Recent years have seen a greater push towards alternative dispute resolution as a more cost-efficient and effective means to resolve disputes. Hong Kong enjoys a geographical advantage as well as a well-established system which renders it an internationally attractive place for ADR to take place.
Mediation is often preferred for being a quick and structured method/avenue to resolve disputes. The recent signing of the UN Convention on International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation (also known as the Singapore Convention) by over 40 countries reflects the global commitment and growing popularity of this form of ADR. With the recent decision of the Shanghai Intermediate People’s Court decision in Daesung Industrial Gases confirming that non PRC arbitration institutions may conduct hearings in the PRC, this will likely allow further involvement of Hong Kong lawyers in arbitrations conducted there.
DVC’s members have a deep bench of experience and a strong track record in the context of a variety of disputes. They act as counsel or accept appointments as single arbitrators or co-arbitrators across a tribunal. Areas of expertise range from general commercial and property disputes to more specialised areas, such as maritime/shipping and intellectual property.
DVC’s members continue to contribute to the development of ADR in Hong Kong and beyond. In addition to appointments with, for instance, the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) and the Hong Kong Mediation Council (HKMC), members regularly deliver lectures and talks on ADR both within and outside Hong Kong.