By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News |
Growing public concern over the conduct and accountability of attorneys has prompted renewed calls for reform within Guyana’s legal profession, with Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall backing a comprehensive review of the country’s Legal Practitioners Act.
The Attorney General disclosed that the judiciary has formally called for a review of the legislation governing the legal profession, a move he says is both necessary and overdue. He confirmed that he fully supports the initiative and intends to engage the Guyana Bar Association’s executive in the coming months to advance the reform process.
According to Nandlall, the existing framework no longer adequately addresses modern realities or public expectations of accountability. He emphasized the need for a stronger disciplinary system—one that promotes higher standards of responsibility and transparency within the profession.
The Attorney General acknowledged that his office has received numerous complaints from members of the public concerning their treatment by attorneys. These complaints include allegations of negligence, unprofessional conduct, and dishonest practices. He stressed that the legal fraternity must confront these issues candidly and accept the need for self-reform.
Nandlall underscored the legal profession’s central role in society, noting that no other profession plays a more critical role in the administration of justice, the protection of rights, and the maintenance of public order. He warned that failures within the profession can have far-reaching consequences for citizens and confidence in the justice system.
As part of the proposed reforms, the Attorney General is also calling for the modernization of the broader environment in which legal practitioners operate. This includes clearer procedures, more transparent disciplinary mechanisms, and sanctions proportionate to the findings of misconduct.
Additionally, Nandlall issued a strong warning against the activities of so-called “touts”—individuals who are not qualified attorneys but who continue to perform legal functions. He said some of these individuals, including certain justices of the peace and commissioners of oaths, improperly draft legal documents and provide advice without adequate training, often causing serious financial and legal harm to unsuspecting members of the public.
The Attorney General reiterated that protecting the integrity of the legal system is paramount and that reform of the Legal Practitioners Act is a critical step toward restoring public trust and ensuring accountability within the profession.
