Best Contract Lawyers in Shanghai

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.


Founded in 1982
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
OUR HISTORY  As one of prestigious and first-generation law firms established by riding on the wave of China government’s ‘Open Door’ and ‘Economic Reform’ policies, Shanghai International Economic & Trade Law Office (“SIETLO”) traces its origins to 1982, when, under the name...

Founded in 2021
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Bright & Young Law Firm is incorporated according to the Lawyers Law upon the approval of Shanghai Justice Administration as a comprehensive law firm consisting of a number of partners and one of the most vigorous law firms with the great potentialities in Shanghai. BYLF operates under...
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...
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...
Hui Ye Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1986
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Huiye Law Firm (hereinafter referred to as "Huiye") is a leading comprehensive law firm in the country that specializes in commercial legal services. In recent years, Huiye has won many awards and industry qualifications, and has been rated as one of the top 30 Asia-Pacific law firms by ALB and...

Founded in 1984
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai United Law Firm (“United”), founded in 1984, is a prestigious leading law firm of rich history providing comprehensive legal services in China. In addition to the head office in Shanghai, United has set up offices throughout China.United has accumulated broad professional experience...
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...
Nuodi Law Firm
Shanghai, China

Founded in 2007
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Shanghai Noddy Law Firm is one of the few professional providers in mainland China that can provide comprehensive legal and commercial services for the entire life cycle of enterprises. It has long been deeply involved in high-tech fields such as integrated circuits, artificial intelligence,...
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, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...

Founded in 1946
2,057 people in their team
English
Chinese
At Arnold & Porter, we are client-driven and industry-focused. Our lawyers practice in more than 40 practice areas across the litigation, regulatory and transactional spectrum to help clients with complex needs stay ahead of the global market, anticipate opportunities and address issues that...
AS SEEN ON

About Contract Law in Shanghai, China

Contract law in Shanghai, China, is primarily governed by the Civil Code of the People's Republic of China, which came into effect on January 1, 2021. This comprehensive legal foundation includes specific provisions and principles relevant to contractual agreements, emphasizing the importance of mutual consent, fairness, and good faith. Shanghai, a global commercial hub, often deals with diverse contract types, from sales and employment to intellectual property and construction projects. With its robust economic activities, understanding contract law in Shanghai is essential for both businesses and individuals engaged in legal transactions.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking legal advice is advisable in numerous situations surrounding contracts. These include drafting or reviewing complex contracts, negotiating terms to ensure fairness and compliance, resolving disputes that may arise from breaches or ambiguities, and understanding the implications of local laws on your agreements. Businesses often require legal expertise to navigate joint ventures, partnerships, and mergers that involve multi-jurisdictional elements. Additionally, individuals may seek legal guidance for employment contracts, leases, or service agreements to protect their rights and interests.

Local Laws Overview

The key aspects of contract law in Shanghai follow the national legislative framework with local interpretations that can influence business operations. Essential principles include:

  • Formation and Validity: Contracts must include offer, acceptance, and the intention to create legal relations, supported by lawful purpose and capacity of parties.
  • Form and Registration: While most contracts do not require special formality, certain contracts, like real estate or those involving state-owned assets, may need registration or notarization.
  • Breach and Remedies: Contracts must include provisions for dealing with breaches, including damages, specific performance, and contract rescission.
  • Force Majeure: Understanding of force majeure is crucial, as it can release parties from liability due to unforeseen events.
  • Dispute Resolution: Contracts often specify mechanisms for dispute resolution, including litigation, arbitration, or mediation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes a legal contract in Shanghai?

A legal contract in Shanghai must have offer and acceptance, consideration, lawful purpose, and competent parties. It should also manifest mutual consent and be in compliance with relevant laws.

Are oral contracts valid in Shanghai?

Yes, oral contracts can be valid, but proving terms and conditions can be challenging without written records. Certain contracts, such as those involving property, must be in writing.

How is a breach of contract handled in Shanghai?

Breach of contract can lead to remedies such as damages, specific performance, or contract termination, depending on the contractual terms and nature of the breach.

What should I do if I am offered a contract in a language I don't understand?

It's crucial to obtain a translated version of the contract and consult with a legal professional who can explain its terms and potential implications.

Is it necessary to have a lawyer check every contract I sign?

While not always necessary, having a lawyer review contracts can help prevent misunderstandings and safeguard your interests, especially for complex or high-stakes agreements.

What are the usual methods for resolving contract disputes?

Common dispute resolution methods include negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation. The chosen method often depends on the contract's terms or mutual agreement between parties.

How can I enforce a contract with a foreign party in Shanghai?

Enforcing contracts with foreign parties may involve international law considerations and ensuring the contract adheres to Chinese legal standards. Legal assistance is advisable for navigating such complexities.

What is the significance of force majeure in contracts?

Force majeure clauses protect parties from liability due to extraordinary events beyond their control, such as natural disasters or governmental actions, affecting contract fulfillment.

Are there special considerations for employment contracts in Shanghai?

Employment contracts must comply with labor laws ensuring employee rights, including working hours, wages, and conditions. Regulations for foreign employees may also apply.

Can electronic signatures be used in contracts in Shanghai?

Yes, electronic signatures are generally accepted for contracts unless specific laws require traditional signatures, enhancing efficiency in business transactions.

Additional Resources

Several resources can assist individuals seeking legal advice on contracts in Shanghai:

  • Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Justice: Offers guidance and information on legal resources and services available in the city.
  • China International Economic and Trade Arbitration Commission (CIETAC): Provides arbitration services for contract disputes.
  • Local Bar Associations: Useful for finding qualified contract law attorneys in Shanghai.
  • Ministry of Justice of the PRC: Provides legal frameworks and updates on national legislation affecting contracts.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with a contract in Shanghai, consider taking the following steps:

  • Consult with a local attorney who specializes in contract law to understand your situation comprehensively.
  • Prepare all relevant documents and information related to your contract or dispute before meeting with legal counsel.
  • Evaluate different legal services or firms to find one that fits your specific needs and budget.
  • Consider dispute resolution clauses when drafting contracts to avoid potential conflicts in the future.
  • Stay informed about changes in local laws that might affect your contracts, especially for business transactions.
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 Contract, 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.