In 1996 he led the prosecution of the 18-year-old son of a police sergeant, who was sentenced to life for the beating and murder of a taxi driver in a trial that gripped the city. He returned the same year to Australia, where his reputation in court had preceded him.

"He was always sought after, both by prosecutors and defendants," Lo said. "Every criminal wanted him on their side. He had a good business back there."

However, Hong Kong remained in his heart and he came back to the city four years later as a barrister with Wellington Chambers. His position brought him into contact with a range of people eager to use his talents.

One of his most remarkable cases, Lo said, was the trial of the killers of triad kingpin Lee Tai-Lung, who had been run down and hacked to death in a gangland killing in Tsim Sha Tsui.

Loftus represented the defendants, reportedly members of the Wo Shing Wo triad, in a trial that ultimately saw three of the five suspects jailed for life.

Director of Public Prosecutions Keith Yeung Ka-hung wrote that Loftus was an "old friend" of the department.

"Those of us who knew Pat would not forget that he was a conscientious but fair counsel who treated life seriously but at the same time with a good sense of humour," Yeung wrote in a message to colleagues. "He was a gentleman to all around him … commanding the respect which he so rightly deserved."

Loftus was an avid traveller, visiting exotic destinations such as India and Papua New Guinea. Ireland, his father's birthplace, held special significance. He and his wife had been planning a heritage tour of the nation.

Loftus is survived by his wife and daughters Katherine, Allyson and Susan. His funeral will be held on Sunday.