Bar President apologises to DPP for ‘misconduct’ of some lawyers

The President of the Bar Association has apologised to the Director of Public Prosecution for the “misconduct” of some senior defence counsel during court proceedings.

Newly elected Bar president Shirlan “Zita” Barnwell made her apologies during the Closing of the Assizes, at the High Court on December 21, after Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla McDowall highlighted numerous changes she would like to see in order to create a brighter 2024 in the administration of criminal justice in St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

McDowall admitted that she has been suffering with “a torn in my side” as prosecution has had to deal with the “unbecoming” behaviour exhibited by some senior counsel, which is not exemplary of a legal practitioner and a barrister at law.

She continued that it has been a tough year for the Crown, but she commends the staff for maintaining “a cool head in the tempest.”

McDowall expressed the hope that in 2024, “patience would endure and good sense will prevail” among “counsel on the other side”.

As a result of McDowall’s remarks, Barnwell rose and apologised for any “misconduct” exhibited by the members of the Bar.

In addition to her struggles with senior counsel, McDowall admitted that she also looks on with “a tinge of jealousy” when some persons who work in the public service are not “better rewarded” for their contributions.

McDowall hopes that in the near future, persons will be “openly rewarded” for the contributions and “stellar service” that they give to the people of this country.

She also acknowledged Justice Brian Cottle and Justice Rickie Burnett for performing the difficult role of a judge, and hopes that they will be rewarded more tangibly for their service.

“Where are our probation officers?” McDowall further questioned, as she raised the issue of the need for specialised officers to monitor defendants who have appeared before the court.

McDowall added that it is “quite unfair” that alongside their policing duties, police officers are also tasked with keeping an eye on offenders and bringing them to court for their matters.

She commended the Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force for their contribution to criminal justice in the country thus far.

McDowall further encouraged the public to sit through court proceedings so they can have a better understanding on how the Justice system works.

She added that many times, a lot of misinformation is circulated because persons are informed on a criminal matter from second and third hand sources who share incorrect information.

McDowall therefore made a request for online streaming of court proceedings, especially those of public interest. She said in this way, more attention will be turned towards the courtroom by the general public.

She further commended the different media outlets who sit through these proceedings and bridge the gap between the public and the courtroom by informing the public about the work that is being done by legal personnel on a day-to-day basis.