The Namibian Bill of Rights is changing the role of the criminal lawyer even as it changes the structure of the country's courts. To date, there is no prescribed procedure for raising constitutional defenses in Namibia. Two concepts which could affect the judiciary's implementation of the Bill of Rights are discussed: the supremacy of the Constitution as the law of the land and the potential for constitutional decisions to create conflict with the legislative or executive branches of government. A brief commentary highlights certain aspects of the Bill of Rights: the duty of the courts, the respect for human dignity, punishment, equality before the law, ability to pay fines, arrest and detention, and the right to a speedy trial. Other issues which are covered include the relationship between the privilege against self-incrimination and the rights to privacy and to counsel, the admissibility of evidence, and confiscation of property. 1 appendix