Anthony Peter La Ronde
Anthony Peter La Ronde, KC, is a distinguished Dominican legal practitioner, former judge, and policymaker who served as Attorney General of Dominica from 1995 to 2002, under the United Workers’ Party (UWP) administration. He was called to the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (Dominica) in 1985, following his education at the University of Waterloo (B.A. and B.A. Honours in History with a Political Science minor), the University of the West Indies (LL.B.), and the Hugh Wooding Law School (Legal Education Certificate). He later completed postgraduate studies, including a Diploma in Legislative Drafting, and obtained Specialist Practice Diplomas from the International Bar Association and the College of Law of England and Wales.
Early Career & Qualifications
La Ronde began his career in public service in 1971 as a State Attorney and Parliamentary Draftsman. Over the following decades, he advanced to roles including Registrar General of the Supreme Court, Chief Parliamentary Draftsman, Magistrate, Director of Public Prosecutions, and Attorney General. His magistracy and legislative drafting experience reflected his deep legal proficiency.
Attorney General (1995–2002)
Appointed Attorney General in June 1995, La Ronde joined Cabinet and Parliament during a pivotal political era. He was responsible for providing legal advice and representation to the government, and oversaw legislative drafting and legal reforms throughout his six-year tenure.
Regional & International Roles
After leaving office in 2002, he continued his legal career regionally and internationally. He served as Director of the CARICOM Legislative Drafting Facility (2005–2009), provided legal drafting consultancy to the OECS Supreme Court, Anguilla, ECTEL, and maintained a senior position as Chief Parliamentary Counsel in Anguilla (2016–2018).
His expertise in competition law led to his appointment in July 2018 as a Commissioner for the CARICOM Competition Commission, where he helps shape regional policy and legal frameworks.
Recent Engagements & Civic Contributions
In September 2023, the current government appointed La Ronde to review Dominica’s Firearms Act and Bail Act, highlighting the continued trust in his legislative acumen. He has stayed active in public discourse, including appearances on legal programs such as DBS Radio’s Legal Affairs & You.
Legacy & Impact
Anthony La Ronde is celebrated for his instrumental role in shaping Dominica’s legal architecture, his extensive experience in both criminal and constitutional law, and his contributions to legislative education in the Caribbean. His ongoing involvement in legal reform and competition law cements his status as a pillar of legal expertise and public service.
