The Asia legal market has had a tumultuous year. China's legal arena recorded unprecedented levels of law firm departures from the market. Singapore, which flourished from the flood of wealth and investments from global investors for a few years pre-2024, also saw a muted 12 months.

In fact, the general theme of the biggest stories in Asia over the year has been one of scaling down, either through splits, cuts or departures. America’s retreat from the Chinese legal market led to several notable stories with departures and layoffs conducted by top firms such as Kirkland & Ellis, and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom.