The Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Justice Devendra Pathik School of Law at the University of Fiji, Professor Shaista Shameem, has criticized remarks made by Attorney General Graham Leung, who stated that law schools are producing graduates in an ‘assembly line fashion.’ Professor Shameem has deemed these comments not only false but also disparaging and demoralizing to aspiring lawyers.
She expressed disappointment over the Attorney General’s simplistic and generalized observations on the current state of Fiji’s legal profession during his speech at the Fiji Law Society Convention. According to Professor Shameem, the University of Fiji’s law program distinguishes itself with a focus on quality, producing a limited number of graduates each year, all of whom have secured employment shortly after admission.
In addressing previous comments made by Leung regarding the need for senior lawyers to mentor younger graduates, Professor Shameem asserted that there is a notable shortage of skilled senior lawyers in Fiji who could appropriately guide the new entrants into the profession. She observed a concerning trend where some seasoned lawyers exhibit behaviors such as arrogance and disrespect towards younger colleagues, which hinders a healthy learning environment.
Professor Shameem emphasized that the curriculum at the JDP School of Law focuses on ethics, public advocacy, and mutual respect among legal professionals. Feedback from the industry indicates that students are internalizing these essential lessons well. She highlighted the worrying notion that many law firms see law primarily as a lucrative endeavor instead of a commitment to public service, complicating the training of new lawyers.
As part of her role, she advises graduates on which public or private legal organizations to pursue for employment, also cautioning them against certain firms that might undermine their values and training. She underscored the importance of law as an honorable profession, despite various challenges, particularly regarding leadership within the field.
In a positive turn, she urged the Attorney General to take proactive steps in providing young lawyers with exemplary role models, fostering a supportive environment that encourages moral standards and professional respect.
This exchange underscores the ongoing dialogue about the need for positive mentorship and professional standards within the legal community. By addressing these issues, there is potential for a stronger foundation for future legal professionals in Fiji, enhancing both the profession’s integrity and the broader legal system’s effectiveness.
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