Best Employment & Labor Lawyers in China

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English
Established in 2013, CFS - Luís Cavaleiro de Ferreira, Ricardo Silva & Associados is a prominent full-service law firm based in Macau. The firm has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, innovative, and practical legal advice, adhering to international standards of responsiveness...
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...
Junsheng Law Firm
Beijing, China

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Beijing Junsheng Law Firm was established in 2004 with the approval of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice. It was initiated by senior lawyers with master's degrees in law from China University of Political Science and Law and the Chinese People's Law School and who have been engaged in...

Founded in 2002
English
Heilongjiang Xiaofeng Law Firm is a Harbin based practice established in 2002. The firm has developed a broad practice focusing on criminal defense, civil disputes, and real estate related matters, delivering rigorous analysis and practical solutions for clients.Over its history the firm has earned...

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...
Fred Kan & Co.
Beijing, China

Founded in 1981
English
Established in 1981, Fred Kan & Co. is a Hong Kong-based law firm renowned for delivering comprehensive legal services to both domestic and international corporate clients. The firm's practice areas encompass company and corporate finance, intellectual property, employment, dispute resolution, real...
Xinnuo Law Firm
Beijing, China

Founded in 2001
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Sino Pro Law Firm was established under the Lawyers Law of the People’s Republic of China and with the approval of the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice. It has more than 400 practicing lawyers. As a comprehensive legal services institution, it has sufficient experience in...
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...
Long'an Law Firm
Beijing, China

Founded in 1992
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Long An Law Firm is a full service Chinese law firm with thirty-three offices in all major metropolis across China. Founded in 1992, when China embarked on the process of privatization and reform of its economy, our first office in Beijing was one of the earliest private law partnerships licensed...
King & Wood Prclawyers
Suzhou, China

Founded in 1832
5,000 people in their team
Chinese
English
We are a law firm born in Asia with an Asian perspective and world-class service capabilities.King & Wood Mallesons has more than 3,000 lawyers in 31 offices around the world. Our lawyers are well versed in Eastern and Western cultures, and rely on diversified thinking, profound professional...
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China Employment & Labor Legal Articles

Browse our 2 legal articles about Employment & Labor in China written by expert lawyers.

Wrongful Termination in China:Severance Pay vs Reinstatement
Employment & Labor
China is not an at-will jurisdiction: almost every unilateral dismissal must fit a narrow statutory ground, follow strict procedures, and be well documented. If a termination is ruled illegal, courts can order reinstatement plus back pay or award double severance (2N); employers cannot rely on paying standard severance to "buy... Read more →
China Non-Compete Agreements: New Limits and Compensation
Employment & Labor
In China, enforceable non-compete agreements are mainly for senior management and key technical or confidential staff, not for ordinary or low-level workers. The Supreme People's Court Interpretation II introduces the "30% rule": if the contract is silent, the employer must pay at least 30% of the employee's average monthly salary... Read more →

About Employment & Labor Law in China

Employment and Labor Law in China primarily governs the relationship between employers and employees. It provides regulations on labor contracts, working hours, wages, occupational safety, and social insurance, among other matters. The foundation of these laws is derived from the Labor Law of the People's Republic of China and the Labor Contract Law, which aim to protect the legitimate rights and interests of laborers while promoting harmonious employment relationships.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Employment and labor issues can be complex, and there are several situations where lawyers can provide valuable assistance. Common scenarios include disputes over employment contracts, wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, unpaid wages or overtime, and breach of labor standards. A lawyer can help interpret the legal jargon, represent you in negotiations or court, and ensure your rights are protected in the workplace.

Local Laws Overview

China's employment law system incorporates several key aspects:

  • Labor Contracts: Employment relationships must be formalized with a written contract within one month of hiring.
  • Working Hours: Standard working hours are 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, with specific provisions for overtime compensation.
  • Wages: There are legal requirements for minimum wages, timely payment, and additional wages for overtime or special circumstances.
  • Social Insurance: Employers are required to contribute to employees' social insurance funds, including pension, medical, unemployment, work-related injury, and maternity insurance.
  • Termination and Severance: There are strict guidelines for lawful termination of employees and calculations for severance pay.
  • Non-Compete Clauses: Legal provisions exist for enforcement of non-compete agreements post-employment, usually with compensation for the employee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the mandatory components of a labor contract in China?

A labor contract in China must include essential terms like job description, workplace, salary, work hours, rest and leave, insurance, and contract duration.

What constitutes wrongful termination?

Wrongful termination occurs when an employer dismisses an employee without legal grounds or proper procedure, such as lack of notice or severance pay.

How is overtime calculated?

Overtime is compensated at 150% of standard wages on weekdays, 200% on rest days (if rest is not offered in lieu), and 300% on public holidays.

Are non-compete clauses enforceable?

Non-compete clauses are enforceable if they are reasonable in scope, duration (usually up to two years), and geographical limitation. Employers must provide financial compensation during this period.

What recourse do employees have for unpaid wages?

Employees can file a complaint with local labor authorities or take legal action for unpaid wages. A lawyer can assist in preparing and presenting the case.

Is there a statutory minimum wage in China?

Yes, minimum wages are set by local governments and vary by region, reflecting the cost of living and economic conditions in those areas.

What are the rules regarding workplace discrimination?

Employment laws in China prohibit discrimination based on factors like race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or disability. Victims can seek redress through legal channels.

How is severance pay calculated?

Severance pay is generally one month's salary for each year of service, with pro-rata calculations for periods less than a year and capped amounts for high earners.

Can an employer change the terms of employment unilaterally?

Employers cannot unilaterally change significant terms of the employment contract, like salary or job role, without the employee's consent.

What are the legal requirements for foreign workers in China?

Foreign workers must hold a valid work permit and residence permit, and employment contracts must comply with Chinese labor laws, often necessitating special considerations.

Additional Resources

Here are some additional resources that can assist those seeking employment and labor advice in China:

  • The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security: Provides guidelines and regulations related to employment and labor.
  • Local Labor Bureaus: Offer avenues for registering complaints and mediation resources for labor disputes.
  • Legal Aid Centers: Some offer free legal aid services to underprivileged workers facing labor issues.
  • Trade Unions: Can provide support and representation in labor disputes.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance, consider the following steps:

  1. Define your objectives clearly and gather all relevant documentation.
  2. Consult with a qualified employment and labor lawyer who can offer tailored advice.
  3. Explore mediation and alternate dispute resolution options if applicable.
  4. If litigation is necessary, work closely with your lawyer to prepare your case.
  5. Stay informed about your rights and responsibilities under Chinese labor laws to prevent future issues.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in China 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 Employment & Labor, 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.

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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.