The Brave Pedestrian

CORRUPTION OF FACE-VALUE: Anybody who has been to court knows that a "bada vakil" can do what a "chhota vakil" cannot i.e. favourably influence judges and cow down opposing lawyers of lesser stature. As humans, we are awestruck and bedazzled by those with who are more wealthy. Judges, being human, put senior counsels on a pedestal, and treat relatively junior lawyers like dirt. So, if you can only afford to engage an ordinary lawyer, while the other side has engaged Jethmalani, Singhvi, Jaitley etc, then God help you! Like  ·  Comment  ·  Share

Knowledgeable court insiders understand that the merits of your case are of little importance. Their first question is, "Who is appearing for you?" Their second question is, "You are before which bench?" Third question: "Who is appearing for the other side?" Based on your replies to these questions, they sometimes shake their head in sympathy for you. "No chance, you will be dismissed," they say sadly, without even looking at your prayers, interim reliefs sought and case laws cited. Surprisingly, their predictions are quite accurate. Why is this so? Let us understand. Like  ·  Comment  ·  Share