Global law firm Dentons has expanded its M&A and capital markets capabilities in Hong Kong after hiring corporate lawyer Stephen Chan as a partner from Dechert.

With over 20 years of experience, Chan focuses on corporate transactions, including public and private M&A deals, private equity, real estate investment trust (REIT) listings, restructurings, takeovers, initial public offerings (IPOs), H-share listings, and general compliance matters.

Chan joined Dechert in 2017. Prior to that was a partner at Cadwalader, Wickersham & Taft and Latham & Watkins. Chan began his career as an associate at the legacy Allen & Overy.

"Stephen's impressive industry reputation and extensive experience add a new dimension to the firm's existing capabilities in Hong Kong," said Gordon Ng, head of the corporate and commercial department, in a statement.

Chan's addition follows Dentons' lateral partner hires in Hong Kong over the past several months. In April, the firm added debt finance and investment funds partner Charles Yim from local firm Gallant, and in August last year, it hired banking partner Nicholas Chua from a senior in-house role at CIMB Bank.

With Chan's arrival, Dentons now has 11 partners in Hong Kong.