Stephen Wortley, Chair of Lang Michener's China practice, is excited to be in Hong Kong

Stephen D Wortley, Chair of Lang Michener's China practice, says exciting times are ahead for the firm as he spearheads its groundbreaking entry into the dynamic and fast-growing Hong Kong legal market. 

The new office – Lang Michener's first international office – will provide the firm's Hong Kong clients with greater access to its Canadian legal experience in corporate finance, private equity, M&A, banking, real estate, litigation and international trade.

As the only Canadian national law firm registered to practice in Hong Kong, Lang Michener gains a competitive edge over other Canadian firms in the region, according to Mr Wortley. "The Hong Kong office is an integral part of our strategic growth plan based on client needs and market demand," he says. "With our new office, we plan to build on that experience and assist in creating new opportunities in Canada and in Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland and Asia."

China Play

Hong Kong, Mr Wortley says, is the most effective way to service the firm's growing number of clients on the mainland. "Hong Kong offers many advantages – including a highly developed infrastructure and legal, financial and technical expertise – that we can draw upon in servicing these clients."

Lang Michener has an established track record in Asia. Its experience includes helping Chinese companies looking to access North American capital markets, as well as advising on China inbound and outbound transactions across a variety of industries, from mining, telecommunications and transportation, to information technology and investment banking.

Lang Michener also represents an increasing number of mainland companies seeking acquisition and investment opportunities among Canadian companies, especially those that are natural resources-based.

"As a Canadian law firm, it is important for us to have a local presence, and a local partner, for our China practice," he says. "The local presence helps us meet the needs of clients in Hong Kong more effectively. It's also helpful in establishing a greater presence within the Hong Kong and Chinese population in Canada – especially in Vancouver and Toronto. It demonstrates our commitment, and we hope, cements our overall market leadership among these clients."

Valuable Partner

The relationship Lang Michener has developed with local partner Angela Ho & Associates is another key factor. "We appreciate the value of a trusted local partner," says Mr Wortley. "Our local partnership helps us establish a presence in Hong Kong from which we will build upon at the right pace. Our presence in Hong Kong also enhances our relationship with local sources."

By choosing Hong Kong as its China base, Lang Michener has signalled a vote of confidence in Hong Kong as a gateway to the opportunities China offers. "I'm excited to be in Hong Kong. We aim to provide top legal services to our Chinese clients, and we believe Hong Kong will continue to be a gateway to the mainland's development for some time to come," he says.

The timing of the law firm's entry into Hong Kong goes beyond the current economic slowdown.

"Our decision to open in Hong Kong is not driven by short-term economic factors, but by our long-term commitment to Hong Kong and the Chinese market and by our future growth strategy," he explains. Economic conditions come and go, but we are here to stay."

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