CESTOS CITY, Rivercess County — The opening of the May 2026 Term of Court in Rivercess County was marked by a strong call for accountability and ethical conduct within Liberia’s justice system, as Assigned Judge A. Blamo Dixon warned jurors and lawyers against any actions capable of compromising court proceedings.
Speaking during the formal opening session at the 14th Judicial Circuit Court in Cestos City, Judge Dixon emphasized the crucial role jurors play in ensuring fairness and justice, describing them as one of the foundational pillars of the judicial process.
The judge cautioned that any juror found engaging in misconduct, bias, or behavior that undermines the credibility of the court could face serious legal consequences, including up to thirty days imprisonment in a common jail facility.
According to Judge Dixon, once jurors are selected and officially qualified by the court, they serve as judges of facts in all matters presented before them. He explained that the authority and responsibilities assigned to jurors are protected under both Liberia’s 1986 Constitution and the historic 1847 Constitution.
He stressed that jurors are expected to conduct themselves with integrity, neutrality, honesty, and independence throughout all proceedings.
“Any juror found acting improperly or engaging in conduct that threatens the integrity of the court process will face the full weight of the law,” Judge Dixon warned.
Beyond jurors, the judge also directed stern remarks toward members of the legal profession, cautioning lawyers against attempting to influence jurors during active cases.
He described jury tampering as a serious offense capable of damaging public confidence in the justice system and vowed that any attorney caught interfering with jurors or manipulating proceedings could face immediate sanctions, including removal from cases before the court.
Legal analysts say the judge’s remarks reflect broader efforts within Liberia’s judiciary to reinforce professionalism, transparency, and public trust at a time when concerns about judicial credibility continue to attract national attention.
The May Term of Court in Rivercess County is expected to hear several significant criminal and civil cases in the coming weeks, with authorities expressing hope that stricter courtroom standards will help strengthen confidence in the legal process.
Observers attending the opening ceremony noted that Judge Dixon’s tough stance sends a clear message that the judiciary intends to protect the integrity of court proceedings and uphold fairness in the administration of justice.
