Law students find themselves puzzled about the requirements of industry and the courses they are being taught in colleges. But a recent conversation with industry experts raises the curtain of uncertainty. Law firm experts believe that students may not be industry-ready from day one. While they are expected to make mistakes, industry and law firms are ready for it. But what they do expect from them is to be curious and excited to learn and tackle the challenges. Experts put these views in a conclave-themed ‘Law School to Law Firm: Navigating the Learning Curve.’
Pooja Mahajan, Managing Partner of Chandiok and Mahajan Advocates and Solicitors said, “I don’t expect students to be industry-ready from day one. I advise them to be open to learning. First six months or years just learn and learn.”
She further states what the industry expects from a fresher is ethical behaviour. Panelists said that the profession of law consumes time. So, someone passionate is needed in the industry. Anyone who does not have a dream to be a lawyer will not be an asset to the profession and the industry.
There is a common perception among students that they should know everything so they may grab the attention of the firms. But Ishani Chandra, Managing Partner of Sagar Chandra & Associates believes that it is fine to admit not having the answer to a particular problem. She said, “Students should be open to learning. It is the same as interning but as an associate, you are expected to have responsibility. It's right to say I don’t have every answer.”
All the panel members talked about adaptability. They believe adaptability is a sole and core principle that may lead to a fresher future. Jyoti Kumar Chowdhary, Partner of Hammurabi & Solomon Partners said, “A fresher comes with raw learning. So, adaptability is important. Orientation and induction programs help in it. Associates and general rule book helps in it.”
In the response about other add-on courses for law students, Pooja Mahajan talked about three things. “At the end of the day, law is nothing but common sense. So students must skilled in simple drafting. It’s a skill set they need to develop. And the second thing is the basic understanding of finance. The third one is to have good research skills,” added Pooja Mahajan, Managing Partner of Chandiok and Mahajan Advocates and Solicitors.
The experts even emphasised the wise use of AI tools. “There have been cases where lawyers have used chat GTP where are fictitious cases. AI, use it enjoy it but don’t depend on it and do crosscheck,” Ishani Chandra said.
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