Professor Shaista Shameem, Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Justice Devendra Pathik School of Law at the University of Fiji, has expressed her strong disapproval of Attorney General Graham Leung’s comment labeling law graduates from three universities as being produced in an “assembly line fashion.” She criticized this remark as not only untrue but also damaging and demoralizing to emerging lawyers.
Describing Leung’s speech at the Fiji Law Society Convention as overly simplistic and riddled with generalizations, Professor Shameem expected a more nuanced discussion regarding the legal profession’s current state in Fiji. Notably, she emphasized that the University of Fiji prides itself on its small, carefully curated law program, producing graduates who are exceptionally skilled and, importantly, fully employed upon admission to the Bar.
Shameem further expressed disappointment over Leung’s earlier remarks implying a shortfall in young lawyers’ skills due to a lack of mentorship from senior practitioners. She pointed out the unfortunate reality that there aren’t enough exemplary senior lawyers available in Fiji to provide clear guidance for new entrants in the field. In her view, while many young lawyers possess a passion for the legal field and a desire to learn, they confront a lack of effective leadership within the profession.
She also raised concerns about the behavior of some senior lawyers, labeling them as arrogant, unprepared, and at times disrespectful, which does not set a positive example for younger lawyers. Furthermore, she observed a concerning degree of political interference within the legal profession, which detracts from its integrity.
At the Justice Devendra Pathik School of Law, ethical practices, public advocacy, and mutual respect are fundamental components of the legal training offered to students. Professor Shameem remarked that some law firms treat the profession primarily as a lucrative business rather than a service to the public, leading to inadequate moral standards instilled in young interns, thus compromising their professional development.
She stated that it is crucial for law schools to convey to students that law is a noble profession, though numerous challenges hinder this ideal. A pivotal issue, according to her, is the leadership crisis that exists across all levels of the profession. She encouraged the Attorney General to step up and become a role model, ensuring that new lawyers can identify positive figures to emulate as they navigate their careers.
This dialogue highlights the critical need for a supportive and respectful legal environment in Fiji. With committed professionals like Professor Shameem advocating for integrity and ethics in the law, there is hope for nurturing a new generation of attorneys who can rise to the challenges facing the legal profession while upholding its honorable tradition.
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