Prior to the end of British rule and consequent handover to PRC authority, in 1997, Hong Kong’s economy was vibrant and dynamic. The colony had significant trade relationships with the west, and the absorption of Hong Kong into the Chinese fold has only served to enhance Hong Kong’s role in the global marketplace.

Given such economic ties, it is no wonder that Hong Kong’s residents and companies are often parties to suit in western courts.

Hong Kong’s court system, though moving more toward China’s civil law tradition, still has a distinct common law flavor due to its development as a British outpost. Chinese and English are both official languages, so while the PRC requires a translation into Chinese of all documents served elsewhere in China, service in Hong Kong does not require a translation from English. Note that the resulting Certificate of Service may be completed in Chinese.

Hong Kong, more than any other country in the world, scrutinizes the actual text of the documents to be served. Hong Kong judicial authorities are very sensitive to the Special Administrative Region’s relationship with China and pay very close attention to any language that would “elevate” Hong Kong to the status of China (as a sovereign nation).

Litigants intending to serve Hong Kong defendants should contact LLS for information prior to filing their complaints. LLS can guide you through Hong Kong’s unwritten requirements for language in the text of the complaint in order to circumvent rejection of a Hague Service Request.

Unlike elsewhere in the PRC, service via alternate channels may be utilized in Hong Kong. Our network of solicitors is highly adept at serving quickly, efficiently, and economically.

LLS can assist you with service and can help you understand and meet the translation requirements for service of process in Hong Kong. Please call 1-800-755-5775 for more information.