Aims and Programme Areas

Programme (1) : Courts, Tribunals and Various Statutory Functions

The aim of this programme is to maintain an independent and effective judicial system which upholds the rule of law, safeguards the rights and freedoms of the individual and commands confidence within and outside Hong Kong.

Under this programme, different levels of courts and tribunals hear and adjudicate criminal cases and civil disputes. The operational objectives of these courts and tribunals are to:

• ensure just and expeditious disposal of cases;
• enhance professional standards;
• ensure the Judiciary and the courts keep abreast with changing times; and
• develop a bilingual court system in Hong Kong.

Programme (2) : Support Services for Courts' Operation

The aim of this programme is to provide efficient and effective services to support the operation of courts.

Under this programme, administrative services are provided to support the hearing of cases in courts and tribunals at different levels, and to enforce court orders on the application of the plaintiffs. The work involves:

• providing effective recording services for court proceedings and producing transcripts for these proceedings;
• ensuring that both the Chinese and English languages can be used in the court system;
• providing efficient bailiff services for the enforcement of court orders and service of court documents;
• keeping comprehensive legal reference books and research materials for the use of judges, judicial officers and the legal profession; and
• adopting information technology and other modern management tools to enhance the efficiency of court support services.