In the legal tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago, a new thread of distinction has been woven with the announcement that attorney Ravi Nanga will be conferred the esteemed title of Senior Counsel, colloquially known as wearing the “silk.” Embracing this honor with humility, Nanga reflects on his career trajectory that has been shaped and inspired by legal luminaries, praising the influence of senior colleagues like Douglas Mendes, SC, and prominent justices such as Gregory Smith. He recalls significant moments in his career, such as a pivotal case where he protected an elderly woman from eviction, underlining the potent and tangible impact that law can wield in people’s lives.
However, Nanga’s response to this accolade is far from self-congratulatory; it serves as a springboard to discuss deeper issues within the legal system. The spotlight of his conferment illuminates his concerns about the accessibility of legal services. Nanga, astutely recognizing the financial barriers that obstruct many from seeking justice, suggests that a refreshed perspective on legal aid is required. The current system, with its narrow eligibility tailored only for the destitute, demands a substantial overhaul to extend its reach.
Enhancing Accessibility to Legal Services
Legal Aid: Bridging the Gap
Ravi Nanga’s proposed revisions to the legal aid system are a call to develop a more inclusive criterion that could potentially open the doors of the judiciary to a broader cross-section of society. By advocating for accessibility, Nanga underlines the fact that the ability to seek justice should not be a privilege contingent on economic status. Indeed, a review of the legal aid structure in Trinidad and Tobago is echoed by many in the field who wish to see a more equitable distribution of legal assistance.
Contingency Fees: An Alternative Path
Another solution tabled by Nanga is the introduction of contingency fees, a relatively novel concept in Trinidad and Tobago. This method would enable attorneys to accept cases with the understanding that their fees will be paid only if they win, relieving the client of the burden of upfront costs. Undoubtedly, this approach could revolutionize the way individuals engage with legal services, fostering a new era of representation that prioritizes justice over financial viability.
Upholding Professional Standards
The Mission to Mentor
Aware of the critical role that ethics play in the legal profession, Ravi Nanga aims to take an active role in mentoring future lawyers. His aspiration is to help foster a new generation that upholds the high standards of the profession. The impetus behind this drive stems from his observations of a worrying trend—a decline in ethical practices, highlighted by incidents wherein attorneys have faced criminal charges or been summoned before disciplinary committees.
Ensuring the Future of Justice
Attorney Ravi Nanga, from Trinidad and Tobago, has recently been honored with the title of Senior Counsel. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his professional achievements and his commitment to justice. In addition to celebrating his own career milestones, Nanga uses this platform to address critical issues within the legal system, especially the need for greater access to legal services. He advocates for an expansion of the legal aid system and the introduction of contingency fees as ways to reduce the financial barriers to legal representation. His vision extends beyond personal accolades, aiming to shape a more inclusive and ethical legal landscape.
