Chantal L. Flax the newest addition to VI Bar
Thise were the words of Attorney at Law Ms Chantal L. Flax who spoke exclusively to Virgin Islands News Online following her admission to the Bar at the High Court of the Virgin Islands yesterday September 23, 2013.
According to Ms Flax, her motivation for studying law was to be involved in social justice as she quoted the famous words of Mahatma Ghandi, “I believe that we ought to be the change that we want to see in this world... Notwithstanding this area where my passion lies, I remain open and enthusiastic about other aspects of law,” she told Virgin Islands News Online.
Ms Flax was admitted to the Virgin Islands Bar by Justice Vicki Ann Ellis who will be presiding as High Court Judge in the VI for the next assizes come October 2013. Justice Ellis advised Ms Flax to keep her dignity at all times, to always be prepared when attending court, be proud of herself and to bear in mind that she has much to learn and that the practice of law is tough.
Justice Ellis also cautioned that it was important as an attorney that Ms Flax set an example for other young aspiring attorneys and she must be weary of short cuts. While noting that it’s not the norm of a Justice to do during such an occasion, Justice Ellis implored the newest Barrister to keep God at the forefront of her life.
Seasoned Attorney at Law Mr Patrick Thompson had moved the call for Ms Flax’s admission to the Bar. According to Thompson who spoke highly of Ms Flax, moving the call was a first time experience for him and one he will forever cherish.
He told the court that he was confident that Ms Flax would be an asset to the legal system of the Virgin Islands as she had been demonstrating a high level of good prospects in assessing cases. He spoke of an occasion where the two had opposing views on a particular matter and Ms Flax’s assessment of the case prevailed over his.
“A heartfelt thank you is extended to Mr Patrick Thompson for the confidence that he has shown me, for the advice that he continually gives me, and for moving today’s Call; I am truly appreciative. It has truly been a pleasure working alongside him. He ensured that I was equipped for the task that was ahead at Bar school, leaving me practically fearless in the pursuit of my dreams in the area of criminal law. His integrity, and dedication to the profession are admirable and I look forward to joining him at the Bar,” she told the court during her admission ceremony.
A number of persons and places of work were showered with praises by Ms Flax for being significant contributors to her present accomplishment. Among those were her parents Mr and Mrs Ellsworth and Andria Flax, staff and management of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands, McW. Todman & Co., Mr. Terrence Neale, the St. George’s Episcopal Church family, among others.
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