Unregistered lawyers a concern

BY DOROTHY MARK
THE issue of unregistered lawyers representing clients in court is a big concern in the law fraternity in Madang.
Chairman of the Madang Law Fraternity Thomas Ilaisa said registered lawyers had raised concern in a petition to resident judge Justice David Cannings.
Ilaisa said there were certain individuals who had some knowledge of law were representing clients in court.
“We want the public to come out and testify if these individuals claiming to be lawyers are getting money from clients,” he said.
Ilaisa said there were many registered private law firms in Madang which clients could trust.
He said private law firms paid fees to the Government as registered firms.
Ilaisa said it was not fair when certain individuals without formal registration as lawyers appeared before the courts on behalf of clients.
“Lawyers have met and have discussed this issue and have put together a petition,” he said.
Meanwhile, court user Chris Tomongo has congratulated Madang National Court for putting up court registry on screens outside for clients to see if their cases were on.
Tomongo said this kind of facility should be installed in all court rooms around the country.
He praised Madang National Court for the upkeep of its grounds and facilities.
Tomongo commended Judge Cannings and assistant court registrar Anzac Korua for being the driving force behind recent developments.