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, 24th July 2026. The lecture was delivered by Hon’ble Mr. Justice Abhay Shrinivas Oka, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India, in the august presence of Smt. Kerpa Meida Lyngdoh Nongbri, Vice–Chancellor (in-charge) of The National Law University of Meghalaya, and Prof. (Dr.) Baharul Islam, Registrar, The National Law University of Meghalaya, along with faculty, staff and students. The programme was organised as part of the University’s continuing efforts to expose students and members of the legal fraternity to the insights and experiences of eminent jurists.
Drawing from his decades of experience at the Bar and the Bench, the Hon’ble Justice shared invaluable guidance with aspiring lawyers, emphasizing that a strong legal career must be built upon a solid foundation of practical learning, integrity, and professional excellence.
Addressing students interested in litigation, the Hon’ble Justice 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 Hon’ble Justice 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.
The Hon’ble Justice also discussed the Judicial Services as one of the most rewarding career options available to law graduates. He explained that the judiciary offers not only financial stability and dignified service conditions but also the unique privilege of independently administering justice. He encouraged students to consider judicial service as an honourable profession that provides an opportunity to uphold the rule of law while serving society with independence and integrity.
The Hon’ble Justice further outlined the wide range of career opportunities available to contemporary law graduates, including law firms, corporate legal departments, academia, legal research, public policy, and civil services. He observed that the expanding legal ecosystem in India has created diverse professional avenues for students with varied interests and aspirations.
While discussing opportunities in law firms and the corporate sector, he encouraged students to carefully evaluate their long-term professional goals, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, skill development, and adaptability throughout one’s legal career.
Highlighting the growing importance of legal education and research, the Hon’ble Justice noted that India requires committed legal academicians and researchers capable of contributing to the development of jurisprudence and evidence-based legal reforms. He encouraged students with academic interests to pursue higher studies and research, describing it as an emerging and meaningful area of professional engagement.
He also urged students to explore careers in the Civil Services, observing that the multidisciplinary education offered by National Law Universities equips graduates with analytical ability, constitutional understanding, and public policy perspectives that are highly valuable for competitive examinations such as the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
In an inspiring conclusion, the Hon’ble Justice narrated several incidents from the lives of eminent judges that illustrated the enduring values of integrity, independence, humility, and commitment to constitutional principles. These reflections served as a reminder that true success in the legal profession is measured not merely by professional achievement but by unwavering adherence to ethical standards and public service.
The interactive lecture concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, during which students sought guidance on litigation practice, judicial careers, legal education, and professional development. The National Law University Meghalaya expressed its profound gratitude to Hon’ble Mr. Justice Abhay Shrinivas Oka for delivering a deeply insightful and inspiring lecture. The University reaffirmed its commitment to providing students with opportunities to interact with distinguished members of the judiciary and the legal profession as part of its mission to promote academic excellence, ethical leadership, and professional competence.
