When a dispute in China can't be resolved through negotiation, the next step is litigation or arbitration — and for a foreign party, that can feel daunting. The court and arbitration systems work differently from those back home, proceedings run in Chinese, and winning on paper means little if you can't enforce the result. Whether you're bringing a claim, defending one, or trying to collect on a judgment, we represent foreign parties through every stage of dispute resolution in China.
Who We Help
- Foreign companies and individuals with a dispute in China that needs litigation or arbitration
- Clients being sued or facing an arbitration claim from a Chinese party who need to defend themselves
- Clients who have already won but can't collect, and need to enforce a judgment or award
What We Help With
- Representing you as claimant or defendant in Chinese court litigation
- Representing you in arbitration, including before bodies such as CIETAC
- Defending you against claims brought by a Chinese party
- Enforcing judgments and arbitration awards, and tracing assets
- Pre-litigation strategy assessment and settlement negotiation
- Jurisdiction and governing-law questions in cross-border disputes
Why Strategy From the Start Matters
In China, the outcome of a dispute is often shaped before you ever reach a hearing — by how the claim is framed, which forum is chosen, and how evidence is prepared. A strong early strategy can lead to a favorable settlement without a full trial, or put you in the best position if the case does proceed. Acting early also matters for enforcement, since assets can move while a case drags on.
Why Work With Us
- A bilingual attorney team — you follow your own case directly in English and Mandarin, with no translator in between
- Based in Xiamen, at Deheng Law Offices — a national law firm — with the standing to represent you in court and enforce results on the ground
- Full coverage — from pre-litigation strategy and settlement to litigation, arbitration, and enforcement
- We represent both claimants and defendants, and think about enforcement from the very start — not just winning on paper
How It Works
- You tell us your situation — the dispute you're bringing, defending, or trying to enforce.
- We review it and, if helpful, arrange a complimentary 15-minute video call to talk through your options and the likely path.
- If we take it on, we agree on the strategy and fees before any work begins.
- We represent you — through negotiation, litigation, arbitration, and enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
As a foreign party, can I sue or be represented in a Chinese court?
Yes. Foreign companies and individuals have the right to bring and defend claims in Chinese courts and arbitration. Whether litigation or arbitration is the better route depends on your contract and situation, which is what an early assessment is for.
Should my dispute go to court or to arbitration?
It depends — often on what your contract says and where enforcement will happen. Arbitration can be faster and more private; court litigation may be necessary in other cases. We assess which route gives you the best position before you commit.
I won my case but the other side won't pay. What can I do?
This is common, and enforcement is its own stage. Through the courts, assets can be traced and enforcement measures pursued against the losing party. We handle enforcement of both judgments and arbitration awards.
How much does litigation or arbitration cost?
Our fees are flexible and depend on the complexity and stage of the dispute. We give you a clear view of the likely cost and fee structure before any work begins, so there are no surprises.
How do you work with clients who don't speak Chinese?
Our attorneys work with you directly in English and keep you informed at every stage. Proceedings may run in Chinese, but you always understand your own case — you deal with the lawyer, not a translator.