Relations between Bench, Bar cordial - Justice Sunil Rajapaksa

Sarath Malalasekera

The Bar is not only an independent and integral part of the civil and criminal justice system of this country, it remains the cradle and training ground for the future members of the Bench.

'The cooperation between the Bench and the Bar of our country has been traditional and most cordial. This is an important fact for the dispensation of justice, said Justice Sunil Rajapaksa at the ceremonial sitting held to welcome the new Court of Appeal Judge, Justice Sunil Rajapaksa.

Addressing the Court of Apeal Judges, District Court Judges, the Attorney General, president of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) and members of the Bar, Justice Sunil Rajapaksa said lawyers and judges are, but, mere tools of the law whose majesty and dignity must at all times be upheld, safeguarded and protected.

"My career has been long and fruitful and long years of dedicated service has been validated and reaffirmed by the distinguished gathering present to celebrate this milestone in my career," Justice Rajapaksa said.

Justice Rajapaksa requested the young attorneys who enter the profession to familiarize themselves with the rich traditions of their noble profession.

"I would like to stress that court attire is very important. It is not only the substantive and procedural laws for court craft you need to learn from your seniors, but, it is imperative that you cultivate proper decorum and demeanour, which are virtues that need to be learnt Professional courtesy to your judges, is a lesson to learn, taught, remembered and cherished. It is these aspects of your profession inculcated with the rich tradition of the Bar that sets us apart from other professions," he said.