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A Good Lawyer

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When someone steps into a profession, it is not merely by personal choice but, in a deeper sense, by the divine will of Allah Almighty. The same principle applies to the noble profession of law. A good lawyer embodies not just legal knowledge, but also integrity, discipline, and a commitment to justice.

A lawyer should present himself professionally. He must dress appropriately, speak clearly and confidently, and carry himself with dignity. Loving the subject of law is essential; without passion, one cannot truly excel. Moreover, a lawyer must be an active practitioner of law, continually honing his skills and learning to work intelligently and strategically.

The focus of a lawyer should never be solely on earning fees. Instead, the primary focus must be on fulfilling the responsibility assigned with dedication and honesty. A lawyer should always honor the teachings of his mentors, appreciating the knowledge and principles passed down to him.

A good lawyer carves his own path instead of merely following the crowd. He must aim high and work tirelessly to achieve his goals. Understanding and advocating for his own rights — and the rights of others — is fundamental to his role. He should thoroughly read and understand the court rules and regulations, empowering himself to navigate the legal system effectively.

Preparation is key. Before stepping into the courtroom, a lawyer should be fully prepared — familiar with the facts, the relevant laws, and key judgments. He must speak with authority, referencing laws and precedents, leaving no room for interruption or doubt.

Self-respect is non-negotiable. A lawyer must maintain his dignity at all times, both inside and outside the court. When appearing before the court, he must remember that he is not just representing a client, but also serving as an officer of the court, contributing to the administration of justice.

Punctuality is another critical quality. A lawyer must value time and never compromise on it. His words should carry weight, and he must always stand by what he says. Relying solely on files, books, or electronic devices like mobiles and laptops should be avoided; true mastery comes from within.

Learning from senior counsel is a vital part of growth in the legal profession. A lawyer must observe, follow, and respect the experience and wisdom of those who came before him.

A good lawyer fights not just for his own rights but also for the rights of others. He must never feel inferior in the presence of bureaucrats or officials — a lawyer's role is fundamental to the balance of power and justice in society.

Work should always be conducted according to the law, and a lawyer must also be a master of psychology, understanding the mindset of the judges and tailoring arguments accordingly.

Reading should become a lawyer’s daily habit — studying laws both in favor and against, reading as if preparing to deliver a lecture the next day. Understanding foundational documents, such as the Legal Practitioners and Bar Councils Act, 1973, is crucial.

For a lawyer, the Bar is like a mother — nurturing and guiding — while the Bench (the judiciary) is like a child, dependent on the input and integrity of the Bar for justice to prevail.

Finally, a lawyer must always read, write, and engage with legal literature, never underestimating himself. Confidence, preparation, and integrity are the hallmarks of a truly good lawyer.

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