About Chao ADR, PC

San Francisco, CA, USA

Chao ADR, PC stands out in the competitive landscape of California's arbitration industry as a boutique firm that offers a specialized, intimate approach to dispute resolution. Led by Cedric Chao, a seasoned legal expert with an impressive track record, Chao ADR, PC provides arbitration, mediation, consulting, and litigation services with a focus on international and domestic commercial disputes.

Cedric Chao, the face of the company, brings to the table an extraordinary depth of experience, having been a partner for 29 years at Morrison & Foerster, LLP, and later at DLA Piper LLP (US). His first chair advocacy in high-stakes cases, including those with over a billion dollars at issue, demonstrates a comfort with complex commercial and technology disputes. His multicultural perspective in resolving disputes is a unique asset, particularly valuable in an increasingly globalized business environment.

What sets Chao ADR, PC apart is the firm's commitment to a personalized, client-centric approach. The boutique nature of the firm allows for a level of attention and customization that larger firms may struggle to provide. Clients looking for a firm that melds the agility and personalized service of a smaller practice with the expertise and professionalism of a large law firm will find Chao ADR, PC to be an attractive proposition.

Moreover, Chao’s involvement in high-profile appellate work, including appearances before the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals, adds to the firm's credibility and showcases its ability to handle cases at the highest levels of the legal system. Clients can take confidence in the firm's ability to navigate the intricacies of arbitration with strategic acumen and a big-picture outlook.

Chao ADR, PC also emphasizes transparency and ethical practice, as evidenced by Cedric Chao's open disclosure about his lack of access to the conflict systems or client databases of his previous firms. This approach is likely to resonate with clients who value integrity and impartiality in arbitration.

While the firm's founder, Cedric Chao, has been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named the "2018 San Francisco Arbitration Lawyer of the Year" and the "2020 San Francisco Mediation Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers, it's his hands-on involvement in cases and his leadership in the field that truly make a difference. The firm's active engagement in drafting significant legal frameworks, such as the Restatement of the U.S. Law of International Commercial and Investment Treaty Arbitration, points to a forward-thinking mindset and a drive to shape the industry.

In summary, Chao ADR, PC represents a fusion of extensive experience, strategic litigation capabilities, and a boutique service model that prioritizes the client's needs. For those navigating the complex waters of arbitration in California, the firm offers a blend of attributes that should be seriously considered when seeking effective and personalized dispute resolution services.

Fast Facts

  • Cedric Chao launched Chao ADR, PC in May 2019 to serve as an arbitrator, mediator, and special master as well as to provide cross-border dispute consultancy.
  • Cedric Chao was a partner for 29 years at Morrison & Foerster, LLP and later served as the US head of the international arbitration practice at DLA Piper LLP (US).
  • He has first chair advocate experience in five disputes where the amount at issue exceeded $1 billion and multiple others with amounts in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
  • Cedric Chao has led teams in arbitration proceedings under the rules of the ICC, ICDR, SIAC, LCIA, UNCITRAL, AAA, and JAMS.
  • He has served as presiding, sole, and wing arbitrator under the arbitration rules of the ICC, ICDR, and SIAC.
  • Cedric Chao has argued 13 times before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and once before the U.S. Supreme Court.
  • He is recognized in Best Lawyers in America for arbitration, mediation, and commercial litigation.
  • Cedric Chao was named '2018 San Francisco Arbitration Lawyer of the Year' and '2020 San Francisco Mediation Lawyer of the Year' by Best Lawyers.
  • He was included in Global Arbitration Review's 'International Who's Who in Commercial Arbitration.'

Products and Services

  • Arbitration Services - Expert arbitration services for both international and domestic commercial disputes, led by Cedric Chao with extensive experience as a first chair advocate in high-stakes cases.
  • Mediation Services - Professional mediation services with a focus on complex commercial and technology disputes, utilizing a 'big picture,' multi-cultural approach to conflict resolution.
  • Consulting - Specialized consulting for cross-border disputes, providing strategic advice informed by years of precedent-setting litigation experience.
  • Litigation - Selective litigation services for substantial legal challenges, offering a track record of handling cases exceeding the billion-dollar mark.

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