Herbert Smith develops Thai dispute resolution capability with local hire

Herbert Smith has bolstered its dispute resolution practice in Thailand by hiring leading litigation and arbitration specialist Surapol Srangsomwong.

Srangsomwong, who has been a consultant to Herbert Smith in Bangkok since May 2005, joins the firm as a partner, having previously headed boutique litigation practice LawAlliance. He takes with him to Herbert Smith a team of three associates.

Managing partner of Herbert Smith's Bangkok office Alastair Henderson said: "Srangsomwong brings unrivalled experience of Thai dispute resolution and a deep understanding of the political and commercial environment. His decision to join our partnership will further strengthen our leading position in the market for Thai disputes work.

"Dispute resolution is not just about court and arbitration, it's also about getting a problem solved quickly. A Thai person has a greater understanding of how the government thinks and works and whether a commercial dispute has a political aspect."

Herbert Smith aims to have the leading disputes resolution practice in Asia. It has other offices in Hong Kong, mainland China, Japan, Indonesia and Singapore.