The Legal Cheek View
Hong Kong lawyer Pak Chuen Woo founded his eponymous law firm with a staff of seven in 1945. Over its long history of more than 75 years, P.C. Woo has grown to 13 partners and nearly 40 lawyers, with clients in Hong Kong, mainland China and internationally. Through its two representative offices in Chengdu and Nanjing, the firm is able to establish a link between Hong Kong and western Chinese regions.
The firm’s expansion through associating with different firms in the region has allowed it to rapidly scale its service offerings. For example, its 2011 association with Zhonglun W&D has enabled P.C. Woo to advise on Chinese, English and Saudi Arabian laws. Notably, the firm was also one of the first to be permitted by the Chinese Ministry of Justice for a full partnership association office in Qianhai, further strengthening ties between the mainland and Hong Kong.
With this broad expertise, P.C. Woo has many practice area offerings, including corporate, commercial, intellectual property and litigation. With such capability comes diverse clientele, ranging from listed companies to public bodies. Four of the firm’s partners are also China-appointed attesting officers, which means they can certify evidence of documents in Hong Kong. This is attractive to clients looking for a ‘one-stop shop’.
Alongside billable work, the firm encourages lawyers to undertake pro bono work. P.C. Woo regularly works for church organisations, non-profits and public corporations. It has also provided advice on protecting rights of the disabled and the elderly. During the two-year training contract, the firm offers a seat rotation in charity and public policy, underscoring its commitment to all-things pro bono. Other seat options include corporate & commercial, litigation, property & trust and intellectual property. Trainees are supervised and provided with professional development courses by senior lawyers and guest lecturers.
To train at the firm, you’re expected to have “a good character and personality”. You must also have good academic results and be willing to learn and work hard. The firm also offers a three-week internship for post-secondary school students looking to gain experience. They can expect to work in different practice areas of the firm and if they’re lucky, they may get to visit places like the Hong Kong courts or Stock Exchange!
P.C Woo’s head office is conveniently located in Hong Kong’s Central business district. Since 1964 it’s been based in Prince’s Building, an office tower with six levels of retail floors housing several luxury brands.
The firm often hosts social events for lawyers to get together, including the annual Christmas lunch, which in 2018 was held in The Hong Kong Jockey Club. The “highlight” was a trainee performance, which included singing and a magic show.