We need lay magistrates and JPs in the administration of justice in Guyana

Dear Editor,
Please permit me to comment on a letter written recently by Mr. R. J. Eleazar. The entire letter of this esteemed lawyer is “With UG churning out so many attorneys-at-law, what right (do) we have to employ lay magistrates/JPs?”
Up front, let me say I am not a lawyer, nor do I have any disrespect for the legal profession; and I have great respect for Mr. Eleazar. However, I am concerned about the administration of justice in Guyana.
Now, everyone in Guyana knows that UG does not churn out attorneys-at-law. They churn out law graduates, who must do further legal studies to become attorneys-at-law. Looking at this letter, it is my opinion that Mr. Eleazar is even suggesting that there is no need for Justices of the Peace. The JPs provide a valuable service in the administration of justice.
Mr. Eleazar is fully aware that, within the English legal system, the Lay Magistrate and the Justice of the Peace have made tremendous contributions.
I will be the happiest person when I see more attorneys-at-law taking up the appointments of magistrates.
Pandit Chrishna Persaud, JP