HFW recognised in the 2026 edition of Chambers Greater China

Global, sector-focused law firm HFW has once again been recognised as a leading firm in the 2026 edition of Chambers Greater China, which identifies the top lawyers and law firms in the region.

HFW achieved six practice rankings – including maintaining its Band 1 ranking in Shipping Litigation. The firm also achieved 13 individual lawyer rankings across a diverse range of areas including aviation finance, construction, litigation, insurance, shipping finance and shipping litigation. 

Partner Malcolm Chin and Consultant Martin Downey achieved improved individual rankings in Construction, and Partner Gordon Gardiner achieved a new ranking in Insurance. In addition, Of Counsel Whitney Chan achieved an improved ranking in Aviation Finance.

HFW’s expertise, commerciality, exceptional client service was reflected in client testimonials in the directory. Client commentary included:

• “Without a doubt, HFW has all the necessary capabilities to handle complex and sophisticated matters.”
• “The firm has good commercial awareness and shows understanding in delicate issues.”
• “They are a good supportive team. I think they really listen to the client and really understand the client’s needs and meet the requirements requested.”
• “In terms of bench strength and quality, they are one of the top firms in Hong Kong.”

HFW’s rankings:

• Shipping Litigation – Band 1
• Construction – Band 2
• Aviation Finance – Band 3
• Shipping Finance – Band 4
• Insurance: Contentious – Band 4
• Dispute Resolution: Litigation – Band 6

HFW lawyer rankings:

• Patrick Cheung: Shipping Finance – Band 3
• Whitney Chan: Aviation Finance – Up & Coming
• Malcolm Chin: Construction – Band 2
• Martin Downey: Construction – Senior Statespeople
• Henry Fung: Shipping Finance – Band 4; Shipping Litigation – Band 4
• Gordon Gardiner: Insurance: Contentious – Band 4
• George Lamplough: Shipping Litigation – Band 1; Dispute Resolution: Litigation – Band 5
• Peter Murphy: Shipping Litigation – Band 3
• Nicholas Poynder: Shipping Litigation – Band 2
• Justin Sun: Aviation Finance – Band 3
• Steven Yip: Construction – Band 2

The Chambers rankings are based on a combination of research and client feedback, with assessments made on technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence and commitment.

HFW’s full rankings in the 2026 edition of Chambers Greater China can be found here: HFW, Greater China Region 2026 | Chambers Profiles

HFW was also recently recognised as a leading law firm in Asia Pacific in the 2026 Chambers Asia Pacific Guide.

HFW has a long history of serving clients in the Greater China region. The firm has been operating in Hong Kong for over 46 years and Shanghai for almost 25 years. In 2016, HFW became only the second international law firm to establish a formal association with a Chinese firm under the Shanghai FTZ rules, with Wintell & Co, and in 2023 the firm launched an office in Shenzhen to support its clients in China’s Greater Bay Area.

HFW now has three offices in Greater China, with 19 partners and more than 80 lawyers supporting clients across the region.