Hong Kong's new senior counsel must rise to the challenges ahead
Senior counsel constitute only a tiny minority of Hong Kong's lawyers, but the responsibility they carry as leading members of the profession is a heavy one. Much is expected of them. Three new 'silks' were admitted at a ceremony on June 7, bringing the number of senior counsel practising in the city to 111. Chief Justice Andrew Cheung Kui-nung took the opportunity to set out his expectations of them.
The elevated position is the Hong Kong equivalent of Britain's king's counsel, which dates back to the early 17th century. But the role continues to be significant, especially at a pivotal time for the city's legal system.
Cheung said the appointment of Catrina Lam Ding-wan, Priscilla Lam Tsz-ying and Timothy Parker was not only the culmination of their years of dedication to the law, it was also a commencement of the responsibilities that come with the rank. Senior counsel, he added, signify a visible commitment to the values that sustain the system of justice and their appointment is an investment in the rule of law. The appointments come as Hong Kong takes steps to establish itself as an international legal centre linking China to other parts of the world.
Senior counsel, with their high profile and seniority, can offer leadership, experience and expertise, inside the courtroom and beyond. They are expected to observe the highest standards of advocacy and integrity, setting an example for the profession.
The challenges they face mirror those that lie ahead for the legal system generally. Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok highlighted three pressing issues at the ceremony: the adoption of new technology, the need for greater synergy with mainland China's system and maintaining the city's reputation for the rule of law. Senior counsel, he pointed out, are well placed to counter misunderstandings and negative perceptions.
Bar Association chairman Jose-Antonio Maurellet revealed that 19 top lawyers from overseas had been admitted for cases on an ad hoc basis last year and eight so far this year. As he said, the long-standing arrangement provides a basis for 'learning from each other' and allows counsel from abroad to experience the city's system.
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