Newly graduated lawyers from the Law Development Centre (LDC) have been urged to reject corruption and dishonest practices if they are to build successful and respected legal careers.
Speaking to the young lawyers during a meeting at Bulange, Buganda Kingdom Minister for Lands and Properties Daudi Mpanga, who is also a lawyer, said the primary responsibility of an advocate is to help people resolve legal challenges and ensure access to justice.
"The greatest responsibility of a lawyer is to help people solve their problems. When you do that faithfully, your clients will be satisfied and you will take pride in your profession," Mpanga said.
He expressed concern that some lawyers misuse their positions to exploit clients and unlawfully deprive them of property, saying such conduct has damaged the reputation of the legal profession and weakened public trust.
"Many lawyers have tarnished the image of our profession by exploiting the very people they are supposed to serve. Do not become accomplices in stealing from your employers or clients. That is not what you trained for, and such conduct could cost you your career," he cautioned.
Mpanga said the legal profession offers opportunities for those who practise with honesty, professionalism and respect for the law.
He encouraged the young advocates to remain trustworthy, build strong relationships with clients, continue learning, embrace technology and adapt to changes within the legal sector.
"Competition in the legal profession is inevitable, but continuous learning, integrity and embracing technology will set you apart," he said.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Nelson Kakumba, a lawyer serving on the Ssekiboobo County Council in Kyaggwe, thanked Mpanga for his guidance.
"The advice we have received today will give us the confidence and determination to begin our legal careers with integrity and a commitment to serving the public," Kakumba said.
