Hong Kong, 12 October 2007 – Baker & McKenzie received the China Client Choice Award from the International Law Office (“ILO”) for the third consecutive year, i.e. since the inception of the Award in 2005. Baker & McKenzie lawyers were praised for their "clear and succinct advice with a thorough understanding of applying US business objectives under Chinese law".

The 2007 ILO Client Choice Award honours the top law firm in 46 jurisdictions, based on survey responses received from more than 1,300 senior corporate counsels. The criteria for the awards centred on law firms' ability to add real value to their clients' business above and beyond the other players in the market and a real focus on the full spectrum of client service and customer care. Firms were assessed on the quality of legal advice; value for money; commercial awareness; effective communication; billing transparency; tailored fee structures; depth of team; response time; sharing of expertise; and use of technology.

Commenting on the award, David Fleming, Managing Partner for Hong Kong, China and Vietnam said, “Placing our clients first while delivering outstanding and valued legal services are core values of Baker & McKenzie. We are delighted to win this award for the third year in a row. The award reflects the Firm's long standing China capabilities, including extensive industry and country experience, our platform of “on-the-ground” resources and involvement in many first-to-market transactions.”

Launched in 1998, ILO is one of the leading online legal update services for major companies worldwide. With over 33,000 subscribers, it represents a key portal through which law firms communicate with their clients. ILO became the Official Online Media Partner to the International Bar Association in 2002, an International Online Media Partner to the Association of Corporate Counsel in 2005 and European Online Media Partner to the European Company Lawyers Association in 2006.