Lautoka Lawyer Aman Ravindra Singh

Lautoka Lawyer Aman Ravindra Singh’s legal practising certificate has been suspended by the Independent Legal Services Commission.

This after he was convicted of one count of professional misconduct.

The Commission heard that Singh failed to respond to a complaint lodged by a Shailesh Kumar in October 2017 as required by the Chief Registrar on two occasions.

According to the Commission, Singh was aware of the allegations against him and he failed to respond to it within the stipulated time.

Singh had pleaded not guilty claiming that during the time of the incident he did not hold a valid practising certificate and neither he or his staff could undertake any legal work.

In his Judgement, Commissioner Daniel Goundar said during the hearing Singh did not take any responsibility for his conduct, instead, he tried to justify his action saying he had reasonable excuses.

Goundar added the Commission did not find any of his explanation reasonable, as he had a valid practising certificate during the time of the incident.

The Commission also highlighted that when Singh was found guilty in November last year, the Chief Registrar was still waiting for a response from Singh, however, he failed to do so.

The Commissioner added that this sanction serves as a warning to all legal practitioners should they fail to maintain the highest standards of integrity and reputation, they will be dealt with accordingly.

Singh’s practising certificate is suspended until he provides a sufficient and satisfactory explanation in writing to the Chief Registrar regarding the complaint made against him.

The Commission has also ordered Singh to pay a fine of $3000 to the Commission and a sum of $2000 to the Chief Registrar.

The suspension will cease on the date the Chief Registrar confirms to the Commission in writing that the Singh has fully complied with the section and costs ordered in the case.