In a strategic move aimed at enhancing the employability and career prospects of law graduates, universities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are set to revamp their legal programmes.
The initiative comes as part of ongoing efforts to align academic curricula with the evolving needs of the legal industry and ensure that graduates are equipped with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel in their careers.
The decision to overhaul legal programmes was reached during a recent meeting between representatives from the Ministry of Education and leading law firms in the UAE. The gathering served as a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration between academia and industry stakeholders to identify key areas for improvement and devise actionable strategies to bridge the gap between theory and practice in legal education.
Commenting on the initiative, Dr Fatima Al Nuaimi, Assistant Undersecretary for Academic Affairs at the Ministry of Education, underscored the ministry's commitment to fostering excellence in legal education.
"As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education programs, we are collaborating closely with law firms and other industry partners to ensure that our legal programs are aligned with the needs of the legal profession," said Dr Al Nuaimi.
"By revamping our legal curricula, we aim to empower law graduates with the skills, competencies, and practical experience needed to thrive in today's dynamic legal landscape," she added.
Representatives from leading law firms echoed the ministry's sentiments, emphasising the importance of academic-industry collaboration in shaping the future of legal education.
"The legal profession is constantly evolving, and it is essential for academic institutions to adapt their programmes to reflect the changing demands of the industry," said Vaisak Unnikrishnan, Senior Legal Associate at NYK Law Firm, one of the top legal consultants in UAE. "By working closely with universities, we can ensure that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the legal profession and contribute meaningfully to the legal community."
Key areas identified for enhancement include practical skills development, experiential learning opportunities and specialised training in emerging areas of law such as technology, intellectual property and alternative dispute resolution.
Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving and ethical reasoning skills among students to equip them with a well-rounded foundation for success in the legal field.
Moving forward, stakeholders are committed to ongoing collaboration and dialogue to implement the proposed reforms and monitor their effectiveness in improving the quality and relevance of legal education in the UAE.
By harnessing the collective expertise and insights of academia and industry, the aim is to empower law graduates with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their legal careers and make meaningful contributions to society.
(The writer is a legal associate at NYK Law Firm, one of the top legal consultants in Dubai)
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A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) petition filed in the Supreme Court seeks directions to introduce a three-year law degree course after school.
Currently, the LLB course, which students can pursue after completing their 12th standard, has a duration of five years. The three-year law degree course is presently available only to graduates.
Advocate Ashwini Upadhyay, in the petition, argues that the five-year duration for the LLB course is "unreasonable and irrational."
He requests the Centre and Bar Council of India to form an Expert Committee to evaluate the feasibility of commencing a three-year
Bachelor of Law course after the 12th standard, similar to Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Arts courses.
The petitioner contends that students can comfortably cover 15-20 subjects in three years (six semesters).
Therefore, the current five-year duration (10 semesters) for the Bachelor of Law Course is deemed unreasonable, arbitrary, and violates Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, he argues.
"The undue five-year time span is arbitrary and irrational for several reasons. Firstly, this length of time is unnecessary for conferring a Bachelor's degree; secondly, the extended period of five years is unsuitable for students; thirdly, the five-year duration is disproportionate to the study of law; and fourthly, it imposes an excessive financial burden on students to complete such a lengthy degree," the petition stated.
The petitioner highlights that reducing the duration to three years would allow students to gain an additional two years of court practice experience.
Referring to examples like Ram Jethmalani, who started law practice at age 18, and Fali S. Nariman, who completed his law degree at age 21, the petitioner questions why the youth of the country should "waste" two additional years in college instead of commencing their profession in their early twenties.
The petitioner respectfully submits that if colleges can confer Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Science degrees immediately after the 12th standard in three years, then it should be feasible to grant a Bachelor of Law degree in the same timeframe.
Students do not require a Bachelor of Arts degree to gain preliminary knowledge of law. Therefore, why should students be compelled to spend an additional two years obtaining it?
The petitioner requests the court to expedite a decision since admissions for the new courses are commencing in May-June.
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Starting a career in law in the UAE presents a multitude of opportunities for professional growth and advancement. However, embarking on this journey requires meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of the specific requirements and pathways available in the UAE.
This article aims to offer aspiring lawyers a detailed roadmap on how to initiate their legal careers in the UAE.
Attain the Required Credentials
Academic Qualifications: The initial step towards becoming a lawyer in the UAE involves obtaining a law degree from a recognised and accredited institution. This may entail completing an undergraduate degree in law followed by a postgraduate qualification such as a Master of Laws (LLM) or Diploma in Legal Practice.
Practical Training: Following the completion of their academic qualifications, aspiring lawyers in the UAE must undergo practical legal training through a recognised training programme or apprenticeship under the guidance of a qualified lawyer or law firm.
Secure Bar Admission
Bar Examination: Aspiring lawyers in the UAE are required to pass the bar exam administered by the relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Justice or the local bar association. The bar exam evaluates candidates' understanding of legal principles, procedures and ethical standards.
Licensing: Upon successful completion of the bar exam, candidates must apply for a license to practice law in the UAE. This typically involves submitting an application, along with necessary documents and fees, to the appropriate regulatory body.
Select Your Area of Expertise
Legal Field: The legal sector in the UAE provides a diverse array of practice areas, such as corporate law, litigation, real estate, family law, and more. Prospective lawyers should carefully assess their interests, strengths and career objectives before deciding on a specialisation.
Continuing Education: To remain competitive in their chosen field of practice, lawyers in the UAE should actively pursue continuous professional development opportunities, such as seminars, workshops, and further education programmes.
Expand Your Professional Connections
Networking: Establishing relationships within the legal community is crucial for career growth in the UAE. Lawyers can enhance their professional network and create new opportunities by attending legal gatherings, becoming members of professional organisations, and engaging in networking events.
Mentorship: Seeking guidance and mentorship from seasoned legal professionals can offer valuable insights and assistance to early-career lawyers as they navigate the legal landscape in the UAE.
Uphold Ethical Values
Professional Behaviour: Maintaining ethical standards and upholding integrity are fundamental for lawyers practicing in the UAE. Adhering to principles of professionalism, confidentiality and honesty in dealings with clients, peers and the judiciary is essential.
Embarking on a legal career in the UAE demands dedication, resilience, and a commitment to continuous growth and learning.
By acquiring the necessary qualifications, gaining bar admission, selecting a specialization, expanding professional connections, and upholding ethical standards, aspiring lawyers can establish a solid foundation for a successful and rewarding legal career in the vibrant and diverse legal environment of the UAE.
(The writer is a legal associate at Dubai-based NYK Law Firm)
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Law transcends mere argumentation; it embodies a commitment to societal betterment, advocating for justice, safeguarding human rights and amplifying the voices of the marginalised.
Within its expansive realm lie diverse specialisations like criminal law, corporate law, and intellectual property law, each offering avenues to enact positive change.
Beyond its reputation for prestige and financial reward, a career in law presents multifaceted opportunities for professional fulfillment and social impact. This article delves into why embarking on a legal career can represent a holistic path towards achieving both personal success and meaningful societal influence.
Contributing to Social Change through Legal Practice
According to a widely held belief, "The legal profession is a noble calling." It's a vocation with the power to make a profound impact on society. Lawyers and legal experts can actively shape public policy, advocate for social equity and aid those who require assistance.
In recent times, there has been a growing inclination towards providing pro bono legal services. Many law firms and practitioners now offer their expertise either at no cost or at reduced rates to individuals and groups unable to afford legal representation. This initiative has proven especially vital amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, wherein many have faced legal challenges concerning health, employment, and accessing governmental assistance.
Multitude of Advantages
A law degree offers a multitude of advantages for those willing to invest in the rigorous pursuit of legal expertise. Here are several compelling benefits:
Financial Security: Delving into a legal career often leads to substantial financial stability. Lawyers typically command high salaries, affording them the ability to make wise investments and plan for a secure future.
Job Stability: The demand for legal services ensures a steady stream of employment opportunities, whether within law firms, corporate entities, or government agencies. This inherent job security alleviates concerns about professional stability.
Personal Fulfillment: Lawyers have the unique opportunity to effect positive change in society. Whether advocating for justice, facilitating business operations, or safeguarding intellectual property rights, they contribute significantly to societal betterment, fostering a profound sense of purpose.
Continuous Professional Development:The legal landscape is ever-evolving, necessitating ongoing learning and growth for practitioners. Staying abreast of legal developments ensures continual professional advancement and fulfillment.
Mastery of Persuasion: Proficiency in rhetoric is paramount in law, where the ability to persuasively articulate arguments often dictates case outcomes and negotiation results. Effective communication skills not only enhance courtroom performance but also foster robust client relationships and facilitate successful negotiations.
In essence, a law degree not only equips individuals with legal acumen but also cultivates invaluable skills and attributes essential for personal and professional success in diverse contexts.
Navigating Success in the Legal Field
In the realm of law, various avenues lead to success, each with its distinct advantages and prospects.
Advocacy: Becoming an advocate stands as the quintessential path to success. Advocates represent clients in legal matters, offering counsel and representation. Attaining a law degree is a prerequisite for this role, followed by passing the bar exam to practice law as an advocate.
Their expertise spans diverse legal domains such as corporate, criminal, family and intellectual property law. Advocacy affords the chance to tackle intricate legal issues, substantial earning potential and the opportunity to effect positive change in society
Legal Consultancy: Legal consultancy entails providing specialized guidance to clients on legal matters, sans courtroom representation. These professionals operate across diverse sectors like finance, healthcare, and technology, aiding businesses in legal compliance and risk mitigation strategies.
Whether working independently or within consulting firms, legal consultants relish flexible schedules, opportunities across industries, and significant earning prospects.
Judiciary: Judges, as public officials, preside over legal proceedings in courts at various levels, including apex, state, and local courts. Endowed with the authority to interpret laws, adjudicate legal matters and enforce court orders, judges wield significant influence in upholding justice and fairness.
Alternative Career Options for Law Graduates
Beyond venturing into and establishing a career within the traditional realm of law, law graduates possess a myriad of opportunities extending beyond conventional legal practice. Here are some alternative career pathways for law graduates:
Legal Journalism: Legal journalists delve into legal developments and issues, analysing and presenting them to the public in a comprehensible manner. They work across various media platforms, including newspapers, magazines, television, and online news outlets.
Government Service: Law graduates can contribute to various government agencies such as the Department of Justice, Civil Services, Securities and Exchange Commission, etc. They may serve as legal counsel, policy analysts, or investigators.
Law Officer: Law graduates can also serve as Law Officers in institutions and companies, applying their legal knowledge to address employment law matters such as discrimination, workplace harassment, and employee benefits.
Compliance Officer: Compliance officers ensure companies adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, encompassing environmental laws, privacy laws, and financial regulations. Mediation and Dispute
Resolution: Law graduates can work as mediators or arbitrators to facilitate dispute resolution outside of court settings. They may operate within private firms or governmental entities.
Legal Technology: Law graduates can contribute to the legal technology sector, aiding in the development of software and systems that streamline legal processes and enhance access to legal information.
Academic and Research: Law graduates can pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, conducting studies on various legal topics and contributing to legal scholarship.
Non-profit Organisations: Law graduates can engage with non-profit organisations advocating for diverse social, environmental, or human rights causes, leveraging their legal expertise to further the organisation's objectives.
Embarking on a legal career offers a promising avenue for success. Whether driven by personal fulfillment or professional advancement, the legal field offers avenues to achieve one's aspirations.
Furthermore, by choosing to pursue a legal profession, individuals can utilise their skills to effect positive change in society, champion justice, and amplify the voices of the marginalised. Take the initial stride towards a rewarding legal career by applying to top-tier law universities/colleges, initiating a fulfilling journey ahead.
(The writer is a legal associate at Dubai-based NYK Law Firm)
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Legal luminary Shardul S. Shroff, Executive Chairman of the renowned Indian law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, was conferred with the prestigious 'Honoris Causa Doctorate in Law' by Amity University, Haryana at the 10th convocation of the university.
The recognition celebrates Shardul Shroff's remarkable contributions to the legal landscape, spanning decades of excellence in practice, thought leadership, and shaping the future of the legal profession.
The doctorate was presented to him by Honourable Chancellor Dr Aseem Chauhan and Vice-Chancellor Prof. PB Sharma of Amity University.
The convocation ceremony was attended by over 1500 bright young minds, the graduands who were conferred upon UG, PG, and PhD degrees in Engineering, Applied Sciences, Life Sciences, Allied Medical Sciences, Management, Liberal Arts, and Law.
In his acceptance speech, Shardul Shroff said: “I am deeply grateful to Amity University for this singular honor conferred on me. It is my responsibility to maintain and enhance the standards applied to such selection for awarding me the Doctorate in Law.”
Coveted Career
Shardul Shroff is a much sought-after legal expert by both the government and private corporations for advisory and representation on high-stake matters related to insolvency and bankruptcy proceedings, mergers and acquisitions, securities law, government regulations, disinvestment, and capital markets.
He regularly represents high-profile clients before the National Law Company Tribunal and the Securities and Exchange Board of India.
Shardul also has an extensive practice in bank loan recovery actions, debt reconstruction proceedings before the Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction (BIFR), asset reconstruction, and securitisation under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act, 2002 (the SARFAESI Act).
He has been a member of the Insolvency Law Committee formed by the Government of India to review the implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. He was also a member of the high-powered Committee to review decriminalisation of offenses under the Companies Act and the Committee on Cross-Border Insolvency.
As a thought leader in the legal domain, Shardul has been consistently rated as a leading corporate lawyer by several international fora and publications, including Who’s Who Legal, Asialaw, Chambers and Partners, Legal 500, Euromoney, International Financial Law Review (IFLR), and more.
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