The Law Society of Hong Kong has issued a statement defending the judicial process in the Jimmy Lai case and expressing "deepest regret" over media reports describing the trial as a "sham."
In its Tuesday’s midnight statement, the statutory professional body said it noted widespread community concerns and had a responsibility to address comments from a legal perspective. It emphasized that judicial independence in Hong Kong is constitutionally entrenched in the Basic Law, which guarantees courts exercise judicial power independently, free from interference.
The Law Society highlighted that the Hong Kong National Security Law expressly provides for respecting and protecting human rights, including freedoms of speech and the press, while safeguarding national security. It noted that similar national security legislation exists in other common law jurisdictions like the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and Singapore.
Regarding the trial itself, the statement noted it was conducted over 156 days in open court before a three-judge panel, with all parties having legal representation. The Society pointed out that no allegations of unfair treatment were raised by legal representatives during the proceedings.
Citing the World Justice Project's Rule of Law Index 2025, which ranks Hong Kong 24th globally and 9th in "Absence of Corruption," the Society said this reflects enduring international recognition of its legal system.
The Law Society encouraged the public to review the full Reasons for Verdict and maintained its "unwavering trust and confidence" in Hong Kong's legal system, judicial independence, and the integrity of its judges.
