The President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Efua Ghartey, has warned newly enrolled lawyers against recording their first court appearances or hiring videographers to capture their entry into the courtroom, stressing that such practices are prohibited and could attract disciplinary sanctions. She expressed concern over the growing trend of newly qualified lawyers filming their maiden appearances in court, urging them to desist from the practice.
“We’ve seen some people take videos of their fresh legal steps into court. Please, it is not allowed. So please don’t find a videographer to follow you as you enter the courtroom. It is not allowed,” she cautioned. Ms. Ghartey acknowledged that senior members of the legal profession had welcomed the excitement and enthusiasm displayed by the newly enrolled lawyers but noted that some had gone beyond acceptable professional boundaries.
“As seniors, we are enjoying what is going on, but some people have crossed the line, and we don’t want to start calling for disciplinary matters,” she stated.
The GBA President’s warning serves as a reminder of the professional conduct and decorum expected of members of the legal profession, particularly the need to uphold the sanctity of the courtroom and respect restrictions on unauthorised recording during court proceedings.
