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III. Problems in Cooperation

apart from providing support, the government also needs to regulate the fee standards of the associated firms to

enhance the quality of legal services in the GBA. The Guangdong Lawyers Association states in its “Guidelines
for Setting Service Fee Standards” that “these Guidelines can be applied in setting service fee standards for

lawyers. However, fees may also be adjusted according to the regional affairs handled by the law firms.” This
provision is normative and flexible, giving support to cooperation between law firms in the two regions.

(d) Drawing on international standards

Joining international organisations and participating in international standard-setting can help draw on
existing international experience and reduce the management gap among the three places.

In summary, narrowing the gaps between the legal professions in the three regions requires the concerted
efforts of the governments, industry associations, enterprises and professional organisations. Through cooperation

and coordination, the management standards of the legal service industry in the three jurisdictions will be raised
and more effective cross-regional cooperation will be fostered.

3.3.2 Further improvement of the format and content of the qualifying examination for

Hong Kong lawyers practising in the GBA

According to the Pilot Measures, which came into effect on October 5, 2023, Hong Kong lawyers need

to obtain a Lawyer’s License (GBA) in order to provide legal services in the nine Mainland municipalities. To
further promote the opening up of legal services as well as exchanges and cooperation in the GBA, the format

and content of the GBA Legal Professional Examination should be improved, which includes the training system,
the examination structure, the subjects of the examination, and the evaluation criteria, etc.

(a) Improving the examination training system and enhancing practice of actual
operations

Due to the differences in the legal systems of Hong Kong and the Mainland, Hong Kong lawyers are less

familiar with the relevant laws and regulations in the Mainland. Therefore, before sitting for the examination,
training on the practice examination system should be provided to Hong Kong lawyers, which includes studies

of theories and practical training in relevant legal organisations to enhance their practical work experience.
During the training period, a mentorship system should be implemented, with experienced lawyers guiding the

candidates to help them better adapt to the legal practices in the GBA. However, attention should be paid to the
impartiality of the training and examination content.

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