Mere academic knowledge insufficient for lawyers, moot courts refine skills: Justice Nagarathna

Supreme Court Justice B V Nagarathna emphasized the importance of practical legal training in an address at a moot court event, highlighting that academic knowledge alone cannot fully prepare aspiring lawyers. She pointed out that moot courts play a crucial role in refining essential advocacy skills, including argumentation, legal reasoning, and courtroom etiquette, which are not adequately developed through theoretical study. Nagarathna also addressed the growing impact of artificial intelligence in the legal profession, acknowledging that AI tools can assist law students but cautioning against over-reliance on them. She warned of the risks posed by improper use of AI, such as fake citations and poor-quality legal drafting, which can undermine the integrity of the judiciary. Stressing the need for ethical standards in adopting new technologies, she urged law students and practitioners to balance AI’s potential benefits with their own critical thinking and human judgment. Furthermore, she encouraged active participation in pro-bono work to foster a sense of social responsibility within the legal community. Justice Nagarathna’s observations reflect the broader trend of integrating technology into law while maintaining high professional and ethical standards. Her advocacy for practical experience combined with cautious AI use is significant as the legal field adapts to modern challenges, reinforcing the importance of comprehensive training to produce competent, responsible lawyers.