"Is Calling a Lawyer ‘Charge and Bail’ Defamatory, or Just Harmless Slang?

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Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has issued a stern warning to Nigerians, stating that referring to a lawyer as “charge and bail” can be defamatory and might lead to legal consequences. The term, often used to describe lawyers who handle minor cases or work outside courts, is seen by many in the legal profession as derogatory and offensive. Effiong cautioned that a lawyer who finds the term insulting could potentially sue for defamation.

This alert has sparked discussions on whether the phrase is simply harmless slang or a damaging label that undermines the professionalism of lawyers. Could this common expression one day result in legal action, or is it just another case of overreaction to everyday language?✍️“feel free to disagree in the comments 👀 ☝️👆 & let JAIYEORIE know what U think!” 📎