Madras High Court Chief Justice Calls for Timely Justice and Ethical Advocacy
In a significant address at the 15th convocation of the Tamil Nadu Dr Ambedkar Law University in Chennai, Madras High Court Chief Justice M M Shrivastava highlighted the critical issue of delays in legal proceedings, stressing that such hold-ups undermine public trust in the judiciary. He urged legal practitioners to conscientiously avoid unnecessary delays to ensure timely delivery of justice.
Challenges in the Legal System
Chief Justice Shrivastava pointed out the immense challenge posed by the large number of pending cases in courts, coupled with limited judicial infrastructure and manpower. He reiterated the adage "justice delayed is justice denied," emphasizing that timely resolution is essential for maintaining the credibility of the legal system. With thousands of cases awaiting attention, he called on lawyers to play a proactive role in streamlining processes and reducing backlogs.
Ethical Responsibilities of Legal Practitioners
Explaining the duties and responsibilities of lawyers to the graduating students, Justice Shrivastava stated that legal practitioners have a profound obligation not only to their clients but also to the justice system and their colleagues. He underscored that these responsibilities are fundamental to preserving the integrity, credibility, and effectiveness of the legal framework. Lawyers must act as officers of the court, assisting in reaching just and proper decisions by presenting facts honestly and avoiding any misleading tactics.
Key Ethical Guidelines Outlined:- Present facts truthfully without withholding evidence.
- Exercise advocacy within ethical boundaries, avoiding deception, coercion, or unfair practices.
- Engage in pro bono work to provide legal services to those unable to afford representation.
Convocation Highlights and Distinguished Presence
The convocation was presided over by Governor R N Ravi, with a total of 16,571 students graduating, including 38 PhD scholars. Justice V Bharathidasan, convener of the Vice-Chancellor convenor committee, presented a detailed report on the university's achievements and progress. The event served as a platform to instill ethical values and a sense of duty in the next generation of legal professionals, reinforcing the importance of upholding justice in society.
Chief Justice Shrivastava's remarks come at a time when the legal community faces increasing scrutiny over case backlogs and procedural inefficiencies. By advocating for ethical conduct and timely action, he aims to strengthen public confidence and ensure that the legal system remains a pillar of fairness and reliability.
