Hong Kong is a beautiful city of islands and skyscrapers that can only be experienced and not described in words. This thriving metropolis is a unique fusion of eastern and western culture, stunning harbour, mountains, sandy beaches, rural getaways, endless skyscrapers and buzzing nightlife.
This vibrant cosmopolitan city is also a major global financial hub and one of the world’s most sought-after cities. Here’s a quick guide to help lawyers and legal professionals effectively navigate Hong Kong during their visit.
Getting Around Hong Kong
Private ownership of cars in Hong Kong is rare but thanks to its highly developed public transportation system, it isn’t really a necessity. There are plenty of convenient and inexpensive options for getting around this beautiful city.
Mass Transit Railway System: Hong Kong has a world class and extensive MTR system. It has directions and maps all around the stations as well as inside the trains — and is all very easy to navigate.
Airport Express: It is the MTRs fastest way of getting to the city from the airport. It takes you to the city in approximately 24 minutes and runs every 10 minutes.
Taxi Service: Taxis are another convenient and inexpensive way of getting around Hong Kong and can be easily hailed on the streets or can be booked over the phone or at the hotel.
Buses and Minibuses: Buses are one of the most convenient and popular modes of local transport in Hong Kong. They are mostly air conditioned and cover almost the entire city.
Ferries: Hopping on a ferry is a fun way of getting away from the crowded city and exploring the beautiful and peaceful island life. There are over 250 islands in Hong Kong and a ferry is the only way of getting to the outlying islands.
Trams: Trams have had a presence in Hong Kong since 1904 and are the oldest mode of transportation. They operate only in the northern corridor of Hong Kong and are another fun way of exploring the city.
Octopus Card: Carrying a wallet is old school in Hong Kong. All you need to get around, shop, eat and have fun in this beautiful city is an Octopus card. It even comes in a SIM card size chip that can be dangled on a keychain or a bracelet.
Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping, and Entertainment
This city of skyscrapers is home to some of the world’s best hotels with breathtaking views. It also is a diner’s paradise. With over 14000 restaurants — this compact city will spoil you with choices.
Hong Kong is also a shopper’s paradise. From High-end luxury shopping malls and stores to street markets, you’ll find it all here. While there’s a lot to do in Hong Kong, we have shortlisted 5 places you must see or things you must do, if you are here just for few days.
- Victoria Peak
- Victoria Harbor and Symphony of Lights
- Aqualuna’s Symphony of Lights Cruise
- Star ferry
- Man Mo Temple
Hong Kong Legal Resources
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) – Hong Kong Legal Services Industry Profile
Hong Kong is the international law capital of Asia, with over 1500 registered foreign lawyers, 83 registered foreign law firms and over 10,000 practicing solicitors and barristers.
There are two distinct branches in the legal profession in Hong Kong.
- Solicitors – Solicitors have limited rights of audience before the courts and barristers.
- Barristers – Barristers have unlimited rights of audience in all courts.
Organizations governing the professional standard of solicitors and barristers are:
- The Law Society of Hong Kong : Established in 1907, The Law Society of Hong Kong is the professional association and law society for solicitors in Hong Kong.
- Hong Kong Bar Association: Founded in 1948, it is the professional regulatory body for barristers in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre
HKIAC was established in 1985 in an effort to meet the growing need for dispute resolution services in Asia. It is one of the world’s leading dispute resolution organizations providing alternative dispute resolution services including mediation, adjudication and domain name dispute resolution.
Hong Kong Legal Hackers
If you are interested in exploring innovations in legal tech, and developing creative solutions to some of the most pressing issues at the intersection of law and technology you may join Hong Kong Legal Hackers.
They meet up to share information and ideas related to technology that can transform the practice of law.
Top Law Firms in Hong Kong
Below are few of the top rated law firms of Hong Kong that specialize in international arbitration.
- Allen & Overy
- Herbert Smith Freehills
- Clifford Chance
- Debevoise & Plimpton
- King & Wood Mallesons
- Latham & Watkins
Legal Events in Hong Kong
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