Reed Smith in Hong Kong will retain Richards Butler in its official name for the next three years, although its European and Middle East counterparts will simply be known as Reed Smith. The changes are effective 1 May 2008.

Compliance with The Law Society of Hong Kong's regulations ensures the continuance of the trade name Richards Butler in Association with Reed Smith LLP. 

The name change was originally set for January 2009, two years after Reed Smith and Richards Butler merged.

Chris Howse, the senior partner of Richards Butler Hong Kong, confirmed the continued use of the name for three years.