Separate and Independent
Barristers are self-employed and operate independently of each other. Central Chambers is a group of 26 individual barristers working separately but sharing resources.
Client confidentiality is paramount and we at Central Chambers act at all times with absolute discretion. Our senior clerk Michelle To has worked for Chambers since the beginning over 30 years ago. Michelle and the rest of our staff are extremely experienced and fully understand this importance.
We are not a firm nor are we partners. This separation means that individual barristers within chambers are often instructed on opposite sides of a dispute. This should not be a cause of concern to clients. Our professional code of conduct, to which we strictly adhere, preclude any leaking or sharing of information and we are vigilant to avoid conflict of interest.
Access
Barristers in Hong Kong provide a specialist service through referral. This service is usually to provide advice before proceedings begin and to conduct those proceedings on behalf of a client as advocates once they are brought before the Courts. A client will normally gain access to barristers through a solicitor, Legal Aid or the Prosecuting Authorities. Professional rules prevent direct access to barristers by the public. There are exceptions relating to certain institutions and dispute resolution procedures where a barrister may act without instructions from a solicitor.