On January 16, 2026, Watson & Band Law Offices hosted the final review round for its 2nd "Outstanding Young Lawyer" awards at the firm's Shanghai headquarters.

Upholding the firm’s commitment to talent development and professional exchange, the event provided a premier stage for the next generation of legal leadership. Through dynamic presentations and rigorous evaluation, the finalists showcased the diverse expertise and vitality that define the future of Watson & Band.

Opening Remarks: Empowering the Next Generation

Partner Ms. Zeng Zhen presided over the session, outlining the review protocols for the 16 finalists. Ms. Zeng emphasized that this year’s evaluation focused on three core dimensions: Technical Depth, Professional Empathy, and Proactive Engagement. She encouraged all participants to perform with confidence and showcase their distinct professional identities.

Mr. Qian Junliang, Managing Partner (Director) of the firm, delivered the opening address. He framed the selection process not merely as a competition, but as a vital dialogue between the firm's leadership and its rising talent. In his remarks, Mr. Qian highlighted a critical differentiator beyond technical legal skills: "The ability to resonate with clients." He encouraged the candidates to seize the moment, relax, and express themselves fully.

Rigorous and Independent Evaluation

To guarantee impartiality and objective assessment, the final review panel comprised 11 Senior Partners, including members of the Management Committee. Notably, these judges did not participate in the preliminary document review stage, ensuring that the final rankings were based solely on the candidates' live performance and on-the-spot capabilities.

A Showcase of Excellence: Sixteen Distinct Professional Journeys

The presentation segment featured 16 emerging lawyers from the Shanghai headquarters and regional branches. Each finalist was granted the stage to articulate their insights on legal practice, analyze representative cases, and discuss their professional trajectory over the past year.

The presentations underscored the depth of talent at Watson & Band, clustering around three pivotal themes:

1. Deepening Expertise & Innovation

Several lawyers demonstrated their capacity to navigate complex challenges in specialized fields:

        ●    Wang Yu (Kunming Branch) discussed the intersection of Labor Law and Intellectual Property, detailing how she employed multifaceted mediation strategies to successfully resolve a series of trademark infringement disputes.

        ●    Zhang Jiale reviewed the high-profile restructuring of Yibang Real Estate, a case involving liabilities exceeding RMB 12 billion. He highlighted his innovative application of a "corporate service trust" structure to resolve the impasse.

        ●    Ma Xiaohan shared her pivotal role in establishing compliance frameworks and industry standards for the emerging data trading sector.

        ●    Qiao Lin illustrated how she leverages her dual background in engineering and law to devise highly effective technical defense strategies for patent infringement litigation.

        ●    Li Siyuan reflected on his inaugural year of independent practice, citing a complex cyber-infringement case where he secured a successful filing through the use of advanced digital tracing techniques.

2. Transformation & Multidimensional Growth

Presenters also shared compelling narratives of career evolution and strategic shifts in mindset:

        ●    Zeng Ziyun delivered a moving account of her five-year transformation from a legal secretary to a licensed associate, highlighting her persistence and adaptability.

        ●    Li Zhe discussed expanding his strategic horizon, emphasizing his proactive efforts to upskill in AI and digital technologies to enhance legal service delivery.

        ●    Fu Jianjing spoke candidly about her transition from a purely technical execution focus to developing sharper commercial acumen and market awareness.

        ●    Huang Juexin described his pivot from "reactive delivery" to "proactive business development," marking a maturation in his practice management.

        ●    Pu Wenjie outlined his path from intern to independent counsel, emphasizing how deep specialization in Labor Law creates tangible value for clients.

        ●    Zhou Mimi detailed her transition from non-litigation work to litigation practice, showcasing her commitment to a "holistic client strategy" that views disputes through a broader commercial lens.

3. Responsibility & Shared Vision

Many lawyers emphasized the synergy between personal growth and the firm’s broader mission:

        ●    Wang Wenyan anchored her development in four pillars: Professionalism, Collaboration, Technology, and Empathy.

        ●    Jing Yalong and Guo Yifan presented case studies focused on safeguarding client rights in major litigation while simultaneously advancing industry best practices.

        ●    He Xin demonstrated the vitality of the new generation through his pioneering work in emerging fields such as data assetization.

        ●    Li Jiaqi concluded the session by reinforcing the core values of "Integrity, Professionalism, and Dedication," advocating for the well-rounded development of young lawyers through active engagement in pro bono initiatives.

Strengthening Connections: A Bridge for Collaboration

This event served as more than a competition; it acted as a vital conduit for deep exchange between the firm's headquarters, regional branches, and diverse practice groups.

In his closing commentary, Mr. Gao Ze (Deputy Director of Watson & Band Law Offices) noted that the showcase provided Branch Directors with tangible insight into the depth of capabilities available at headquarters. This shared understanding, she emphasized, lays a robust foundation for future cross-office collaboration and resource integration.

Mr. Zhu Xiaosu(Vice Chair of the Management Committee) concluded the session with a powerful message: "Excellence takes many forms." He encouraged every young lawyer to trust their unique developmental trajectory and pace. Furthermore, Mr. Zhu called upon partners to empower the next generation with greater trust and autonomy, fostering a symbiotic environment where "the platform and the talent rise together."

Announcing the 2025 "Outstanding Young Lawyers"

Following a rigorous evaluation process comprising document review, live presentation scoring, and internal validation, Watson & Band is proud to announce the five winners who distinguished themselves amidst fierce competition:

        ●    Li Zhe

        ●    Li Jiaqi

        ●    Guo Yifan

        ●    Fu Jianjing

        ●    Pu Wenjie

(Pictured L to R: Fu Jianjing, Li Jiaqi, Pu Wenjie, Li Zhe, and Guo Yifan)

Looking Ahead

To every lawyer who took the stage—regardless of the final ranking—you have demonstrated the professionalism, passion, and critical thinking that define the aspiring spirit of Watson & Band’s next generation.

Watson & Band firmly believes that our young lawyers are the vital engine driving our development and the leaders of our future. We remain committed to building open platforms for exchange and providing rich resources for growth, ensuring that every aspiring, talented, and dedicated young lawyer can take root and flourish here.

The journey continues, and the horizon is bright. We look forward to witnessing even greater brilliance bloom at this time next year!