What Are You Doing In Law School?

A seminar by Dato' Kevin Joshua

"What are you doing here?", he asked foremost. The hall went silent; nothing to be surprised of. As the Dato went on with his sharing, he reminded us of a few things to bear in mind.

Rule #1 the profession is not A R R O G A N T

The legal profession is the absence of pride. Pridefulness, so to say should not be present towards your client nor the court. Pride in the courtroom will not bring you forward but certainly downwards.

Rule #2 never C H E A T nor be D I S H O N E S T

Only to abide by the standards of proof, the defence shall raise reasonable doubts. Dishonesty to protect the client's interest is not a lawyer's duty.

Rule #3 choose the right L A W  F I R M

Advocacy can't be studied. It must be learnt from the master - "Master koyak, you also koyak." 😂

Never argue against the judge; persuade him and beg to differ on your stance. 

Rule #4 discharge yourself from E M O T I O N S

Bad character will spread.

Etiquette in Court is important. He gave an illustration should the counsel need to head to the washroom, he ought to put it to the judge like so: "We wonder if the court would like a recess". It is at the judge's discretion to stand down the case. 

Rule #5 never go to court U N P R E P A R E D

You may be negligent even in pupillage if you don't know the file cover to cover.

Problem in pupils of today's age? Ego and pride of pupillage students.

a. Partying and doing nonsense
b. Drunk driving
c. Being late or intoxicated to court

He presented the infamous "Ice cube theory" - different shapes but essentially water. They are shaped the way they are because of the mould surrounding water. In his words, "watch your surroundings."

What will kill you during legal profession.
1. Clients
2. Fellow lawyers

To be a good lawyer, you must be able to present - you must be able to speak. (An Honest Lawyer - 1st virtue: Command of Language)

Dato Kevin Joshua further stressed that,           E T H I C S  &  A D V O C A C Y is prima.

When you study study in preparation to become a lawyer, the first seven years will be painful; but it will be worth it.

There is much to admire about Dato Kevin, at his age has accomplished what many (aspiring) legal practitioners would consider successful, though the liability is high being an advisor to three Ruler of the State. Nevertheless, "it's all worth it".