Shillong, July 24 : Former Supreme Court Judge Hon’ble Justice Abhay S. Oka on Friday told law students that a successful legal career begins in trial courts, not in the High Courts or Supreme Court.
Speaking at a special lecture on “Importance of Practice Before Traditional Courts” at the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium, NLU Meghalaya, Justice Oka said trial courts are where young lawyers learn the fundamentals of civil and criminal procedure, evidence, advocacy and cross-examination.
Drawing from decades at the Bar and on the Bench, he advised graduates not to rush into higher courts. “Early exposure at the grassroots helps you understand litigation and build relationships with fellow advocates and seniors. That is what sustains a career through referrals and goodwill,” he said.
Justice Oka highlighted reputation, competence and ethics as an advocate’s biggest assets. He also described judicial service as one of the most rewarding career paths, offering financial stability and the privilege of independently administering justice.
He urged students to explore the widening legal landscape beyond litigation, including law firms, corporate legal departments, academia, legal research, public policy and civil services. He stressed continuous learning and adaptability and called for more legal academicians and researchers to strengthen jurisprudence and evidence-based reforms.
The lecture was organized by NLU Meghalaya as part of its effort to bring eminent jurists to campus. It was attended by Smt. Kerpa Meida Lyngdoh Nongbri, Vice-Chancellor (in-charge), Prof. (Dr.) Baharul Islam, Registrar, and faculty and students.
In his concluding remarks, Justice Oka shared anecdotes from the lives of eminent judges to illustrate the values of integrity, independence, humility and commitment to constitutional principles.
