THE first-ever international law firm to set up in Cambodia will open its Phnom

Penh office in February, offering services to Cambodian and foreign

businesses.

United States firm Dirksen Flipse Doran and Le, which already

has offices in Laos and Vietnam, will specialize in commercial law

services.

Partner David Doran, who will be managing-director of the Phnom

Penh office, said it would offer advice in areas such as joint-venture

contracts, lease agreements, labor employment, property and immigration

laws.

It would work with Cambodian lawyers to ensure representation for

clients in the country's courts, and also offer its own mediation or arbitration

services for parties in dispute.

Doran said the firm, as well as offering

foreign investment advice, could provide financing. It would work closely with

government agencies, such as the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Justice and

the Cambodian Development Council, to get licenses and advice for

clients.

Doran said prospective clients had been in touch with the firm

even before its Phnom Penh office was officially opened.

"In just one

week there were six clients. There seems to be a need, a great need, for legal

services".

The company, which had invested $15,000, was looking forward

to a long future in Cambodia, he said.