Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has advised 1,568 newly qualified lawyers in Ghana to exercise caution when dealing with information in the digital age. He urged them to verify information before expressing opinions, warning that the speed of information dissemination can lead to hasty judgments and misinformation. The Chief Justice made this statement at the 63rd Call to the Bar ceremony in Teshie, Accra, where the new lawyers were enrolled.
The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of integrity in the legal profession, stating that it is the most valuable currency for lawyers, surpassing even knowledge and money. He warned that integrity takes years to build but can be destroyed in a short time, and urged the new lawyers to uphold professional ethics and protect their integrity. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie also reminded them that lawyers are not above the law and must not accept bribes or allow political affiliations to override their professional principles.
The Chief Justice highlighted the dangers of unverified information spreading rapidly through digital platforms, citing the example of messages circulated on WhatsApp that can cross national borders before their accuracy is established. He advised the new lawyers to pause, verify information, read carefully, and cross-check facts before speaking publicly. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie also urged them to recognize situations in which professional restraint is necessary and avoid commenting on matters without establishing the facts.
The 63rd Call to the Bar ceremony saw the enrollment of 1,568 lawyers, representing the largest cohort called to the Bar at the ceremony. The Chief Justice, who is also the Chairman of the General Legal Council, urged the new lawyers to manage their finances prudently and build their professional reputations through patience and integrity. He also cautioned them against carelessness in handling legal matters, stressing that youth or inexperience will not excuse inadequate preparation.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie emphasized the importance of preparation in handling legal matters, stating that there is no substitute for proper preparation. He advised the new lawyers to know their facts and understand them, and to hold principles such as integrity, diligence, respect, honesty, and discipline. The Chief Justice expressed confidence that if they uphold these principles, they will not only succeed in law but also dignify it.
The ceremony was attended by media personalities and Members of Parliament, including Mr Sam George and Mr Emmanuel Kofi Armah Buah. Akosua Achiaa Sarpong won the John Mensah Sarbah Award for the best all-round performance in the Professional Law Examination, and was also adjudged the best student in Civil Procedure. The event was a significant milestone in the careers of the new lawyers, marking their entry into the legal profession.
The Chief Justice's advice to the new lawyers is a timely reminder of the importance of integrity and professionalism in the legal profession. As they begin their careers, they must navigate the challenges of the digital age while upholding the principles of their profession. With the largest cohort of lawyers called to the Bar, the future of the legal profession in Ghana looks promising, and the Chief Justice's words of wisdom will serve as a guiding light for them.
Key points
- The Chief Justice urged new lawyers to verify information before commenting.
- Integrity is the most valuable currency for lawyers, surpassing knowledge and money.
- The 63rd Call to the Bar ceremony saw the enrollment of 1,568 lawyers, the largest cohort to date.
