Attorney Isat Buchanan, the lead defense counsel for Vybz Kartel’s appeal case, has been handed a two-year suspension by the General Legal Council (GLC), Jamaica’s regulatory body overseeing lawyers. This disciplinary action stems from inappropriate remarks directed at the Director of Public Prosecutions in Jamaica.
The GLC’s disciplinary panel made its decision on 5th December, after Buchanan admitted guilt and his legal representative sought a two-year suspension. The attorney faced allegations of professional misconduct due to comments that incorporated a quote from a Vybz Kartel song. Numerous reports were submitted to the GLC, prompting calls for sanctions based on violations of canons I(b) and VIII(b) of the Legal Profession (Canon of Professional Ethics) Rules, which mandate lawyers to uphold the honor and dignity of the legal profession in Jamaica.
Acknowledging his error in the past month, Buchanan issued an apology to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Paula Llewellyn, and pleaded guilty to both charges. Represented by King’s Counsel Valeria Neita Robertson, Buchanan expressed regret over the GLC’s decision, emphasizing his love for the law and the challenges of being absent for any period. Despite his suspension, 16 other lawyers are involved in the trial for all defendants, mitigating the impact on Vybz Kartel’s appeal.
As the instructing counsel for the Privy Council appeal scheduled for Valentine’s Day next year, Buchanan conveyed concern for his clients and is taking steps to inform them of the GLC’s decision. While expressing sadness about his inability to represent his clients during the suspension, Buchanan remains hopeful for the future.
His suspension is set to conclude on December 5, 2025. Additionally, he has incurred a $500,000 JMD fine and is required to remit an additional $20,000 JMD to the General Legal Council.