The Assise d’Héritage was packed with advocates taking or renewing their oaths of office – so much so that some had to watch proceedings on a live feed in the States Chamber.
During the ceremony, which was also attended by Chief Minster Ian Gorst, Sir William paid tribute to the late Barbara Miles OBE – the Island’s first female Jurat.
Mrs Miles served as a Jurat for 22 years and was appointed as Lieutenant-Bailiff in 1997. She died last week. Today would have have been her 89th birthday.
Sir William said: ‘She was the first lady Jurat, and served for a period of 22 years. In 1997, she was appointed to the honorary role in establishing the family welfare centre and later as a member of the juvenile court panel – her devotion over 30 years not only to the legal process but also to a number of charities which she supported vigorously was remarkable and was duly recognised by the award of the OBE in 2001.’
He added: ‘Her last years have not been easy, as she was afflicted by a stroke, but she bore them with fortitude and great courage and it is right that we remember her at this Assise d’Héritage.’
Sir William also used his speech to stress the importance of the oath of office. ‘The renewal of the oath is important because of the principles of that oath – those high and sometimes not always easy to maintain principles remind all of us that we are in a profession and not a business,’ he said.
