Justice Sandeep Mehta, Judge of the Supreme Court, addressed the graduating law students at the 17th Convocation of the National Law University, Jodhpur, highlighting the legal profession as more than just a career—it is a sacred duty to uphold justice, equality, and the rule of law, which forms the foundation of democracy. He emphasized the diverse career paths within the legal domain, including courtroom advocacy, corporate law, the judiciary, public service, academia, and further legal studies. Regardless of the chosen path, he reminded students that excellence and integrity should always be their guiding principles.
Acknowledging that fear and failure are integral to the legal profession, Justice Mehta explained that setbacks are a natural part of any career. In litigation, young lawyers may face judicial rejection, lost cases, and difficult clients. In corporate law, negotiations may fail, contracts may fall apart, and strategies may not yield desired results. In academia, research may face rejection, scrutiny, and intellectual challenges.
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These experiences, he stated, are not obstacles but essential elements of a legal career. Sharing from his own experiences, he noted that failures can either break an individual or serve as a stepping stone to greatness. The key to success, he advised, is analyzing setbacks objectively, refining strategies, and continuously striving for improvement.
Justice Mehta also highlighted the importance of significant firsts in a legal career. The first court appearance, first legal argument, first judgment in one’s favor, and even the first rejection are crucial moments that shape a lawyer’s journey. These experiences extend beyond courtrooms. The first salary, regardless of the amount, represents professional worth, while the first client’s trust is a sign of validation. The first successful negotiation or the first drafted legislation contributes to the broader legal framework. He shared a personal anecdote, recalling the first Rs.500 note he earned in 1992, which he still treasures as a symbol of his beginnings in the profession.
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Integrity and social responsibility, he stressed, must remain at the heart of every legal professional’s career. He reminded students that behind every bail argument stands a person whose liberty is at stake. Upholding ethical integrity, committing to social justice, and engaging in pro bono work should not be afterthoughts but fundamental responsibilities of the legal profession.The convocation ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Bhajanlal Sharma, the State Minister of Law & Legal Affairs, Jogaram Patel, Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court and Chancellor of NLUJ, Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, and Vice-Chancellor of NLUJ, Dr. Harpreet Kaur.
In his concluding remarks, Justice Mehta encouraged graduates to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth, uphold integrity in their professional endeavors, and commit themselves to serving society. He emphasized that the ability to rise after failure, maintain dedication to excellence, and contribute meaningfully to society will define their success as legal professionals. "Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow," he advised, leaving the students with a powerful message of perseverance and purpose.
