Shillong, Jul 26: The National Law University of Meghalaya hosted a Special Lecture on the theme ‘Importance of Practice Before Traditional Courts’ at the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium, Mayurbhanj Complex, NLU Meghalaya on Friday.
The lecture was delivered by Justice Abhay Shrinivas Oka, former judge of the Supreme Court, in the august presence of Kerpa Meida Lyngdoh Nongbri, Vice-Chancellor (in-charge) of the National Law University of Meghalaya, and Prof Baharul Islam, NLU Meghalaya Registrar, along with faculty, staff and students.
Drawing from his decades of experience, Justice Oka shared invaluable guidance with aspiring lawyers, emphasising that a strong legal career must be built upon a solid foundation of practical learning, integrity and professional excellence.
Addressing students interested in litigation, he advised young graduates not to rush into practice before the high courts or the Supreme Court. He stressed that the trial courts provide the best platform for young advocates to learn the fundamentals of legal practice, including civil and criminal procedure, the law of evidence, trial advocacy, cross-examination and client interaction.
He observed that early exposure to trial courts enables young lawyers to understand litigation from the grassroots level while simultaneously building professional relationships with fellow advocates and senior members of the bar.
Such relationships, he noted, often become the foundation for future professional growth through referrals and collaborative practice.
Speaking on professional success, the judge highlighted that reputation, competence, and ethical conduct remain the greatest assets of any advocate. He observed that quality legal service naturally earns the trust of clients and colleagues, leading to sustained professional growth through referrals and goodwill.
