Justice Rajan Roy: Courtroom Experience Is Where Real Legal Education Begins and Matures
In a compelling address to law students at Dr Rajendra Prasad National Law University in Prayagraj, Justice Rajan Roy of the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court delivered a powerful message about the essence of legal training. Speaking under the university's 'Beyond Judgments' initiative on Wednesday, Justice Roy asserted that the real education of a lawyer does not end in the classroom but truly begins and matures inside the courtroom.
From Law Student to Judge: A Journey of Discipline and Observation
Reflecting on his own professional journey from a law student at Lucknow University to his current position on the Bench, Justice Roy credited his seniors at the Bar for instilling crucial values. He emphasized that discipline, humility, and the art of keen observation were foundational lessons learned from experienced practitioners. Sharing a personal anecdote, Justice Roy revealed that practising arguments before a mirror on his grandfather's advice helped him build confidence and clarity—habits that later proved invaluable during actual court proceedings.
The Shift from Advocacy to Adjudication: Rising Above Partisanship
Justice Roy provided insightful observations on the transition from being a lawyer to becoming a judge. He noted that while a lawyer argues from a partisan position, advocating for a client's interests, a judge must rise above all sides and function strictly within constitutional boundaries. Judicial independence, he stressed, stems from inner strength, particularly in an era characterized by intense social media scrutiny and instant public opinion. He firmly stated that decisions must be delivered without fear or favour, guided solely by constitutional values and legal principles.
Anchoring Judgments in Facts, Evidence, and Law
On the critical topic of integrity in judicial reasoning, Justice Roy underlined that judgments must be firmly anchored in facts, evidence, and applicable law. He cautioned that judicial decisions must remain uninfluenced by emotions or external pressures. Referring to socially sensitive issues, including caste-based political mobilisation, he explained that courts must carefully balance social realities with constitutional discipline. He emphasized the importance of respecting the functional limits of the legislature and executive branches of government.
Addressing Access to Justice Challenges in Uttar Pradesh
Highlighting significant concerns over access to justice in large states like Uttar Pradesh, Justice Roy pointed to the persistently low judge-to-population ratio as a major obstacle. He called for a multi-faceted approach to reform, including:
- Increased appointments of judges to fill vacancies and expand the judiciary
- Stronger alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to reduce case backlogs
- Effective case filtering systems to prioritize genuine legal matters
- Strict action against frivolous litigation that clogs the judicial system
Technology in Judiciary: Benefits and Reservations
While acknowledging that digitization and video conferencing have significantly improved transparency and access to justice, Justice Roy expressed reservations about the use of artificial intelligence in judicial decision-making. He suggested that while technology can enhance efficiency, the human elements of judgment, empathy, and constitutional interpretation remain irreplaceable in the judicial process.
Advice to Aspiring Lawyers: Values Over Wealth
In his concluding remarks to the young law students, Justice Roy urged future lawyers to remain grounded in ethical values. He emphasized that the philosophy of life must prevail over the philosophy of money, reminding them that the legal profession carries profound responsibilities toward society and justice. His message reinforced the idea that true success in law comes not from financial gain but from upholding justice, integrity, and constitutional principles.
