Terms of Service
These terms govern your use of our legal services and website. Please read them carefully.
Last updated: January 2025
Acceptance of Terms
By accessing or using the services provided by Serene Jade Consulting Group (“we,” “us,” or “our”), you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service and all applicable laws and regulations. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you are prohibited from using our services.
Important Notice
These terms establish a professional relationship between you and Serene Jade. Our legal services are subject to professional standards and regulatory requirements in mainland China, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom.
Scope of Legal Services
Services Provided
Serene Jade provides legal consultation and advisory services including:
- Chinese mainland legal research and compliance advice
- Cross-border business establishment guidance
- Due diligence and regulatory analysis
- Immigration and visa advisory services
- Commercial dispute resolution support
Professional Standards
Our services are provided in accordance with:
- Professional conduct rules in relevant jurisdictions
- Attorney-client privilege and confidentiality requirements
- Applicable legal and regulatory frameworks
- International best practices for cross-border legal services
Complementary Expertise
Our services are designed to complement, not replace, your existing legal counsel. We provide specialist Chinese mainland legal expertise to support your UK-based legal team and business operations.
Client Responsibilities
Information Accuracy
As our client, you agree to:
- Provide accurate, complete, and timely information
- Disclose all material facts relevant to your matter
- Update us promptly of any changes in circumstances
- Cooperate fully in the provision of legal services
Compliance Obligations
You are responsible for:
- Complying with all applicable laws and regulations
- Implementing our advice in accordance with local requirements
- Seeking additional local counsel where recommended
- Maintaining proper records and documentation
Limitations and Disclaimers
Important Limitations
No Guarantee of Outcomes: Legal outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Our advice is based on current law and available information.
Jurisdictional Limitations: Our advice is limited to the jurisdictions where our lawyers are qualified to practice.
Time Sensitivity: Legal advice is time-sensitive and may become outdated due to changes in law or circumstances.
Liability Limitations
To the fullest extent permitted by law:
- Our liability is limited to the fees paid for the specific service
- We exclude liability for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages
- Professional indemnity insurance covers our services as required by law
- Time limits for claims are governed by applicable professional conduct rules
Confidentiality and Privilege
Attorney-Client Privilege
Communications between you and our lawyers are protected by attorney-client privilege and professional confidentiality rules. We will not disclose your confidential information except as required by law or with your explicit consent.
Conflicts of Interest
We maintain strict conflict checking procedures and will not represent clients with conflicting interests. If a conflict arises, we will notify you immediately and take appropriate action in accordance with professional conduct rules.
Information Security
- Encrypted communication systems
- Secure document storage
- Access controls and monitoring
- Regular security assessments
Data Retention
- Files retained per professional requirements
- Secure destruction when appropriate
- Client access to file materials
- Compliance with data protection laws
Fees and Payment Terms
Fee Structure
Our fees are based on:
- Time spent on your matter at applicable hourly rates
- Fixed fees for specific services where agreed
- Disbursements and third-party costs
- Applicable taxes and regulatory fees
Payment Terms
- Initial consultation may be provided at no charge (15 minutes)
- Retainer may be required for ongoing matters
- Invoices are payable within 30 days of receipt
- Interest may be charged on overdue amounts
Termination of Services
Client Termination
You may terminate our services at any time by providing written notice. You will be responsible for fees incurred up to the termination date.
Our Termination Rights
We may terminate our services if:
- A conflict of interest arises that cannot be resolved
- You fail to pay fees or provide necessary cooperation
- Continuing representation would violate professional conduct rules
- The scope of work changes beyond our expertise
Governing Law and Disputes
These terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes arising from our professional relationship will be subject to the jurisdiction of the English courts, unless otherwise required by professional conduct rules or mandatory law.
Professional Complaints
If you have concerns about our services, please contact us first to resolve the matter. You also have the right to complain to the relevant professional regulatory body in the jurisdiction where the service was provided.
Questions About These Terms
If you have any questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us:
info@serenejade.com
Professional Standards
We comply with professional conduct rules in all jurisdictions where we practice
These Terms of Service may be updated to reflect changes in our services or applicable law. We will notify existing clients of material changes and post the updated terms on our website.