Jamaican defence attorneys withdraw services to protest Firearms Act

Defence attorneys in Jamaica have withdrawn services from criminal courts, including gun courts, to protest the controversial Firearms Act. Tamika Harris, President of the Advocates Association of Jamaica, stated that the withdrawal follows a silent protest held last Thursday. While some attorneys attended matters involving witnesses who traveled long distances, many stayed away to demand amendments to the legislation.

Attorneys are calling for changes to prevent the criminalization of children and music producers who possess imitation firearms. Additionally, Perline Bailey, president of the Northern Jamaica Law Society, emphasized the need to reinstate judicial discretion, allowing judges to evaluate cases on their own merit. Bailey noted that the current law is criminalizing individuals who pose no threat to society.

Protests are expected to continue, with the Northern Jamaica Law Society specifically targeting gun courts in upcoming actions. Meanwhile, some government members have suggested that the Firearms Act may not undergo revisions at this time.