Justice Nimpar Demands Preparedness from Lawyers
Hon. Justice Yargata Nimpar, presiding judge at the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division, has earned a reputation for being firm but fair with lawyers who appear before her courtroom, particularly when they are unprepared or make procedural errors.
Lawyers appearing before Justice Nimpar are expected to be thoroughly prepared, use correct bar terminology, and present their cases professionally. Those who fail to meet these standards are promptly corrected, with the judge taking the time to explain mistakes and guide them on proper courtroom practices.
Sources say that Justice Nimpar has become more than a presiding judge to junior lawyers—she has taken on the roles of mentor and teacher, helping to shape the next generation of legal practitioners. In many instances, she advises inexperienced lawyers to observe senior counsel in court, learning from their conduct, presentation, and adherence to professional norms.
“She doesn’t tolerate errors or sloppy preparation, but she also uses every opportunity to educate,” said one junior lawyer who regularly appears before her. “She corrects mistakes patiently, explains the proper procedures, and encourages us to improve. It’s clear she wants to uplift the standards of the NBA and legal practice in general.”
Justice Nimpar’s approach has sent a clear message to the legal community: preparation is non-negotiable. Lawyers who come to court without doing their homework, using incorrect legal terminology, or making procedural mistakes risk censure—but they also have an opportunity to learn from a highly experienced mentor.
Her dedication to nurturing young lawyers while maintaining courtroom discipline has earned her widespread respect among both junior and senior members of the bar. Observers note that her mentorship not only improves individual performances but also strengthens the professional standards of the Nigerian Bar Association as a whole.
For lawyers practicing in Lagos, the advice is clear: appear before Justice Yargata Nimpar well-prepared, know your law, and use correct terminology. Failure to do so is not only a risk to your case