The General Legal Council of Sierra Leone has issued a stern warning to legal practitioners across the country, raising concerns over what it describes as a growing trend of unprofessional conduct, particularly among younger lawyers on social media platforms.
In an official notice dated March 30, 2026, the Council expressed dissatisfaction with reports of discourteous and unruly exchanges involving members of the legal profession. According to the regulatory body, such behaviour not only undermines the integrity of the profession but also erodes the long-standing values of respect, discipline, and decorum that define legal practice.
The Council emphasised that the legal profession is built on principles of nobility, mutual respect, and ethical responsibility, both within and outside the courtroom. It reminded practitioners that these standards extend to their conduct in public spaces, including digital platforms where interactions are increasingly visible and influential.
Citing provisions of the Legal Practitioners (Code of Conduct) Rules, 2010, the Council reiterated that lawyers are required to act courteously and respectfully towards all individuals they engage with in a professional capacity. This includes judges, colleagues, court officials, clients, litigants, and members of the public. The Council stressed that these obligations are not optional but form a core part of professional responsibility.
It further warned that any breach of these rules would be treated as unprofessional and dishonourable conduct. Such violations, if established by the appropriate disciplinary body, could attract sanctions under the Legal Practitioners Act, 2000, including penalties that may affect a lawyer’s standing within the profession.
In what appears to be a significant escalation in enforcement measures, the Council announced that it would withhold the issuance of Certificates of Good Standing and Compliance from any legal practitioner found to have engaged in conduct deemed inconsistent with the values of the profession. This move could have serious implications for affected lawyers, particularly in areas requiring professional certification and credibility.
The Council also reiterated its statutory powers to deny admission into the legal profession or refuse the issuance or renewal of practising certificates where there is sufficient cause. It noted that meeting academic and procedural requirements alone does not guarantee admission or continued practice, especially where questions of character and professional conduct arise.
Addressing the distinction between criticism and misconduct, the Council acknowledged that constructive engagement and professional discourse are essential in a dynamic legal environment. However, it warned that such engagement must remain respectful and measured, cautioning lawyers against confusing criticism with disrespect or hostility.
The notice concluded with a call for renewed commitment to professionalism, urging all legal practitioners, particularly younger members of the bar, to uphold the highest standards of behaviour at all times. It emphasised that maintaining decorum is not only essential for individual reputation but also critical to preserving public confidence in the legal system.
The directive signals a broader effort by the Council to reinforce discipline within the profession and adapt regulatory oversight to the realities of modern communication, where actions on social media can have far-reaching consequences for both individuals and institutions.