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Specialist Guide to the

Global Leaders in Media Law Practice

Taiwan has legislated the Commercial Court Act, effective in July 2020, intended to allow the judicial system to quickly, accurately and professionally handle major business disputes.

The Act is expected to improve corporate governance, improve the business environment and enhance economic development of Taiwan.

LiPu Lee, CEO and Partner at Formosan Brothers, explained: “Under this Act, a Commercial Court means Intellectual Property Court and Commercial Court. These Court will be handling both litigation and non-contentious matters.

“Cases will be heard by a judge who specializes in dealing with commercial disputes. The Act is expected to speed up the trial time and process.”

Mr Lee added: “technology, or telecommunication companies all have high value and high frequency

works. At this day and age, both traditional media and social media are significant to the planning of legal disputes.”

Other developments include the National Communications Commission’s decision to revoke a television broadcasting license, for a cable news channel.

Pro-China CTi News has been the subject of a dispute about media freedom when commissioners cited violations of media-related rules. In December, the television station received a boost to its online presence as it prepares to focus on the internet.

TIER 1

Eiger’s focus is on entertainment and art. The media group advises on international publishing contracts for books, screenplays, periodicals and websites. Specialising in compliance and intellectual property policy, founding partner John Eastwood manages the practice.

In line with its global emphasis, Baker McKenzie’s local practice advises on copyright matters in a range of sectors including technology. Justin C. Liang manages the firm which also works on complex, cross-border business transactions. The team also advises media and telecommunications clients on banking and finance, mergers and acquisitions.

Formosan Brothers advises clients on television, film and anti-trust issues. The firm’s work ranges from advice on film distribution and licensing to the acquisition of shares in publishing businesses. The firm has a separate division focussing on intellectual property, managed by Chi-Che Tung. Practitioners also advise games companies on litigation and licensing disputes.

Lee, Tsai & Partners is well regarded by competitors and best known for its advice on cable television broadcasting laws and regulation. Lawyers are also well versed in foreign investment law. The team’s experience includes assistance to Formosa Plastic Group in its acquisition of Next Media Limited’s Taiwan Business, including Next Magazine, Apple Daily, Sharp Daily and Next TV.

TIER 2

Entertainment specialist LCS & Partners assists clients with negotiating and drafting performance agreements and with government approval and permission. Lawyers assist with intellectually property matters, represent domestic and foreign companies on dispute resolution and advise on inbound investment and tax relief for royalties.

Lee and Li has a leading position with its media sector advice ranging from tax, risk management and strategy analysis. The team assists with television and radio matters, intellectual property, technology transfer and licensing. Christina Chao manages the department and advises government and private businesses on drafting and amending laws and regulations.

TIER 3

Formosa Transnational works on government approval and contract negotiations on behalf of entertainment clients. Other areas of focus include compliance and regulation. The team drafts and negotiates entertainment and art performance contracts. Gambling operators also form part of the firm’s client base.

Jones Day specialises in cyber security, privacy and data protection. The firm’s global focus on intellectual property creates an integrated approach with lawyers in Taiwan working closely with the firm’s international network. Jack J.T. Huang leads the team which also advises on joint and strategic ventures.

K&L Gates litigates on behalf of clients in disputes regarding authorship, ownership, originality and fair use. The full-service firm assists with domestic and cross-border matters notably connected with copyright,

TIER 1

Eiger

Baker McKenzie

Formosan Brothers

Lee, Tsai & Partners

TIER 2

LCS & Partners

Lee and Li

Liang & Partners

Shay & Partners

Yangming Partners

TIER 3