I N T E R N A T I O N A L   A S S O C I A T I O N S

NETWORKING TOWARDS A GLOBAL FUTURE

As a reflection of Singapore's international status and strategic geographical location, the firm has a large number of clients based outside Singapore, primarily in North America, Western Europe, China, India and Japan. We are able to effectively service clients internationally as Donaldson & Burkinshaw is the only Singapore law firm specially selected to be a member of one of the leading international legal networks, MULTILAW. The network ensures that our clients have access to legal representation in every major jurisdiction in the world through the premier firms in the various countries.

Annual conferences and meetings keep the member firms abreast of major international legal and business developments. These are augmented by regular newsletters received from the secretariats of the legal networks, as well as from the various member firms.

The most valuable function of this legal network is the access to immediate advice, information and representation, both legal as well as business, in almost any country across the globe. Donaldson & Burkinshaw is able to rely on the integrity, expertise and experience of the top law firms in each country, enabling us to effectively service the global needs of our clients.

MULTILAW is made up of firms chosen for their reputation for being both technically sound as well as innovative. The association was formed for the purpose of enhancing the service that member firms are able to give their clients by having ready access to high quality advice from all corners of the globe as well as creating opportunities for the referral of work where the situation warrants it. Formed in 1990, MULTILAW has expanded rapidly, establishing itself as a dynamic and active association of law firms. As at May 2004, it consists of over 4,500 lawyers in over 130 commercial centres throughout the world

Besides annual conferences, member firms also hold regional conferences to foster closer ties amongst members in the same region. Special interest groups have also been formed to further cooperation in specialised areas of the law. There are staff exchanges as well that enable firms to familiarise themselves with the laws and legal framework of other countries. MULTILAW has also initiated a project for electronic networking amongst member firms that would allow faster responses to clients' needs.