Our review lights way forward

Despite all the challenges of 2020, we have witnessed that every legal entity, large or small, is sparing no effort in adapting to the so-called new normal.

This issue of China Business Law Journal features our annual comprehensive review of China’s legal services market. The review is a series of four articles providing in-depth analyses of the most important regulatory changes and market trends, as well as the key concerns of corporate counsel, in the first half of the year.

Amid economic headwinds, a continuing pandemic and ongoing friction with the US, China has never stopped moving forward with legal reforms. The Foreign Investment Law took effect at the start of the year, followed by China’s first Civil Code, which was approved at the end of May and will come into force next year. Forward motion explores areas of these reforms that have confused some companies, and compiles suggestions and assessments from legal experts.

In the first half of 2020, China’s legal services market has been buffeted by change. Major law firms seem to be weathering the storm, while many small to medium-sized firms are finding it tough.

China Business Law Journal conducted its annual legal market survey of Chinese leading law firms, in which nearly 80 responded and showcased their business performance, as well as national and international footprints.