JU Law School hosts Client Counselling Competition to foster real-world legal skills

Students and faculty of JU Law School posing with chief guest Shiv Kumar Sharma (DIG JSK Range) during a programme.
Students and faculty of JU Law School posing with chief guest Shiv Kumar Sharma (DIG JSK Range) during a programme.

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, June 10: The Law School, University of Jammu, organized an engaging Client Counselling Competition, designed to simulate critical attorney-client interactions for its students.
The event provided participants with a platform to demonstrate essential skills in conducting initial client interviews, assessing complex legal issues, and formulating strategic advice—all centered around a client-focused approach. It specifically aimed to hone crucial abilities like active listening, empathy, teamwork, and time management, vital for future legal professionals.
Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range, graced the occasion as chief guest. Emphasizing the societal impact of legal counselling, he commended the Law School for integrating practical simulations into legal education, stating, “Such initiatives empower students to navigate real-life disputes with sensitivity and professionalism.”
Earlier, Prof Seema Rohmetra, Director of The Law School, in her welcome address expressed, “This competition bridges the gap between theoretical learning and real-world legal practice. By engaging in simulated client interactions, our students develop not just legal acumen but also the human touch required in the profession. Such initiatives align with our vision of producing socially responsible and practice-ready lawyers.”
A distinguished panel of High Court advocates, including Rajnish Raina, Meenakshi Slathia Kaur, Aarti Bahl, Geetanjali Goswami, Kiran Thakur and Deepak Sangral, adjudicated the competition. Additionally, Advocate Amit Gupta and Advocate Ilesh Sharma witnessed the proceedings and interacted with participants.
The event was coordinated by Dr Monica Narang and Dr Nitan Sharma of the Legal Aid and Legal Literacy Committee.
Faculty mentors, including Dr Shubha Vats, Dr Bindu Sangra, Dr Monika Bhardwaj, Dr Pallvi Mathavan, Dr Mrinalini Atrey, Dr Rajneesh Khajuria, Dr Vandita Sharma, Dr Upasana Sharma and Dr Nitan Sharma, played a pivotal role in guiding participants.
The student organizing committee comprising Navneet Bhagat, Aditi, Simran Sharma, Aamna Sadiq, Musafir, Palak, and Rupal ensured the event’s seamless execution. Certificates of appreciation were awarded to winning teams, judges, participants, and volunteer clients.
The knowledge partner Kamal Taneja (J&K and Ladakh Law Journal and LEGAL EAGLE E-Library) and Randhir Singh (Study IQ IAS) engaged with students, offering support for competitive exam preparation and legal updates.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Monika Bhardwaj.