Michelle Yip – Associate, Hong Kong
"I chose to qualify into the antitrust, competition and trade (ACT) group because I developed a strong interest in competition law at law school and also during my time in ACT as a trainee.
I began my secondment with the ACT group in London in August 2008, when the Anti-Monopoly Law (AML) came into effect in China. As the AML is modelled on the EC competition law regime, the secondment was a fantastic opportunity for me to gain experience in EC and UK matters.
During my secondment I was involved in a wide range of matters including merger control and antitrust advice. The training programme is very well structured and there are regular sessions tailored specifically for junior competition lawyers across the practice group. Being in a jurisdiction where competition law is well developed has given me a great insight into the application of competition law in practice. Hopefully I'll be able to apply what I have learnt to my work in Hong Kong and China.
The AML is developing rapidly and there are already some notable decisions in the short time since it has been introduced. With fast changing rules and regulations, it's very exciting to see it all happen and we're learning all the time.
Outside of work, there are regular office drinks and our social committee is very active in organising social events. Freshfields does a lot for the community and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in charity events and pro bono work. It is great to work in a place that is professionally as well as personally rewarding."
Michelle Yip
Associate, Hong Kong
University College, University of London – Psychology;
Nottingham Law School – Graduate Diploma in Law
Joined: as a trainee in August 2006