Mori Hamada‘s practice advises companies and directors in both internal and independent investigations in both domestic and international contexts. The team advises on a wide range of issues, including unfair competition, bribery and corruption matters. Yasuhiko Fujitsu focuses on capital markets-related issues such as accounting fraud, insider trading, market manipulation and regulatory inspections. Hideaki Umetsu is highly experienced in cross-border crisis and risk management, particularly in investigations involving Japanese subsidiaries abroad, covering bribery, corruption, export and import controls and human rights violations matters therein. Takaaki Kanayama specialises in crisis management, corporate governance and dispute resolution, while Kazuhito Imaizumi is known for handling large-scale investigation and regulatory matters. Hiroshi Yamauchi is also a name to note.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘A trusted firm with extensive knowledge and expertise of the Japanese market and Japanese companies, which has recently strengthened its international expansion. The firm has established a solid position as the first choice for Japanese companies and multinational companies operating in Japan when responding to complex and critical crises.’

  • ‘Aritsune Miyoda is a leading partner in the field of international crisis response. He has solid knowledge of Japanese law and extensive practical experience.'

  • ‘The track record and depth of personnel in crisis management are outstanding.’

  • ‘MHM is the best law firm which has deep experience and knowledge about accounting fraud in Japan.’

  • ‘We're satisfied with their various competencies, including their high commitment to schedule, deep analysis of certain transactions, various resources and patience in severe situations.’

  • ‘Suguru Miyata has an outstanding sense of stability and reliability in hard and long projects. He always derives and utilises the power of his team members.’

  • ‘I would like to recommend Kazuhisa Kita who is always quick to respond and cost-conscious, and I believe he is always able to respond appropriately to client needs.’

  • ‘Business acumen, speed, quality and coverage of even minor areas.’

Key clients

  • Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
  • ADK Holdings Inc.
  • Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.
  • ACCESS CO., LTD.
  • MIXI, Inc.
  • Japan Exchange Group, Inc.
  • Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd.

Work highlights

Advising Kobayashi Pharmaceutical regarding the health issues of its “Benikoji” related products.
Advising Japan Exchange Group in its establishment of an Independent Director’s Investigation Committee to conduct an investigation into the causes of an unprecedented insider training case, and in the evaluation of possible recurrence prevention measures.

Lawyers

Leading partners: Bengoshi

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners: Bengoshi

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Takaaki Kanayama

Leading associates: Bengoshi

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Kazuhito Imaizumi

Practice head

Yasuhiko Fujitsu; Hideaki Umetsu; Hiroshi Yamauchi

Other key lawyers

Takaaki Kanayama; Kazuhito Imaizumi; Aritsune Miyoda; Suguru Miyata; Kazuhisa Kita; Suguru Miyata