EditorialIt’s time for Hong Kong’s archaic legal system to enter digital age
- Savings in costs and improved efficiency alone should be enough to convince the sector of the benefits of technology, yet there are still many holdouts clinging to the old ways of administrating justice
The introduction of new technology in Hong Kong’s courts has the potential to increase access to justice by making the system cheaper, quicker and more efficient. It is encouraging to see that digitalisation is gathering pace, but there remains much to be done.
Registrations for a new system for the digital filing of legal documents have increased significantly this year. The system operates for civil cases in the District Court and summonses in the magistrates courts.
By the end of October, 350 court users had registered, including 283 law firms. This is a big improvement, as only 43 firms had signed up by February. Almost 25 per cent of eligible cases have been handled by the digital system.
But the take up rate remains disappointing, as there are more than 900 law firms in Hong Kong. The system will soon be expanded to cover more courts and there is a consultation due on making its use mandatory. The legal profession must be ready for the transition.
The judiciary has promoted the system through a dedicated website and a help centre while delivering 34 briefings for law firms. But old habits die hard. Ultimately, court users need to be convinced that the new system is efficient, secure and easy to use.
Remote hearings, meanwhile, by video or telephone, became valuable during the pandemic and 1,700 have now been held. Legal amendments to broaden their use are in the pipeline. This is a natural step to take.