The media magnate was taken into custody on 3 December on fraud charges, and faces life in prison if convicted. According to experts, Judge Lee’s arguments provide Lai's lawyers with the basis for their defence strategy in the upcoming trial, set for 16 April. The judge’s ruling is also seen as an act of independence by Hong Kong’s judiciary vis-à-vis pressures exerted by Beijing. Lai had to put up US$ 1.3 million in bail money to be freed. He also had to agree to remain under house arrest, be closely monitored by police, and not give interviews, use social media or meet foreign government officials.