Civil Justice Reform

Introduction

The Civil Justice Reform (“CJR”) applies to civil proceedings of the High Court and the District Court, except for specialist lists to which the application of the new rules will be determined by the Judges concerned. Some of the new rules and procedures also apply to the Lands Tribunal and the Family Court with necessary modifications.

Effective Date

The Civil Justice Reform has come into effect on 2 April 2009.

Underlying Objectives

The underlying objectives of the CJR are -

(a)	to increase the cost-effectiveness of any practice and procedure to be followed in relation to civil proceedings before the Court;
(b)	to ensure that a case is dealt with as expeditiously as is reasonably practicable;
(c)	to promote a sense of reasonable proportion and procedural economy in the conduct of proceedings;
(d)	to ensure fairness between the parties;
(e)	to facilitate the settlement of disputes; and
(f)	to ensure that the resources of the Court are distributed fairly.

Transitional Arrangements

To facilitate smooth transition of the CJR, Rules of the High Court and Rules of the District Court have provided for various transitional arrangements. Please refer to Leaflet 12 “Civil Justice Reform: Transitional Arrangements” for information.

What's New

Video on Civil Justice Reform in Hong Kong Launched

Frequently Asked Questions relating to Civil Justice Reform Issued

Press release on "Civil Justice Reform to take effect on April 2" issued

Practice Directions relating to Civil Justice Reform (Chinese Version) Issued

Press Release on "Civil Justice Reform to Commence on April 2" issued

Practice Directions Relating to the Civil Justice Reform (English Version) Issued