A member of the Ghana Bar Association has encouraged Ghanaians to pursue justice through the courts without being deterred by the perceived cost of legal services, stressing that several state institutions exist to provide legal support at no charge.
Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Law Week celebration in Kumasi on Tuesday, June 24, State Attorney at the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice, Awo Ama Anokye Bempah, said the Legal Aid Commission remains available to offer legal representation to members of the public who cannot afford legal services.
According to her, the Commission is mandated to conduct cases on behalf of citizens free of charge, ensuring that access to justice is not limited by a person’s financial circumstances.
Mrs. Bempah further explained that public prosecutors also play a critical role in the justice delivery system by prosecuting criminal matters on behalf of the state, noting that both institutions serve as key pillars of public prosecution and public defence.
She added that lawyers are equally encouraged to undertake pro bono work, depending on the nature and circumstances of cases, to ensure that vulnerable persons are not denied legal representation.
Touching on the growing concern over juvenile-related offences, the State Attorney attributed the trend largely to neglect and inadequate parental guidance, stressing that children and young people remain the foundation of every society.
She said parents and guardians must take greater responsibility for the upbringing of their children, paying close attention to their daily activities, social interactions and exposure to digital content.
Mrs. Bempah warned that increasing screen time and limited parental supervision could contribute to behavioural challenges among young people, urging families to remain actively involved in the development of their wards.
While emphasising the importance of discipline in raising responsible children, she cautioned that disciplinary measures must not cross the line into abuse.
She also urged parents and guardians to support the Ghana Education Service’s directive prohibiting corporal punishment in schools, insisting that alternative methods of discipline should be encouraged.
The remarks formed part of activities marking Law Week 2026, which seeks to educate the public on the role of the courts and strengthen confidence in Ghana’s justice system.
The week-long programme, running from June 24 to June 30, will feature public education campaigns, legal aid and pro bono services, student outreach activities and professional development sessions for legal practitioners.
The celebration will climax with Martyrs’ Day, observed annually in memory of the three High Court judges — Justice Fred Poku Sarkodee, Justice Cecilia Koranteng-Addow and Justice Kwadwo Agyei Agyepong — who were murdered in 1982 while serving the nation.
