Best Lawyers in China

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60 people in their team
English
Chengdu Tianyuan Patent Office is an intellectual property agency focused on delivering patent, trademark and related IP legal services to research institutions, manufacturers and technology enterprises. The office combines technically trained patent agents with legal professionals to manage patent...
Putian, China

English
Fujian Zhongyi Law Firm provides a broad spectrum of legal services to businesses and individuals in China, with emphasis on practical, results oriented counsel across commercial, real estate and dispute matters.The firm is built on a team of experienced lawyers who deliver clear, actionable...
Hylands Law Firm
Shenzhen, China

Founded in 1997
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
Hylands Law FirmHylands Law Firm was established in 1997 and headquarted in Beijing. Over years of development, Hylands now has 31 offices and 1 IP Agency in cities across China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Fuzhou, Guiyang, Haikou, Hangzhou,...

Founded in 2002
English
Shandong Zhengzhiyuan Law Firm is a full-service law firm based in Linyi, Shandong Province. Founded in May 2002 as one of the first internationally structured partnership firms in the city, the firm combines party-building with professional practice to defend clients' interests and uphold the...

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...
Baoding, China

English
Dagong Law Firm of Hebei delivers sophisticated corporate and commercial counsel in a wide range of matters essential to business success. The firm assists clients with company formation, governance, contract drafting and review, and regulatory compliance, applying practical solutions informed by...

Founded in 1994
280 people in their team
English
Zhejiang J.R.C Law Firm is a long standing and early approved partnership law firm in China, founded in 1994. It is among the first to be approved by the Ministry of Justice to operate as a partnership firm. The firm has grown to multiple offices in Yongjia, Leqing and Hangzhou, and reached a...
Unitalen Attorneys At Law
Shanghai, China

Founded in 1998
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
UNITALEN LAW OFFICE Founded in 1998, located in the central business district of People's Republic of China, Beijing, is a partnership law firm established in accordance with the law, focusing on intellectual property legal affairs. After years of development๏ผŒ UNITALEN LAW OFFICE has enjoyed a...
Jinhua, China

Founded in 1992
30 people in their team
English
Zhejiang Jin Zheng Da Law Firm was founded on April 28, 1992 as Zhejiang's first partnership formed by a group of former lawyers and it has since evolved into a partnership based practice. It is regarded as one of Zhejiang Province's oldest and most influential large law firms. The firm maintains...
Xinli Law Firm
Pudong, China

English
Xinli Law Firm is a China-based general practice law firm that provides a broad range of legal services to individuals and commercial clients. The firm is listed under the Google Maps category General practice attorney and maintains an online presence, though publicly available information about...
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China Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions in China and read the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

Divorce
I will get a divorce in China. I got married under my old passport number. I now have a new passport number and I need to prove that I am the same person but I am not sure how to do this
Lawyer answer by Ascendance International Consulting (A-I-C)

Thank you for your message. This is a common issue in China, and it is usually resolvable. Even though your marriage was registered under your old passport number, you can still prove that you are the same person by providing...

Read full answer
1 answer โ€ข
paternity leave lay dispute
my employer is refusing my legal rights to paternity leave, I wish to assert my rights
Lawyer answer by Tianjin Bozhuan Law Firm

it's a employment dispute. For such dispute, you may need to report to the local bureau or go through labor dispute arbitration process.

Read full answer
1 answer โ€ข

China Legal Articles

Browse our 10 legal articles in China written by expert lawyers.

China Business Travel: 144-Hour Visa-Free Rule & 2025 Visas
Immigration
China in 2025 is more open to foreign business visitors and talent, but most travelers still need a visa or must qualify for specific visa-free or transit schemes. The 144-hour visa-free transit now covers most major coastal hubs (Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Shanghai-Yangtze River Delta, Guangdong Greater Bay Area, plus cities like Chengdu,... Read more โ†’
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 โ†’
Divorce in China 2025: 50/50 Asset Division Not Guaranteed
Family
China follows an "equal but not necessarily 50-50" principle for dividing marital property, and courts now more often give an unequal share in short-term marriages or where one spouse contributed significantly more (especially to buying a home). Pre-marriage assets usually remain personal, but income and gains generated during marriage (rent,... Read more โ†’

About Hiring a Lawyer in China

Hiring a lawyer in China involves a series of strategic steps aimed at ensuring you find the right legal representation for your needs. The process generally starts with identifying the type of lawyer suited to your case, followed by conducting thorough research on potential candidates. This research may include checking credentials, understanding areas of expertise, and seeking recommendations. Given the complexity of Chinese legal procedures, engaging with a lawyer familiar with both local laws and international practices is often advisable, particularly for foreigners involved in business or legal disputes.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are numerous situations where seeking legal expertise becomes crucial in China. For businesses, legal counsel is often required for contract negotiation, intellectual property protection, and compliance with local regulations. Navigating employment laws and resolving disputes with local partners also commonly necessitate legal assistance. On the personal front, individuals may need lawyers for issues such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, real estate transactions, and in cases of crimes or traffic accidents. Understanding when and why to engage a lawyer can prevent potential legal pitfalls and enhance the success of your dealings in China.

Local Laws Overview

Chinaโ€™s legal framework is both intricate and unique, drawing heavily from statutes, regulations, and administrative directives. Key areas that are particularly relevant include contract law, company law, and intellectual property rights, each guided by foundational principles that dictate business operations and safeguard innovation. Foreign businesses must pay special attention to compliance issues, ranging from employment laws to environmental regulations. Additionally, understanding civil laws around family matters, inheritance, and property rights are crucial for individuals navigating personal legal matters. The sheer breadth of Chinaโ€™s legal system necessitates specialized knowledge, making legal guidance indispensable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What qualifications should a lawyer have in China?

In China, a qualified lawyer must have passed the National Judicial Examination and possess a valid practicing certificate issued by the Ministry of Justice.

2. Are there English-speaking lawyers in China?

Yes, in larger cities and international law firms, many lawyers are proficient in English and cater to foreign clients.

3. How much does it cost to hire a lawyer in China?

Legal fees in China vary based on the lawyer's experience, case complexity, and law firm reputation. Some lawyers may charge an hourly rate, while others might have a flat fee structure.

4. Can foreign lawyers practice in China?

Foreign lawyers can offer legal services in China, but they cannot represent clients in Chinese courts. They typically work in foreign-related legal affairs through joint ventures or as legal consultants.

5. What is the role of a notary public?

In China, notaries authenticate documents, certify deeds, and provide legal verification, playing a crucial role in transactions requiring legal endorsement.

6. How do I verify a lawyerโ€™s credentials?

You can verify a lawyerโ€™s credentials through the local bar association and by checking their practicing certificate.

7. Is it necessary to have a lawyer for property transactions?

While not legally required, having a lawyer for property transactions is advisable to ensure legal compliance and protect your interests.

8. How are legal disputes commonly resolved?

Legal disputes in China can be resolved through litigation, mediation, or arbitration, with an emphasis on mediation to encourage mutual resolution.

9. Can I switch lawyers if Iโ€™m dissatisfied?

Yes, clients are free to change lawyers, though itโ€™s important to review any contractual obligations that might affect this decision.

10. How long does a typical legal process take in China?

The duration of legal processes varies significantly based on case type; some may settle in a few months, while others, particularly complex litigation, can take years.

Additional Resources

For those seeking legal advice, several resources can assist, including the All China Lawyers Association, local bar associations, and governmental bodies like the Ministry of Justice. Additionally, the Foreign Affairs Office can offer guidance for foreign nationals. Organizations such as the American Chamber of Commerce in China also provide resources and referrals for legal assistance.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in China, begin by precisely defining your needs and researching reputable law firms or lawyers. Schedule consultations to discuss your case and get a sense of potential strategies and costs. Ensure the lawyer you select is well-versed in relevant laws and communicates clearly. Gather necessary documents and provide complete information to facilitate a smooth legal process. Being proactive and informed will significantly enhance the outcome of your legal endeavors in China.

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, 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.

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