Which entity exercises the judicial power of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region?

The judicial power of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) is exercised by its courts, which are independent from both the legislative and executive branches of government. This system upholds the rule of law and is fundamental to maintaining the autonomy and legal framework established under the Basic Law of Hong Kong.

Hong Kong's courts have the authority to interpret laws and administer justice, ensuring that individual rights and freedoms are protected under the law. They play a crucial role in upholding the principles of fairness and impartiality in legal proceedings, allowing for checks and balances within the governance structure of the SAR.

While the Legislative Council is responsible for enacting laws and the Executive Council advises the Chief Executive, neither of these entities possesses judicial power. The Court of Appeal, as part of the hierarchy within the judicial system, focuses specifically on handling appeals but does not embody the entirety of judicial authority in Hong Kong. Thus, it is the broader category of courts that fundamentally exercises the judicial power within the SAR.