Private Client Comparative Guide

1 Legislative framework

1.1 Which legislative provisions govern private client matters in your jurisdiction?

The laws on succession are primarily governed by:

• the Wills Ordinance;
• the Intestates' Estates Ordinance;
• the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Ordinance; and
• the Probate and Administration Ordinance.

Hong Kong trusts law is governed by:

• the Trustee Ordinance;
• the Recognition of Trusts Ordinance;
• the Variation of Trusts Ordinance; and
• the Perpetuities and Accumulations Ordinance.

Taxation in Hong Kong is generally governed by the Inland Revenue Ordinance and the Stamp Duty Ordinance. The laws on powers of attorney are governed by the Powers of Attorney Ordinance and the Enduring Powers of Attorney Ordinance.