Proper Funding Strengthens Judicial – Judge Elliott

By Comfort M. Johnson

MONROVIA June 17 (LINA) – The Judge of the Sixth Judicial Circuit, Civil Law Court, Golda A Elliott, has underscored the need for adequate funding of the Judiciary, saying that an effective and efficient judicial system requires proper funding and making sure that the logistical needs of the courts are met.

“Certainly, adequate funding of the justice system requires help to improve the quality of services and decisions made. We do our utmost to ensure that rights are adjudicated in a timely manner, we cannot overlook the immense workload Judges have undertaken with very minimum resources,” Judge Elliot emphasized.

Judge Elliott observed that currently, circuit judges work without the aid of a law clerk, and on their own, review case files and take notes, conduct legal research, review minutes and prepare their ruling.

Judge Elliot spoke Monday in Monrovia at the formal opening of the Sixth Judicial Circuit, Civil Law Court.

Judge Elliott also stated that despite the challenges, employees of the judiciary remain committed to their duties to serve the people and to dispense justice in the most efficient manner as well as to ensure that the quality of decisions made creates and drives a positive shift in the public’s perception of the judiciary.

“We want to continue to highlight that the integrity of our judicial system and its efficiency depend not only on the court but lawyers as well,” she stressed.

Judge Elliott also pointed to the role of lawyers in this regard, noting that the most essential duty of a lawyer is to improve legal assistance to clients so they can obtain their rights in the legal process.

“In fulfilling this obligation, lawyers must conduct research and analysis of legal issues, lawyers have a duty to provide a fair and accurate understanding of the facts and law application to their case,” she noted.

According to her, in all submissions filed before the court, lawyers must exhibit a clear understanding of the client’s case and the laws appertaining thereto.”

Judge Elliot urged members of the judiciary to reflect on the principles of fairness, equality, and the pursuit of the truth, as required under oath by judges and lawyers.