By: St. Clair Sazam Hull
Nevispages.com
(CHARLESTOWN NEVIS)- On the morning of Tuesday, November 10, 2015 Mrs. Cleone Stapleton-Simmonds, Attorney at law, was admitted to the Bar of St. Kitts and Nevis. Cleone hails from the village of Cotton Ground, in the parish of St. Thomas’.
Legal Advisor, to the Nevis Island Administration, Mr. Colin Tyrell, put forth the application for the applicant before Her ladyship, Justice Lorraine Williams. He pointed out, that Cleone had obtained her Bachelor of Laws from the University of Birmingham in England. He also noted that she attended the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad, and had met the requirements to be admitted to the Bar. Tyrell also pointed out that the young lawyer is currently employed alongside him at the Legal Department and he found her to be extremely humble with an awesome personality. He continued, “I have had the indulgence, of knowing and working alongside Cleone and she is the epitome of humility. I am also impressed by her wonderful personality and her calm demeanor”.
Hon. Robelto Hector distributed some remarks on behalf of the applicant. He indicated that he has known Cleone for a longtime, and when she told him that she was going to venture into the legal profession, the question he asked was, “Why law?” Hector noted that Cleone response was, “From very early in my life I told myself that I was going to be a lawyer”. He stated that those words were indicative, that she did not just stumble into the profession; it was something she always wanted to do. Hector also indicated, that Cleone is a very ambitious, diligent person and he anticipates great things for her in the future. In closing, Hector admonished the young lawyer to be respectful to her colleagues, and to always exercise impartiality.
The applicant, Mrs. Cleone Stapleton-Simmonds also eloquently addressed the court. She told those in attendance, that it was indeed an honour to reach thus far in life with the help of almighty God. She pointed out, that there were many false starts, setbacks, frustrations and disappointments but through it all she has endured and she was most grateful. Mrs. Stapleton -Simmonds also applauded the efforts made by her husband, Mr. Nigel Simmonds. She continued, “My husband has been with me on every step of this journey and gave me assistance both emotionally and financially. He has also made sure that our son was well taken care of when I was absent and for that I want to say thank you”.
Cleone also spoke about her beloved grandmother. She commended her for the guidance and support, she has given over the years. Cleone noted, “My grandmother has guided me over the years and I have thought about if she will live to see this day, I am happy to say that she is here with us today to witness this special occasion”. Cleone also thanked her family and friends, for the encouragement they had rendered to her.
Her ladyship also praised the young lawyer and gave her a few words of advice. She told those gathered that she was very familiar with Cleone and found her to be very obedient and helpful. Her Ladyship stated, “I am quite familiar with this young lady and I found her to be very helpful. I can count on her to assist me with anything in the court and I am going to miss her dearly”. She indicated to her, that there are times when she will have to make decisions which may not be in favour of the majority.
She also encouraged her to continue on the right track, and once she continues, her future is going to be luminous. In conclusion, Her ladyship wished Mrs Stapleton- Simmonds all the best in her future endeavors.
