Shillong, July 24: Former Supreme Court judge Justice Abhay Shrinivas Oka on Friday advised aspiring lawyers to begin their legal careers in trial courts rather than rushing to practise in High Courts or the Supreme Court, saying grassroots courtroom experience is essential for building a strong foundation in the profession.
Delivering a special lecture at the National Law University (NLU) Meghalaya campus, Justice Oka drew on his decades of experience at the Bar and the Bench to emphasise that practical learning, ethical conduct and professional competence are the cornerstones of a successful legal career. The event was attended by Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) Kerpa Meida Lyngdoh Nongbri, Registrar Prof. (Dr.) Baharul Islam, faculty members and students.
Addressing students interested in litigation, Justice Oka said trial courts offer young advocates the best platform to master civil and criminal procedure, the law of evidence, trial advocacy, cross-examination and client interaction.
He said early exposure to trial courts also helps young lawyers develop professional relationships with fellow advocates and senior members of the Bar, laying the foundation for future growth through referrals and collaborative practice.
Highlighting the importance of ethics in the legal profession, Justice Oka observed that an advocate’s reputation, competence and integrity remain their greatest assets, adding that quality legal services naturally earn the trust of clients and colleagues.
He also encouraged students to consider judicial service as a rewarding career, noting that it offers financial stability, institutional independence and the opportunity to uphold the rule of law while serving society with integrity.
Justice Oka said today’s law graduates have a wide range of career opportunities beyond litigation, including law firms, corporate legal departments, academia, legal research, public policy and civil services. He urged students to focus on continuous learning and adaptability throughout their careers.
The former judge also stressed the growing importance of legal education and research, saying India needs committed legal academics and researchers capable of contributing to the development of jurisprudence and strengthening the country’s legal system. He further highlighted the expanding role of alternative dispute resolution, technology-driven legal practice and legal innovation in the evolving legal landscape.
The lecture concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session on litigation, judicial careers and professional development. NLU Meghalaya said the programme was organised as part of its efforts to expose students to eminent jurists and strengthen academic excellence and professional competence.
