Statement by The Law Society of Hong Kong

13 September 2019

(for immediate release)

The Law Society of Hong Kong notes with great concern the comments reported in the media criticising the leniency of judges in handling the protest-related cases and demanding the resignation of the Chief Justice.

The task of the courts is to adjudicate impartially on the legal and factual issues involved in the particular case according to the law, whatever the nature of the controversy and whoever the parties may be. Where a court has ruled on the legal issues in a particular way at first instance, a party dissatisfied with the court's judgment has the avenue of appeal.

The Law Society of Hong Kong is committed to upholding the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary as two of the most important pillars of the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. We strongly condemn unfounded comments that judicial decisions were made or influenced by political considerations, which are unjustified and damaging to our legal system, and to Hong Kong as a whole.

We have full confidence that the courts will continue to adjudicate cases based on the law.

For media enquiry, please contact Ms. Phoebe Chow, Director of Communications and External Affairs at 2846 0520 or by email (adceag@hklawsoc.org.hk).

About the Law Society of Hong Kong

The Law Society of Hong Kong is the professional body of solicitors in Hong Kong vested with statutory powers to regulate the professional conduct of solicitors, trainee solicitors and foreign lawyers. It establishes and promotes good standards of practice and ensures their compliance by practitioners. The Law Society also offers its views from time to time on legal issues that are of public concern and promotes Hong Kong legal services locally and internationally. For more information, please visit: www.hklawsoc.org.hk