E-Signatures for Attorney Enrolment
Historic First as Newly Enrolled Attorneys Use Digital Signatures for Oath-Taking
By Adheesha Kulatunga
The oath-taking ceremony of newly enrolled Attorneys-at-Law commenced on Friday, 21 November and will continue until 27 November, marking an important occasion within the calendar of the Sri Lankan legal system.
This year’s ceremony assumes particular significance as it recorded, for the first time, the administration of oaths and execution of declarations of newly enrolled Attorneys-at-Law through the digital signature system. This reflected a progressive step towards the digitalization of Court processes and increased efficiency of the Court system.
Another noteworthy aspect was the reinstatement of the traditional practice of administering oaths on an individual basis. This practice, which had been suspended in recent years due to exceptional circumstances including the Covid-19 pandemic, had previously been replaced by group oath-taking ceremonies for candidates. The return to individual enrolment restored the formal solemnity and personal distinction historically associated with the admission of Attorneys-at-Law.
Addressing the newly enrolled Attorneys, the Hon. Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena, on behalf of the Judiciary, formally welcomed them to the legal fraternity and underscored the responsibilities attendant upon their new status. His Lordship observed that professional success should not be assessed by financial gain, but rather by “the wealth of the knowledge you would acquire over time and the quality of the service you render to your clients.”
His Lordship further reminded the new Attorneys that, upon enrolment, they become officers of Court whose submissions are relied upon by the judiciary. His Lordship noted that enrolment is based not solely on academic achievement, but on good repute and competence which imposes a continuing statutory and ethical obligation to maintain these standards throughout their careers.
Attention was also drawn to the wider obligations of Attorneys towards the profession and society. His Lordship the Chief Justice reiterated the importance of maintaining dignity, respecting professional hierarchy and upholding the noble traditions of the Bar, noting that the conduct of individual members directly impacts the public perception and credibility of the legal profession as a whole.
Concluding the address, His Lordship expressed confidence that the newly enrolled Attorneys would uphold, protect, and strengthen the dignity and value of the profession, and contribute meaningfully to the preservation of the rule of law, ensuring the continued integrity of the legal system for future generations.
