Hugill & Ip boasts a strong integrated private client, contentious trusts and estates, and family law offering. Under the leadership of Alfred Ip and Caroline McNally, the firm handles a broad range of services, from estate planning and trust advisory to divorce and financial disputes. The team is particularly notable for its work on recent legal developments such as matters relating to same-sex rights in Hong Kong and cross-border surrogacy arrangements. Ip is well-regarded for his work in probate disputes, trust structures and estate planning and is supported by newly promoted partner Raphael Wong. McNally handles the family side of the practice, alongside Kajal Aswani; both have significant expertise in high-value divorces and international custody disputes.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The family and private client team at Hugill & Ip is absolutely stellar. Hugill & Ip’s practice stands out for its client-first approach, blending deep expertise with innovative solutions tailored to each client’s needs.'
‘Alfred Ip is an exceptional legal professional whose expertise and dedication set him apart from competitors. His deep knowledge of family and probate law, combined with a meticulous approach to complex cross-border cases, makes him a trusted adviser for clients facing high-stakes disputes.'
- 'Working with Hugill and Ip has been a positive experience during a challenging time in my life. Their understanding and compassionate approach made me feel supported throughout the process.'
- 'Hugill & Ip goes beyond just "handling cases" – they genuinely care about their clients and focus on building long-term trust. For anyone looking for a firm that combines professionalism with a personal touch, I couldn’t recommend them more highly.’
‘Hugill Ip is a team of young and dynamic minds. They are attentive, detail-oriented, and genuinely care about their cases. The firm has a strong understanding of how to effectively utilise barristers and offers cost-effective solutions.’
‘Raphael Wong is a rising star in the matrimonial industry as a partner in Hugill & Ip. He has the capability to manage high-value cases independently. Known for his calm and thoughtful demeanour, he brings expertise and professionalism to his work.’
Work highlights
Representing beneficiary in HK$1B estate dispute against executrix over alleged asset misappropriation through offshore structures, challenging suspicious transactions made during testator's incapacity and seeking transparency in estate administration through potential executor removal proceedings.
Representing the wife in a high-value divorce case (HK$1B+) addressing equal division exceptions including misconduct, post-separation assets, property depreciation, third-party expenditure, and special needs children.
Representing widow/executrix in will interpretation dispute between blended families over inheritance of companies holding both properties and businesses, where ambiguity exists between property bequests and business succession plans.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Alfred Ip; Caroline McNally
Other key lawyers
Raphael Wong; Kajal Aswani