Opening of the Legal Year Is More Than Just Pomp and Pageantry

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The opening of the legal year is an annual event steeped in tradition. It marks the start of the judiciary’s calendar.

By law, the opening of the legal year has to commence on the second Wednesday in January.

The prestigious event brings together members of the legal fraternity, government officials, and the judiciary.

The day of events begins with a colorful procession of judges from every branch of the judiciary dressed in formal robes, as well as judicial officers, and members of the bar marching from Bank Lane to Christ Church Cathedral in a procession that brings Bay Street to a standstill.

Once at Christ Church Cathedral, there’s the annual church service also attended by government officials including the attorney general.

Once that wraps up, members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force line up along George Street for the inspection of the guard by the chief justice police commissioner.

From there, a special sitting of the court is held.

In the past, that sitting happened in the legacy Supreme Court building on Bank Lane, but COVID-19 saw the judiciary break away from tradition, where in 2021 the event was held outdoors in Parliament Square.

In more recent years, that special sitting was moved to Margaritaville Resort, allowing for more people to attend.

It’s at this ceremony where key speakers take the stage, including the chief justice, the attorney general, and The Bahamas Bar Association president, delivering speeches that focus on judicial accomplishments, and efforts to improve the justice system.

Last year, Chief Justice Sir Ian Winder highlighted the introduction of new criminal case rules, the establishment of a dedicated bail court, and a Sentencing Guidelines Commission in 2024.

This year, it’s anticipated he’ll give an update on infrastructural upgrades for the courts.