Hong Kong

I joined CMS as a paralegal in 2019. In the same year, I started my 2-year training contract with the firm and qualified with the dispute resolution team in 2022.

From the very beginning of my training, I had the opportunity to assist with sizable claims and deals under the supervision of qualified practitioners. The hands-on approach allowed me to develop a solid understanding of the practical aspects of the profession while learning from experienced colleagues.

Having qualified as a solicitor now, the learning curve remains steep, and I continue to learn from my work and colleagues every day. The supportive culture at CMS has made it a wonderful place to work, as everyone – from support staff to my peers to the partners is approachable and consistently offers constructive feedback on my work.

The firm is not just about work. It also places huge emphasis on our professional development. For instance, the London office regularly organises training workshops and we, the disputes team in Hong Kong, are taking turns to organise internal CPD talks every month so that we are keeping abreast of the latest legal development in our practice area. Outside the workplace, we are encouraged to meet with clients to connect with them. Last year, our team organised a joyous mani and bubbly evening for our clients, which was not only fun but also an experience that strengthens our relationship within the team and with the clients!

I first joined CMS through the Hong Kong office’s summer vacation scheme in 2021, which gave me a real insight into the firm’s culture and the calibre of work on offer. Inspired by that experience, I began my two-year Training Contract in 2023 and have since qualified with both the Asset Finance team and Investment Funds team.

From the outset, I was impressed by the breadth of training resources available across every practice group in the firm. Whether it was technical know-how or practical skills, there was always support at hand, and the learning curve was both steep and rewarding.

One of the aspects I most appreciate about CMS is the secondment opportunity offered to every trainee in the Hong Kong office. I was fortunate to spend six months with the London office’s Banking team, which was an invaluable experience. Not only did I receive great training, but I also had the chance to network with colleagues from across the wider firm. The exposure to different markets and working styles broadened my perspective and helped me build lasting professional relationships.

CMS’s commitment to innovation is another standout feature. The firm has invested heavily in technology, embracing AI tools like Harvey and Microsoft Copilot to ensure we are always ready for what’s next. As a junior, I have found that these technologies significantly improve our efficiency and allow us to focus on more meaningful aspects of our work.

Beyond the office, I have enjoyed taking part in the firm’s CSR initiatives such as the bee farm visit to help save local bees, volunteering with Food Angel, and organising the Hong Kong Legal Walk. These experiences have not only been rewarding on a personal level but have also helped foster a sense of community within the firm.

I joined CMS in 2019 after attending the Hong Kong office’s first summer internship program and heartily recommend the program as it provides valuable insight into the type of clients and cases which the firm regularly advises on.

During my time at the firm, I have been fortunate to work on a variety of matters for international clients of all shapes and sizes – from listed companies to start ups. The training and professional support have been instrumental to my development and allowed me to explore both my interests and strengths. In terms of culture, my diverse and dynamic colleagues have fostered an open-door policy where I feel welcome to share my views.

In respect of CSR, the firm has been actively engaged in various initiatives both locally and internationally including contributions to the Médecins Sans Frontières cookbook, volunteering at the Crossroads Foundation and preparing food at Food Angel. In this regard, I have been pleasantly surprised by the firm’s willingness to explore and support new initiatives.