Shemica Maloney Called To The Bar
By Pauline Waruguru
Nevis Reporter - SKNVibes.com
Shemica Maloney was called to the Bar on Friday at a ceremony held at the High Court in Nevis and presided over by Her Ladyship Justice Ianthea Leigertwood-Octave.
Shemica is the 2001 island scholar. Her Ladyship commended Maloney’s family, mentors and all who have supported her to achieve her goal to become an attorney.
Her Ladyship welcomed Maloney into the legal fraternity and told her that what makes an attorney a practitioner is what happens hereafter. “The journey begins today. You are just beginning when you wear that gown. You have taken the first step,” Justice Leigertwood-Octave said.
“Young lawyers tend to think this is the end (the ceremony) and see themselves at per with lawyers who have practiced for 20 years,” her Ladyship said. She said lawyers should live up to the integrity of the profession. “Be careful, our profession is noble and honourable. We must make sure our profession remains noble.”~~Adz:Right~~
“We are responsible and accountable to court and to colleagues. Be honest to your colleagues. Your word must mean something to you colleagues.” Her Ladyship advised.
She encouraged Maloney to feel free to sit in open court sessions, “you will be so much better if you spend a little time in court and see how it is done.” Her Ladyship told Maloney to hold on to the principles of evidence law, “you need evidence. Some evidence may be inadmissible.”
Her Ladyship also told Maloney to continually update herself as law changed daily, “keep abreast with OECS website.” Her Ladyship told Maloney to remember that knowledge originates from God, “we are all his instruments. Be true to yourself, to your God. Take the first step…the work now begins. It is not the flashy clothes. I will be pulling you up. I wish you well.”
Maloney, showed emotion as she responded to her Ladyship’s address. She said being called to the Bar was a “memorable achievement.” She said it would challenge her achievement.
