Written by AJ Rodriguez/THE RED CHRONICLES; Layout by Quimberly Ranchez/THE RED CHRONICLES
As the new semester beckons, the seeds of legal passion are sown in the hallowed halls of San Beda College Alabang School of Law (SBCA-SOL). Though our medium is still mostly online, enthusiastic students embark on their legal education journeys, brimming with dreams of courtrooms, eloquent arguments, and unending quests for justice. However, as aspiring lawyers tread the path from academia to the world of legal practice, our journey reveals nuances beyond the textbooks. This article will delve into the initial impressions and experiences of law students compared to the stark realities of legal practice in the Philippines.
As law students, the classroom is our playground of ideals, where discussions of the law, legal doctrines & principles, and jurisprudence fill our minds. But stepping into the legal arena shows that the law is more than just words—it is a living, evolving entity intertwined with the very fabric of society. Transitioning from textbooks to tangible cases requires more than just academic prowess. An effective legal education such as what we are getting from the SBCA-SOL underscores the essence of bridging theory and practice, presenting insights into how students can embrace the complexities of actual legal situations while drawing from their educational foundations.
The landscape of Philippine law is vast and varied, offering numerous specializations that cater to different passions and societal needs. Through interviews with legal professionals, The Red Chronicles (TRC) explores the diverse terrains of legal practice, highlighting the unique challenges, opportunities, and surprises each field holds. It provides law students with a roadmap for navigating this multifaceted journey. It begins with honing our communication skills in written and oral, developing the ability to understand situations, spotting the issues and creating practical solutions to many real-world controversies, finding the right mentor and learning from those who came before us, and determining what the objective measure of success is for us as law students, and eventually, law practitioners.
While courtroom theatrics are often glorified in media, the legal world extends far beyond these battles. Law school shines a light on the various avenues of legal engagement, from the daily grind of a young lawyer to counseling clients, writing, and filing pleadings, influencing policy changes, and mediating disputes. This article dismantles preconceived notions and introduces law students to the rich spectrum of legal possibilities.
Communication is Key
In the world of law, the art of persuasive communication is as vital as the statutes themselves. Our professors will emphasize the importance of crafting compelling arguments and honing communication skills. Oftentimes, mere knowledge of facts may not be enough to win a case; one must be able to present it effectively to convince others of the merits of our argument. Clarity of thought translated to effective communication skills can spell the difference for our clients and our pursuit for justice.
The Role of Mentorship and Networking: Guiding Lights
Mentors and networks are the threads that weave the tapestry of a successful legal career. Behind every successful lawyer stands a mentor, a guiding force that illuminates the way. Mentorship shapes the journey of a law student transitioning from school to practice. It opens doors to greater opportunities. Some people may scoff at the idea of getting ahead of others because of “connections,” but the truth is that lawyers will more likely need to build good relationships and foster a good reputation in the community to be able to serve their clients and the ends of justice more effectively. It may appear that the profession is primarily adversarial in nature, but the truth is that respect and civility are more important in the work of a legal professional. Even our very own Dean Ulan always reminds us that we have to have humility in this profession – because humility shows that we respect others, no matter what their stature in life is, and we are always ready to serve others.
Redefining Success: From Ambition to Impact
The measure of success in the legal realm transcends wins and titles—it is about making a meaningful impact on individuals and society. As law students, we are taught to redefine our perception of success by emphasizing personal growth, ethical practice, and the empowerment of others as the actual markers of achievement in the legal arena.
If we talk to seasoned lawyers, we will learn that this profession is not merely a career, it is a lifelong vocation. While several lawyers may appear to have glamorous lifestyles, the vast majority continue to live simple lives, toiling endlessly for their clients. It is often a thankless job, but somebody has to do it – lest, we find ourselves living in a chaotic society filled with violence and injustice.
Embracing the Journey
As you embark on your legal voyage at San Beda College Alabang School of Law, remember that studying law is not merely an academic exercise. Here, you will find a roadmap to understanding the dynamic evolution from student to legal practitioner. Armed with insights from experienced professionals, strategic approaches, and a renewed perspective on the holistic nature of success, this journey empowers you to traverse the path of legal practice with confidence. As you become part of the narrative that shapes the Philippines’ legal landscape, always remember that the law is more than words on paper—it is a force that transforms lives and safeguards justice.