Learning From Fali. S. Nariman For A Lawyer

Fali.S.Nariman does not need any introduction but just for the sake of formality I feel privileged to give a brief  introduction that he is internationally admired and respected lawyer who started his legal practice in the year 1950 from Mumbai High Court and thereafter as he keep on growing in the filed of law and hold several prestigious posts  and awards such as additional solicitor general of India, Chairman of International Council of Commercial Arbitration, member of International Commission of Jurist, President LAWASIA and Bar Association of India and many more. He was awarded by the ‘Padma Vibhushan’ and Padma Bhushan’ and became the member of Rajya Sabha in 1999. He has handled many ‘most talked about’ cases like Bhopal Gas tragedy case,  Golknath and Keshwanand Bharti case and  many more.

I have just completed his  autobiography  ‘Before Memory Fades’  published by Hey Publication. This book is of 460 pages and worth reading for every legal professional. Every page contain a hidden message. As you read page by page about the development and discussion of Fali.S.Nariman, every time the reader find a connection with the development of life . It is really interesting that how a law student became the  most sought after legal professional  of the country and traveled the political circles of not only in India but in the international scenario. Though, the every page of the book has some thing unique to say but I can only quote the learning which may be useful for a  lawyer or upcoming legal professional from this book. I am sharing my few learning out of this book as below:-

1. Legal Opinions should be honest and responsible : Don’t give any opinion just for the sake of monetary or other benefits. It will help a lawyer to build an image of trustworthiness among his client and colleague.

2. Avoid over use of ‘case law’ : Fali mention it as ‘ Case law diarrohea’.

3. Clear & Spontaneous : Argument should be with highest degree of clarity and be spontaneous to answer the court’s question.

4. Update the Knowledge : Be updated on latest legal developments, judgments and reports.

5. Reverse Spiral : Simple rule  ‘Less inclination less work and more inclination for work, more the work  will follow’ and it goes vice versa as well. Be occupied either by work or in the study.

6. Eye & Ear : Have good eyesight and good hearing so that any misunderstanding  can be avoided.

7. Be Calm and have patience : Loosing temper on a Judge is battle half lost.

8. Avoid cheap publicity : Media interviews and new paper alcoholisms on the case you are handling

9. Respect Judiciary : Be courteous to courts and  stop criticizing judges and seniors on their back. Judges are also human being having more capability to control their emotions.

10. Avoid false and incorrect statement in the court.

11. Lose with dignity : Don’t be panic while losing a case. The genuine point will be heard by court  some day.

12. Old age : If you are too old to practice, take rest and guide the younger. Old advocate are precious assets for legal fraternity.

There are several other points which Fali has narrated in length in this book. By my experience ( the little I have), It is advisable to read the entire book for every law professional to get inspiration and  development of professional virtues.

Regards

Ambrish