Best Corporate Governance Lawyers in Central

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Oldham, Li & Nie
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1987
100 people in their team
Chinese
English
French
Japanese
Spanish
Corporate & Commercial Corporate Governance Merger & Acquisition +11 more
Oldham, Li & Nie (OLN) is a highly regarded full-service law firm, whose commitment to professional excellence has been the cornerstone of the firm since its creation in 1987. The firm possesses many years of experience practising in Hong Kong and has a diverse set of global employees,...

Founded in 1977
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Andrew Hart, Peter Mills and Will Giles are working in partnership as a firm of Solicitors and Notaries in Hong Kong.With over 45 years of combined experience of practising in Hong Kong, Hart Giles is well positioned to offer strategic dispute resolution and business solutions at competitive cost...
Kevin Ng & Co., Solicitors
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
About UsEstablished since 1999, KEVIN NG & CO., SOLICITORS ("KNC") at present comprises of six legal professionals: Mr. Kevin Ng, Senior Partner; Mrs. Cecilia Wong, Partner; Mr. Wing Lung Kwok, Consultant;  Mr. Alex Lam, Associate; and Ms. Mandy Wong, Associate.The aspiration of Kevin Ng...
Yung, Yu, Yuen & Co.
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1965
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Weng Yuruan Law Firm was founded in 1965 by lawyers Weng Guoyu, Yu Pingzhong and Ruan Bei Yao, and has developed into a well-known and well-known Chinese law firm.Over the past 50 years, the Bank has witnessed the growth and development of Hong Kong society, and has successfully won recognition,...
Axiom Law (Hong Kong)
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 2000
5,000 people in their team
Chinese
English
A new era of alternative legal services providersAxiom is the global leader in high-caliber, diverse legal talent. With over 5,800 lawyers spanning North America, the UK, Europe, and APAC, we enable corporate legal departments to drive efficiency and growth and to adapt to a demanding new era.Asia...
Tonys Lawyers
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 2002
10 people in their team
Chinese
English
Who We AreTonys Lawyers was founded by a number of experienced lawyers who had been working and practicing for around or more than 20 years in Hong Kong’s top tier local and international law firms. Each of them has been well recognized in their respective practice areas, i.e. corporate and...
Wellington Legal
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1999
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Our FirmWe are a vibrant, energetic and forward-thinking Hong Kong law firm with a clear vision to provide high quality professional legal services.Responding to the rapid economic growth of the PRC and matters with increasing complexity and international aspects, we have developed an extensive...
Poon Lawyers
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 2014
10 people in their team
Chinese
English
POON LAWYERSPractices AreaCivil and Criminal ProceedingsChinese NotarySale and Purchase of PropertyDivorceMarriage RegistrationContract DraftingBankruptcy ApplicationCompany liquidationPOON LAWYERSPractices AreaCivil and Criminal ProceedingsChinese NotarySale and Purchase of PropertyDivorceMarriage...
Robin Bridge & John Liu
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1983
10 people in their team
Chinese
English
Hong Kong law firm with a portfolio of world-renowned international and local clients having substantial experience in, among others, intellectual property and litigationEstablished since 1983, we are a firm of vibrant and energetic professionals who always step into the shoes of our clients and...
Slaughter and May
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1974
5,000 people in their team
Chinese
English
HONG KONG OFFICEWe have a long-standing presence in Asia and opened our office in Hong Kong in 1974.We have extensive experience of a wide range of work involving Hong Kong, the People's Republic of China and Asia.We act for many of the world's leading companies who choose us because we share their...
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About Corporate Governance Law in Central, Hong Kong

Corporate governance refers to the system of rules, practices, and processes that direct and control companies. In Central, Hong Kong, which serves as a major financial hub in Asia, corporate governance is crucial for maintaining investor confidence, promoting transparency, and ensuring business integrity. Hong Kong’s legal environment has established robust standards and regulations to protect shareholders, uphold fairness, and facilitate smooth operation of both local and international companies. The region’s corporate governance framework is influenced by both common law principles and specific regulations unique to Hong Kong.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Corporate governance legal issues can be complex and multifaceted. You may need a lawyer for several reasons, including:

  • Establishing or restructuring your company’s board or governance framework
  • Navigating regulatory compliance with the Companies Ordinance or Hong Kong Stock Exchange listing requirements
  • Resolving disputes among directors, shareholders, or executives
  • Drafting, updating, or reviewing corporate policies, by-laws, or articles of association
  • Advising on directors’ duties, conflicts of interest, or shareholder rights
  • Handling whistleblowing or internal investigations involving corporate misconduct
  • Advising on mergers, acquisitions, or cross-border transactions and their governance aspects
  • Ensuring compliance with disclosure and transparency obligations

Legal counsel is especially important to avoid regulatory penalties, reputational damage, or expensive litigation resulting from governance failures.

Local Laws Overview

Corporate governance in Central, Hong Kong is shaped by several key legal instruments and regulatory bodies. The Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) is the primary legislation governing company operations, directors’ responsibilities, and shareholder protection. Publicly listed companies must comply with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange’s (HKEX) Listing Rules, which include a Corporate Governance Code setting out best practices. Other important laws include the Securities and Futures Ordinance and anti-money laundering regulations. Directors are under a fiduciary duty to the company and must avoid conflicts of interest, act in good faith, and exercise care, skill, and diligence. Shareholders have rights to information, voting, and remedies through meetings or court action in case of unfair treatment. Non-compliance with governance laws can result in regulatory enforcement, fines, or disqualification of directors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Companies Ordinance and why is it important for corporate governance?

The Companies Ordinance (Cap. 622) is the principal law regulating company formation, management, and governance in Hong Kong. It sets out the legal framework for directors’ duties, shareholder rights, disclosure requirements, and compliance obligations for both private and public companies.

What are the main duties of company directors in Hong Kong?

Directors are required to act honestly, exercise reasonable care and diligence, avoid conflicts of interest, and act in the best interest of the company. Breaches can lead to personal liability or disqualification.

What are the key corporate governance requirements for companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange?

Listed companies must comply with the Listing Rules and the Corporate Governance Code, which cover board composition, audit committees, internal controls, disclosure standards, and shareholder engagement.

Can minority shareholders take action if their interests are unfairly prejudiced?

Yes, minority shareholders may apply to the court for remedies if they believe the company’s affairs are being conducted in a manner unfairly prejudicial to their interests. The court can order remedies such as buying out shares or changing corporate conduct.

Are there specific requirements for board committees in Hong Kong?

Yes, especially for listed companies, which are required to establish audit, nomination, and remuneration committees. Best practices also recommend having independent non-executive directors on these committees.

What disclosures are companies required to make for good corporate governance?

Companies must make disclosures related to financial performance, board structure, director interests, major transactions, and material events. Listed companies must make timely disclosures through announcements and reports to the market.

How does Hong Kong law address conflicts of interest among directors?

Directors are required to declare any conflict of interest and must not vote or be part of decisions where a conflict exists, unless authorized by the articles of association or shareholders.

What are the consequences of failing to comply with corporate governance laws?

Non-compliance may result in regulatory investigations, fines, director disqualification, reputational harm, or lawsuits brought by shareholders or regulators.

Are there governance requirements for private companies as well as listed companies?

While listed companies face stricter regulations, private companies are also subject to the Companies Ordinance and must uphold basic governance principles and duties for directors and shareholders.

Is it mandatory to appoint company secretaries in Hong Kong?

Yes, every Hong Kong company must appoint a company secretary, who is responsible for ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and keeping proper records.

Additional Resources

If you need further information or assistance on corporate governance matters in Central, Hong Kong, consider the following resources:

  • Companies Registry of Hong Kong - for company incorporation and compliance guidance
  • Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX) - for listing rules and corporate governance code information
  • Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) - for regulations on securities, market conduct, and disclosure
  • Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries (HKICS) - for training and guidance on best governance practices
  • Legal Aid Department - in cases where legal advice or representation is required and you meet eligibility criteria
  • Law Society of Hong Kong - for finding qualified solicitors experienced in corporate governance matters

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance in corporate governance in Central, Hong Kong, it is important to:

  • Identify the specific issue or concern you are facing
  • Gather all relevant company documents, such as articles of association, board minutes, or shareholder agreements
  • Seek professional advice from a qualified lawyer with expertise in corporate governance and Hong Kong company law
  • Consult available resources or industry bodies for background information and guidance
  • Consider scheduling a consultation to discuss your situation and explore your legal options

Corporate governance can involve complex legal and commercial considerations. Taking timely advice can help you protect your interests and ensure compliance with the law.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Central 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 Corporate Governance, 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 Central, Hong Kong - 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.