The Acting Chief Justice of Ghana, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has advised the newly formed Ghana Law Society to seek formal recognition and licensing from the General Legal Council (GLC) before functioning as a professional body.
This advice comes as the Ghana Law Society continues its legal challenge at the Supreme Court, questioning the Ghana Bar Association’s long-standing position as the sole recognized professional body for lawyers in the country.
Follow Legal Protocols – CJ Advises
Speaking during a meeting with members of the Ghana Law Society in Accra on Thursday, September 25, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie stressed the importance of following proper legal channels.
“You must obtain certification from the General Legal Council. So, when you say you intend to apply to the GLC for recognition and licensing, you are on the right path,” he said.
“What matters to us at the GLC is that you operate with our license.”
Legal Battle Could Reshape Ghana’s Legal Landscape
The Ghana Law Society’s Supreme Court case, if successful, could end the Ghana Bar Association’s monopoly and pave the way for multiple professional legal bodies to operate in Ghana.
Such a development would mark a significant shift in the country’s legal profession, offering lawyers more options for association membership.
Background
The Ghana Bar Association has, for decades, been the only officially recognized professional group for lawyers. However, some members of the legal community have raised concerns about its operations and lack of alternatives—prompting the formation of the Ghana Law Society and the current legal battle.
As the legal challenge unfolds, the Acting Chief Justice’s guidance signals that regardless of the outcome in court, any new legal body must first secure GLC approval to operate within the law.
Comments
Post a Comment