Becoming a solicitor in Hong Kong requires a combination of academic qualifications, practical training, and passing qualifying exams. The profession is regulated by the Law Society of Hong Kong, and the process of becoming a solicitor typically takes several years to complete. To become a solicitor in Hong Kong, you will need to follow these specific steps:
Meet the academic requirements: You will need to obtain a common law degree. You can choose to study for an LLB or Juris Doctor in Hong Kong or overseas. However, if you obtain your law degree overseas, you will need to complete a law conversion course in order to gain admission to the PCLL.
Pass the Postgraduate Certificate in Laws (PCLL): This is a one-year, full-time course that provides practical training in core areas of Hong Kong law. You will need to apply to one of the three PCLL providers in Hong Kong, namely the University of Hong Kong, the Chinese University of Hong Kong or City University of Hong Kong.
Complete a two-year training contract: You will need to secure a training contract with a law firm in Hong Kong, which provides practical legal training in different areas of law.
Apply for admission as a solicitor: Once you have completed the PCLL course and the two-year training contract, you can apply to become a solicitor in Hong Kong. You will need to meet certain character and fitness requirements and pass a professional assessment before being admitted to the profession.
Alternatively, you can choose to become a barrister in Hong Kong, which involves a different set of requirements and procedures.
