Criminal Law

Criminal Law

Criminal law in Hong Kong is primarily based on English common law principles, supplemented by local legislation, and is distinct from the criminal law system in mainland China. Key ordinances include the Crimes Ordinance (Cap 200), the Criminal Procedure Ordinance (Cap 221), and the Organized and Serious Crimes Ordinance (Cap 455). The Secretary for Justice usually initiates criminal prosecutions after determining sufficient evidence and public interest.