Explore Advocate Abdul Kareem Pathan’s insights on the legal profession as a path for young lawyers to serve justice and receive blessings. Learn about the essential skills, challenges, and career advice for aspiring advocates discussed at the Gulzar A. Azmi Lecture Series in Mumbai. – Editor
“Legal profession is not merely a means of livelihood; it is also a means of receiving blessings.”
At an event organized under the Innocence Network, titled “The Legal Profession: Challenges and Solutions” as part of the late Gulzar A. Azmi Lecture Series, Advocate Abdul Kareem Pathan from the Bombay High Court delivered a lecture at Al-Tauhid English High School in Vikhroli, Mumbai. He emphasized that the legal profession is an important field where Muslim youth need to focus more. It is not just a way to earn money; it is also a way to receive the prayers of oppressed people. He added that a lawyer is the voice for the voiceless and the advocate for the oppressed. He advised new lawyers entering the profession to carefully select the right senior lawyer and an appropriate chamber, as this is essential for nurturing their skills and excelling in the profession.
Speaking on the qualities required for lawyers, he mentioned that a lawyer should have command over English and Marathi, along with a spirit of compassion and empathy, to truly understand the plight of those incarcerated and make efforts for their early release. He also stated that, like any other profession, this one demands hard work—sometimes up to ten years of tireless effort before a lawyer can establish their reputation. Mr. Pathan advised the lawyers present to spend their free time in courtrooms observing court proceedings rather than engaging in idle chatter. By observing the arguments of senior lawyers and cross-examinations of witnesses, they can learn significantly.
He stressed the importance of reading, noting that a lawyer should read not only legal judgments and case law but also editorials from Marathi and Urdu newspapers to enhance language and expression. He advised, “Whether the case is big or small, put in your best effort and prove your worth. If an opportunity passes, it does not return, and one is left with disappointment and regret.”
He highlighted that, while it is essential to consider what arguments to make in court, it is equally important to consider what not to argue. Similarly, during witness cross-examination, knowing what questions not to ask can be just as important as knowing what to ask. Sometimes irrelevant or inappropriate questions can harm the case. At the end of the program, a question-and-answer session was held in which lawyers actively participated, and Mr. Pathan provided insightful answers. In response to a question, he said that the fear of speaking English and standing before a judge may be daunting, but running from this fear only amplifies it. The way to overcome fear is to face it directly, and eventually, it fades away.
Advocate Wahid Shaikh introduced the Innocence Network and briefed the audience on the program’s purpose and the services provided by Mr. Gulzar Azmi and the Jamiat Ulama’s Legal Cell. Overall, it was an excellent program, and attendees expressed that such events should be held monthly to provide new lawyers with ample learning opportunities. The Innocence Network has initiated this series, and it is hoped that, God willing, each month in Mumbai, lectures covering various aspects of law will be organized with advocates from the High Court and Supreme Court.
Conclusion: In his thought-provoking lecture, Advocate Abdul Kareem Pathan emphasized that the legal profession offers not only a means of livelihood but also a profound opportunity to serve and uplift society. By nurturing compassion, mastering essential languages, and committing to diligent learning, young lawyers can truly become advocates for justice and the oppressed. Events like the Gulzar A. Azmi Lecture Series, held by the Innocence Network, provide an invaluable platform for new lawyers to learn and grow. With regular participation, aspiring lawyers can gain the skills, courage, and perspective needed to make a meaningful impact in their careers and communities.
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