Masashi Ichikawa, formerly of Mori Hamada & Matsumoto and Yanagida & Partners, has launched his own independent law firm in Tokyo, Ichikawa Legal Studio, which officially opened its doors on 27 April 2026.
Ichikawa spent a decade at Mori Hamada & Matsumoto as an associate before joining Yanagida & Partners, where he worked for more than seven years and most recently served as a partner.
Explaining his decision to establish an independent practice, Ichikawa pointed to major shifts in the legal field, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).
“The decision was driven by the significant shifts I had observed in the legal landscape. The widespread adoption of AI has created an environment where a small, focused team can deliver high-quality services by automating routine tasks,” he told Asia Business Law Journal.
“More importantly, AI is redefining the core value provided by lawyers; as information processing becomes commoditised, true value shifts towards high-level strategic judgment, empathy and tailored problem-solving.”
Ichikawa is currently operating as a one-man band, but confirmed plans to build a small team.
“I hope to welcome one or two additional lawyers who share my vision in the near future. This setup allows me to remain flexible while being ready to grow when the right opportunity arises,” he said.
Ichikawa specialises in competition and antitrust law, as well as financial regulations and data protection and privacy, all of which he developed during his time with Mori Hamada & Matsumoto and Yanagida & Partners.
These practice areas will form the core of Ichikawa Legal Studio, alongside white-collar crime, criminal defence, compliance and dispute resolution.
Looking ahead, Ichikawa aims to “establish a solid track record as a trusted boutique firm” in the first 12 months. He has plans to grow the firm’s reputation beyond Japan.
“In the longer term, I envision Ichikawa Legal Studio becoming a premier ‘studio’ in the Japanese and, hopefully, Asian legal markets,” he said.
