Best Business Lawyers in Shanghai

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Fenwick & West LLP
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1972
1,118 people in their team
English
Chinese
Fenwick & West LLP provides comprehensive legal services to ground-breaking technology and life sciences companies - at every stage of their lifecycle - and the investors that partner with them. We craft innovative, cost-effective and practical solutions on issues ranging from venture capital,...
Hanyuan Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 2009
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Han Yuan Law Firm was founded on 8th May, 2009, it has been developing steadily and rapidly due to its advanced service concepts and high quality of services.     Han Yuan is a comprehensive law firm, our aim is to provide professional, high quality and comprehensive...
Perkins Coie LLP
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1912
2,875 people in their team
English
Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients' success. With more than 1,200 attorneys in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate,...
Hengliang Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 2008
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Outstanding because of professionalismShanghai Hengliang Law Firm is a partnership law firm registered in the Shanghai Municipal Justice Bureau and invested and cooperated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University Logistics Group. It is one of the few boutique lawyers in Shanghai that fully relies on...
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1931
1,100 people in their team
English
Chinese
Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for the past 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weilโ€™s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...
Effort Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Co-effort Law Firm is a comprehensive professional legal service organization with a global perspective and local wisdom, dedicated to providing professional legal services to clients. Uphold the concept of "Service Creates Value", We are committed to achieving our own value and social value...
Huisheng Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Huisheng Law Firm was established in June 1995. It is one of the earliest partnership law firms in China, providing services in foreign-related maritime affairs, freight logistics, marine insurance, foreign investment, corporate business, international trade, and real estate. It enjoys a high...
Fangda Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1993
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
We have approximately 800 lawyers in our six offices in major Chinese cities: Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Nanjing, Shanghai and Shenzhen. We operate as a single, integrated partnership, not as an alliance of lawyers in different locations.Our lawyers collaborate seamlessly across practice groups...
Tiansun Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 2018
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Law View Partners is duly approved by the Ministry of Justice with the headquarter located in Shanghai Pudong Lujiazui. We adhere to the principle of bringing professional, comprehensive, high-quality and efficient services to our clients at home and abroad.We are dedicated in the areas of...
Tongqian Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 2001
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Tongqian is a professional law firm which is mainly engaged in corporation law and commercial law with concernings and labor law. The firm is set up and conducted by several outstanding veteran lawyers graduated from Fudan University and East China University of Political Science and...
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About Business Law in Shanghai, China

Business law in Shanghai, China is a unique legal field that harmonizes both international and domestic business norms. This law oversees business operations, focusing on matters such as contracts, intellectual property, investments, business formations, trade regulations, and labor relations. It is an intricate and evolving field with a new foreign investment law introduced in 2020. This law aims to encourage foreign investment and protect the legitimate rights and interests of foreign investors. Given the intricacies involved, an in-depth understanding of Chinese policies, cultural nuances, as well as legal technicalities is imperative. Shanghai, as a global financial hub and one of Asia's significant business centers, amplifies the importance of understanding business law.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Entering or expanding a business in Shanghai brings an array of complex legal, financial, and cultural considerations. You may need a lawyer when starting a business, negotiating contracts, protecting intellectual property, navigating labor regulations, or dealing with taxation. Also, due to the constant changes in legal and regulatory landscapes, having legal advice could be pivotal in ensuring that your business remains compliant and competitive. Furthermore, if disputes arise, a lawyer can present strategies and solutions to protect your business interests.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of local laws particularly relevant to business in Shanghai include:

  • Foreign Investment Law: This law promotes and protects foreign investment, ensuring fair competition with domestic companies. It includes pre-establishment national treatment and a negative list approach.
  • Labor Law: China's labor law offers substantial protections to employees, requiring companies to understand and follow strict procedures around hiring, wages, working hours, and termination.
  • Contract Law: This law governs all business agreements. It is crucial to ensure contracts are legally valid to protect business interests.
  • Intellectual Property Law: China has specific laws in place to protect patents, trademarks, and copyrights, among others.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can foreigners start a business in Shanghai?

Yes, foreigners can start a business in Shanghai. However, it is important to comply with the foreign investment law and other relevant regulations.

2. How can one protect their business interests in Shanghai?

Protecting business interests in Shanghai includes registering intellectual property rights, ensuring contracts are tightly worded, and regularly consulting with a lawyer to catch and address potential legal issues promptly.

3. What kind of business entities can one establish in Shanghai?

Foreign investors can establish businesses as wholly foreign-owned enterprises (WFOE), representative offices, or through joint ventures.

4. What is the importance of having a contract in China?

Contracts in China are more than just legal formalities. They are central to business dealings and vital in protecting a company's interests.

5. How are disputes settled in business in Shanghai?

Disputes can be settled through litigation in Chinese courts, arbitration, or negotiation. However, many businesses prefer China's arbitration system due to its efficiency and finality.

Additional Resources

For additional resources, you may find help from the following:

  • Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Justice: Offers extensive guidance on local legal issues.
  • China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission: Handles arbitration related to economic and trade disputes.
  • Asian Legal Business: Provides updates on legal news in Asia.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in business in Shanghai, it is advised to consult with a legal expert specializing in Chinese law. Firstly, identify your legal needs. You can find lawyers through referrals, online search or through legal directories. Prepare your questions and paperwork before your initial consultation. Keep an open line of communication with your legal representative, and ensure you fully understand any actions they propose.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Shanghai through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Business, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Shanghai, China - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.