Delivering a thought-provoking convocation address at the Maharashtra National Law University (MNLU), Justice Vikram Nath urged young law graduates and particularly first-generation lawyers to navigate their professional journeys with courage, patience, and integrity.

Describing the convocation as more than a mere award of degrees, Justice Nath called it a “covenant of trust” between the legal profession and society. He reminded the graduating class that law is not just a career, but “a discipline that preserves liberty, resolves conflicts, and orders our common life with dignity.”

The Journey of First-Generation Lawyers

Speaking directly to those stepping into litigation without family connections in law, Justice Nath candidly acknowledged the initial hardships of first-generation lawyers their long working hours, modest financial beginnings, and the absence of inherited clientele.

“All of this is true,” he said. “But while you may not inherit libraries or client lists, you can always inherit the right habits.”

Justice Nath identified three core habits that form the foundation of good advocacy that is preparation, presence, and integrity.

The Three Pillars of Advocacy

Preparation, he said, is the first step towards mastery. “Know the facts, understand the procedure, and be precise about the relief you seek. Write your arguments carefully and keep your files in order,” he advised.

Presence, he explained, is about showing up — with punctuality, courtesy, and readiness to assist both the client and the court. “Even the smallest case deserves your full attention, for there are no small matters when someone’s liberty or livelihood is at stake. Perform small tasks perfectly and your reputation will grow.”

Finally, he spoke of Integrity — “Let your word become your bond. Say only what you can defend tomorrow. Never promise what you cannot deliver. Be steadfast to your morals.”

‘Bravery and Patience Are the First Generation’s Strength’

Encouraging first-generation lawyers to stay resilient, Justice Nath said success in law is not built overnight but through consistent perseverance and ethical practice.

“Networks can be built one helpful act at a time. Learn from every senior who spares you a moment, and treat your juniors with the same respect you once desired,” he said.
He reminded the graduates that one day their names would be called “not because they are familiar, but because they are trusted.”

Law Beyond the Courtroom

For those entering corporate practice, policy, academia, or in-house roles, Justice Nath emphasized that every branch of law strengthens the rule of law in its own way.

“What matters is not the label on your visiting card, but the standard you set for your work,” he remarked.

Message to Judicial Aspirants

To students aspiring for the judiciary, Justice Nath underscored that the institution needs individuals with patience, fairness, and moral conscience.

“The path from a first posting as a Civil Judge to the higher courts of our country, including the Supreme Court, is real. It is walked by those who work consistently, decide with fairness, and persevere even when the days are long,” he said.

‘Authority Is a Trust, Not Ownership’

Citing the Bhagavad Gita, Justice Nath highlighted the virtue of disciplined action and humility in the legal profession.

“When lawyers and judges perform their duties with sincerity, rights do not need to plead—they arrive as a natural consequence of honest work,” he said, reminding that authority in law is always held in trust, never owned.

He urged young lawyers to make humility a professional habit, noting that it “keeps us open to correction, guards us against error, and builds public trust.”

‘Climb With Patience, Look Up With Curiosity’

Concluding his address, Justice Nath encouraged graduates to meet the uncertainties of the profession with curiosity and discipline.

“No one begins at the summit. The view from the foothills is beautiful when you look up with curiosity and climb with patience,” he said.

He called upon them to pursue their chosen paths — be it litigation, corporate law, or judicial service — with imagination, grace, and a spirit of service.

“The world will test you,” he concluded, “but let it also enlarge you. Serve your country with confidence and kindness.”

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