The Fiji Law Society has recently expressed significant concern regarding a decline in professionalism within the legal community in Fiji. During an Attorney-General’s conference attended by around 100 lawyers, society president Graham Leung highlighted the pressing need for improvement in the profession amidst the ongoing social and political changes in the country.
Leung remarked that legal professionals are facing unprecedented challenges and indicated that a troubling number of lawyers are not adequately fulfilling their responsibilities to both the courts and the community. He noted, “Excellence is lacking and mediocrity has become the norm,” citing a decline in standards that is evident throughout various facets of national life.
According to Leung, the volume of complaints against lawyers suggests that the profession is facing a serious crisis, though not yet reaching a critical state. He revealed that since 1998, 56% of the complaints received by the society involved unprofessional conduct or professional misconduct. Other issues reported included delays in processes (24%), free dispute cases (13%), and violations of trust accounts (7%).
Leung emphasized that some lawyers have blurred the lines between providing objective legal advice and engaging in questionable activities, cloaked as political advocacy. He warned that Fiji’s recent experiences with lawlessness may have led some legal professionals to mistakenly believe they are above the law.
In his address, Leung called for lawyers to reflect on their roles and responsibilities within the legal profession, urging them to recommit to the principles of justice and integrity.
This article serves as a reminder of the vital role professionalism plays in maintaining the integrity of the legal system. As the legal community in Fiji confronts these challenges, there remains hope for rejuvenation and commitment to higher standards that can ultimately improve trust and effectiveness in the profession.
Summary: The Fiji Law Society has raised alarms about declining professionalism among lawyers in Fiji, citing a high number of complaints related to unprofessional conduct and misconduct. Society president Graham Leung highlighted the need for lawyers to re-evaluate their responsibilities in light of ongoing social and political changes, encouraging a recommitment to integrity within the legal profession.
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