By Joseph Mary Buwule
KAMPALA, Uganda – A total of 115 lawyers were formally enrolled as Advocates of the High Court, marking a significant milestone in their legal careers during a ceremony that emphasized 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 Thursday, was presided over by Her Worship Beatrice Stella Atingu, Registrar Special Duties, who represented the Chief Registrar, Her Worship 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.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief Registrar, HW Atingu congratulated the advocates on joining the legal profession, describing the occasion as a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and God’s grace.
She reminded them that while the legal profession commands prestige, influence, and respect, it also 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.
Referring to Article 126(2) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, HW Atingu emphasized that advocates have a duty to assist courts in administering justice fairly, efficiently, and without undue regard to technicalities.
She encouraged the newly enrolled lawyers to embrace continuous learning and thorough preparation, noting that diligence and commitment to professional growth are essential for success in legal practice.
The Registrar further cautioned advocates against allowing client interests to supersede the broader cause 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 powerful analogy, HW Atingu described an advocate as a “high priest in the temple of justice,” whose conduct should always be guided by truth, fairness, courage, and professional ethics.
She also urged the advocates to use their legal knowledge to contribute to societal transformation through pro bono services, community engagement, and efforts 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 newly admitted advocates and reminded them that while the Law Council is responsible for admitting legal practitioners, it is equally mandated to enforce discipline and uphold professional standards within the legal profession.
She warned against greed and unethical conduct, emphasizing that integrity remains a lawyer’s most valuable asset.
“Take only what is yours, and not more,” she advised.
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.
Meanwhile, the Vice President of the Uganda Law Society, Mr. Anthony Asiimwe, challenged the new advocates to view themselves as custodians of justice and active contributors to the future of the legal profession.
He encouraged them to embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), adapt to the growing digital transformation within the justice sector, and support ongoing reforms being implemented by the Judiciary.
The ceremony marked the official entry of 115 new advocates into Uganda’s legal profession, with judicial leaders expressing confidence that the new entrants will uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and service that are fundamental to the administration of justice.