Ongoing Legal Counsel

Direct, ongoing legal support for smaller international businesses and internationally oriented Chinese companies that need commercial judgment without the structure of a large in-house legal department.

Who this service is for

This service is intended for established or growing SMEs operating in Shenzhen, Dongguan and Huizhou: foreign-founded businesses, trading and sourcing companies, design and technology practices, professional firms, manufacturers working with overseas clients, and local companies developing international projects or markets.

Typical areas of support

• Reviewing commercial contracts, purchase and sales arrangements and service agreements.
• Corporate governance, shareholder arrangements and decision-making records.
• Employment documentation and day-to-day workforce questions.
• Payment, evidence and early dispute management.
• Legal input for premises, operations, projects and business changes.
• Coordinating specialist lawyers or other professionals when the matter requires them.

A proportionate working model

The purpose is not to create unnecessary legal work. At the outset, the business and lawyer should agree what falls within routine counsel, which matters require separate scoping, who may give instructions, expected response times and how urgent issues are identified. Clients communicate directly with the lawyer responsible for the work.

When a continuing arrangement may not be necessary

A defined project, single contract or existing dispute can usually be handled as a separate engagement. The appropriate structure depends on the frequency of legal needs, internal capabilities and the value of having continuing commercial context.