Vincent Assafuah explains GLC disciplinary procedure in petition against former AG, Godfred Dame

Lawyer and MP for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, discussed the General Legal Council's (GLC) disciplinary process. This follows a petition against former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame.

The petition claims Mr. Dame engaged in professional misconduct. It asks the GLC to consider sanctions under Section 16 of the Legal Profession Act. Possible sanctions include reprimand, suspension, or removal from the roll of lawyers.

In an interview on Joy FM’s Top Story on May 22, Mr. Assafuah explained the steps outlined in the Legal Profession (Disciplinary Committee) Rules, 2020.

Initial Steps Upon Receiving Petition

“First, when a petition is lodged against a lawyer, it goes to the GLC,” Mr. Assafuah said. “The Council forms a Disciplinary Committee with qualified individuals.”

Next, they assess if there is enough evidence for further inquiry into the allegations. This helps decide whether to conduct a full investigation.

Once formed, the committee forwards the petition to Mr. Dame. He must respond in writing within two weeks. His response is then sent back to the complainant for possible rebuttal.

“After these exchanges, the committee decides whether to start a formal inquiry,” Mr. Assafuah stated.

Possible Outcomes and Right of Appeal

If allegations are upheld, penalties may include suspension or removal from practice entirely. The affected lawyer can appeal this decision to the Court of Appeal within 21 days.

Mr. Assafuah noted that if new information arises, the GLC can reinstate a lawyer previously removed from practice.

This entire process follows regulations set by the Legal Profession (Disciplinary Committee) Rules and the Legal Profession Act of 1960. These rules ensure due process and maintain professional standards in Ghana’s legal community.