Andrew Li Kwok-nang (born 15 June 1948) is a Hong Kong jurist who served as the first Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal (CFA) of Hong Kong from its establishment in 1997 until his retirement in 2010. He was the first local-born judge to hold the post and played a central role in shaping Hong Kong’s post‑handover judicial system.
Early life and education
Li was born in Hong Kong and educated at the Diocesan Boys' School. He earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Hong Kong in 1970 and subsequently obtained a Master of Laws (LL.M.) from the University of London as a Commonwealth Scholar. He was called to the Hong Kong Bar in 1972.
Legal career
- Private practice (1972–1991): Li practiced as a barrister, specialising in commercial and civil litigation. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel (QC) in 1984.
- Judicial appointments:
- Recorder of the High Court (1991–1993)
- Judge of the High Court (1993–1996)
- Justice of Appeal, Court of Appeal (1996–1997)
- Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal (1997–2010): Upon the creation of the CFA under the Basic Law, Li was appointed its inaugural Chief Justice. During his tenure, he presided over landmark constitutional and human rights cases, contributed to the development of common law in Hong Kong, and promoted judicial independence. He retired on 30 June 2010 and was succeeded by Justice Geoffrey Ma.
Post‑retirement activities
After retirement, Li has remained active in legal and public affairs, serving on various commissions and panels, including the Independent Review Committee on the administration of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Ordinance. He has also been involved in academia, delivering lectures on constitutional law and judicial administration.
Honours and awards
- Grand Bauhinia Medal (GBM), Hong Kong’s highest civilian honour (2009)
- Honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) from the University of Hong Kong (2003)
Personal life
Li is married to Fook-ling Li and has two children. He is known for his fluency in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, and for his contributions to legal scholarship through published judgments and occasional articles.
Legacy
Andrew Li is widely regarded as a pivotal figure in Hong Kong’s legal history, particularly for his role in establishing the Court of Final Appeal as a respected apex court and for upholding the rule of law during a transformative period in the region’s governance.