Paralegals need necessary training to enhance legal system-Dame

The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, emphasized equipping paralegals with the necessary skills and legal recognition to strengthen the justice system. 

He noted that paralegals play crucial roles in traditional court settings and corporate environments, international organizations, and regulatory bodies, making capacity building essential.

Speaking at a conference, organized by the Centre for National Interest and Research-Ghana (CNIR-GH) in partnership with the Institution of Paralegals & Legal Executives and the Africa Centre for Collaborative Dispute Resolution (AfCCoDR), Mr. Dame highlighted that paralegals have important roles in corporate governance, human rights advocacy, and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). 

He added that they work closely with lawyers and institutions to ensure justice is served both inside and outside the courts. He stressed that paralegals are instrumental in bridging the gap between underprivileged communities and their inability to access legal services due to financial barriers.

CNIR-GH Executive Director Dzabaku Kudiabor Ocansey noted that the conference was a platform for legal professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate and improve access to justice. 

He pointed out that the event would help establish standards for paralegal practice, encourage innovation, and enhance the adoption of technology in the legal field, ultimately bolstering the role of paralegals in national development.

Ocansey further explained that paralegals are vital in addressing the challenges posed by the lawyer-to-population ratio, especially as many citizens in rural areas face difficulties accessing the formal justice system due to high costs, bias, and long delays.

He mentioned that while the Legal Aid Commission, supported by UNDP Ghana and civil society organizations, had advanced the Legal Aid Act 2018 through a Legislative Instrument (L.I.) in 2022, it was insufficient in regulating paralegals. He urged the government to convert the current draft L.I. into an Act to provide better regulation.

Isaac Asare, Founder and President of AfCCoDR, called on community leaders, such as chiefs and queen mothers, to join in raising awareness and include paralegal education in their capacity-building efforts.

 Similarly, Dr. Francisca Kusi-Appiah, Vice Dean of the UPSA Law School, noted that, aside from financial challenges, many citizens are unaware of available legal services and resources.