You do not have to be a great orator in court; you only need to express yourself clearly.
Fourth, legal research: today, research has become easier with platforms like Bar & Bench, Live Law and others.
Now you get new judgments every day; it is hard to stay updated, but you must know the latest law.
Fifth, legal ethics: ethics may appear to have changed, but what courts approve are the same ethical principles that have always governed the profession.
Follow five basic rules: respect the court, respect your opponent, respect your client, respect your profession and respect your own dignity.
NJ: Is there a deliberate philosophy of mentorship in your chambers?
SP: We do not have a formal mentorship policy, but I insist on certain principles.
First, punctuality: to succeed in this profession, you must be punctual.
Second, dedication: you must always be available to your clients.
Third, drafting: I place great emphasis on good drafting. You must know how to draft well and your English should be sound. You do not have to be a great orator in court; you only need to express yourself clearly. But a draft that appeals to your client, the other side and the court is crucial. You must know what relief you seek and how to make out a case.
Fourth, legal research: today, research has become easier with platforms like Bar & Bench, Live Law and others. In our days, there was nothing of this kind. Now you get new judgments every day; it is hard to stay updated, but you must know the latest law.
Fifth, legal ethics: ethics may appear to have changed, but what courts approve are the same ethical principles that have always governed the profession. Follow five basic rules: respect the court, respect your opponent, respect your client, respect your profession and respect your own dignity.
