KAMPALA — A total of 115 lawyers were formally enrolled as Advocates of the High Court on Thursday during a ceremony marked by reflections on professional responsibility, ethical conduct, and the vital role advocates play in the administration of justice.
The enrolment ceremony, held at the High Court in Kampala on Friday, was presided over by HW Beatrice Stella Atingu, Registrar Special Duties, who represented the Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum. The event attracted representatives from the Judiciary, the Uganda Law Society, the Law Council, as well as family members and friends of the newly enrolled advocates.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Chief Registrar, HW Atingu described the occasion as a significant milestone in the lives of the new advocates and a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and God’s grace.
She congratulated the advocates on joining the legal profession, noting that while the profession commands prestige, influence, and respect, it equally demands discipline, sacrifice, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
“The legal profession is not merely a source of livelihood. It is a calling that requires service to clients, the courts, and society at large,” she said.
Citing Article 126(2) of the Constitution of Uganda, HW Atingu emphasized that advocates have a duty to support courts in administering justice fairly, efficiently, and without undue regard to technicalities.
She urged the newly enrolled advocates to embrace continuous learning and thorough preparation, stressing that diligence and knowledge remain essential ingredients for success in legal practice.
The Registrar further cautioned lawyers against prioritizing client interests at the expense of justice.
“Never allow a client’s interests to override the cause of justice. Where a conflict arises, let integrity prevail, even if it means declining a brief,” she advised.
Using a vivid analogy, HW Atingu described an advocate as a “high priest in the temple of justice,” whose conduct must always be guided by truth, fairness, courage, and professional ethics.
She also encouraged the advocates to contribute to social transformation through pro bono legal services, community engagement, and initiatives aimed at expanding access to justice, particularly for vulnerable members of society.
“Good legal practice is not about the end justifying the means, but about ensuring ethical standards guide every process,” she added.
Representing the Secretary of the Law Council, Ms. Patience Biira Mutooro congratulated the advocates on their admission to the Bar and reminded them that while the Law Council is responsible for admitting legal practitioners, it is equally mandated to uphold discipline and professional standards within the profession.
She warned against greed and unethical conduct, urging the new advocates to embrace honesty and restraint in their practice.
“Take only what is yours, and not more,” she advised, emphasizing that integrity remains the most valuable asset a lawyer can possess.
Ms. Mutooro further encouraged the advocates to maintain professionalism in their appearance, communication, and interactions with clients, colleagues, judicial officers, and the public. She also urged them to remain humble and receptive to guidance throughout their careers.
The Vice President of the Uganda Law Society, Mr. Anthony Asiimwe, challenged the advocates to view themselves as trustees of justice and active participants in shaping the future of the legal profession.
He encouraged them to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), adapt to the ongoing digital transformation within the justice sector, and align themselves with reforms being implemented by the Judiciary.
The ceremony marked the official entry of 115 new advocates into Uganda’s legal profession, with leaders emphasizing integrity, competence, and service as the cornerstones of successful legal practice.
