Aussie law graduate admitted to the Bar
Isileli Fa was admitted to the bar by acting Chief Justice Kamal Kumar in Suva yesterday. Son of prominent lawyer Isireli Fa, the 25-year-old knows too well of the legacy that has been built by his father.
Fresh from finishing his law degree from the University of Canberra in Australia, he hopes to continue under the wings of his father’s firm, Fa & Company.
“It gives me honour to be a part of a lawyer family and my parents have encouraged me to choose this career path which is not a regret,” Isileli said.
Staying away from his family, while pursuing his studies, was the biggest obstacle for him.
“My studies were hard, but I did not lose hope because I always set my aim to finish my studies and become someone that I am today,” he said.
Isireli Fa was a proud dad.
“His mother and I are relieved we were able to sustain the effort because my son was a private student
and we had to fund his studies from our pocket,” he said.
He said his son’s success to join the bar in Fiji and continue with the firm allowed him to start looking at other things.
“I am always here to support my son,” he said.
“Being a lawyer is for life.
If you
can prepare yourself mentally then you can pace yourself in this journey.”
Acting Chief Justice Kamal Kumar reminded Isileli of his role in assisting the Court.
“You as a lawyer should act with due courtesy to avoid unnecessary expense. When dealing with other lawyers, you should treat them with courtesy and fairness,” Justice Kumar said.
“Almost everyone has the capacity to become a lawyer but not all can be a successful practitioner. You need to be hardworking, committed and dedicated in all respects.”