Best Arrests & Searches Lawyers in Hong Kong

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1 person in their team
English
Raymond Chan Solicitors 陳勵文律師事務所 is a Hong Kong legal practice led by Raymond Chan, offering a range of transactional and contentious legal services. The firm is listed in the Law Society of Hong Kong directory and provides advisory and court-facing support across commercial,...
Morley Chow Seto
Admiralty, Hong Kong

Founded in 2014
10 people in their team
Chinese
English
Morley Chow Seto is a Hong Kong criminal law firm committed to your defence.Our defence lawyers are available to you during every step of the process in the criminal justice system. We represent clients from the initial investigation stage (often involving arrest, search and seizures)...
Pacific Chambers
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1990
32 people in their team
English
Pacific Chambers is a leading set of Hong Kong barristers founded in 1990 and based on Duddell Street in Central. With a roster of over 30 members, the set handles the full spectrum of civil and criminal matters and includes counsel qualified in multiple jurisdictions. Its location near the Court...
JAL N. KARBHARI & CO.
Kowloon, Hong Kong

Founded in 1999
10 people in their team
Chinese
English
At Jal N Karbhari & Co., Solicitors & Notaries we are committed to operating on the cutting edge of legal practice. Our vision, as a dynamic network of specialists, is to be champions for our clients' strategic goals.Our focus on client service and results are reflected...
Ng & Co., Solicitors
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 1991
English
Established in 1991, Ng & Co., Solicitors is a dynamic Hong Kong law firm situated in Central. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including banking, commercial and corporate matters, litigation and dispute resolution, property and tenancy issues, family law, securities and...
Kim & Company, Solicitors
Central, Hong Kong

English
Kim & Company, Solicitors, established in Hong Kong, offers a comprehensive range of legal services to clients from Korea, Hong Kong, and internationally. The firm represents a diverse clientele, including foreign government offices, financial institutions, multinational corporations, state-owned...
Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong

Founded in 1999
3 people in their team
English
Wong Kwok Yan, trading as Christopher K. Y. Wong, Solicitors, is a Hong Kong based law practice established in 1999 by Dr. Wong Kwok Yan. The firm provides comprehensive civil, criminal and family litigation, as well as business and commercial law, estate administration, Chinese notary services and...

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
WELCOME TOCHOW & CHEUNGSOLICITORS & NOTARIESThe firm is founded by Mr. Stephen Chow and Ms. Natalia Cheung. Both of them are Notary Public appointed by the Hong Kong High Court, and Stephen is also a China Appointed Attesting Officer appointed by the Ministry of Justice of the People's...
Central, Hong Kong

Founded in 2019
English
Comtois Solicitor is an independent Hong Kong law firm specializing in civil litigation and dispute resolution, with a particular focus on cyber crimes, online scams, cryptocurrency fraud, and related cases. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services, including criminal defense, commercial...
Sun Lawyers LLP
Admiralty, Hong Kong

Founded in 2003
50 people in their team
Chinese
English
about usSzeto & Lee Solicitors Limited Liability Partnership (formerly known as WS Szeto & Lee Solicitors, now known as Sun Lawyers LLP) was established in 2003 and was converted into a limited legal liability partnership on June 10, 2017. It is a Hong Kong-based company. The base of the...
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About Arrests & Searches Law in Hong Kong

Arrests and searches in Hong Kong are governed by a combination of local ordinances and common law principles. The Hong Kong Police Force and other law enforcement bodies are empowered to conduct arrests and searches under specific conditions authorized by the law. These powers aim to prevent crime and ensure public safety while balancing individual rights and freedoms. Understanding your rights and obligations during an arrest or search is crucial for Hong Kong residents and visitors alike.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance can be invaluable in several scenarios relating to arrests and searches. If you are arrested or believe you are subject to an unlawful search, a lawyer can help protect your rights. Situations where legal help is crucial include being accused of a crime, having property searched or seized, or if you feel your rights have been infringed upon during an interaction with law enforcement. Lawyers can offer guidance, represent you in court, negotiate on your behalf, and provide clarity on complex legal matters.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of Hong Kong's laws concerning arrests and searches include:

  • Legal Frameworks: The Police Force Ordinance and the Criminal Procedure Ordinance provide the statutory framework for police powers regarding arrests and searches.
  • Arrests: An arrest may be lawful if it is based on a warrant issued by a magistrate, or if a police officer has reasonable suspicion that someone is involved in an offense. Detainees have rights, such as being informed of the reason for arrest and access to legal representation.
  • Searches: Searches may be conducted with or without a warrant depending on the circumstances. However, any search must be reasonable and conducted in accordance with the law, with steps taken to respect privacy as much as possible.
  • Detention: Law enforcement can detain individuals for a limited period while investigations are conducted. Legal representation and timely hearing before a court are rights protected under the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I'm arrested?

Remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and request to speak with a lawyer. You should be informed of the charges and can ask for legal representation.

Can the police search my home without a warrant?

In general, the police require a warrant to search your home. However, there are exceptions, such as when they have reasonable grounds to believe that evidence is being destroyed.

How long can I be detained without charge?

Typically, you cannot be held for more than 48 hours without being charged, although this may vary depending on the case.

What are my rights if my property is searched?

You have the right to ask for a warrant and to record the names and badge numbers of the officers conducting the search. Any search should be conducted with minimal invasion of privacy.

Can I have a lawyer present during police questioning?

Yes, you have the right to legal representation during police questioning.

What is reasonable suspicion?

Reasonable suspicion is an objective assessment that supports a belief that a person may be involved in criminal activity, based on facts and evidence.

Are there limits to what the police can search?

Yes, the scope of the search should be proportional to the offense, and should not be unnecessarily invasive.

Can I refuse a police search?

You can ask if the officers have a warrant or legal grounds for the search. However, refusing may lead to further legal actions if they do have valid grounds.

How do I complain about unlawful arrest or search?

You can file a complaint with the Hong Kong Police Force Complaints Office or seek legal advice to challenge the arrest or search through legal proceedings.

Will my case go to court after an arrest?

Your case may go to court if the police decide to press charges based on the evidence gathered. A lawyer can guide you through the process.

Additional Resources

Here are some resources and organizations that can assist you:

  • Hong Kong Police Force Complaints Against Police Office: Handles complaints and grievances against police conduct.
  • Legal Aid Department: Provides legal assistance to eligible persons in Hong Kong.
  • The Law Society of Hong Kong: Offers resources and guidelines for finding legal representation.

Next Steps

If you find yourself in a situation involving arrests or searches, consider the following steps:

  • Stay informed about your rights and obligations under Hong Kong law.
  • Contact a qualified lawyer experienced in criminal defense and personal rights.
  • Document all interactions with law enforcement as accurately as possible.
  • Consider contacting relevant organizations for additional guidance and support.

Early legal advice can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, so do not hesitate to reach out to a professional for help.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Hong Kong through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Arrests & Searches, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.