Three barristers named senior counsels as top judge hails their role in upholding justice

In a ceremony steeped in legal tradition, three distinguished barristers—Catrina Lam Ding-wan, Priscilia Lam Tsz-ying, and Timothy Parker—were formally appointed as Senior Counsel Saturday morning at the Court of Final Appeal, marking a significant milestone in Hong Kong's legal community.

Chief Justice Andrew Cheung Kui-nung presided over the ceremony, attended by over 100 guests including Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok, Bar Association Chairman Jose-Antonio Maurellet, and Law Society President Roden Tong Man-lung.

In his address, Cheung emphasized the weighty responsibilities accompanying the prestigious title.

"The conferment of silk is not merely an individual honour. It is a public recognition of excellence in advocacy, depth of legal learning, and the highest standards of integrity and conduct," Cheung stated.

He underscored the expectation that Senior Counsels serve as exemplars of legal excellence while actively safeguarding judicial integrity and access to justice.

Cheung concluded his remarks with a reminder of the fundamental principles underlying the legal profession.

He charged the new Senior Counsels with maintaining vigilance in protecting access to justice and upholding the rule of law, describing these as living principles essential to public trust in Hong Kong's legal system. 

Meanwhile, the newly appointed silks bring diverse expertise to their elevated roles.

Catrina Lam, known for her strategic acumen, recently demonstrated her versatility by co-hosting the Bar Association's 75th anniversary gala alongside Chairman Maurellet. 

Priscilia Lam has distinguished herself through her exceptional dedication, having managed a demanding criminal practice while simultaneously earning advanced degrees in Chinese law and dispute resolution.

Timothy Parker's international experience spanning multiple jurisdictions adds valuable global perspective to Hong Kong's legal community.

Bar Association Chairman Maurellet offered warm congratulations while injecting moments of levity into the proceedings.

He humorously recounted how Catrina Lam had cleverly negotiated their joint emcee duties at last year's gala dinner, demonstrating the same tactical skill she brings to courtroom advocacy.

Of Priscilia Lam, he noted her remarkable capacity for work, joking that prospective clients should book her services well in advance given her busy schedule.

The ceremony marked another step forward in gender diversity at the highest levels of Hong Kong's legal profession, with women now comprising 18 of the 111 practicing Senior Counsels.

This year's appointments continue the trend established last year when female appointees outnumbered their male counterparts for the first time.

Notably, all three new Senior Counsels are qualified mediators, a specialization particularly relevant as Hong Kong strengthens its position as an international dispute resolution hub. 

Their elevation comes as the city prepares to host the headquarters of the International Organization for Mediation, underscoring the growing importance of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

(Marco)