The Legal Aid Department (LAD) plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of Hong Kong citizens during large-scale community incidents. In this episode, C. M. Chan, JP, Director of Legal Aid, discusses the department's comprehensive response to the Wang Fuk Court fire. As of 20th March, the LAD has received 464 applications, with 70 already approved.

To address the urgency, the LAD established a task force to deal with applications relating to the fire. Director Chan explains that the department has introduced simplified application forms and special treatment regarding the calculation of the means test to accommodate the victims' unique hardships. Furthermore, seven specialised booths manned by Legal Aid Counsel were set up to provide direct assistance.

While awaiting the Independent Committee's report on liability, Director Chan emphasises that the LAD continues to protect the interests of applicants by processing each case independently and individually. Addressing the absence of a class action system in Hong Kong, he envisions a strategic pathway through "test cases" to enhance settlements via mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). By grouping similar claims under current High Court procedures, he believes there are still efficient ways to speed up the proceedings.

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