English-Speaking Lawyers in Shanghai

Lawyer fees in Shanghai typically range from ¥1,500 to ¥5,000 per hour for English-speaking PRC lawyers, depending on experience and specialization. Fixed-fee arrangements for specific matters (contract review, company registration) are also common. Foreign law firms in Shanghai generally charge higher rates (USD $300–800/hour).

Foreign lawyers cannot practice PRC law in Shanghai courts. They may work as foreign legal consultants at international law firms but cannot represent clients in Chinese litigation. Only PRC-licensed lawyers can appear before Chinese courts. For cross-border matters, many clients hire both a PRC lawyer and coordinating counsel from their home jurisdiction.

You can verify a Shanghai lawyer's license through the Shanghai Bar Association website or the national PRC lawyer query system. Every lawyer listed on ChinaLawList has been verified. You can also ask the lawyer to provide their PRC Lawyer License number for independent verification. Read our guide on verifying Chinese lawyers →

No. Most Shanghai lawyers can handle your case remotely. Initial consultations are typically conducted by phone, email, or video conference. Documents can be signed electronically or by courier. For court appearances, your lawyer can represent you with a power of attorney — you generally do not need to appear in person.

The most common legal issues for foreigners in Shanghai include: employment contract disputes and wrongful termination; business setup and investment structuring; contract disputes with Chinese parties; divorce and child custody in international marriages; IP infringement; visa and residency permit issues; and real estate transaction disputes.