The number of submissions for the 23rd ALB Hong Kong Law Awards, scheduled to take place in September, has reached an unprecedented milestone, setting the stage for the biggest showdown amongst Hong Kong’s most brilliant legal minds this year.

The list of the finalists has been released. 

At least 100 submissions have been received from private practice law firms looking to participate in Asia’s most prestigious legal celebration. The region’s corporate legal community has also shown robust enthusiasm by handing in over 50 submissions to compete in 13 in-house categories.  

Notably, the M&A Deal of the Year category has topped the chart with 36 submissions, followed by 34 submissions for the all-time popular title of Young Lawyer of the Year (Law Firm). The Hong Kong In-House Team of the Year award has attracted 20 market-leading corporate legal teams to contest for recognition.

Winners will be announced at the awards gala, which will be held on Sept. 13 at Hong Kong’s JW Marriott Hotel.

"We are thrilled and deeply honoured by the unprecedented level of participation in the 23rd annual ALB Hong Kong Law Awards," said Amantha Chia, senior director of Thomson Reuters’ Legal Media Group.

"The record number of submissions from both law firms and in-house legal teams is a testament to the enduring prestige of these awards and the unwavering support of the legal community. More importantly, it highlights the remarkable resilience and adaptability of Hong Kong's legal industry in the face of challenging economic conditions,” said Chia.

She added: “This overwhelming response not only celebrates excellence in the field but also demonstrates the legal sector's commitment to innovation and growth, even in turbulent times. We are immensely grateful for the trust placed in ALB and look forward to showcasing the outstanding achievements of our participants."