PRESS RELEASES & ANNOUNCEMENTS

 

June 27, 2008

Response to Gleaner Article calling Attorneys 'Hustlers'

The Jamaican Bar Association notes the article carried on the front page of the Daily Gleaner of June 25, 2008, in which a Resident Magistrate is reported as describing the legal profession as reduced to hustling.  Unfortunately, the Jamaican Bar Association, although invited to attend, was unable to send a representative to the forum as our president and other members were unavailable due to their obligations to the court and their clients. However, we use this medium to respond.

We are aware that from time to time some members do fall short of the high standards which as a profession we hold dear and to which we are committed. We are confident that the great majority of our clients and the judges before whom we appear understand and can attest to our commitment to uphold these standards.

We therefore consider it most unfortunate that the public media was used to denigrate the legal profession as a whole without at the same time acknowledging the exemplary contribution lawyers make to the justice system and the development of the law, our diligent and disciplined assistance to the courts including the Court over which the Magistrate presides and in service of the public.

We remain committed to working with all stakeholders towards the improvement of the justice system and we have no doubt that our members will continue to serve the public and the interest of the profession by way of voluntary and contracted services.

The Magistrate may have issues with lawyers from time to time but she would be aware of the avenues open to her for appropriate action in particular cases.

We shall be seeking to meet with the Magistrate and the appropriate authorities to discuss this matter.

 

Other Press Releases

July 30, 2008

The Government's Anti-Crime Plan

June 19, 2008

Opposition to Detention of Persons for Extended Periods Without Charge