General Legal Council

The General Legal Council (GLC) of Jamaica is the statutory body responsible for regulating the legal profession within the country. Established under the Legal Profession Act, the GLC's primary functions include organizing legal education and upholding standards of professional conduct among attorneys. The Council plays a pivotal role in the admission of attorneys to practice in Jamaica's courts and has been instrumental in introducing legislation to enhance its regulatory powers, such as the Legal Profession (Accounts and Records) Regulations 1999. In 2012, the GLC's mandate was significantly expanded to include the establishment of a compensation fund designed to reimburse individuals who suffer losses due to the dishonesty or failure of attorneys to account for money or property. Additionally, the Council oversees continuing legal professional development requirements for attorneys and has the authority to protect clients' property in situations where an attorney is unable to manage their affairs due to circumstances like death or bankruptcy. The GLC is committed to maintaining the integrity and trust of the legal profession by diligently executing its duties to ensure timely delivery of quality services. The Council promotes a culture of continuous learning and embraces change and technological advancements to enhance its operations. By working collaboratively and supporting each other, the GLC fosters a fair and harmonious working environment, ensuring that the legal profession in Jamaica operates within a robust and ethical framework.