Lawyers and Judicial Officials in Anguilla have been admonished to pay special attention to truth in the practice of their professions and in upholding the principles of law.

The admonition came from Assistant Anglican Priest in St. Mary’s Parish, Rev. Menes Hodge. He was at the time delivering the sermon at the church service on Tuesday, September 20, marking the opening of Law Year 2011-2012

“I want to think that in our courts here in Anguilla, the establishment of truth in all cases is a matter of paramount importance for the proper disposal of such matter, be it in the High Court or in the Magistrate’s Court,” he told the members of the legal profession. “As officers of the court, you are sworn to observe and uphold the laws of the land which you practice. The laws of the land require that truth be told and it is on that basis that a matter ought to be adjudicated.”

Referring to Micah 6 verse 8, Rev. Hodge read: “He has told you, o mortal what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness/mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” He said while that was required of all people, it was more expected from the lawyers and judicial officials in whose hands the laws of the land were committed.

“Whether you realise it, or not, that places a tremendous responsibility on your shoulders because not only are you accountable for the civil law, but the divine law as well,” the Priest stressed. “You must always be mindful of the importance of establishing that justice be done in any matter that comes before you. It is either right or wrong, and evidence is either true or false.”

During the service, the first lesson, taken from Acts 5 21-24, was read by High Court Judge in Anguilla, Justice Louise Brenman, and the second lesson, from Acts 5 1-11, was read by Attorney General, James Wood.

In addition to the members of the legal fraternity, the service was attended by Governor Alistair Harrison, Chief Minister, Hubert Hughes, and Ministers and Advisers in the Anguilla Government.

Following the church service, the lawyers and other judicial officials travelled to the High Court for the official opening of the Legal Year. This was preceded by an inspection of a Police Guard of Honour by Justice Brenman accompanied by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Elliott Forbes. The Police contingent was under the command of Inspector Emris