BASL warns against threats of legal action against attorneys
– The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has raised concern over recent instances in which individuals have threatened legal action or complaints against Attorneys-at-Law in connection with professional work carried out on behalf of their clients.In a statement, the BASL emphasized the independent role of Attorneys-at-Law, stressing that their professional duty is to represent the rights and interests of clients within the framework of the law. The BASL reaffirmed the long-standing principle and convention that legal practitioners must be allowed to discharge their duties fearlessly in the best interests of their clients.While acknowledging that Sri Lanka’s legal system already provides mechanisms for reviewing and supervising the professional conduct of attorneys, the BASL drew attention to the Supreme Court judgment in Supreme Contempt Application No. 3/2016, delivered on July 15, 2021. In that case, the court convicted and sentenced an individual under contempt provisions for making false representations regarding an Attorney-at-Law, noting that such actions directly undermined the administration of justice.
Highlighting the need for all stakeholders to act with restraint, responsibility and accountability in matters affecting the justice system, the BASL stressed that any attempt to intimidate or unduly target attorneys would not be tolerated.The BASL’s statement was issued by its President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura Galhena.
