The opening of the new legal year, with judges decked-out in their traditional finery, serves as a powerful symbol of continuity in Hong Kong’s legal system. It was fitting, therefore, that the chief justice used his speech to deliver a strong defence of that system and reminded the community of the fundamental principles upon which it rests. This is all the more important at a time when the city has been undergoing change. Andrew Cheung Kui-nang has faced a challenging first year at the helm of the judiciary. His judges have come under fire as they handle politically charged cases arising from the civil unrest of 2019 and the national security law passed the following year. The top judge made a familiar appeal for any criticism of judgments to be rational, informed and constructive. He rightly condemned attempts to intimidate judges and branded them “futile”. Court security was stepped up last year after a spate of threats. But Cheung did not dwell on such disturbing developments. Instead, he aimed to offer reassurance that the core principles of the legal system remained firmly intact. “Judicial independence in Hong Kong exists as a fact,” he declared. Public confidence in the judicial system is essential to ensure maintenance of the rule of law. That confidence depends on the judiciary being seen to uphold the principles outlined by the chief justice. It also requires everyone with an interest to understand the work of the courts. Cheung highlighted the judiciary’s responsibility to protect human rights preserved by the Basic Law, narrowly confining restrictions on these freedoms. He offered reassurance on the new role of the chief executive to approve judges for national security cases. The chief justice pointed out that these judges remained bound by their oath to decide cases without fear or favour. No political considerations could be entertained, he said. There is, however, a need for greater transparency. The number of judges who have been approved for national security cases, their identity and the criteria used for selection has still not been fully disclosed. The judiciary has also faced calls for reform. Cheung revealed changes were under way to modernise the institution. A new mechanism has been introduced for handling complaints against judges. The guide to judicial conduct, introduced in 2004, has been revised for the first time. Hong Kong chief justice defends time taken to put 47 activists on trial Welcome steps are being taken to introduce technology for remote court hearings and electronic filing of documents. An independent judiciary is one of the foundations of Hong Kong’s success. It also lies at the heart of the “one country, two systems” concept. The chief justice has provided a timely reminder that the role of the courts is to ensure fairness, equality and justice.