LAWYER KOFI BAKAI EXPLAINS LEGAL PROCEDURES FOR WITHDRAWING FROM CASES ON ICAD TV'S GHANA NTI

Legal practitioner Kofi Bakai has explained the circumstances under which a lawyer may withdraw from a court case, stating that the law allows legal representatives to step down from cases under certain conditions. Speaking on ICAD TV's morning show Ghana Nti with host Nana Nhyiraba Kwabena Asirifi, Lawyer Bakai said a lawyer who wishes to withdraw from a case must provide reasons for the decision. According to him, if the trial court refuses the request, the lawyer may proceed to a higher court, including the Court of Appeal, to present the reasons for seeking withdrawal for further consideration. Commenting on the legal proceedings involving Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi, Lawyer Bakai explained that when a new lawyer takes over a case, the lawyer normally continues from where the previous counsel left off rather than starting the proceedings afresh. He referenced reports that lawyer Atta Akyea had taken over the case and indicated that legal representation would continue from the stage already reached in court. He expressed surprise that the judge reportedly declined the previous lawyer's request to withdraw from the case, noting that courts often grant such requests, particularly in criminal matters where legal representation is critical. Lawyer Bakai stated that lawyers may choose to withdraw from cases for various reasons, including disagreements with clients, non-payment of legal fees, or concerns arising from court proceedings. On whether a person without legal representation can be assigned a lawyer, he explained that a plaintiff, defendant, or accused person may formally inform the court that he or she is unable to secure legal counsel. In such circumstances, arrangements can be made for legal representation. He further noted that criminal cases are treated with particular care because an individual's liberty may be at stake. As a result, the burden of proof is high, and prosecutors must establish their case beyond reasonable doubt. He added that legal representation in criminal cases can sometimes be arranged promptly to ensure that the rights of the accused are protected. Touching on a separate matter, Lawyer Bakai commented on reports that a pastor had taken legal action against a woman for allegedly stealing his Bible. He explained that under the law, such a matter could fall under theft if ownership and unlawful taking can be proven. However, he stressed that the complainant would need to provide sufficient evidence to establish ownership of the Bible and prove that it was indeed stolen by the accused person. He suggested that, on the surface, the matter appeared too minor for court proceedings and speculated that there could be underlying issues between the parties involved. The discussion formed part of a broader conversation on legal procedures, access to justice, and current issues before the courts on ICAD TV's Ghana Nti programme.