Journalist Becomes Lawyer

Mr. Culmer, who has been employed at Jones Communications as a reporter, was called to the Bahamas Bar Association.

He was among ten persons who took the oath before Chief Justice Michael Barnett at the Supreme Court this past Friday.

Among those called to the Bar were Chernenka Rolle, Annie Laurie Munroe, Dania Holder, Ambrosine Huyler, Roberto Reckley, Candice McPhee, Kevin Farrington, Olivia Blatch and Lexton Symonette.

Presenting Mr. Culmer’s petition was Attorney Obie Ferguson. He said Mr. Culmer’s experience as a journalist would aid him as an attorney.

"Darrin has demonstrated a keen ability to deal with complex issues to look at national issues and make some sense out of it. With the legal training that he has and the experience that he has now acquired certainly as an associate of Obie Ferguson and Co., it seems obvious to me that he would be a tremendous advocate for the little man and for the Constitution of The Bahamas and the rights of working people," he said.

"I see him as being a great asset to the legal profession."

Mr. Culmer said he felt "humbled" after taking a solemn oath.

"I feel a sense of pride entering a profession that is not only well-recognized but also very important in the community," he said. "Lawyers are responsible for protecting life, liberty and property. I look forward to practicing that craft."

Even though Mr. Culmer has signed off from the air, he said he has completely written off journalism.

"I hope to keep my feet in the field of journalism," he said. "Journalism and law are very related because they both deal with words. They also serve very important roles. As journalists, we are responsible for getting information out to the public by reporting accurate, timely information. I look forward in continuing to serve both through law and eventually again through journalism."

In his charge to the new attorneys, Chief Justice Michael Barnett said the admission to the Bahamas Bar is a very public ceremony because of the role that attorneys are expected to play.

"You are required to help and play an integral role in the administration of justice and to help preserve peace, order and due government. You have been given an awesome challenge. You are expected to preserve the life, liberty and property of every person in The Bahamas. The oath that you have taken in this court is the oath that many have taken over the many years. Remember it, live by it," he said.

In welcoming the new attorneys, President of the Bahamas Bar Ruth Bowe-Darville said,

"You have been called to The Bahamas Bar particularly at a time when lawyers face public criticism. It falls on you to set the record straight and to maintain respect and dignity in this ancient profession. I am especially proud to welcome you."

There are currently 1,038 attorneys in The Bahamas.