Asialaw Profiles
The Guide to the legal markets of the Asia-Pacific

This was a year of big change for Barlow Lyde & Gilbert, which is well known in Hong Kong for its dispute resolution practice as well as its expertise on shipping and aviation matters. In August 2010, the firm announced an international merger with leading shipping firm Clyde & Co. This will result in multi-jurisdictional capabilities and a new firm with 270 partners and 27 offices worldwide.

Hong Kong office head David Smyth has 13 years of experience working in Asia, and specialises in dispute resolution and arbitration with particular prowess in professional indemnity claims and insurance related matters. Partner Tom Fyfe is also described as a dispute resolution partner to watch in Hong Kong.

Barlow Lyde & Gilbert is well known in Hong Kong for its expertise in shipping and maritime, aviation, insurance and dispute resolution practices. The firm’s Hong Kong practice is especially strong on the aviation side, which is directed by veteran aerospace partner Peter Coles. Coles has over 13 years of experience in aviation, having worked in-house and in the private sector. One partner at a rival firm says: “Peter is very good. He truly loves the industry and is an absolute mastermind when it comes to aviation issues.”

In August 2011, Barlow Lyde & Gilbert announced a merger with fellow international shipping and maritime specialists Clyde & Co. The merger is planned for November 2011, when both firms will merge under the Clyde & Co name.