This was just as the body called for stricter enforcement of ethical codes of conduct and disciplinary measures for lawyers who engage in frivolous litigation, delay tactics, and other unethical practices that undermine the integrity of the legal system.
However,this was contained in a communique signed by Boma Alabi SAN, chairman section on legal practice ,after a four day of NBA association section of legal practice ( NBA- SLP) annual conference 2024 theme: Administration of Justice in Nigeria: Challenges & ReformVenue: AMMANI Event Centre, Kano, Nigeria
She disclosed that the conference acknowledged the tension between the need for legal certainty and the imperative to adapt to evolving societal values and legal challenges.
She however added that there was a consensus on the importance of striking a balance between upholding established legal principles and allowing for flexibility in the interpretation and application of the law
Under the theme “Administration of in Nigeria: Challenges & Reform,” the conference aimed to critically assess the current state of the justice system, identify its most pressing challenges, and propose innovative solutions to foster a more efficient, equitable, and accessible legal framework for all Nigerians
Alabi then said that the participants
explored the vast potential of technology to streamline court processes and enhance efficiency.
This includes the adoption of electronic filing systems, online case management platforms, virtual hearings, and other innovative tools.
According to her,” By embracing digital solutions, the judiciary can reduce costs, improve case management, and make justice more accessible to citizens, particularly those in remote areas.Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Alabi added that ,”The conference recognized the increasing importance of ADR mechanisms, such as arbitration and mediation, as viable alternatives to traditional litigation.
According to her” ADR can offer faster, more cost-effective, and less adversarial solutions to disputes, thus alleviating the burden on the courts and promoting amicable resolutions
Encourage the use of ADR in appropriate cases to reduce the burden on the courts and promote amicable dispute resolution.Strengthen ethical standards in the legal profession:Implement stricter disciplinary measures for unethical conduct by lawyers.
Alabi however stated that establish a Judicial Public Complaints Committee to investigate allegations of judicial misconduct.
She further hinted it would
promote a culture of ethics and professionalism within the legal community.Advocate for measures to expedite case resolution:Set clear time frames for different types of cases.Impose sanctions on lawyers who engage in frivolous adjournments
.Expand the use of technology to manage caseloads more efficiently.Address the root causes of delay, such as inadequate funding and resources for the judiciary.
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