In a move aimed at upholding the integrity of the legal profession and protecting the public interest, the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) has officially released its list of 378 lawyers in good standing for the year 2025.
According to a press release issued on Thursday, August 7, these legal practitioners have fulfilled all requirements outlined under Rule 5 of the Rules of Court, making them duly authorized to practice law in Liberia.
The LNBA is urging the public to exercise due diligence by verifying the legal status of any attorney they intend to hire, cautioning that engaging an unlicensed lawyer could significantly jeopardize legal proceedings.
“Only lawyers who are licensed and in good standing with the LNBA have met the necessary qualifications to provide competent and lawful representation,” the statement read.
The full list is available at the LNBA office on Ashmun Street, opposite the Centennial Pavilion, and can also be accessed via the association’s website at www.lnba.org.lr. For verification, the public may also contact the LNBA via its official phone lines.
Meanwhile, in solidarity with the ‘Black Thursday’ protest, which saw thousands of Liberians, especially youth and women, march peacefully through the streets of Monrovia, the LNBA commended citizens for taking a stand against the alarming rise in drug use and trafficking across the country.
Describing the protest as a “clear cry for help and a strong call for national accountability,” the Bar Association acknowledged the growing devastation caused by illicit drugs, noting their role in fueling crime, deepening poverty, weakening national security, and eroding the moral fabric of Liberian society.
“As the legal conscience of the nation, we call on the Government of Liberia, particularly the National Legislature, the Judiciary, and law enforcement institutions, to treat this crisis as a national emergency and act with resolve, urgency, and sincerity,” the statement declared.
Six Bold Recommendations to Combat Drug Proliferation
To effectively address the drug epidemic, the LNBA outlined a six-point national strategy:
Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act of 2014
Strengthen legal provisions with tougher penalties for large-scale traffickers and a rehabilitative focus for users.
Establish Specialized Drug Courts
Fast-track adjudication of drug-related offenses and promote treatment-based approaches where appropriate.
Strengthen the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA)
Enhance its operational capacity, funding, and ensure independent oversight, while eliminating internal corruption.
Launch a Nationwide Public Legal Education Campaign
Use schools, churches, media, and grassroots platforms to raise awareness of the legal, social, and health consequences of drug abuse. Invest in Rehabilitation and Reintegration Programs.
Allocate government resources toward the establishment and proper management of drug treatment facilities and recovery initiatives.
Establish a National Drug Accountability and Oversight Commission
Create a multi-sectoral, independent body to coordinate national efforts, monitor implementation, and report regularly to the public.
LNBA Reaffirms Commitment to Reform and Justice
Alongside its recommendations, the LNBA has committed to: establishing a Drug Law Reform Committee to review outdated legal frameworks;
collaborating with civil society and international partners to advocate for legislative and policy reform and providing pro bono legal aid to vulnerable individuals wrongfully accused or in need of legal support in drug-related matters.
“This is not a fight for the Government alone, it is a national fight,” the Association emphasized.
“The LNBA stands ready to work with all stakeholders in protecting the future of Liberia from the scourge of drugs.”
