A year after being called to the Bar in Ghana, Joseph Okan-Mensah Khartey has gained valuable insights into the legal profession. He notes that despite thorough preparation, it was his experiences in the Court of Appeal, High Court, and Circuit Court that taught him the most. These experiences have shaped his understanding of the legal system and the skills required to navigate it effectively.
Khartey emphasizes the importance of understanding the rules of procedure and the unwritten rules that govern court proceedings. He notes that a motion that is flawless on paper can still fail if not executed properly. To mitigate this, he confirms the cause list the day before and carries spare copies of documents. He also observes that the most effective lawyers are those who work diligently and calmly, rather than those who are loud or aggressive.
The young lawyer highlights the significant amount of time spent waiting for court proceedings to unfold. He notes that delays are often caused by adjournments, which can be frustrating for clients. To address this, Khartey aims to be prepared on the day and to communicate honestly with clients about delays. He also acknowledges that the culture of adjournments is a shared responsibility among lawyers and the court.
A pivotal moment in Khartey's career was his first Monday as a lawyer, when he was tasked with attending a Circuit Court to take notes on a judgment. This experience taught him the importance of accurate note-taking and reporting. He notes that the profession expects junior lawyers to be able to hear correctly and report faithfully, even in high-pressure situations.
Khartey's first experience speaking in court was during an application for substituted service. Although he was nervous and stumbled over his opening sentence, he was able to recover and effectively communicate his application to the court. He reflects that the key to success is being able to clearly and concisely state one's application and the reasons behind it.
The young lawyer also shares his experiences in the Court of Appeal, where he notes that the room is quieter and the questions more challenging. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared and having a deep understanding of the law and the case. Khartey also discusses the importance of earning a fair income, but not at the expense of compromising one's values or taking on matters beyond one's competence.
Khartey concludes by offering advice to the 1400 lawyers who will be called to the Bar on Friday, including his cousin and friends. He emphasizes the importance of patience, preparation, and honesty in the profession. He encourages new lawyers to find a courtroom, sit behind a more experienced lawyer, and listen. By doing so, they will gain valuable insights and set themselves up for success in their careers.
Key points
- A Ghanaian lawyer shares his insights into the legal profession after one year in the courts.
- The young lawyer emphasizes the importance of preparation, honesty, and patience in the profession.
- He offers advice to new lawyers, encouraging them to be patient, prepared, and honest in their careers.
