4 Ps Essential For A Successful Lawyer : Justice MR Shah's Advice To Young Law Graduates

Supreme Court judge Justice MR Shah on Saturday while speaking at the 9th Convocation Ceremony of National Law University Odisha advised young law graduates to never compromise with their ethics and to always live a life full of honesty and integrity. 

The ceremony was also graced by Supreme Court judge Justice D.Y Chandrachud and Chief Justice of India U.U. Lalit who delivered the convocation address. 

Addressing the young graduates, Justice Shah remarked, "In future you may join the litigation or the judiciary or even a corporate office. My own request and advice to you that you do not compromise with your ethics. Do not compromise with your honesty and integrity."

He also imparted some crucial advice for those who planned to pursue litigation after graduation by emphasising on the four Ps required to be a successful lawyer. 

"Those who want to join the litigation, must learn some basic requirements to become a successful lawyer. According to me while appearing in the Court in a case 4 Ps are important- 1) Prepare 2) Perfection 3) Presentation 4) Politeness."

Justice Shah also underscored that one should appear in the Court to argue a case only if he or she has thoroughly prepared the matter both on facts and on law. While pointing out the importance of presentation in advocacy, he remarked, "What is important in the court is presentation. How you present your matter before the court is very important."

Importantly, the judge also stressed that lawyers must always argue their case with politeness. Highlighting this underrated attribute, Justice Shah said, "Lastly what is important is present your case with politeness."

Justice Shah also urged the young law graduates to play a keen role in nation building while also highlighting the contributions to the country made by stalwarts in the legal fraternity in the past. 

"You are future of this country. You have to play very important role in nation building. Being members of the legal fraternity you owe a duty to the nation and the society.  If you look in the past, stalwarts in the legal fraternity have contributed in nation building right from Mahatma Gandhiji, Sardar Vallabhai Patel, Dr. B.R Ambedkar and others. You should be proud and privileged that you will be part of the legal fraternity", he said. 

Justice Shah also went on to advise the young graduates to face life head on and not be afraid of challenges and failures in life. 

"Don't ask the life why me, say try me. This is the positiveness that should be in your life. Even if anywhere in your life there is a failure, convert failure as a stepping stone for success. Never adopt any shortcut to success", Justice Shah emphasised.  He also implored the young graduates to dedicate their lives to the service of the society especially the needy.  

"Service to the needy should be your motto", Justice Shah remarked while concluding his address. 

Also Read: 'Legal Aid Work A Bit Neglected': CJI UU Lalit Urges Young Law Graduates To Devote Time To Legal Aid

Also Read: Law Seeks To Displace Tyranny With Accountability: Justice DY Chandrachud