Fraser Mendel, an attorney with 15 years’ experience advising clients on conducting business in China and handling China-to-US investments and acquisitions, has joined Davis Wright Tremaine LLP as a partner in the firm’s Seattle office.

Mendel, who is fluent in Mandarin Chinese, spent over a decade practicing in China, primarily with Morrison & Foerster, where he helped diverse companies enter the market, particularly in the technology sector. He spearheaded over a hundred venture capital and M&A transactions, oversaw intellectual property and licensing claims, and advised U.S. businesses concerning Chinese regulatory, telecommunications, privacy, and employment issues.

“I’m pleased to enhance the longstanding commitment that Davis Wright has demonstrated to China,” said Mendel. “The firm’s strong presence in the technology and media sectors, together with its strong capabilities in tax, employment and IP, are highly complementary to my practice, and will allow me to bring a full range of service to my clients.”

“Fraser’s detailed understanding of the fastest-growing market in the world, and his extensive contacts in that country, will be extremely valuable to our clients across the U.S.,” said Joe Weinstein, Practice Group Chair of Davis Wright Tremaine’s Business and Corporate Finance group. “Having Fraser join our team further cements Davis Wright’s leading position in China.”

Since returning to the U.S. in 2008, Mendel has advised international companies seeking investment from Chinese sources, and also represented Chinese clients in acquiring the assets of U.S. firms. He’s been both general counsel and vice chair of the Executive Committee of the Washington State China Relations Council, a statewide trade association.

“We have become a market leader in advising major U.S. companies on technology, media and intellectual property matters in China,” said Norm Page, chair of Davis Wright’s China practice. “We are also handling an increasing number of investments in the U.S. by Chinese entities. Fraser’s long experience in these areas will provide further critical depth and knowledge for our clients.”

Mendel earned his J.D. from the University of Washington School of Law and an LL.M. in tax law from New York University School of Law. He is admitted to practice in New York and Washington.