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While Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s concern about the declining interest of young lawyers in public interest law is valid, the fear of an impending crisis may be somewhat unfounded. The shifting focus of young legal minds toward corporate law firms or alternative career paths does not necessarily signal the end of public interest law or its ability to attract competent and passionate lawyers. In fact, there are several reasons why this trend should not be viewed as cause for alarm.
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Evolution of Legal Careers and Market Demand
The legal profession, like any other, evolves with time. Young lawyers moving into the corporate sector is not a new phenomenon; it’s a natural progression as the legal market itself grows and diversifies. Corporate law, with its promise of financial stability and career growth, offers significant appeal, particularly to those who wish to build a strong career in a globalized economy. However, this does not mean that public interest law will be left unattended. The reality is that the legal industry, including the corporate sector, is always in need of litigation experts to represent clients, whether they are individuals, organizations, or even corporations.
Corporate law firms, too, require skilled litigators and advocates to handle disputes, regulatory challenges, and corporate governance issues. Thus, even as young lawyers migrate towards corporate law, there will always be a parallel need for skilled lawyers in litigation, arbitration, and regulatory matters—areas in which public interest lawyers often shine. The gaps left in public interest law will likely be filled, as new generations of lawyers rise to the occasion, driven by both the changing social dynamics and the continuing relevance of justice-oriented work.
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The Supply of Lawyers Will Adjust Naturally
The argument that there will be a dearth of competent public interest lawyers because of the shift to corporate law overlooks the adaptive nature of the legal profession. The gap in public interest law, if any, is likely to be temporary. As opportunities in corporate law rise, new waves of lawyers will continue to emerge from diverse backgrounds, including those motivated by social justice, human rights, and the welfare of marginalized communities. The legal field is not static; it is shaped by both individual career aspirations and societal needs.
Moreover, the inherent values of justice, equality, and the public good continue to inspire many law students to pursue public interest work, despite the financial allure of corporate firms. This can be seen in the increasing number of young lawyers joining legal aid organizations, human rights groups, and social justice advocacy centers. Over time, this new crop of lawyers will more than adequately fill any gaps in the representation of the public, as long as the right conditions and incentives are in place.
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A Healthy Balance of Public Interest and Corporate Law
The notion that the rise of corporate law practitioners somehow leaves the common man without a voice is an oversimplification of the situation. Public interest law is not solely dependent on the number of lawyers willing to enter the field. It is also a matter of the infrastructure and opportunities available within the judicial system. If there is a real societal need for lawyers to represent marginalized groups, the supply of such lawyers will grow, regardless of corporate competition.
The reality is that both corporate law and public interest law can coexist and benefit society in complementary ways. Corporate lawyers handle important matters related to economic growth, business disputes, and governance, while public interest lawyers focus on issues of equity, human rights, and justice for the underprivileged. The legal profession does not require a singular focus; it thrives on diversity of practice areas. Just as there is a demand for corporate lawyers to advocate for businesses, there will always be a need for litigators who focus on social justice, human rights, and public policy.
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The Role of Public Interest Law in Advancing Social Change
The statement assumes that corporate law will dominate to such an extent that public interest law will lose its importance. However, this overlooks the reality that public interest law often serves as a catalyst for significant social change. Landmark judgments, public interest litigations, and advocacy on issues such as environmental protection, human rights, and the rights of marginalized communities often come from a robust public interest law community.
Despite the growing trend of young lawyers entering the corporate sector, there remains a deep reservoir of legal talent committed to social causes. Institutions such as the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), public defenders’ offices, and various pro bono organizations continue to attract passionate young lawyers who want to make a tangible difference. While the corporate sector is undoubtedly lucrative, it is not the only arena in which talented lawyers can excel or make an impact. Public interest law, while challenging and often underfunded, can still provide opportunities for impactful careers that shape the very fabric of Indian society.
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Corporate Lawyers Can Still Contribute to Public Interest Work
The growing trend of young lawyers entering corporate law does not mean they are abandoning social causes. In fact, many corporate lawyers contribute significantly to public interest work through pro bono efforts, public policy advocacy, and participation in social justice causes. Corporate law firms increasingly recognize their social responsibility, and many are establishing pro bono programs to support public interest cases. This duality allows young lawyers to balance both lucrative careers in the corporate sector and their commitment to societal causes.
As the Indian legal profession grows more sophisticated, the lines between private practice and public service will continue to blur. Young lawyers working in corporate firms today might still be instrumental in driving legal reforms, supporting human rights campaigns, or taking on public interest litigations in their free time.
Conclusion
While the Chief Justice’s concerns about the declining interest in public interest law are understandable, the assumption that this will lead to an irreversible gap in legal representation for the common citizen is likely exaggerated. The legal profession in India, particularly in the litigation space, is vast and dynamic. Lawyers are driven by a range of motivations, from financial incentives to a deep commitment to public service. The market for legal talent is robust, and the rise of corporate law practitioners will not stifle the growth or relevance of public interest law.
Young lawyers will continue to rise to the occasion and address the legal needs of society. The gap, if any, will not remain for long. As the legal landscape adapts, the profession will ensure that public interest law continues to thrive, nurtured by a new generation of passionate advocates who understand its significance in shaping a just and equitable society.
(Mohan Murti, FICA, Advocate & Corporate Laws Advisor, International Industry Arbitrator, Former Managing Director-Europe, Reliance industries Ltd, Germany )
These pieces are being published as they have been received – they have not been edited/fact-checked by ThePrint