |
| Hong Kong > Real estate | 1 |
Other Tiers
This table shows all the other practice areas that are ranked.
| China > Intellectual property: foreign firms | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Antitrust and competition | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Banking and finance | 4 |
| Hong Kong > Capital markets (debt) | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Capital markets (equity) | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Construction | 2 |
| Hong Kong > Corporate (including M&A) | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Data protection and cyber security | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: international arbitration | 4 |
| Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: litigation | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Fintech and financial services regulatory | 2 |
| Hong Kong > Insurance | 3 |
| Hong Kong > Private Client and Family | 2 |
| Hong Kong > TMT | 3 |
All Ranking Data Explorer
This is a table of all your ranking data, across all practice areas and all tiers.
| 3 | China > Intellectual property: foreign firms | Deacons | Intellectual property: foreign firms | Firm Ranking | Deacons | China | Intellectual property: foreign firms | ||||||
| 3 | China > Intellectual property: foreign firms | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Annie Tsoi; Catherine Zheng; Charmaine Koo; Jeffrey McLean | Dora Si; Andy Yu; Cindy Cheng | Hummingbird | Advising a Hong Kong-based record label on the IP aspects of a breach of contract dispute with one of their artists who is a major celebrity in PRC, Hong Kong and Taiwan. The dispute involves complex IP issues including trade mark rights to the artist’s name, ownership of copyright, performance rights, and entitlement to royalties. | Based in Hong Kong, Deacons often advises international clients on IP matters involving mainland China. The ‘excellent’ team has a great track record in IP litigation, handling a mix of trade mark and patent matters. Annie Tsoi helms the IP group and advises Hong Kong and international clients on the protection, enforcement, and exploitation of IP rights. Co-lead Catherine Zheng handles litigation, enforcement and portfolio management for trade marks and copyrights, while Dora Si advises clients on brand protection and anti-counterfeiting strategies. | China | Intellectual property: foreign firms | |||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Antitrust and competition | Deacons | Antitrust and competition | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Antitrust and competition | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Antitrust and competition | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Machiuanna Chu | Peter So | Analogue Holdings Limited, The Commercial Press (Hong Kong) Limited, Sino United Publishing (Holdings) Limited, Meyer Aluminium Limited | Deacons is well-known for handling all manner of proceedings initiated by the HKCC involving allegations of bid rigging and price fixing. Machiuanna Chu leads the team, utilising her expansive transactional expertise to assist with HKSAR Competition Tribunal enforcement actions. Peter So is a key figure within the firm’s dispute resolution practice, often advising on Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) investigations. | Hong Kong | Antitrust and competition | ||||
| 4 | Hong Kong > Banking and finance | Deacons | Banking and finance | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Banking and finance | ||||||
| 4 | Hong Kong > Banking and finance | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Ronny Chow; Erica Wong; Teresa Lau | Simon Deane | Counting international and local banks and other financial institutions, corporates and asset managers among its key roster of clients, Deacons advises on matters concerning corporate lending and cross-border syndicated and bilateral loans, in addition to acquisition financing and real estate financing. Ronny Chow, Erica Wong, and Teresa Lau collectively lead the team. Simon Deane is a key name to note for regulatory matters in the financial services sector. | Hong Kong | Banking and finance | |||||
| Hong Kong > Banking and finance > Leading partners | Deacons | Simon Deane | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Simon Deane - Deacons | Hong Kong | Banking and finance | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Capital markets (debt) | Deacons | Capital markets (debt) | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Capital markets (debt) | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Capital markets (debt) | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Kevin Tong | Icarus Yuen | AVIC International Leasing Co., Ltd., Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, Bank of Communications Co., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch, Black Peony (Group) Co., Ltd., Guangzhou Industrial Investment Fund Management Co., Ltd., Hangzhou GSGT State-owned Investment Group Co., Ltd., Longkou Urban Rural Construction Investment Development Co., Ltd, The Bank of East Asia, Limited, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Tianjin Rail Transit Urban Development Co., Ltd., Wharf Real Estate Investment Company Limited, Wheelock and Company Limited, Yangzhou Jianghuai Construction Development Co., Ltd, Yili Caitong State Owned Assets Management Co., Ltd, Ziyang Development Investment Group Co., Ltd. | Advising the Joint Lead Managers and the Trustee on the Airport Authority’s HK$5bn retail bond issuance – the first listed HKD retail bonds issued by a non-government issuer. Advising the Issuing and Lodging Agent on the Renminbi Bill Issuances by The People’s Bank of China in Hong Kong. Advising the Issuing and Lodging Agent on several issuances of RMB sovereign bonds by the Ministry of Finance of the PRC in Hong Kong. | Leveraging its longstanding local connections and Mainland resources, independent Hong Kong firm Deacons consistently secures a strong flow of instructions from domestic and PRC-based issuers and underwriters in a wide array of bond issuances. Team head Kevin Tong is able to provide 'highly technical' advice to clients as a result of his deep and longstanding immersion in the sector, with expertise not only for PRC clients on offshore bond issuances but also in relation to Hong Kong retail bond issuances. Notably, in what was the first listed HK dollar retail bonds issued by a non-government issuer, Tong recently advised the joint lead managers on the Airport Authority’s HK$5bn retail bond issuance. Icarus Yuen was involved in the aforementioned deal on behalf of the bond trustee and is also a key member of the team. | Hong Kong | Capital markets (debt) | |||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Capital markets (equity) | Deacons | Capital markets (equity) | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Capital markets (equity) | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Capital markets (equity) | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Ronny Chow | Rhoda Yung; Sabrina Fung; Maynard Leung; Canny Lau; Samantha Chau | CCB International Capital Limited, China International Capital Corporation Hong Kong Securities Limited, China Securities (International) Corporate Finance Company Limited, CITIC Securities (Hong Kong) Limited, CMB International Capital Limited, DBS Asia Capital Limited, Guotai Junan Capital Limited, Haitong International Capital Limited, ICBC International Capital Limited, Ping An of China Capital (Hong Kong) Company Limited | Advised the sole sponsor Guotai Junan Capital Limited and a syndicate of 19 underwriters in relation to the Main Board H-share IPO of UBTECH ROBOTICS CORP LTD, which raised HK$1,042m Advised the sole sponsor Haitong International Capital Limited and underwriters in relation to the spin-off from Henan Jinma Energy Company and Main Board H-share IPO of Henan Jinyuan Hydrogenated Chemicals Co., Ltd. which raised approximately HK$287m. Advised the sole sponsor CMB International Capital Limited and underwriters in relation to the spin-off from China Lesso Group Holdings and Main Board IPO of EDA Group Holdings Limited, which raised approximately HK$223m | Abreast of regulatory changes and able to resource matters utilising Hong Kong and PRC-qualified practitioners, both offshore as well as on the Mainland, Deacons has a solid reputation advising Greater China-based issuers and underwriters/sponsors on main and GEM board HKEX listings. Team head Ronny Chow has ‘strong professional knowledge’ across a myriad ECM transactional matters and also excels at handling compliance/regulatory matters, an area that he is particularly well-placed to advise due to his role on the Listing Review Committee of the HKEX. Maynard Leung is also recommended. | Hong Kong | Capital markets (equity) | |||
| Hong Kong > Capital markets (equity) > Leading partners | Deacons | Ronny Chow | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Ronny Chow - Deacons | Hong Kong | Capital markets (equity) | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Capital markets (equity) > Next Generation Partners | Deacons | Maynard Leung | Next Generation Partners | Individual Ranking | Maynard Leung – Deacons | Hong Kong | Capital markets (equity) | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | Deacons | Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Ronny Chow; Machiuanna Chu | Alexander Que; Maynard Leung | Anglo Chinese Corporate Finance, Limited, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, China Traditional Chinese Medicine Holdings Co. Limited, Chinachem Group, Grand Field Group Holdings Limited, In-Tech Holdings (Cayman) Limited, Red Emerald Capital Fund II LP, Rhenfield Development Corp., Stelux Holdings International Limited, Vertex Technology Acquisition Corporation Ltd, Zhong Jia (International) Investment Construction Company Limited | Advised Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited on its pre-conditional voluntary general cash offers (through its SPV) to acquire all the issued shares of NWS Holdings Limited, and to cancel all the outstanding share options of NWS. Advising China Traditional Chinese Medicine Holdings Co on the pre-conditional proposal to privatise China-TCM by way of a scheme of arrangement under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance, and the proposed withdrawal of the listing of China-TCM from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Advised Vertex Technology Acquisition Corporation Ltd on Hong Kong law in relation to its de-SPAC transaction involving acquisition of the entire issued share capital of 17LIVE Inc. for a total consideration of up to approximately S$922.9m. | Deacons houses a broad team known for its strong focus on private M&A, venture capital investments, and joint ventures. The group assists a diverse client roster of state-owned corporations, global companies, and partnerships. Ronny Chow jointly leads the team alongside Machiuanna Chu; Chow is noted for his longstanding expertise in takeovers and privatisations, while Chu is recommended for her deep knowledge of cross-border M&A and investment mandates. Alexander Que is a key contact for Hong Kong listed companies and banks, while Maynard Leung routinely acts for real estate, telecoms, and financial services clients in mandates involving corporate reorganisations and voluntary general cash offers. | Hong Kong | Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | |||
| Hong Kong > Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms > Hall of Fame | Deacons | Ronny Chow | Hall of Fame | Individual Ranking | Ronny Chow - Deacons | Hong Kong | Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms > Leading partners | Deacons | Machiuanna Chu | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Machiuanna Chu – Deacons | Hong Kong | Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms > Leading partners | Deacons | Alexander Que | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Alexander Que - Deacons | Hong Kong | Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms > Next Generation Partners | Deacons | Maynard Leung | Next Generation Partners | Individual Ranking | Maynard Leung - Deacons | Hong Kong | Commercial, corporate and M&A: independent Hong Kong law firms | ||||||
| 2 | Hong Kong > Construction | Deacons | Construction | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Construction | ||||||
| 2 | Hong Kong > Construction | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Kwok Kit (KK) Cheung | Joseph Chung; Justin Yuen; Leo Wong; Stanley Lo | ‘Very knowledge about construction industry best practice’, Deacons provides ‘good practical advice’ to developers, employers and contractors across a myriad local and pan-Asian construction projects and disputes. The team is abreast across the full range of contractual documentation governing construction projects, including NEC and BIM contracts that are increasingly being favoured in the context of public sector projects. Under the guidance of the ‘knowledgeable’ KK Cheung, the team is, however, best-known for its contentious expertise, where it is able to combine ‘technical proficiency with a pragmatic, client-centric approach, consistently delivering favourable outcomes’. Joseph Chung has an outstanding reputation for handling construction arbitrations, and is one of only a handful of solicitor advocates in Hong Kong with admission to also appear in the Singapore International Commercial Court. The ‘very proactive and client-centric’ Justin Yuen also excels at contentious construction matters, while consultant Stanley Lo has vast experience across both contentious and non-contentious mandates, including in the context of heavy civil engineering, railway and other infrastructure projects in Hong Kong, Macau and Mainland China. | Hong Kong | Construction | |||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Corporate (including M&A) | Deacons | Corporate (including M&A) | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Corporate (including M&A) | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Corporate (including M&A) | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Ronny Chow; Machiuanna Chu | Maynard Leung; Alexander Que; Gary Wong | Anglo Chinese Corporate Finance, Limited, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, China Traditional Chinese Medicine Holdings Co. Limited, Chinachem Group, Grand Field Group Holdings Limited, In-Tech Holdings (Cayman) Limited, Red Emerald Capital Fund II LP, Rhenfield Development Corp., Stelux Holdings International Limited, Vertex Technology Acquisition Corporation Ltd, Zhong Jia (International) Investment Construction Company Limited | Advised Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited on its pre-conditional voluntary general cash offers (through its SPV) to acquire all the issued shares of NWS Holdings Limited, and to cancel all the outstanding share options of NWS. Advising China Traditional Chinese Medicine Holdings Co. Limited on the pre-conditional proposal to privatise China-TCM by way of a scheme of arrangement under the Hong Kong Companies Ordinance and the proposed withdrawal of the listing of China-TCM from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Advised Vertex Technology Acquisition Corporation Ltd on Hong Kong law in relation to its de-SPAC transaction involving the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of 17LIVE Inc. for a total consideration of up to approx. S$922.9 million. | Often advising state-owned companies, government bodies, and global corporate clients, Deacons handles the full spectrum of corporate matters. Ronny Chow jointly leads the team alongside Machiuanna Chu; Chow has longstanding experience in corporate finance and securities issues, while Chu specialises in venture capital investment and cross-border M&A. Maynard Leung regularly assists food and beverage, health care, and real estate clients, and Alexander Que is a key name for takeovers, particularly in relation to Hong Kong listed companies, often advising banks. Gary Wong is well-versed in joint venture and business transfer issues. | Hong Kong | Corporate (including M&A) | |||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Data protection and cyber security | Deacons | Data protection and cyber security | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Data protection and cyber security | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Data protection and cyber security | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Machiuanna Chu | Dora Si; Andy Yu; Charmaine Koo | Deacons is especially prominent in the hospitality, gaming, and IT sectors and is active across China, with offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, as well as having a strong presence in Hong Kong. The group is accomplished in drafting data processing agreements, and advising on data regulations across these jurisdictions, as well as privacy issues in advertising and marketing. Machiuanna Chu heads up the team, bringing a great deal of compliance expertise to clients and experience in investment transactions. At associate level, Andy Yu and Dora Si are lauded for their ‘deep knowledge of data protection and a longstanding practice in this field.' | Hong Kong | Data protection and cyber security | |||||
| 4 | Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: international arbitration | Deacons | Dispute resolution: international arbitration | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Dispute resolution: international arbitration | ||||||
| 4 | Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: international arbitration | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Joseph Kwan | Joseph Chung; KK Cheung; Justin Yuen; Richard Hudson; Vivien Wong | The team at Deacons is known for its handling of complex commercial disputes involving the construction and energy sectors. The team regularly acts for key domestic and international private clients, corporations, governments and statutory bodies in China. Joseph Chung's practice primarily consists of construction, energy and banking and finance sector work. KK Cheung has longstanding experience in assisting major developers, contractors and sub-contractors in disputes concerning construction projects, often possessing a cross-border element. Justin Yuen and Richard Hudson are also recommended. | Hong Kong | Dispute resolution: international arbitration | |||||
| Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: international arbitration > Next Generation Partners | Deacons | Justin Yuen | Next Generation Partners | Individual Ranking | Justin Yuen - Deacons | Hong Kong | Dispute resolution: international arbitration | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: litigation | Deacons | Dispute resolution: litigation | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Dispute resolution: litigation | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: litigation | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Joseph Kwan | Paul Kwan; KK Cheung; Richard Hudson; Peter So | Zhang Caikui, Fook Lee Holdings Limited (FLH), Hummingbird Music Ltd, The Commercial Press (Hong Kong) Limited; Sino United Publishing (Holdings) Limited, DP World Djibouti FZCO and two other Plaintiffs, Dr Mok Chui Yuk, Luso International Banking Limited (澳門國際銀行有限公司), Analogue Holdings Ltd & ATAL Building Services Engineering Ltd (ATAL) (SEHK: 1977) | Acting for Zhang Caikui in a shareholders’ dispute, generating numerous sets of proceedings in Hong Kong. Acting for Fook Lee Holdings Limited (FLH) (as Plaintiff) in their High Court Action (HCA 1188/2020) (Action) against Harbour Grand Hong Kong Limited and CK Asset Holdings Limited. Acting for Hummingbird Music Ltd, an artist management company, in a dispute concerning alleged breaches of contract and the interpretation of certain terms in the contracts between the parties against one of their artists, Tang Sze Wing, aka G.E.M. | Independent Hong Kong firm Deacons handles a variety of disputes, ranging from shareholder, banking , defamation ad employment. Joseph Kwan leads the team, harnessing extensive experience to handle high-profile commercial litigation matters, SFC-initiated proceedings, fraud and bribery, as well as acting for high net-worth Hong Kong families in asset distribution disputes. Paul Kwan handles commercial litigation including land disputes. KK Cheung excels in construction litigation and Peter So is recommended for financial services litigation, injunction-related court applications, contentious regulatory and investigations by the SFC, HKMA and ICAC. | Hong Kong | Dispute resolution: litigation | |||
| Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: litigation > Leading associates | Deacons | Michelle Li | Leading associates | Individual Ranking | Michelle Li - Deacons | Hong Kong | Dispute resolution: litigation | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Dispute resolution: litigation > Leading partners | Deacons | Joseph Kwan | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Joseph Kwan - Deacons | Hong Kong | Dispute resolution: litigation | ||||||
| 2 | Hong Kong > Fintech and financial services regulatory | Deacons | Fintech and financial services regulatory | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Fintech and financial services regulatory | ||||||
| 2 | Hong Kong > Fintech and financial services regulatory | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Jeremy Lam | Joseph Kwan; Taylor Hui; Alwyn Li; Machiuanna Chu; Fiona Fong; Ming Chiu Li; Pinky Siu; Joyce Li; Vincci Ip; Isabella Wong; Peter So; Lavita Pong | Assisted multiple major asset management companies owned by global banking institutions in Hong Kong, on obtaining a corporate licence for the new licensing regime implemented by the SFC for depositaries of authorised funds. Assisted one of the world’s largest investment managers, to leverage on their full set of existing global group policies and procedures in order to comply with the Hong Kong Open-ended fund companies regime. Assisted a leading cryptocurrency firm based in Hong Kong on the new regulatory requirements under the Virtual Asset Trading Platform Guidelines and helped review and revamp their client documentation and exchange documents. | Drawing upon excellent ties with Hong Kong financial regulators, in part due to a number in the team that formerly served in-house at the SFC, Deacons is abreast of regulatory changes in the market, providing 'expert and practical input' to banks, funds and exchanges on compliance and licensing applications, in particular. Led by Jeremy Lam, who 'delivers succinct advice on tricky issues', the team not only acts on standalone matters, including for local financial services clients, but also often works with international law firms, which are appreciative of the firm's independent status and its knowledge, regularly providing the Hong Kong law advice for global financial services on multi-jurisdictional matters. Lam himself excels in handling regulatory matters pertinent to the asset management industry including establishment and licensing with the SFC, regulatory compliance and marketing of collective investment schemes. For fintech matters, Isabella Wong is 'very knowledgeable and responsive', while Joseph Kwan takes the lead on contentious work in the financial services sector. | Hong Kong | Fintech and financial services regulatory | ||||
| Hong Kong > Fintech and financial services regulatory > Hall of Fame | Deacons | Joseph Kwan | Hall of Fame | Individual Ranking | Joseph Kwan - Deacons | Hong Kong | Fintech and financial services regulatory | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Fintech and financial services regulatory > Leading partners | Deacons | Jeremy Lam | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Jeremy Lam - Deacons | Hong Kong | Fintech and financial services regulatory | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Insurance | Deacons | Insurance | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Insurance | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > Insurance | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Alfred Tam | Linda Lee; Gary Lui; Gere Sit | Successfully defended a leading insurance company in litigation with costs awarded to the defendant. Advising the insured school through its Hong Kong-based insurance company in a personal injury claim by the plaintiff against the School. The Plaintiff’s appeal to adduce liability expert evidence was dismissed with costs to the school. Successfully represented an insured construction company through its insurer. | Led by the 'extremely bright' Alfred Tam, one of many in the team with fluent Chinese language capabilities, Deacons has excellent ties with many Mainland Chinese insurance companies and is very active at handling a myriad insurance litigation. Personal injury is a key source of work for Tam, as is employees compensation matters, with Tam noted for his 'deep understanding of the law' and ability to provide 'solutions-oriented advice'. Other key members of the team include the 'very approachable' Gere Sit, and the 'very responsive' Gary Lui. | Hong Kong | Insurance | ||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Intellectual property | Deacons | Intellectual property | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Intellectual property | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Intellectual property | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Annie Tsoi; Catherine Zheng; Charmaine Koo; Jeffrey McLean | Theresa Luk; Patsy Lau; Kelley Loo; Eliza Siew | Hummingbird Music Ltd, Miele | Advising a Hong Kong-based record label on the IP aspects of a breach of contract dispute with one of their artists who is a major celebrity in PRC, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Representing a German-based manufacturer of electrical appliances in High Court actions relating to parallel imports of the client’s products in Hong Kong. | Deacons operates a knowledgeable IP team, recognised for providing extensive counsel in ‘a pre-emptive manner’, ensuring a highly proficient service to its notable client list. Key areas of expertise include handling complex IP litigation, and the team is highly renowned within the entertainment and media sector. Co-headed by Annie Tsoi and Catherine Zheng, the group is further spearheaded by the ‘exceptionally capable’ Charmaine Koo. As head of IP commercial and litigation, Koo is recommended for handling complex court litigation and data privacy issues for leading companies, alongside being a leading entertainment lawyer. Additionally, Jeffrey McLean is regularly instructed on patent prosecution and ligation. Theresa Luk handles IP litigation and commercial transactions. Patsy Lau has extensive knowledge in protecting trade mark portfolios throughout the region. | Hong Kong | Intellectual property | |||
| Hong Kong > Intellectual property > Hall of Fame | Deacons | Charmaine Koo | Hall of Fame | Individual Ranking | Charmaine Koo - Deacons | Hong Kong | Intellectual property | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Intellectual property > Leading partners | Deacons | Patsy Lau | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Patsy Lau - Deacons | Hong Kong | Intellectual property | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Intellectual property > Leading partners | Deacons | Jeffrey McLean | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Jeffrey McLean - Deacons | Hong Kong | Intellectual property | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Intellectual property > Next Generation Partners | Deacons | Theresa Luk | Next Generation Partners | Individual Ranking | Theresa Luk - Deacons | Hong Kong | Intellectual property | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Investment funds | Deacons | Investment funds | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Investment funds | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Investment funds | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Jeremy Lam | Taylor Hui; Alwyn Li; Fiona Fong; Ming Chiu Li; Pinky Siu; Joyce Li; Vincci Ip; Isabella Wong; Lawson Tam; Sarah Lau | Alliance Bernstein, Allianz, Amundi, Bank Consortium Trust Company Limited, BEA Union, Bosera Asset Management (International) Co., Limited, Capital International, CLSA, Colombia Threadneedle, First Sentier Investors, Franklin Templeton, Fubon Fund Management, Harvest Global, Invesco, JP Morgan Asset Management, Man Investments, Manulife, Pando Finance Limited, Phillip Capital Management (HK) Limited, Schroder Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited, Samsung Asset Management | Advised Bosera Asset Management on the establishment and launch the first spot bitcoin and ether ETFs in Hong Kong. Advised CSOP Asset Management on implementing changes in the investment strategy of CSOP CSI 500 ETF and CSOP SZSE ChiNext ETF from a physical replication strategy to a synthetic replication strategy. Advised the first HK retail fund platform launched by SPDB – the SPDBI Global Investment Management open-ended fund company. | The ‘responsive and proactive’ team at Deacons provides ‘high-quality and client-focused’ advice to fund managers across a range of fund establishment, regulatory (including licensing and authorisation) and ongoing compliance mandates. While the firm does handle some private fund work, under the leadership of the vastly experienced Jeremy Lam, the team is, however, undoubtedly best-known for its work in relation to retail funds where it is ‘able to provide the latest market insight’ by dint of its deal flow and its strong interactions with the regulators. Alwyn Li is noted for his ability to provide a ‘solutions-oriented service’ for clients establishing and seeking SFC authorisation of unit trusts and mutual funds domiciled in Hong Kong and overseas. Noted for his knowledge of registered fund regulatory procedures, Taylor Hui spearheads the team’s efforts for China funds work and has developed particular expertise advising PRC fund managers establishing retail funds in Hong Kong. Of the more junior partners, the ‘business-friendly’ Pinky Siu and Ming Chiu Li are also key members of the team for the establishment of a wide range of retail funds as well as on regulatory and compliance matters. | Hong Kong | Investment funds | |||
| Hong Kong > Investment funds > Leading partners | Deacons | Taylor Hui | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Taylor Hui - Deacons | Hong Kong | Investment funds | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Investment funds > Leading partners | Deacons | Jeremy Lam | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Jeremy Lam - Deacons | Hong Kong | Investment funds | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Investment funds > Next Generation Partners | Deacons | Ming Chiu Li | Next Generation Partners | Individual Ranking | Ming Chiu Li - Deacons | Hong Kong | Investment funds | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Investment funds > Next Generation Partners | Deacons | Pinky Siu | Next Generation Partners | Individual Ranking | Pinky Siu - Deacons | Hong Kong | Investment funds | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Labour and employment | Deacons | Labour and employment | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Labour and employment | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Labour and employment | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Cynthia Chung | Elsie Chan; Helen Liao; Stephanie Yip | MTR Corporation, Bain & Company, HongShan(Formerly known as Sequoia China), Oaktree Capital Management, Jardine Matheson Holdings Limited, In the merit, BOCI Trustee, Nankai, Toshiba | Assisted the client in summarily terminating a senior staff who has committed serious misconduct. Assisted a client in exiting an employee who has extreme psychological issues and became disruptive at the workplace. Acted for a client in conducting an investigation against a senior executive on allegations of discrimination, harassment and office bullying. | Spearheaded by the ‘seasoned employment lawyer’ Cynthia Chung, the Deacons practice has extensive expertise in formulating cross-border employment arrangements, alongside assisting with complex sexual harassment and whistleblowing claims. The team stands out for supporting employers who require employment pensions, employee benefits, and immigration advice, with Chung primarily focusing on restructuring, redundancies, and flexible working arrangement in the transition to the post-covid era. The ‘extremely efficient and knowledgeable’ Elsie Chan has experience of handling litigation proceedings before the Labour Tribunal and disputes concerning discrimination and harassment, while Helen Liao regularly acts for multinationals in the life science, telecoms, and construction space. Stephanie Yip covers both contentious and non-contentious employment matters. | Hong Kong | Labour and employment | |||
| Hong Kong > Labour and employment > Hall of Fame | Deacons | Cynthia Chung | Hall of Fame | Individual Ranking | Cynthia Chung - Deacons | Hong Kong | Labour and employment | ||||||
| Hong Kong > Labour and employment > Leading partners | Deacons | Elsie Chan | Leading partners | Individual Ranking | Elsie Chan - Deacons | Hong Kong | Labour and employment | ||||||
| 2 | Hong Kong > Private Client and Family | Deacons | Private Client and Family | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Private Client and Family | ||||||
| 2 | Hong Kong > Private Client and Family | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Joseph Kwan; Lilian Chiang; Sherlynn Chan; Taylor Hui | Tana Chan; Hazel Wong | Deacons‘ practice is praised by clients for being ‘uniquely placed in the market to handle complicated, big money family disputes involving mental capacity and vulnerable clients’, often assisting high-net-worth clients. This team is jointly led by Joseph Kwan, Lilian Chiang, Sherlynn Chan, Taylor Hui. Cecilia Lau is instrumental in the team’s disputes work, often acting in multijurisdictional divorce disputes, while Chan and Hazel Wong are key contacts for vulnerable clients and cases involving mental capacity. Kwan is recommended for his experience in large-scale family disputes, and Tana Chan, whose advice is described as ‘pragmatic and commercial‘, is another key team member. | Hong Kong | Private Client and Family | |||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Real estate | Deacons | Real estate | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | Real estate | ||||||
| 1 | Hong Kong > Real estate | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Lilian Chiang | Wallace Wong; Karen Chan, Wai Tung Yu | MTR Corporation Limited, Urban Renewal Authority, Hong Kong Resort Company Limited, Goldstone Asset (HKSAR) Limited, High Match Limited, DBS Bank Ltd., Hong Kong Branch, Chinachem Group, Environmental Protection Department (EPD), The Government of the HKSAR, China Resources Logistics (Group) Limited, Fok Hei Yu and Kenneth Fung both of FTI Consulting (Hong Kong) Limited as joint and several receivers and managers of the property, Grand Design Development Limited and AIA International Limited | Acted for the Goldstone Asset (HKSAR) Limited in a syndicated loan transaction with United Overseas Bank Limited. Acted for the Li Ning Group from the property aspect in the purchase of the whole block of a newly developed commercial building, known as Harbour East. | Deacons offers strong knowledge of property law and is commended by clients for its ‘ample experience dealing with regulatory authorities for property sale and development’. The group’s work spans residential, commercial and industrial development projects and large-scale, high-value real estate transactions. Practice head Lilian Chiang is ‘well-known in the industry for being an exceptionally capable conveyancing lawyer‘ and utilises this strong track record in real estate law to advise government bodies and legislators on laws relevant to real estate regulation. Wallace Wong is an important team member and is instructed by a variety of real estate developers regularly. Karen Chan and Wai Tung Yu are also key team members. | Hong Kong | Real estate | |||
| Hong Kong > Real estate > Hall of Fame | Deacons | Lilian Chiang | Hall of Fame | Individual Ranking | Lilian Chiang - Deacons | Hong Kong | Real estate | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > TMT | Deacons | TMT | Firm Ranking | Deacons | Hong Kong | TMT | ||||||
| 3 | Hong Kong > TMT | Deacons | Editorial commentary | Machiuanna Chu | Charmaine Koo; Ian Liu; Theresa Luk | Hummingbird Music Ltd | Advised Hummingbird Music Ltd on the IP aspects of a breach of contract dispute involving complex IP issues. | The TMT practice at Deacons is sought out by international clients for assistance with TMT transactions, fintech, and IP matters. The team is especially active in the fintech sector where it advises e-commerce and cryptocurrency platforms on fintech projects, virtual assets, and tokensiation. Machiuanna Chu spearheads the practice and leads on corporate and commercial matters, being the main port of call for technology companies, cryptocurrency issuers, fintech companies and financial institutions for building digital businesses. Charmaine Koo handles contentious litigation, while Ian Liu focuses on IP issues. | Hong Kong | TMT |