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Frequently Asked Questions

1.     What is the Office of the Legal Counsel?

The Office of the Legal Counsel is headed by the Legal Counsel who is the principal legal advisor to the University of Ghana. It provides legal advice and representation on all matters affecting the university including but not limited to litigation, leasing and renting of University property, policy advice and all contracts and agreements.

The Office of the Legal Counsel seeks to advance the mission and vision of the University by providing legal advice towards the University’s object of attaining a world class status.

2.     Who does the Office of the Legal Counsel represent?

The Office of the Legal Counsel represents all units of the University. All issues referred for advice and representation must be related to and concern the University and or its affairs. The OLC, however, provides support services to senior members, staff and students, as detailed on this website under community service, but not legal representation. We are unable to represent or advice on any matter falling outside the scope of our community service.

3.     Will the Office of the Legal Counsel represent me if I am sued?

 No. The Office of the Legal Counsel provides advice and representation for matters relating mainly to official University affairs.

4.     Can I retain outside counsel for a University matter?

 No. All legal matters affecting, concerning or regarding the University must be referred to the Legal Counsel for advice.

5.     How can I contact the Office of the Legal Counsel?

 We can be contacted via telephone on 0303963147or 0289555078 and through email at legalcounsel@ug.edu.gh. Our hours of operation are Mondays to Fridays 8am to 5pm.

   Please use the emergency contact lines or helpline (link to UG App) in the event of an emergency or when in danger during out of office hours.

6.     Is what I tell the Office of the Legal Counsel confidential?

Yes. Please see ... (link for Lawyer-client privilege)

The attorney-client privilege protects and preserves communications between lawyers and their clients and maintains their secrecy or confidentiality. Therefore, when members of the University community seek legal advice from the Office of the Legal Counsel, they are assured of the confidentiality of their communications. They are also protected by this privilege from disclosure to opposing parties. In spite of their form (that is, whether electronic, written or oral), such communications are privileged. As the office endeavors to maintain such confidentiality, it is also essential for members of the University who consult the office on University legal matters to maintain such secrecy or confidentiality.

This privilege promotes openness and sincerity between the office and University members because lawyers cannot reveal (and indeed cannot be forced to reveal) attorney/client communications. This privilege is particularly important in the context of litigation because the privileged communications, written or oral, are not disclosed to other parties.

To advise the University properly, the Office of the Legal Counsel must have a complete cognizance of the facts, including any damaging ones. The attorney/client privilege creates a protection of privacy so that University personnel can sincerely inform the Legal Counsel of all the facts in a privileged and confidential setting.

7.     I need to have an Agreement/Contract signed by the University? Who has authority to sign?

Currently, all contracts and agreements must be executed in accordance with the Guidelines for Agreements for the University and the Guidelines for Authorised Contract Signatories.