The legal profession thrives on tradition, respect and mentorship, forming the foundation of its ethical and professional standards
The legal profession, steeped in tradition, has long upheld justice, ethics, and mentorship. Over two decades in this field, I have observed the profound impact of small yet meaningful gestures that reinforce these values. Among them, one simple but powerful tradition stands out: offering a chair to senior advocates. This act, though seemingly minor, symbolizes the core principles of respect, integrity, and humility that define the profession.
Law is more than a career; it is a calling rooted in service to justice and humanity. Central to its greatness is the relationship between senior advocates and their juniors. This bond is not merely hierarchical but symbiotic. Senior advocates, with their vast experience, serve as mentors, imparting legal expertise and instilling values of diligence, integrity, and commitment to truth. They uphold tradition while advocating for excellence and ethical practice, ensuring the profession remains honorable and principled.
Juniors, in turn, express their gratitude through attentiveness, humility, and by embracing time-honored customs. These practices are not mere formalities but essential rituals that sustain the culture of respect and lifelong learning. By adhering to them, the legal community safeguards its ethical and professional standards for future generations.
However, this sacred bond is now at risk. One telling example is the fading tradition of offering a chair to senior advocates. This act, which once extended beyond the courtroom to chambers, canteens, and common areas, is more than a gesture of courtesy. It acknowledges the sacrifices, dedication, and legacy of those who have paved the way for the profession.
Historically, this practice affirmed the values of respect, mentorship, and collective commitment to excellence. It fostered an environment where ethical conduct and collaboration thrived. Yet, in today's fast-paced, individualistic legal landscape, such traditions are being eroded. While the modern profession is more dynamic and competitive, it risks losing its foundational values. When simple gestures like offering a chair are ignored, it signals more than a lapse in etiquette; it reflects a weakening of the profession's moral core.
Today, it is not uncommon to see younger lawyers engrossed in their work, oblivious to the presence of senior advocates. This underscore a harsh reality: the tradition is fading, likely because it has not been effectively passed down to newer generations.
This decline is not merely an aesthetic loss but a structural one. The erosion of respect and humility undermines mentorship, weakening the profession's foundation. Without these symbolic acts, the collaborative and learning-oriented spirit that has long defined the legal fraternity risks being overshadowed by individualism.
Reviving these traditions is not about nostalgia but necessity. Law schools, bar associations, and senior advocates must lead by example, integrating respect for customs into legal education and practice.
As they say, "Kissa Kursi Ka" is not just about politics; it holds significance within the legal community. The chairs in courtrooms are more than furniture-they symbolize dedication, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Offering a chair to a senior advocate is a gesture of reverence, acknowledging their contributions and the path they have laid for future generations.By reviving and reinforcing such practices, we do more than honor our seniors; we preserve the ethics and values that uphold our fraternity. The act of offering a chair, though modest, is a powerful reminder that the greatness of our profession lies in its unwavering commitment to respect and humility
(The writer is a lawyer; views are personal)