WORKING AT THE TEMPLE OF JUSTICE

We have been raised to revere what is often referred to as the sanctum-sanctorum of our nation the Supreme Court. But beyond the practicalities of pursuing a legal career, is the journey to becoming a lawyer at the country’s highest courts an easy one? Or does it truly test your skills and resolve? Lovely Majumdar endeavours to find out

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BUILDING reputation and credibility in the legal field is a 'non-negotiable' when it comes to handling cases at the Supreme Court.

Independent advocate Disha Wadekar, who completed her Master of Laws (LLM) from Columbia Law School, USA, opines that one must recognise the opportunities at one's disposal, and learn about the kind of practice one may enjoy, to further excel at it. "Initially I had practised in the district courts, later I moved on to a senior advocate's office in the Supreme Court. Additionally, my grounding in the trial courts helped me understand the procedures of the subordinate courts." Establishing oneself as a Supreme Court lawyer undoubtedly comes with its challenges. When we sought invaluable advice for aspiring lawyers, advocate Tanvi Dubey emphasised the importance of seizing every opportunity. "Even if you're assisting a senior and not speaking before the judge, it doesn't mean you should lose hope. If your work is exceptional, the judge will take notice of your contribution to the case." Both Wadekar and Megha Saxena, who is a legal associate to Vikramjit Banerjee, Additional Solicitor General of India (ASG), assert the importance of never missing out on the chance to observe trials in higher courts. "It's crucial to observe these trials, from framing charges to summons, documentation, witness examination, sentencing decisions, and recording defence evidence these are experiences you can gain only in trial courts," said Wadekar.