Shillong: Former Supreme Court judge Justice Abhay Shrinivas Oka visited Shillong on July 24 to reshape how young lawyers approach their careers. He told students at the National Law University Meghalaya that they should avoid skipping directly to constitutional courts. Instead, they must head to trial courts to learn the trade.
Trial courts are where the real work happens. Justice Oka noted that this is where advocates master civil and criminal litigation, courtroom procedure, evidence law, witness examination, and client management. He argues that this foundational experience creates a professional edge that higher courts cannot replicate. It helps young attorneys earn the trust of seniors and build essential career networks.
Integrity and competence drive success. During his lecture, he told the students, "A lawyer’s credibility is built through ethical conduct, diligence and consistently delivering quality legal services rather than by the court in which one practises." He pushed students to consider judicial service, noting it offers institutional independence and financial stability.
The legal field is changing fast. Justice Oka highlighted that modern opportunities now include law firms, corporate departments, academia, research, and public policy. He advised students to embrace lifelong learning and focus on emerging areas like legal technology and alternative dispute resolution.
The events in Shillong also saw the High Court of Meghalaya launch a Continuous Legal Education Programme at its auditorium. Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Biswadeep Bhattacharjee inaugurated the initiative following the opening of the Bar Council of Meghalaya’s new office. Justice Oka delivered the keynote address on constitutional fundamental duties at that event. Vice-Chancellor in-charge Kerpa Meida Lyngdoh Nongbri and Registrar Prof. Dr. Baharul Islam attended the university lecture to help students gain insight from eminent jurists.
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