1,530 complaints remain unresolved before Fiji's Legal Practitioners Unit

Fiji's Legal Practitioners Unit is grappling with a significant backlog of 1,530 unresolved complaints, with some cases originating as far back as 2009. Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga disclosed these figures in response to a written inquiry from Opposition Leader Inia Seruiratu.

The data reveals a concerning trend of prolonged unresolved cases. The backlog saw a peak in 2025, recording 132 unresolved complaints. Prior years also show substantial numbers, with 120 cases in 2023 and 116 in 2019. Notably, the figures indicate that complaints have languished for years, including two from 2009, 14 from 2010, and 16 from 2011.

In parallel, the Independent Legal Services Commission reported nine pending disciplinary cases as of June this year. Of these, five involve allegations of professional misconduct, while four pertain to unsatisfactory professional conduct. One case is awaiting a judgment after its hearings have concluded.