Liberia: Two Lawyers Admitted to Margibi Bar, Urged to Uphold Integrity of the Legal Profession - FrontPageAfrica

Source: Front Page Africa

Kakata -- The Judge of the 13th Judicial Circuit Court of Margibi County, Mardea Tarr Chenoweth, has admitted two young male lawyers to the Margibi County Local Bar to practice as Attorneys-At-Law.

By Yawah Y. Jaivey

The two lawyers are V. Benjamin K. Wymon and Abraham B.F. Tengbeh whose admission was proposed, seconded and supported by the leadership and members of the legal fraternity at the level of the Margibi County Local Bar.

Judge Chenoweth administering the oath of practice on Monday welcomed the two new members into the Margibi County Local Bar. Amidst the celebratory atmosphere, the judge took a solemn moment to remind the freshly admitted lawyers of the paramount importance of integrity in the legal profession.

She reminded the new lawyers that their admission into the bar was not only a momentous occasion for them and their families, but also the beginning of a lifelong commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law.

Admonishing the lawyers, Judge Chenoweth emphasized that while legal practice often involves financial transactions, they must never prioritize monetary gain over the ethical responsibilities inherent in the profession.

"Today, as you embark on your journey as members of the Margibi County Local Bar and practice of the law profession, I urge you to always prioritize justice, fairness, and integrity in your practice," Judge Chenoweth stated. "The legal profession is a noble one, rooted in the principles of upholding the law and serving the interests of justice above all else. It is imperative that you never allow financial considerations to compromise these principles."

Judge Chenoweth reminded the two men that they are entering the legal profession at a crucial time when concerns about ethical misconduct within the legal profession are getting increasingly visible, noting that the temptation to prioritize financial gain over ethical responsibilities can lead to an erosion of public trust in the legal system and undermine the integrity of the profession as a whole.

"The legal profession is good when you make it good; it is bad when you make it bad. The citizens are depending on us, please do not put money in front. If you are a good lawyer, money will come and people will recommend you. You need to be honest to your clients. Don't take people's money when you know you will not do their case", she urged.

In addition to emphasizing the importance of integrity, Judge Chenoweth also highlighted the significance of ongoing education and professional development for lawyers.

"The legal profession is constantly evolving, and it is essential that you remain abreast of new developments in the law and continue to refine your skills throughout your career," she advised the newly admitted lawyers. "Ask questions when you don't understand something because we all are still learning and that is why they call it the practice of law."

In delivering his response on behalf of he and his colleague, Attorney V. V. Benjamin K. Wymon took the opportunity to acknowledge God, family members and other friends who offered their support and encouragement during their time of study and thereafter.

Atty. Wymon promised that they will uphold the standards of the legal profession and noted that they will continue to practice law with honesty and integrity while being mindful of their duty to give back to their community.

"Today, our admittance is an assurance to our litigant's brothers and sisters who will have legal issues without adequate finance that we will be a help to you," he promised.

At the same time, Atty. Wymon expressed disappointment in the lack of a decent court building in Margibi County to accommodate the different courts in the county despite the close proximity of Margibi to Montserrado County.

"We are ready to be put in prison because we will not relent in our advocacy for ensuring that we get a piece of land for the construction of the 13th Judicial Circuit Court", Atty. Wymon Vowed.