Hong Kong welcomes class of new senior counsel
The appointment ceremony highlighted how, despite technological advances, the oral delivery of arguments lies at the heart of the system
Hong Kong’s senior counsel have been a feature of the city’s common law justice system since its early days. The first such appointment was made in 1865.
The legal sector has seen many changes over the years, but the role of the “silks” remains as important as ever. They are leaders of the profession.
He pointed out that they are selected not on the basis of their seniority but because of their legal learning, areas of expertise, advocacy skills, judgment and integrity. These attributes must be consistently demonstrated over time.
Charles Chan, Eugene Yim, Martin Wong, Calvin Cheuk, Bonnie Cheng and Charles Hollander were admitted this year. They have excelled in a diverse range of specialities, including criminal law, family law, construction cases, medical negligence and commercial law. Their expertise in a wide range of areas helps ensure the community has access to the legal advice and representation it needs.
The ceremony also highlighted the enduring importance of advocacy – the oral delivery of legal arguments in court. This is easy to overlook at a time of rapid technological advances, but it continues to lie at the heart of the system, helping shape the development of the city’s jurisprudence.