{"id":316065,"date":"2024-01-30T08:00:44","date_gmt":"2024-01-30T12:00:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dominicanewsonline.com\/news\/?p=316065"},"modified":"2024-01-30T03:34:58","modified_gmt":"2024-01-30T07:34:58","slug":"dominicas-newest-attorneys-to-champion-child-and-domestic-abuse-reform-and-intellectual-property-laws-respectively","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dominicanewsonline.com\/news\/homepage\/homepage-carousel\/dominicas-newest-attorneys-to-champion-child-and-domestic-abuse-reform-and-intellectual-property-laws-respectively\/","title":{"rendered":"Dominica’s newest attorneys to champion child and domestic abuse reform and intellectual property laws respectively"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Janae Jackson and Devi St Luce<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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
\ncontributions to preserving heritage and culture in Dominica.<\/p>\n

Magistrate Augustus averred that Jackson\u2019s 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Ian Jackson, father of Janae Jackson, expressed immense pride in the family’s joyous moment, emphasizing his daughter\u2019s 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
\ndilemmas, he expressed certainty that Janae’s moral compass will serve as a beacon of righteousness, alleviating concerns about ethical discourse in her endeavours.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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,
\nand 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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\u201cI also want to assist in changing the laws of Dominica,\u201d she disclosed. \u201cWhat 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.\u201d<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\u201cAll I can say is wow, to be honest,\u201d she stated. The tangible manifestation of her aspirations was now before her eyes, and the experience was nothing short of truly wonderful. \u201cIt’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.\u201d<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will never forsake who I am, and what people have known me for, you know,\u201d she vowed. \u201cSo, it is it is my intention to marry both of my passions into one.\u201d<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n