Hong Kong law firm Hugill & Ip has hired Polly Chu as a partner from international firm Withers to lead the launch of a new real estate and conveyancing practice, marking a strategic expansion of its service offerings.
The new practice will integrate property expertise with the firm’s existing corporate, family and private client services, targeting high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients navigating Hong Kong’s property market.
With two decades of experience in Hong Kong property law, including residential and commercial conveyancing, leasing, property financing and property-related disputes. Chu also advises on REITs, corporate restructuring due diligence, and sales and purchases.
Chu joined Withers in 2017 from Winston & Strawn. She started her career at DLA Piper.
“For our private clients, real estate often forms the cornerstone of their wealth and estate planning, whether it’s a family home or an investment portfolio,” said Alfred Ip, partner at Hugill & Ip, in a statement. “Polly’s deep knowledge of Hong Kong conveyancing procedures allows us to integrate property structuring flawlessly into our trust and succession planning services.”
Partner Adam Hugill added the move would benefit clients requiring property advice alongside corporate services.
“The launch of the real estate practice is a game-changer for many of our clients, who require swift and accurate advice when dealing with property,” Hugill said. “This integration allows us to offer a truly comprehensive service, managing both the corporate structure and the underlying assets with expert precision.”
Hugill & Ip now has nine partners. They include family partners Caroline McNally and Kajal Aswani, who joined in 2023 from Gall.
The feature was originally published on Asian Legal Business website
