With a mission to empower citizens and elevate legal integrity, newly minted Attorney-at-Law Akim Lampkin is set to make his mark in the legal landscape.
Newly minted Attorney-at-Law Akim Lampkin
Hailing from Sheet Anchor, East Canje, in Region Six, Lampkin plans to make a difference in the justice system while ensuring that everyday citizens understand their rights.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS WITH A STRONG FOUNDATION
Lampkin, 25, spent his formative years in the village of Sheet Anchor.
Despite facing tragedy early on with the loss of his mother to cancer, he shared with ThingsGuyana a memorable childhood filled with love, support, and stability.
My Dad, with the assistance of my extended family, did their best to achieve stability and structure in the wake of that tragedy. Their efforts were more than sufficient. Notwithstanding the lingering pain of the loss, I’ve been blessed to have grown up loved and supported by those who mean the most to me.
His educational journey began at No. 2 Nursery School, followed by St. Aloysius Primary School, and later Berbice High School.
Lampkin excelled in his studies, earning 12 passes at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination.
He later enrolled at the University of Guyana (UG), where he pursued an Associate of Social Sciences in Social Work and graduated with distinction.
THE JOURNEY TO LAW
Although this 25-year-old initially gravitated toward the natural sciences, the recognition of his skills and aptitude by family and friends nudged him toward law.
I considered their opinions and decided to give it a chance. At the very least, I figured it would be a challenge. A challenge it was indeed. I questioned my ability to see it through on many occasions.
I became sure that it was what I loved only after my in-service experience at the Charlyn Artiga and Associates Law Office. Many legal professionals I’ve encountered and the new members of the profession that I was fortunate enough to pursue this dream alongside have been inspirations.
Lampkin went on to complete his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at UG. He graduated among the top 25 students eligible for the Hugh Wooding Law School.
He graduated from Hugh Wooding with his Legal Education Certificate (LEC). On October 16, 2024, he was admitted to the local bar before Justice Nigel Niles. Attorney Charlyn Artiga presented his petition in association with Konyo Sandiford.
L-R: Attorney-at-Law Akim Lampkin, along with High Court Judge Justice Nigel Niles along with Attorney Charlyn Artiga
PASSION FOR CRIMINAL LAW AND LEGAL INTEGRITY
During his studies, this Berbician developed a particular interest in criminal law, influenced by renowned lecturer Mr. Ramgoolam, whose competence and passion left a lasting impression.
His competence and proficiency demanded, quite deservingly, attention and passion.
While his passion lies in criminal law, Lampkin stated that he intends to practice in all areas.
I want to get a holistic experience. The different areas are intimately connected, so while there is a personal preference for criminal law, I want my professional interaction with the law to be all-encompassing.
Moreover, while his legal philosophy has evolved throughout his journey, this attorney emphasised the need for efficiency and adaptability within the justice system.
If justice delayed is justice denied, then surely justice is denied far too often in Guyana. Even when given the benefit of considering comparative local circumstances, the criminal justice system fails to be classified as anything beyond satisfactory. Efficient disposal of cases would see victims enjoy justice without having to wait almost a decade, and it would ensure that those who may have been innocently accused are not victimised by the system for years on end. Legal professionals have been advocating for the introduction of ADR features that would decrease the number of criminal cases that have to be disposed of in the traditional manner. That, at the very least, is one step towards a more efficient system.
Additionally, the antiquated nature of the criminal justice system would benefit from further integration of technological advancements, continuing the transformation that was forced by the pandemic. Notable development should not be limited to instances of necessity. These ideas have been influenced by the realities observed, and the case law pursued. These inadequacies are certainly not exclusive to Guyana, so I am mindful of the challenges. We have the opportunity to catch up with the leading systems and even chart a better path to efficiency.
MENTORSHIP AND FUTURE VISION
Attorney Lampkin credits much of his development to the mentorship he received from Charlyn Artiga, whom he regards as a paragon of ethics and competence in the legal field.
He also draws inspiration from figures like Magistrate Bess, Justice Boodoosingh, and Mr. Ramgoolam, who have each shaped his legal journey.
Attorney-at-Law Akim Lampkin, along with High Court Judge Justice Nigel Niles
Lampkin now focuses on contributing to the overall development of Guyana’s legal landscape.
I want to display the competence and ethics that build trust in the integrity of the profession. I want to contribute to the citizens’ understanding of their legal rights and expectations. I intend to participate in and motivate a culture of advocacy, not just for the individual clients we may come to represent, but one that considers the development of the legal landscape in its entirety.
WORDS OF WISDOM FOR ASPIRING ATTORNEYS
For those considering a career in law, Lampkin offers simple yet profound advice:
Go for it. Don’t expect it to be easy, but expect it to be worth it. Where you’re coming from means little when you know where you want to be.
As he steps into the world of legal practice, Lampkin carries with him one crucial lesson he has learned along the way.
You’re never done learning. Every day is a new opportunity to expand your knowledge.
