Justice Abhay Oka of the Supreme Court recently made a heartfelt appeal to young lawyers, urging them to actively engage in pro bono legal work. Describing legal practice as “5 Star social work,” Justice Oka emphasized that the legal profession offers not only financial success but also the opportunity to serve society by providing legal aid to those who cannot afford it.
In his lecture on “The Art of Advocacy and Duties of Advocates under the Constitution,” organized by the Indian Law Institute’s Assam State Unit, Justice Oka stressed that every senior advocate practicing in High Courts should handle at least five criminal appeals annually for individuals unable to afford legal representation. He also proposed a similar approach for senior lawyers in trial courts, highlighting that inexperienced defense in serious criminal cases often violates the fundamental rights of the accused under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Reflecting on the history of the Bombay Bar Association’s protest against judicial interference following the Kesavananda Bharati case, Justice Oka underscored the vital role lawyers play in protecting the independence of the judiciary. He acknowledged that judges are not infallible and cited examples of evolving judicial interpretations, from the A.K. Gopalan case to the landmark Maneka Gandhi judgment.
Justice Oka also addressed unethical practices within the legal community, such as court boycotts, which he described as a violation of the Constitution and a cause of delayed justice. He recalled instances when he issued contempt notices to bar associations in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and even the Supreme Court for such actions.
Furthermore, he highlighted the ethical obligation of lawyers to provide fair and honest representation. According to Justice Oka, judges are more inclined to respect and accommodate lawyers who present facts and legal precedents transparently, even when they go against their clients’ positions. He criticized the growing trend of unnecessarily lengthy pleadings and cross-examinations, which not only burden the judiciary but also delay the delivery of justice.
Justice Oka’s address was not limited to criticism but also offered constructive suggestions. He encouraged the Indian Law Institute’s Assam unit to conduct training programs for junior lawyers, similar to the Continuous Legal Education Program run by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa. He stressed the need to teach young advocates essential skills like drafting pleadings, maintaining courtroom decorum, and mastering the art of cross-examination.
In his closing remarks, Justice Oka reaffirmed that the true essence of the legal profession lies in serving the common man and ensuring access to justice for all. His call for ethical practice and dedication to pro bono work serves as a reminder that the legal profession is not just a means to personal success but a powerful tool for social justice.
