Herbert Smith Freehills, Linklaters and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett are among the firms to have been shortlisted for International Law Firm of the Year at The Asia Legal Awards.

Also vying for the showcase category at March's ceremony are Mayer Brown and Norton Rose Fulbright. The awards, which are hosted by The Asian Lawyer, take place on March 26 at the the JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong.

The awards recognize the region's landmark deals, best-performing law firms and standout partners. An in-house team of the year is also honored. Shortlisted deals in the M&A category include the merger of Yahoo Japan and Line Corp. and CapitaLand's acquisition of Ascendas-Singbridge.