Chris Ward passes baton to incoming ADVOC Asia President

ADVOC, the international law firm network that CGW has been a member of since 2012, recently held its 2024 Asia AGM in New Zealand.

A major feature of the AGM was Chris Ward, a founding partner of Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers, handing over to newly elected President of ADVOC’s Asia Chapter, Michael Lanyon.

The incoming President, and other ADVOC leaders who were present, thanked Chris for what they referred to as his ‘outstanding leadership’ over his terms as both Global Chair and Asia Chapter President. This included his contributions to the growth of ADVOC, bringing on board more member firms, and his ability to keep up communication across the network during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reflecting on his time as leader of the law firm network, Chris commented: ‘We have built lasting relationships across the globe, and the appeal of ADVOC is evidenced by its continued growth, with six new member firms admitted at our recent AGM. Obviously, you hope to attract work through these networks but, just as importantly, we really benefit from the ability to refer our clients to trusted friends in firms across the world. In recent years, CGW has seen a significant influx of ADVOC‑referred work.’

ADVOC is an international network of independent law firms whose members bring together their knowledge and expertise to support clients in jurisdictions across the globe. Rated by Chambers Global as a Band One leading law firm network, ADVOC currently consists of 90+ firms and 5,500 lawyers spread throughout more than 70 countries.

Chris Ward took on the role of Global Chair from 2018 to 2023, and was also President of the Asia Chapter from 2018 to 2024.