Global law firm Ashurst announces the appointment of Gareth Hughes as a partner in its dispute resolution practice, based in Hong Kong.
Gareth focuses on major commercial litigation, international arbitration and regulatory defence matters. With over 25 years of experience in Asia, he advises major corporates, financial institutions and high net worth individuals on complex commercial disputes, often with cross-border dimensions. His matters involve proceedings before courts and arbitral institutions, including arbitrations under the HKIAC, LCIA, SIAC, CIETAC, UNCITRAL and ICC rules.
Gareth also frequently advises on internal and regulatory investigations, including those involving the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the Independent Commission Against Corruption. His work has encompassed financial services, corporate finance, private wealth, fraud, private equity, insurance, judicial review and shareholder-related matters.
Gareth is recognised as a leading practitioner by The Legal 500 Asia Pacific (Hall of Fame), Chambers & Partners, and Benchmark Litigation.
Ben Hammond, Hong Kong office managing partner, commented: "Gareth is a highly experienced litigator with deep expertise in complex disputes and regulatory matters. His appointment enhances our disputes offering in Hong Kong and strengthens our ability to serve clients across the Asia-Pacific region."
Global CEO of Ashurst, Paul Jenkins, added: "Investing in our Disputes & Investigations practice both in Asia and globally is a key strategic priority for us. The market has shifted, with regulators adopting a more assertive enforcement stance and clients increasingly facing complex and high-stakes disputes, with a particular focus on financial services. Welcoming Gareth back to our global team reinforces our ability to support our clients to respond to these issues, and adds a well-timed boost to both our commercial litigation platform and our contentious financial services offering."
Gareth said: "Having previously been a partner at Ashurst's Hong Kong office earlier in my career, I am delighted to return to the firm and to work with colleagues across the network to support clients on their most complex disputes. The firm's commitment to growing its disputes practice in Asia and its global platform provides an excellent foundation to deliver value to clients."
