The Acting Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has called on members of the legal profession to embrace digital innovation to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Addressing participants at the ongoing Greater Accra Regional Bar Week Conference through a speech delivered by Justice Yaa Onyameye Gyakobo of the Court of Appeal, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie stressed that the legal profession must evolve in response to globalization, technological advancement, and shifting client expectations.
“The legal profession, like many others, is undergoing profound transformation,” he stated. “Globalization, digital innovation, and evolving client needs are redefining the very fabric of justice delivery. Lawyers must adapt to these changes or risk becoming obsolete.”
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie highlighted ongoing efforts by the Judicial Service to modernize justice delivery. These include the digitization of court processes, the implementation of electronic filing systems, case tracking tools, and the integration of virtual hearings.
“These initiatives are aimed at improving administrative efficiency, reducing delays, and enhancing access to justice,” he explained. “But technology is only as effective as those who use it. We need the full support and engagement of the legal community.”
He urged lawyers to build practices that are not only sustainable and client-centered but also ethically grounded and responsive to emerging legal challenges. He noted that future-ready lawyers must be proficient in digital tools, understand the socio-legal context of their work, and address complex issues such as artificial intelligence, data protection, cybercrime, and climate law.
Justice Baffoe-Bonnie also emphasized the importance of mentoring young lawyers to equip them with both the technical skills and the ethical foundations necessary to thrive in a fast-paced legal environment.
“As lawyers, we serve not only our clients but society at large. Our duty is to uphold public trust, champion justice, and promote the public good,” he said.
He commended the Greater Accra Bar Association for incorporating community outreach into the Bar Week celebration and encouraged continued civic engagement as a core aspect of the legal profession’s identity.
“The future of the legal profession in Ghana will not be determined by chance,” Justice Baffoe-Bonnie concluded. “It will be shaped by the choices we make today whether we embrace innovation, uphold ethics, and serve our communities.”
Source: www.kumasimail.com
