 [2025] HKCFI 4569, Kwan VP refused an application for the 

 admission of Mr Timothy Owen KC to represent two individuals in their renewed application for leave to appeal against the continuation of a restraint order and disclosure order under the Organized and Serious Crimes Ordinance.

This case marked the first time in Hong Kong that the Secretary for Justice, acting in the public interest, opposed such an application, even though the Bar Association did not object.

In dismissing the application, Kwan VP reaffirmed that an applicant must show the public interest in admission outweighs the public interest in maintaining a strong, independent local bar. The Court highlighted several points:

Kwan VP also reiterated that admission proceedings are not an adversarial jurisdiction but are 

, such that neither the Secretary nor the Bar Association would apply for or be awarded costs against an unsuccessful applicant as a matter of course. Nevertheless, the power to award costs is there and it may be exercised. While this application came close to warranting an adverse costs order, it was not so lacking in merit as to justify such an order.

, instructed by the Department of Justice, acted for the Secretary for Justice.

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