CJI Surya Kant to Young Lawyers: Look at Law as a Long Journey Based on Integrity and Ethics, Not Instant Success or Shortcuts.
Law Is Not a Sprint, but a Lifelong Journey: CJI Surya Kant’s Message
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant recently left a soul-stirring message for young lawyers and legal students that suggested the fact that law is not all about instant success and quick fame, but it takes real investment in integrity, grind, and continuous learning.
His words of advice and warning to the younger generation are now coming into a demanding and competitive profession.
Law Requires Patience, Not Hurry
Law is not a short race in which the swift can take the lead—rather, as the Chief Justice underscored, law finds value through process from conflict and compromise. Instead, it’s a long slog in which the progress comes gradually. The lawyers have the pressure to fit in soon, but he told them that slow starts are normal and even necessary at this stage of a legal career.
The hours you spend watching in court, reading cases, and testing courtroom processes are a strong base that can’t be hurried.
Integrity Is the Marrow of the Legal Profession
Surya Kant CJI Surya Kant: Integrity is not dispensable in law; it’s imperative. The reputation of a lawyer is made up by candor in the presentation of facts, fairness in dealings with opposing parties and counsel, and good faith toward the court.
Success not built around integrity is short-lived, but a career built upon a good name is respected and trusted—and that is far more important than short-term victories.
Don’t Look for Shortcuts; Embrace the Process
He warned the young professionals not to get swayed by shortcuts, publicity, or speedy results. The legal community rewards those who honor the process, plan well, and stay persistent.
True professional growth comes from:
- disciplined preparation
- respect for court procedures
- steady improvement over time
Not from shortcuts or prioritizing appearances over substance.
Learning Never Ends in Law
CJI Surya Kant advised young lawyers to remember that getting a degree is just the start. Real education happens on the job, with actual clients and evolving legal problems.
Each case, whether it ends in victory or loss, adds experience, insight, and maturity.
Redefine Success in the Legal Profession
The Chief Justice urged young lawyers to rethink what “success” really means. While wealth and recognition have value, they must not come at the expense of conscience.
Real success, he said, lies in:
- standing by principles
- serving justice honestly
- maintaining self-respect throughout one’s career
This kind of success builds lasting credibility and fulfillment.
Why This Message Matters Today
At a time when legal practice grows increasingly competitive, tech-driven, and influenced by public pressure for quick outcomes, CJI Surya Kant’s advice reminds us that the strength of justice rests on the character of its lawyers.
By choosing patience over haste and integrity over shortcuts, young lawyers can make a meaningful impact on both the profession and society.
Conclusion
Chief Justice Surya Kant’s message is timeless and clear:
Law is not about how fast you rise, but how firmly you stand.
Young lawyers who embrace patience, ethics, and continuous learning follow not just wise counsel — but the path to a respected and fulfilling career.
