Mespo native called to the local bar

The Mesopotamia Valley’s flag was flown high on Wednesday, October 6, when one of their very own was called to the Local Bar as a barrister and solicitor.{{more}}

Elizabeth Ryan is the latest addition to this country’s legal fraternity.

Ryan’s call was witnessed by her parents, Ex-Superintendent of Police Norris Ryan, and Maria Ryan; brother, Norris Ryan Jr.; sister, Patrice Samuel and other close relatives and friends at the High Court.

Justice Gertel Thom presided over Ryan’s call, while attorney Ronald Marks presented Ryan and counsel Jaundy Martin, who like Marks, hails from Mesopotamia, seconded her claim.

The 27-year-old completed her secondary education at the St Joseph’s Convent Marriaqua before migrating to Barbados to pursue her law studies. Ryan obtained an Upper Second Class honours law degree. She then attended the Sir Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and attained her Legal Education Certificate on September 3, 2010.

In her first address as a lawyer, Ryan said during her sojourn, she met with several hurdles. She noted that persons often told her that there were too many lawyers in St. Vincent, but stated that she did not let that deter her from accomplishing her goal.

She said her desire to pursue a law career was because of the desire to “make a difference in society and to be one of the custodians of justice.” Ryan said she is fully embracing the challenges that lie ahead and embarks on her new journey with professionalism, diligence and enthusiasm.

Speaking on her behalf, Marks said during the six month period Ryan was attached to his chambers, she performed excellently and noted that she is an asset to any firm.

Also sharing remarks, Martin said he was honoured to have supported Ryan’s application to be admitted as a barrister to practice law. He added that Elizabeth adopted some of the fine qualities of her parents at an early age, which has helped her throughout her journey. He also said Ryan would make this jurisdiction proud as she proceeds with her practice.

Justice Thom, in sharing some advice with the young barrister, told her to let honesty and integrity be her watch words. Thom further beseeched Ryan to be courteous to her colleagues and clients and said that the key to becoming an outstanding lawyer is to prepare well. “Always be ready to give back to the community and with hard work and diligence, I believe you will be a successful lawyer,” Thom advised.

Ryan is currently attached to Marks and Associates Chambers.