Construction: Japan

THE FIRM This firm has one of the strongest construction departments in Japan, with a diverse practice as well as a solid litigation arm. It advises a number of large Japanese corporations and financial institutions, particularly in relation to outbound construction disputes. It also handles non-contentious work, including matters related to power, hydroelectricity and LNG projects. Representative clients include Kobe Steel and ITOCHU.

Sources say: "We appreciate the lawyers' skill in resolving construction disputes."

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Gilmore is a highly notable figure in the field, and is known for his ability to handle complex construction disputes. He is currently advising a Japanese trading house against its subcontractors in relation to a potential dispute caused by delays in a construction project.

Emma Kratochvilova is highly regarded by her peers as one of the top dedicated construction lawyers in Tokyo. Clients praise her for being "quick to understand our needs, and the crucial areas of the case." She recently advised two Japanese contractors regarding an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for a project in Papua New Guinea.

THE FIRM This team works closely with its counterparts in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Hanoi to provide a well-rounded and sophisticated offering. It is this comprehensive, regional service that ensures it is instructed on such complex matters as the USD34 billion Ichthys LNG project in Australia. In this transaction, the team was mandated by Chiyoda, JGC and KBR, and advised the joint venture entity, JKC Australia LNG. In the past year, it also worked on projects as far afield as Vietnam, Laos and Bangladesh.

Sources say: "They offer real practical professionalism, and are very responsive to our needs as clients."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Julian Berenholtz is a key associate in the Tokyo office's construction team, and is rated for his pragmatic and practical advice. He was involved in the Ichthys deal described above.

THE FIRM This internationally renowned firm focuses on front-end construction work, and is particularly known for its expertise of the oil and gas and LNG sectors. It mainly advises on cross-border matters, and represents large Japanese companies such as Hitachi, Mitsui and Sojitz.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Rupert Burrows is a fluent Japanese speaker, and has nearly two decades of experience working in Japan. He is a highly visible construction lawyer in Tokyo, and peers note his skill in handling EPC matters.

THE FIRM With a large international network, this firm works on significant cross-border matters and assists clients with avoiding and resolving construction disputes. It works closely with lawyers from its other offices around the world in order to fulfil its clients' needs. It represents a number of major domestic and international clients.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Joel Greer is an active practitioner in this field, especially in relation to litigious matters. He has been recently engaged on disputes which stem from mainland Asia and South-East Asia.

THE FIRM This well-established firm is prominent for domestic construction work and has lately been involved in solar and wind projects. It also works on matters outside Japan, and in particular has been focused on South-East Asian jurisdictions including Vietnam and Cambodia. Its construction team has been boosted lately by the hire of several lawyers from other domestic firms.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Miho Niunoya is a senior partner and a key contact for the construction team. She has a great deal of experience in handling construction as well as PFI/PPP matters.