This Report provides an overview of the major events of the Judiciary during 2013. It also provides statistics on caseload and waiting time for various levels of court, and information about the operation of the Judiciary. I would, in particular, like to draw attention to the following –

The Hon Mr Justice Joseph FOK was appointed a Permanent Judge of the Court of Final Appeal in October. Mr Justice FOK is a judge of eminent standing and reputation.

The implementation of the CJR for the fourth year continues to be smooth and satisfactory on the whole. A longer time is required to assess the full impact, benefit and effectiveness of the CJR and the Civil Justice Reform Monitoring Committee will continue to monitor the working of the reformed civil justice system.

The Court of Final Appeal will be relocated to No. 8 Jackson Road with a view to enhancing its efficient and smooth functioning in this prestigious historic building. Works began last July and are expected to be completed in the first part of 2015. We look forward to relocating the Court of Final Appeal to its new premises in the second half of 2015.

We hope that you will find this Report useful and gain a better understanding of the work of the Judiciary.