Chambers Greater China has published its 2022 guide and Gall is ranked as a Leading Firm for Dispute Resolution (Band 4), Employment (Band 4) and Family/Matrimonial (Band 2). Nick Gall, Chris Wong, Matthew Durham and Caroline McNally are all recognised as Ranked Lawyers.
Dispute Resolution
What the team is known for
Local firm Gall is well known and respected for its representation of clients in both Hong Kong and cross-border commercial disputes. Well placed to assist financial institutions, foreign governments and high net worth individuals, with expertise in a range of issues including insolvency, employment, and shareholder and joint venture disputes. Also regularly handles fraud claims and recovery actions. Experienced in securing major injunctions for high-profile clients. Regularly receives referrals from international law firms in Hong Kong.
Strengths
A commentator sees the team as “very strong, very meticulous and very detailed,” stating: “I always enjoy working with them; they actually make helpful input and come up with ideas.”
A second source describes the firm as “the leading independent local practice in Hong Kong.”
Work highlights
Assisted SoftBank Vision Fund with applications for recognition of letters of request granted by the Delaware Courts seeking document production and testimony from Hony Capital, Gaw Capital, Trustbridge and certain individuals in relation to a USD3 billion claim by WeWork against the client.
Notable practitioners
Chris Wong (Band 5) offers clients a broad Hong Kong-based disputes practice encompassing shareholder disputes, fraud and asset recovery, and securing interim measures. One source notes approvingly: “He’s very much what a client is looking for; he’s good value and responsive, with all-round experience; a strong choice with a very client-minded approach.” Another describes him as “very responsive, very dedicated and very easy to talk to,” and likes that “he’s not an ivory tower kind of chap, he wants to get the job done.”
Nick Gall (Band 5) co-heads Gall’s litigation practice group and is an experienced litigator, particularly for shareholder disputes. A market commentator exclaims: “Who doesn’t know Nick Gall, right? He’s a very good operator.”
Employment
What the team is known for
The recognised Hong Kong employment group of Gall holds significant expertise in contentious employment matters. Acts for both employers and employees on a range of mandates including terminations, wrongful dismissal claims and breach of employment claims. Notably active on employment investigations and sexual misconduct matters, acting for a range of multinational clients.
Work highlights
Gall defended TFS Derivatives in proceedings against its former employee regarding the allegations of wrongful termination, fraud and breach of fiduciary duty.
Notable practitioners
Matthew Durham (Band 3) is well regarded for his work assisting international clients with workplace restructurings and employment contracts. He also advises on sensitive investigations and whistle-blowing issues.
Family/Matrimonial
What the team is known for
Gall is held in high regard for its expertise in dealing with international family law mandates, most notably those concerning the breakdown of relationships. Acts for clients going through a divorce, assisting them with the financial aspects, also usually handling complex relocations where children are involved. Also equipped to advise on matters involving trusts and business assets. Renowned for its emphasis on using collaborative law and mediation as alternative methods to resolve a dispute. Able to assist clients on Private Financial Adjudication. Remains a popular choice for expatriates, high net worth individuals and local clients for assistance in family-related disputes and settlements.
Strengths
One admiring source states: “They are second to none in dealing with cross-border issues. They have deep experience in these matters and always look out for their clients’ interests.”
“This firm is well versed in handling international claims and international clients,” echoes an interviewee, who explains: “They are live to the complexities that this work throws up, and I have every confidence they can handle such claims well.”
Notable practitioners
Caroline McNally (Band 1) has a busy family and matrimonial practice, offering expertise in a broad range of contentious matters. She remains a highly sought-after practitioner when it comes to financial settlement matters and cases involving children. She wins widespread praise from sources for her strong reputation, as one interviewee notes: “Caroline is always in her client’s corner and brings her unparalleled experience and tactical brilliance to get them the best results. She is the lawyer to turn to for matrimonial matters.”
View the full guide here:
