In the era of globalization, the role of lawyers extends beyond the courtroom; they are now expected to be social engineers, contributing to the well-being and progress of society. The objectives of legal education are far-reaching, aiming to meet societal demands, moderate change, uphold moral values, and produce lawyers equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Rupankan Sharma, a distinguished advocate specializing in criminology, exemplifies the impact legal professionals can have on society through their expertise and commitment to justice.
Rupankan Sharma practices in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, as well as the district court in Rohtak. His areas of expertise include criminology, bails, and criminal revisions. Sharma’s commitment to justice is reflected in his vision as an advocate – he emphasizes the improvement of legal aid for the welfare of common people.
His focus on the digital transformation of the legal system and the implementation of comprehensive case management systems showcases his dedication to making the judicial process more efficient and accessible.
In discussing the challenges faced as an advocate, Sharma acknowledges the complexity of legal frameworks and the need for continuous learning to navigate them effectively.
He highlights resource constraints and the delicate balance between objectivity and passion, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in bridging the gap between legal concepts and diverse audiences. Sharma’s vision for change includes the modernization of laws, establishment of fast-track courts, and promotion of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
Legal professionals, including Sharma, encounter various challenges in their pursuit of justice. These challenges range from navigating complex legal frameworks and managing client expectations to adapting to technological advancements and addressing public perception and stigma.
Advocates must also contend with emotional tolls, bureaucratic hurdles, and ethical considerations, requiring resilience, continuous learning, and effective communication to overcome these obstacles.
Legal education in India extends beyond training professionals; it serves as the foundation for informed and law-abiding citizens, contributing to the fabric of a democratic society. A robust legal education system instills a deep understanding of equality before the law, fostering a sense of responsibility and moral values in individuals.
The Bar Council of India and the University Grants Commission play pivotal roles in setting standards for legal education, emphasizing its regulatory and educational aspects.
Despite its noble objectives, the current legal education system in India faces numerous challenges, including the lack of separate law universities in all states, affiliation issues, mushrooming of ill-equipped private law colleges, and limited opportunities for lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
To address these challenges, legal education in India requires significant reforms. Suggestions include regulating college affiliations, emphasizing case-based teaching methods, providing practical training, and promoting philanthropy for financial support.
To revitalize legal education, promoting philanthropy and practical experience is crucial. Philanthropic initiatives can provide financial support, while internships and externships, coupled with legal aid clinics, offer students practical exposure to real-world legal challenges. Adopting modern teaching methods, incorporating clinical legal education programs, and recruiting faculty members with practical experience are essential steps toward bridging the gap between theory and practice.
The importance of legal education cannot be overstated in shaping responsible and competent lawyers like Rupankan Kamla Sharma.
By addressing the challenges faced by advocates and reforming legal education, India can pave the way for a more just, efficient, and accessible judicial system, contributing to the overall progress of society.
