Chief Justice Salesi Temo has urged Fiji’s newest lawyers to remember the weight of the profession as they begin their careers.
He admitted 24 graduates from the University of Fiji’s School of Law to the Bar of the High Court on Friday, telling them the legal field is an “interesting profession” because society depends on lawyers to interpret and uphold the law.
“The law, which is fundamental to the concept of the rule of law, is what holds society together,” he said.
“If it breaks down, it leads to chaos. People will get hurt if the laws are not obeyed.”
Justice Temo said their admission means they are now officers of the High Court, a position that comes with responsibility and expectation.
“There is a special role as an officer of the court.
“It gives you the ability to come to the court, to access its powers, and to clear the cobwebs that stand in the way of citizens’ legal rights, their freedoms, their protection under the law, and their pursuit of justice.”
He said lawyers have an important role in protecting people’s rights and that through the courts, they are able to support fair process and access to justice.
