The legal profession in Dominica has welcomed the arrival of two new members, each poised to make indelible marks within their respective fields. Janae Jackson, with a focused ambition in intellectual property law, and Devi Celian Saffiyah St Luce, dedicated to tackling the pervasive issue of child and domestic abuse, have emerged as formidable additions to the esteemed profession.
During a special sitting on January 29, 2024, in the presence of colleagues, family members, mentors, and friends, Jackson of Canefield East and St Luce a Grand Bay native were officially admitted to practice as barristers and solicitors of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court in the Commonwealth of Dominica by High Court Judge, Justice Jacqueline Josiah-Graham. The solemnity of the occasion was tinged with an undeniable sense of excitement and anticipation as these two promising young attorneys took their oaths and stepped into their new roles as legal professionals.
The Court first heard the petition put forward by Attorney-at-Law Dawn Yearwood Stewart for 25-year-old Jackson to be admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court of Dominica.
Gloria Septra Augustus, in seconding the application, labelled Jackson as a well-rounded individual who effectively balances academic excellence with community engagement and social skills. She highlighted her exceptional achievements not only in the musical realm, particularly in calypso, but also in receiving prestigious awards for her
contributions to preserving heritage and culture in Dominica.
Magistrate Augustus averred that Jackson’s experiences working in various capacities, from a bank clerk to commanding the stage with confidence, have equipped her with invaluable skills to understand the needs of the people. She further expressed confidence in Jackson’s ability to excel in her practice, underscoring her potential to contribute significantly to the legal profession and the creative pool of the Dominica Bar Association.
Ian Jackson, father of Janae Jackson, expressed immense pride in the family’s joyous moment, emphasizing his daughter’s unwavering commitment to ethics from a young age. He confidently asserted that her strong ethical foundation would ensure she navigates the complexities of the legal world with integrity. In a world fraught with ethical
dilemmas, he expressed certainty that Janae’s moral compass will serve as a beacon of righteousness, alleviating concerns about ethical discourse in her endeavours.
The Court later heard the petition of Attorney-at-Law Kayan Toussaint who moved the admission of the bar for 27-year-old St Luce. In her application, Toussaint characterized St Luce as an ambitious and diligent young lady who possesses the traits of a patient, humble, and creative attorney with a robust sense of integrity.
Stressing St Luce’s dedication to academics, the attorney highlighted her numerous distinctions and awards throughout her educational journey which included the Chevening Scholarship 2022/2023 to pursue a Master’s degree (LLM) in Drafting Legislation, Regulation and Policy at the School of Advanced Studies, University of London, affirming her commitment to excellence. Furthermore, Toussaint noted St Luce’s passion for assisting other young individuals, demonstrating a selfless commitment to the betterment of her peers.
From her perspective, St Luce’s behaviour and actions exemplify a person whose presence would greatly benefit Dominica as she holds a wealth of experience, love for her country, and passion for the law. Toussaint concluded by asserting that, in their view, St Luce is not only legally fit and proper but also possesses commendable character, making her an ideal candidate for the responsibilities at hand.
State attorney Daina Matthew who seconded the application, highlighted St Luce’s diverse professional experiences, including roles as a sales representative, secretary, teacher, drafter at the UN Habitat, Judicial Research Assistant, supervising tutor at the LSE education tuition in London, intern at the Dominica High Commission in London,
and current CEO and owner of her own sole trade in printed business. According to her, this underscored the impressive breadth of St Luce’s accomplishments which she attributed to her meticulous attention to detail, drive, impact-oriented mindset, and compassionate nature.
Matthew expressed confidence that St Luce will effectively apply the lessons learned from her diverse experiences, shaping her into an exceptional advocate dedicated to making a positive difference in the legal profession.
Following the sitting, St Luce who spoke to the media expressed profound elation, articulating her immense excitement at commemorating her journey surrounded by her family and those who supported her throughout her endeavours. The 27-year-old conveyed a sense of gratitude, acknowledging the individuals who stood by her since the outset of her endeavours. Regarding her contribution to the legal profession, she articulated her aspirations with eloquence and determination as she outlined her intention to extend her impact beyond the confines of the courtroom.
“I also want to assist in changing the laws of Dominica,” she disclosed. “What I really want to focus on is child protection laws and domestic violence. That is what I studied and I really hope to give back inside and outside of the courtroom.”
Jackson who also spoke to the media succeeding her admission to the bar reflected on her six-year journey and expressed a profound sense of accomplishment.
“All I can say is wow, to be honest,” she stated. The tangible manifestation of her aspirations was now before her eyes, and the experience was nothing short of truly wonderful. “It’s just a wonderful feeling to see everything just come together and to be able to celebrate in a moment in which [you] realize that your dreams have come true.”
Transitioning from her well-known presence in the music industry, Jackson revealed her intentions as a new Attorney-at-Law. Undeterred, she affirmed her commitment to staying true to herself and integrating her musical identity into her legal career. With a clear intention to specialize in intellectual property, particularly in copyrights and trademarks, Jackson expressed her desire to bring more of herself into the legal fraternity. She emphasized the importance of marrying both passions, ensuring that her unique identity and experiences enrich the legal landscape she now enters.
“I will never forsake who I am, and what people have known me for, you know,” she vowed. “So, it is it is my intention to marry both of my passions into one.”
Justice Josiah-Graham welcomed the new members to the legal profession, emphasizing their commitment to uphold the law and deliver justice impartially. She stressed the importance of ethical conduct and dedication in practicing law urging both attorneys to adhere to professional standards and act with integrity, acknowledging their achievements and the support of their communities and colleagues.
Congratulation to you both. This is a great accomplishment ladies. I am truly proud of you. I would like to share my experiences with you dealing with some Dominican lawyers.
My experiences with Dominican attorney’s shas been one of miserere, sadness and bitter bitter, tears. I have to beg them to do their own job and if you live outside of Dominica its worst. They do not double charge you, but triple charged you.
They belong to a Farneti cult. they get together get to together decided the case with hold evidence sadly and spite you if you ask to many questions, they will not give and itemize bills and me charged me in US dollars. That has been my experiences with Dominican’s lawyers they lack ethic and integrity and is so greedy.
My advice to you both, do your job and always remember at the end of your day if you made a difference. God will hold you accountable for your actions one day.
Congratulations we love you guys. May the lord continue to bless you guys with more wisdom,knowledge and understanding to undertake the journey ahead.
They all say the same thing during their call to The Bar. Women’s rights, child rights, focus on just for the elderly. Them Brappp….they collect the fees for processing and filing ONE certificate of title for a client…….and you here NOTHING of their ’cause’ again. Don’t take my word for it. Scroll back 10 years and see how many lawyers called during that period have spoken out about ANY of the themes they so heartedly say they will advocate for? NONE. Not ONE. The ONLY Lawyers in this country that really care and give back are those who work at the Legal Aid Clinic.
Hello and good evening my people. I want to congratulate both ladies on their accomplishments but I do have a concern. There isn’t money or work in Dominica for both of you, therefore. My advice to both of you is to find a husband that could help you get out of Dominica. Davi you are from Grand Bay just like my father which makes me even more proud of you but you must find a way out of Dominica. I know many of my people won’t agree with me but it’s just reality. No Jobs, Poor Health Care, Political Stagnation, Corruption.
Let wait and see how long it takes for them to give in to the serenades of the Gangster from Morne Daniel. Not long I fancy!
Such a disgusting comment!! I bet you would never publicly associate your name and face with such a vile statement.
Did I tell a lie? Furthermore, why don’t you mind your own business. I eat little people like you and your comrades for breakfast. You are a Clown for true.
HELLO!!!!! Mr. is NOT from Morne Daniel. Legit people who grew up and were raised and have owned property there for the last 20 years and more, DO NOT MAKE CLAIM to this man nor is he really wanted in the area. Since his arrival he has made a mess out of the immediate area of his dwelling. That includes the main road and two side roads. the one leading to his house were given 2 unnecessary speed bump and the one leading to the house of Mr. Brown has been a dirt road for the last 2 years now. Roosevelt Skerrit is from Vielle Case. Never from Roseau let alone Morne Daniel. We do not claim this man. If he was from the Roseau area, much less for Morne Daniel, he wouldnt be so greedy.