JU Hosts Client Counselling Competition to Foster Real-World Legal Skills

Jammu, June 10: The Law School, University of Jammu, successfully 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.

Shri Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range, graced the occasion as the 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 that, "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 Adv. Rajnish Raina, Adv. Meenakshi Slathia Kaur, Adv. Aarti Bahl, Adv. Geetanjali Goswami, Adv. Kiran Thakur, and Adv. Deepak Sangral, adjudicated the competition, bringing invaluable real-world insights. Additionally, Adv. Amit Gupta and Adv. 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, fostering a meaningful exchange of knowledge among students, faculty, and legal experts.

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 and upholding academic rigor.

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 Mr. Kamal Taneja (J&K & Ladakh Law Journal & LEGAL EAGLE E-Library) and Mr. S. Randhir Singh (Study IQ IAS) engaged with students, offering support for competitive exam preparation and legal updates.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Monika Bhardwaj, who acknowledged the collective efforts that made the competition a success.