Palitha Ariyaratna

Guardians of Justice and Rights

Lawyers: The Unsung Heroes

Lawyers don’t merely argue cases; they stand as guardians of justice. Their duty extends beyond advocacy—it encompasses the preservation of fundamental rights and liberties. Here’s how they fulfill this noble duty:

Defending the Defenseless: Lawyers amplify the voices of marginalized individuals. Whether it’s a pro bono case or public interest litigation, they fight for justice even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Navigating Legal Labyrinths: The legal landscape is intricate, filled with statutes, precedents, and complex interpretations. Lawyers decipher this labyrinth, translating legal jargon into meaningful arguments for truth and fairness.

Armed with a formidable arsenal of legal knowledge and expertise, lawyers serve as the vanguards of justice.” — American Judicial System

Ethical Obligations in Sri Lanka – Beyond Courtroom Battles

In Sri Lanka, lawyers shape the legal and ethical fabric of society. Their responsibilities extend far beyond courtroom battles:

Moral Integrity: Former Chief Justice G.P.S. de Silva emphasized moral integrity. Lawyers must uphold ethical standards, recognizing that their actions impact not only clients but also the broader community.

Buddhist Principles: Sri Lanka’s legal landscape is infused with Buddhist values—compassion, non-violence, and justice. Lawyers should embody these principles while advocating for their clients.

Out of all the qualities expected of us, the supremely important values are those of moral integrity and fairness.” — Professional Ethics for Lawyers

Challenges and Awareness – Navigating Stormy Waters

However, challenges persist:

Political Agendas: Lawyers must avoid becoming pawns in political games. Backing specific agendas can compromise justice. Impartiality remains paramount, regardless of political affiliations.

Public Awareness: The ethical standards of the legal fraternity have faced erosion over time. Raising public awareness about the importance of ethical conduct is crucial. Lawyers must regain public trust through unwavering commitment to justice.

Reflections from Chief Justice G.P.S. de Silva

The bar of Sri Lanka, with its sturdy sense of independence and significant contributions, holds an honored place in our country. Yet, disturbing indications suggest all is not well within the profession. The decline in proper conduct and frequent complaints of misconduct demand our attention. As lawyers multiply in numbers, maintaining ethical standards becomes imperative.”

Ref: Kamalani De Silva, K. (2015). Professional Ethics for Lawyers: Transcribed Plenary Speech.” In Proceedings of the 8th International Research Conference, KDU. Published in November 2015

Beyond the Courtroom Doors

Lawyers are more than legal practitioners; they are custodians of justice, ethical beacons, and advocates for societal well-being. Their tireless efforts shape the course of justice, ensuring a fair and democratic society. Let us celebrate their unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Promoting ethical behavior within the legal community involves several key approaches. First, continuing legal education programs should emphasize ethical responsibilities. Experienced lawyers can serve as role models by demonstrating ethical behavior. Clear guidelines within law firms and bar associations help address conflicts of interest and client confidentiality. Accountability through disciplinary bodies ensures consistent enforcement of ethical rules. Encouraging peer review within the legal community fosters growth. Lastly, public awareness about legal ethics builds trust and holds lawyers accountable.”

Remember, ethical conduct is vital for justice and societal well-being.

Note: Article authored by Plaitha Ariyaratha. Despite not being a law student, Ariyaratha emphasizes the importance of lawyers in promoting societal well-being and maintaining ethical standards.”