Justice Desiree Bernard is a trailblazer in the legal field, breaking barriers and setting precedents throughout her illustrious career.
Justice Desiree Bernard [Photo: CCJ website]
Born on March 2, 1939, in Georgetown, Guyana, she embarked on a journey that would see her become a pivotal figure in the country’s legal landscape and beyond.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Growing up as the only child of William and Maude Bernard, Desiree attended St. Ambrose School. She later earned a place at Bishops’ High School.
Initially aiming to become a teacher, her path shifted towards law after a family friend’s encouragement. As such, she obtained a Bachelor of Laws degree with honours from the University of London in 1963. This laid the foundation for her remarkable career.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
This former Georgetown resident’s legal career began in private practice, qualifying as a solicitor in 1964. She also served as a Magistrate and Commissioner of Oaths and Notary Public before being admitted to the English Roll of Solicitors in 1977.
In 1980, she made history as Guyana’s first female High Court Judge. This was followed by becoming the first female Justice of Appeal in 1992.
Her ascent continued with her appointment as Chief Justice of Guyana in 1996 and later as Chancellor of the Judiciary of Guyana and the Caribbean in 2001.
Justice Desiree Bernard (left) making her way into a special sitting of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) held in 2014 to mark her retirement [Photo: Arian Browne]
In 2005, Bernard became a Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), marking another significant milestone.
Her dedication to justice and gender equality was evident in various roles, including serving as a rapporteur and Chair of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination.
Her contributions extended beyond the courtroom, as she played a pivotal role in numerous associations, including the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers and the Georgetown Legal Aid Clinic.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
Bernard’s achievements have been recognised with numerous awards, including Guyana’s Cacique Crown of Honour and Order of Roraima.
Furthermore, she received the CARICOM Triennial Award for Women in 2005 and was honoured with an honorary Doctor of Laws by the University of the West Indies in 2007.
Her impact on legal and gender issues has been profound, earning her accolades and respect across the Caribbean and beyond.
PERSONAL LIFE
Despite her demanding career, Bernard has remained dedicated to her faith and community. Furthermore, she was the first woman to serve as Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Guyana.
Besides, her personal life is centred around her adopted daughter, Carol, who is also a lawyer.
References
- https://ccj.org/about-the-ccj/judges/bernard/
- https://guyaneseonline.files.wordpress.com/2017/11/profile-justice-desiree-bernard-by-dr-dhanpaul-narine.pdf
- https://guyanesegirlsrock.com/the-honourable-madam-justice-desiree-bernard-first-female-judge-of-the-caribbean-court-of-justice/
