By Precious D. Freeman
Chief Justice, Sie-A-Nyene Gyapay Youh, did not mince her words at the 23rd Annual Convention of the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), as she sharply criticized individuals who engage in legal commentary without a proper understanding of the law.
Speaking to a hall packed with seasoned and emerging legal minds, the Chief Justice delivered a candid message on the importance of legal accuracy and professional integrity.
Chief Justice Youh stated bluntly, “They pretend to know the law, and their first utterance is that, ‘I am not a lawyer ohh, but—’ If you are not a lawyer, shut up.”
Her bold declaration was met with resounding applause, quickly resonating across legal circles and public forums where debates on legal issues have become increasingly commonplace.
Her comments come at a time of heightened public engagement with constitutional matters, fueled by recent controversial court rulings.
Chief Justice Youh acknowledged that while free speech is a pillar of democracy, careless and misinformed legal opinions can distort public understanding and undermine respect for the judiciary and the rule of law.
“There is so much to do, and that can be done without money,” she added, shifting her focus to a broader call for national service.
She urged Liberians—particularly women in the legal profession—to contribute meaningfully to societal growth through volunteerism, mentorship, and a commitment to ethical standards, rather than relying solely on financial resources.
Chief Justice Youh reflected on her own leadership philosophy, revealing that upon assuming the post of Chief Justice, she made it clear her administration would not depend solely on donor aid or external partnerships.
“One thing I said is that my administration will not go on the microphone calling upon our partners and traditional partners to come and help the judiciary,” she recalled, emphasizing self-reliance and innovation within institutions.
The Chief Justice’s address served as both a critique and an inspiration, pushing for greater civic responsibility, legal literacy, and a cultural shift towards solutions that do not always require financial intervention.
She stressed that tangible change could start from wherever individuals find themselves—be it in institutions, communities, churches, mosques, or courtrooms.
The AFELL 23rd Annual Convention brought together female lawyers, legal scholars, and human rights advocates from across Liberia to explore themes of legal empowerment, gender justice, and strengthening the nation’s legal institutions.
Throughout the event, the importance of knowledge, accountability, and advocacy remained central points of discussion.
Chief Justice Youh’s message stood out as a defining moment of the gathering, challenging her colleagues to rise above superficial commentary and to uphold the dignity of the legal profession through informed and responsible engagement.
Her remarks underscored the indispensable role of trained professionals in shaping public discourse on legal matters.
She urged all Liberians to remember that true development does not always demand vast financial resources but begins with commitment, honesty, and proactive service.
“Yes, they say money answereth all things, but there are things we can do without money,” she emphasized, encouraging her audience to be agents of change wherever they are planted.
The 23rd AFELL convention ended on a high note, with participants energized by the Chief Justice’s call to action, vowing to contribute their voices and expertise towards building a stronger, more just Liberia.
Meanwhile, the chief justice called on female lawyers to translate their advocacy into tangible actions that promote gender equality within the legal profession and said, “As female lawyers, it is always important to match your words with actions.
Justice Youh encouraged lawyers of the professional legal body to play their individual and respective roles very well for the betterment of the Association, warning, “Avoid complacency and work by the goals and objectives of AFELL.”
According to the chief justice, women and children issues will always exist, but it is key for AFELL to keep the torch burning, and continue the awareness and advocacy to make a change.
She encouraged, “Let’s also maintain trust in what we say and do because it is essential for our sector and our country in general as such, please stop pretending to be Lawyers when you are not.”
