The Chief Registrar, HW Agnes Alum, has challenged newly enrolled advocates to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and ethical conduct, saying the legal profession needs principled lawyers to restore public trust.
She made the call today while presiding over the enrolment of 90 advocates of the Courts of Judicature at the Supreme Court Conference Hall in Kampala.
HW Alum noted that public distrust and negative perceptions of the legal profession, partly arising from declining integrity and inadequate professional guidance, can only be addressed by lawyers committed to ethical practice. She encouraged the new advocates to seek experienced mentors, continuously engage in training opportunities and uphold ethics, honesty, diligence, competence, transparency, compassion and sobriety as the true benchmarks of professional success.
At the core of her address, the Chief Registrar outlined the three fundamental responsibilities of every advocate: duties to the court, the client and the community. She emphasised that the paramount duty is to the court, urging the advocates to prepare thoroughly and support the administration of impartial justice in accordance with Article 126(2) of the Constitution, which requires justice to be administered to all without undue regard to technicalities.
While advocates have a duty to represent their clients diligently, HW Alum cautioned them against compromising justice in pursuit of a favourable outcome. She urged them to uphold truth and integrity, including declining representation where a client’s interests conflict with their duty to the court.
She further encouraged the new advocates to use the legal profession as a tool for social good by undertaking pro bono work, supporting people who cannot afford legal representation and participating in community outreach initiatives.
The Law Council representative, Ms. Biira Patience, urged the new advocates to uphold integrity, humility and professional ethics, noting that enrolment marks the beginning of a lifelong professional commitment.
She highlighted key compliance requirements, including completing 20 hours of Continuous Legal Education annually to maintain a Practising Certificate, working under approved chambers, maintaining proper courtroom attire, avoiding conflicts of interest and safeguarding client funds.
The Uganda Law Society Treasurer, Mr. Arthur Isiko, similarly called on the new advocates to uphold professional integrity and ethical standards, noting that their conduct will play an important role in restoring public confidence in the legal profession.
The leaders urged the advocates to balance their professional responsibilities with their duty to society, particularly through pro bono services and community outreach.
The ceremony was attended by HW Kosia Kasibayo, Deputy Registrar attached to the Chambers of the Chief Registrar, and moderated by HW Fidelis Otwao, Personal Assistant to the Chief Registrar.
Posted 8th, October 2026
