By Grace Q. Bryant
The Civil Law Court Judge, Ousman F. Feika, has warned all lawyers who are not licensed to “keep a distance” from the court stressing that only those that are licensed and cleared by the Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) of dues and other levies would be allowed to file papers before the court or make representation on behalf of their clients.
He made these comments yesterday at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia. Judge Feika, who was stern on dispensing justice said, “If you are not licensed and cleared by the LNBA of other fees and levies, just keep your distance until at such time when you shall have made your status current.”
Feika pointed that they would also to admonish lawyers appearing before the court during this term and going forward, to ensure that their licenses are current as contemplated under rule five of the Rules of Court.
He stated that lawyers should get respect for the court as outlined and contained in the Revised Rules of Court which shall be the guiding principle.
“To all lawyers appearing before the Sixth Judicial Circuit of Equity and Admiralty, we wish to remind you of the enormous responsibilities imposed upon you by the Code of Moral and Professional Ethics and as well as the rules of court. Respect for the court as outlined and contained in the Revised Rules of Court shall be our guiding principle,” Feika said.
He noted further that judges should not hesitate to apply the law to the full extent possible if there appears to be an attempt(s) by any lawyer or group of lawyers to test the court’s resolve in maintaining the respect and sanctity of the court.
The Judge however, encouraged lawyers appearing before the court during the term to ensure that lawyers’ engagement with the court be based squarely on the law.
Feika revealed that the court will endeavor to maintain a relationship with lawyers which enhances respect for the rule of law, and called on lawyers, ministerial officers and clerical staff to continue to do their utmost best as the court strives to provide quality services to the people and country.
The Judge indicated that speedy trial as envisaged by the Constitution is meant for everybody who seeks justice as the best and only alternative to resolve conflict or controversies.
Feika explained the trust and believes that the public would be heard within a reasonable time as contemplated by the Constitution; adding that once it is achieved with the contribution of all actors; justice will be served.
He added that Article 21(h) of the Constitution of Liberia puts particular emphasis on speedy trial as a right guaranteed to all persons.
Feika said the right to a speedy trial is therefore fundamental and germane to the protection of all under the law; stating that it is the belief of the cliché that “justice delayed is justice denied.”
For his part, the President of LNBA Sylvester Dorbor Rennie said licensing of lawyers is important as it brings respect to the courts, adding that lawyers should avoid paying their dues in March and wait till the end of the year to acquire their license, something he described as a bad practice.
The LNBA President however, assured the Bar’s continued commitment to working with the courts to ensure that cases are speedily tried, despite the many challenges.
