Former Bombay High Court Judge Justice GS Patel Joins as Distinguished Professor of Practice at DM Harish School of Law

Former Bombay High Court Judge, (retd) Justice Gautam S Patel is slated to join DM Harish School of Law (HSNC University, Mumbai) as Distinguished Professor of Practice..This announcement was made by Anil Harish, President, HSNC Board on 13th July during the Opening Remarks in the Master Series lecture delivered by Justice Patel. Harish went on to divulge that Justice Patel has already thought of innovative teaching and learning programs..On 13th July 2024, the Worli campus of DM Harish School of Law, HSNC University, Mumbai buzzed with anticipation as students, faculty and legal enthusiasts gathered to partake in this lecture..The lecture was also attended by Dr. Hemlata K Bagla, Vice Chancellor, HSNC University, Mumbai, Dr. Bhagwan Balani, Registrar, HSNC University, Mumbai and Dr. Leena Pujari, Dean of Interdisciplinary Studies..Dr. Bagla highlighted the importance of the occasion, emphasising how such scholarly engagements are crucial in shaping the values of legal education.“...The addition of Justice Patel to the faculty of DMHSL brings immense prestige and insight to the law school. His vast experience and profound understanding of the legal landscape will undoubtedly enrich the academic environment, offering students invaluable learning opportunities. As Justice Patel embarks on this new chapter in his career, his presence at DMHSL is poised to inspire and empower the next generation of legal professionals. Under his guidance, students can look forward to gaining invaluable insights and honing their skills to become adept practitioners in the field of law,” Dr Bagla remarked..Justice Patel started the Master Lecture by posing questions on the fundamentals of Law - such as What is Law? Who makes the Law? What is Justice? He then moved on to the history of Law, the philosophical underpinnings of law, the relationship between Law and Justice and touched upon topics such as the difference between Civil and Criminal Substantive Law, dangers which lie ahead and expectations from a career in law. He also addressed the issue of ethical dilemmas faced by young law practitioners and underscored the importance of reading and storytelling in the practice of law. Justice Patel asserted,“There is one fundamental quality, that to my mind is most essential for any lawyer and that quality is empathy. You are in a unique position as a lawyer to be able to deal with the lives, property and businesses of other human beings. You must look at this and say to yourselves, that could be me.What would I have done in a situation like this? What would I look for? What would I need?".“You need to develop the habit of reading widely within and outside the law. Read everything because the tools of your trade here are words, language and you have to grasp, hold on tight, get better at what you can do with language. For those who wish to specialise in litigation, you need to be very good storytellers (sutradhar)”, Justice Patel added. “You stand up before the court and hold the attention of the court. I am not saying that you have to fictionalise or get into theatrics but you have to be able to tell your side of the story in the most compelling manner. Language, words and the ability to tell a compelling narrative are critical to the practice of advocacy”, Justice Patel emphasized..Justice Patel’s mastery of complex legal concepts and history of Law was evident as he intertwined them with compelling real-world examples. Drawing from his extensive experience on the bench, he brought legal precedents to life, offering invaluable insights into their practical application and broader significanceHe entreated the students,“Park your morality outside when you’re practising law. If you are a lawyer, you are not a Judge. This is the foundation of the justice system and the rule of law. You do not pre-judge the cause. That is not a lawyer’s job, the Judge decides guilt or innocence.”“If you are practising criminal law, never ever ask the ‘accused’ whether they are guilty or not guilty. The only question you ask the ‘accused’ is how do they want to plead. You have a duty to your client but you are also an officer of the court,” Justice Patel advised. .This appointment as a Distinguished Professor of Practice at DMHSL adds another dimension to Justice Patel's career reflecting his commitment to impart knowledge and expertise to aspiring legal minds and mentor them. .[Watch Lecture video]