Tribute to an exemplary Court Clerk

The Magistrate’s Court has suffered a great loss in the person of Elvis Cumberbatch, who died on Thursday, April 14, 2011. He was a stalwart in the Kingstown District Court, where he worked as a magistrate’s clerk. I came to know more about him in the court where he served with Magistrate Donald Browne on Wednesdays and Thursdays for family matters and civil matters respectively.{{more}} He was responsible for assisting the magistrate, providing him with the files and other documents and recording all decisions made by the magistrate. What was distinctive about this exemplary court clerk were the relations that he established and the attitude he maintained with persons who used the services of the Magistrate’s Court.

I remember his broad smile and his twinkling eyes and in a respectful tone he reminded me that he was a former Grammar School student. Although I did not teach him, I remember him vividly as his boyhood features had not changed. I thought that it was this connection that made him pay so much attention to me, but then when I spoke about him to other Lawyers I realized that everyone was special to this man. He treated everyone with respect and we respected and loved him in return. I have never heard a word of criticism uttered against him, and there was always some form of compliment. He appeared to have a good relation with his colleagues and this was shown in no uncertain way with the turn out at his funeral.

Elvis Cumberbatch dealt with persons from all walks of life, and this did not change his attitude to others. Arrogance was alien to his personality. It was not unusual to hear someone call to you from the crowds of people waiting for court and when you looked through the crowd you would see the gleaming eyes of Elvis.He was a people’s person, finding the time to chat with others but still committed to his work. His work was thorough, and he knew every matter on the court list. If he was unable to give you an adjournment date immediately, he would call at your Chambers to inform you. Those Lawyers who were new to the magistrate’s court would be sure to get helpful hints about proceedings in the magistrate’s court from Elvis because he knew the procedures very well.

I knew that for some time he was ill, and it appeared that sometimes he was in great pain, but he still mustered a smile. When he bounced back we were happy and greatly relieved. The day before he died I had mentioned him as one of the exemplary persons who provided services to the public. He did not live to see it in black and white. Elvis would always remain in our hearts as a person who would go the extra mile. He harbored no malice. He was humble, helpful and kind. His sojourn on earth was short as he died at the age of 39 but he did what was required of him; he did unto others as he would have others do unto him. Those persons who knew and loved him will always remember him. May his soul rest in peace.

Ada Johnson is a solicitor and barrister-at-law.

E-mail address is: exploringthelaw@yahoo.com