128 new lawyers, four legal procurators receive warrants
Justice minister urges new professionals to ensure every decision taken is rooted in ethics, integrity and respect for rule of law
A total of 128 new lawyers and four legal procurators were presented with their warrants on Friday, formally marking the start of their careers in the legal profession.
The warrants were presented by Justice, Research and Innovation Minister Clifton Grima during a ceremony attended by senior members of the judiciary and legal profession.
Addressing the new warrant holders, Grima said the occasion was not merely the achievement of a professional qualification, but also a commitment to justice, truth and service to society.
“The warrant is a privilege, but above all it is a responsibility,” he said, urging the new lawyers and legal procurators to ensure that every decision they take is rooted in ethics, integrity and respect for the rule of law.
He said the legal profession was not an easy one, but could offer great satisfaction.
“There will be challenges, difficult decisions and moments that require courage and empathy. Always remember why you chose this profession — the oath is a commitment to justice, truth and responsibility,” Grima said.
The minister also said the government remained committed to strengthening the justice system through reforms, including work to bolster the independence of the process used to select tribunal members.
He also referred to the development of a new Commercial Court, reforms to the Family Court, the digitalisation of several services and the mapping of court processes aimed at improving the efficiency of the judicial system.
Grima urged the new lawyers and legal procurators to continue investing in their professional development, learn from those who came before them and carry out their work with humility, professionalism and respect for colleagues, institutions and citizens.
The ceremony was also addressed by Judge Anthony Ellul, Chamber of Advocates president Peter Fenech and Chamber of Legal Procurators president Gerald Bonello.
Attorney General Victoria Buttigieg, State Advocate Chris Soler, Permanent Secretary Johan Galea and officials from the Court Services Agency were also present.