Dear Editor,
An observation has been made by the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) that various persons have been writing and having published, articles which purport to quote the legal position on a particular subject – for example rape. For one such article, the primary source, it was determined, is the pamphlet(s) as published in the early 1990s by the GAWL. GAWL wishes to remind the public that while it is commendable for persons to seek to edify others on basic legal principles from our published material, it is important that the most updated source of our material is used, and credit is given to that source. In the instances observed, neither occurred, and we therefore record our disappointment at the editorial lapses.
We wish to point out, also, that the law is ever changing, ever evolving. Thus, as an example, the legal position in relation to rape has been materially expanded. Reference to the Sexual Offences Act is therefore required. As members of the public should be aware, and moreso editors and journalists, use of the material published by another without acknowledgement is unlawful and unethical. Consequently, for the information of all persons, the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers requests that the most up-to-date volume of our publications in booklet form entitled The Law & You IV provides the most recent status of various areas of the law. Additionally, we remind the media that it is our right to insist that express credit be given to the GAWL when its material is used, be it at a seminar or in quoting for letter-writing purposes or articles. We also remind people that, as is expressly stated in each successive volume of our booklets, the booklet’s contents are not a substitute for competent legal advice. Therefore, we caution persons, (in particular in the outlying areas), to not utilize the contents of the booklets as a ‘catch-all’ for all situations, but rather have them serve as a useful guide. We therefore look forward to responsible use of our publications.
GAWL is at any time disposed to attend seminars and meet with groups to provide support and share information. We can be contacted on 692-8466 by email at: gawl.inc@gmail.com.
Yours faithfully,
Kean Trotman
Secretary
Guyana Association of Women Lawyers
