Newly minted Jamaican Bar Association (JAMBAR) President Tenneshia Watkins says under her leadership the organisation will focus on several key areas with priority being given to enhancing access to justice for all Jamaicans and ensuring that legal services are not a luxury but a right.

Watkins, who was elected at the 45th annual general meeting of the association on Saturday, in her acceptance address said the body will also continue to invest in legal education, equipping its members with the knowledge and skills needed not just to navigate, but to shape an ever-evolving legal landscape.

“Let us build a Bar that is not only respected for its legal acumen but also admired for its compassion and its unwavering dedication to the rule of law. Let us cultivate a community where every voice is heard, every contribution is valued, and every member feels empowered to make a meaningful impact,” Watkins stated.

In calling the membership to action, Watkins said, “The work ahead requires dedication, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose. I invite each of you to join me on this journey. Your ideas, your energy, and your commitment are invaluable. Together, we will elevate our profession, strengthen our legal system, and serve our society with distinction. Your role in this journey is not just important, it is essential.”

JAMBAR, which was incorporated in 1973, is a voluntary organisation for attorneys-at-law in Jamaica and is administered through a council comprising 20 elected representatives including the executive members, namely the president, vice-president, secretary, assistant secretary, treasurer, and assistant treasurer. The council meets each month, and there is also a monthly meeting of the executive members.

There are subcommittees including those that handle the continuing legal education; social affairs and outreach; commercial, conveyancing, criminal practice and procedures; and civil practice and procedure and family law. These sub-committees assist JAMBAR in achieving its goals and objectives.

Membership is open to all individuals who are licensed to practise as attorneys-at-law in Jamaica and who are of sound character. The applicants must be at least 21 years old, citizens of the Commonwealth, have no criminal convictions, have satisfied the General Legal Council that they are of sound character, possess the bachelor’s degree in law from a recognised tertiary institution, and possess the legal education certificate from the Council of Legal Education through one of the three law schools in the Commonwealth Caribbean.