A bill enabling solicitors to form limited liability partnerships could be tabled at the Legislative Council within the current legislative session, Secretary for Justice Wong Yan Lung says.

Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the 2010 Legal Year today, Mr Wong said the move will further internationalise Hong Kong's legal services and enhance Hong Kong's position as a regional legal service hub.

"Stakeholders are being consulted on our legislative proposals, which recognise the need to strike a proper balance between limiting professional liability on the one hand and safeguarding public interests on the other," he said.

"We believe limited liability partnerships will encourage small local firms to join forces to diversify their practice, and also attract more foreign law firms operating as limited liability partnerships to come to Hong Kong."

e-Database

To increase the legislation's accessibility the Department of Justice will make both the English and Chinese texts more readable and comprehensible.

These include measures to simplify the language and promote greater uniformity and consistency in its use, the adoption of a gender-neutral drafting policy and improvements to the appearance of legislation.

A feasibility study has also been commissioned on the establishment and maintenance of a verified and authenticated electronic database of Hong Kong legislation, he added.

Effectiveness review

Noting prosecutorial independence is another important pillar in the administration of justice, Mr Wong said a new Director of Public Prosecutions will provide a new look at the Prosecution Division's needs and how it can more effectively serve the community.

"As a first step, young counsel are being given more exposure to trial advocacy and sub-divisions have been streamlined to ensure greater specialisation and efficiency."