Alternative legal service providers (ALSPs) have increasingly become a solution to companies’ need for more cost-effective legal services. However, the important question to answer is: Can it work in Asia?

In January, Indonesia introduced a set of rules requiring miners to shift from their current ‘contracts of work’ to so-called ‘special mining permits’ before being allowed to resume exports of semi-processed ores and concentrates. This move has led to a very public, increasingly costly dispute with miner Freeport-McMoRan, which appears to have ramifications not just on the industry, but also doing business in Indonesia.

Following the ouster of Park Geun-hye, there is talk of reforming South Korea’s chaebols, much like there was two decades ago

Apart from assisting members in connecting with their peers across jurisdictions, law firm networks are also helping them upgrade their skills and preparing them for a fast-evolving international business environment.

Two recent issues related to the enforcement of arbitral awards in Asia have brought the topic to the fore. Lawyers say that while the region has a generally good record of enforcing awards, clients should always be aware of the possible risks.

Annabel Moore is the general counsel for global beverage maker Diageo’s APAC region. She talks to ALB about how important in-house counsels are within the organisation as well as how to successfully manage a demanding legal career without sacrificing family priorities.

Investigations and other compliance-related issues are fueling the e-discovery boom in Asia Pacific, outpacing growth in other parts of the world.

As part of its integrated energy blueprint, the Thai government is placing increasing emphasis on renewable energy, particularly solar power, which is expected to see continuing growth and development in 2017. And lawyers in Thailand are already witnessing an uptick in related work. By Ranajit Dam

Countries in Southeast Asia have plans to build a rail network connecting the entire region. These ambitious transportation projects, however, face complex legal and regulatory challenges. By Haky Moon

As commercial disputes become more common across Asia, support services for litigation and arbitration are mushrooming as well, and technology firms providing lawyers a host of tools to work with. By Alfred Romann