Law firm asks court to block access to files seized in ‘crash-for-cash’ probe
South China Morning Post
by Brian WongFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A Hong Kong law firm, Raymond Lam & Associates, has filed a legal challenge to prevent police from accessing confidential documents seized during a raid linked to an investigation into "crash-for-cash" scams. The firm is seeking judicial review to block the police from inspecting 66 files containing sensitive client information, including letters and medical records belonging to at least 61 clients. This move comes as part of efforts to protect attorney-client privilege and ensure the proper handling of confidential data.
The "crash-for-cash" scams involve individuals staging accidents to make fraudulent insurance claims, a growing issue in Hong Kong. The police raid on the law firm earlier this month was part of their ongoing probe into these schemes. The seized files reportedly include privileged communications between clients and lawyers, which the firm argues should remain confidential under legal protections.
The case highlights the tension between law enforcement investigations and the need to safeguard attorney-client privilege. Raymond Lam & Associates contends that allowing police access to these documents would set a dangerous precedent, potentially exposing sensitive client information and undermining trust in legal representation. The firm's application for judicial review aims to ensure that authorities respect established legal protections while conducting their investigation.
For readers interested in global legal and public safety issues, this case underscores the challenges of balancing privacy rights with law enforcement needs. Similar dilemmas exist worldwide, particularly in cases involving confidential information and national security concerns. The outcome could have broader implications for how legal systems handle privilege during criminal investigations.
Ultimately, the situation in Hong Kong raises important questions about the limits of police powers and the importance of protecting sensitive client information. As the case unfolds, it will likely spark discussions about the role of law firms in such scams and the broader implications for legal practice and public trust.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026