Self-regulation regime of legal profession functioning well: Victor Dawes

The self-regulatory regime of the Hong Kong legal profession has been functioning well and ensuring the principle of judicial independence is not compromised, the chairman of the Hong Kong Bar Association said when attending a Bar Leaders’ Discussion in London, UK.

Bar Leaders from around the world discussed ways to safeguard the legal profession's independence in a modern, ever-evolving legal landscape at Gray's Inn. Other topics covered included the lawyers' guardian role of safeguarding the rule of law, clients' confidentiality, and the protections for lawyers at the domestic and international levels.

Speaking at the symposium on behalf of the Hong Kong legal community on Sunday (Oct 1), Victor Dawes stressed that barristers and lawyers have been entirely conducting self-regulation of the industry under the Legal Practitioners Ordinance, which gives the Bar Association and the Law Society the power to take disciplinary actions. 

He added that the sound and fair self-regulatory regime also ensures the licensing and training of barristers and solicitors are without outside influence or interference, noting that Hong Kong should continue to practice it.

Dawes said an independent legal profession is a prerequisite for a strong and independent judicial system. He emphasized that the city's judicial system has consistently assisted barristers and solicitors.

This was the first time Dawes was given the opportunity to deliver a speech at the symposium. He is the sole Asian representative to address over 80 leaders of legal organizations worldwide.

He was also invited to attend the Opening of the Legal Year in England and Wales 2023 on Monday.

The president of the Law Society of Hong Kong Chan Chak-ming, and the president of LAWASIA Melissa Kale Pang also attended the annual service held in Westminster Abbey.