Don’t let speed of information become your judgement – CJ tells new lawyers

Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has addressed the 1,568 newly qualified lawyers, urging them to be cautious about the speed at which information spreads online. The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of verifying facts before forming opinions and cautioned against hasty public commentary. He stressed that lawyers must prioritize integrity over financial gain or knowledge, as integrity is the most valued currency in the legal profession.

The Chief Justice warned about the rapid dissemination of unverified information through digital platforms, noting that messages on platforms like WhatsApp could spread internationally before their accuracy could be confirmed. He advised the new lawyers to pause, verify information, read carefully, and cross-check facts before speaking publicly.

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie reminded the lawyers that integrity takes time to build but can be lost quickly. He also cautioned against accepting bribes or allowing political affiliations to interfere with professional principles. The Chief Justice stressed the importance of proper case preparation and a thorough understanding of legal facts, asserting that youth or inexperience would not justify inadequate preparation.

He urged the new lawyers to manage their finances responsibly and build their professional reputations through patience and integrity. The event, held in Teshie, Accra, was attended by media personalities and Members of Parliament. John Mensah Sarbah Award winner Akosua Achiaa Sarpong was also recognized as the best student in Civil Procedure.