MY TWO CENTS
ON THE
TIMELY AND THE TIMELESS
In the
LAW.
Background I’ve written on this subject earlier (see here) and primarily on the Karnataka High Court ruling (“Virendra Khanna”) on the subject. Ruling in Virendra Khanna In Virendra Khanna, the High Court permitted the Investigating agencies to direct the accused to disclose his password, and in case of non-compliance, seek Court’s intervention in that regard.…
Background I’ve written on this subject earlier (see here) and primarily on the Karnataka High Court ruling (“Virendra Khanna”) on the subject. Ruling in Virendra Khanna In Virendra Khanna, the High Court permitted the Investigating agencies to direct the accused to disclose his password, and in case of non-compliance, seek Court’s intervention in that regard.…
This is Part 2 in a series on the analysis of the new proposed amendments to the criminal laws. You can find the 1st part here. *Caveat : This piece was written on the first draft, that is, before the first draft went to the Select Committee and a new version was put up for…
*Caveat : This piece was written on the first draft, that is, before the first draft went to the Select Committee and a new version was put up for consideration and finally passed by the Legislature. A lot of you have written to me, over the past few weeks, seeking my views on the New…
This is a guest post by the very bright young judge Harshit Sharma (https://www.linkedin.com/in/harshit-sharma-hs30/) on a very interesting legal issue. Here’s how it goes Cognizance- Meaning The term cognizance means taking notice of the matter judicially. Taking cognizance is sine qua non for trial. It is not the same thing as issue of process. In so…
The Chambers of Bharat Chugh has two openings for the position of : ‘Legal Researcher”. Experience : 1 to 3 years. With : 1) Proficiency in Legal research (case law, statute, regulations, foreign law, juristic/expert opinions, legal history, etc.)2) Legal writing skills/publications. 3) Solid basis in foundational legal first-principles. 4) Most importantly : A skill and love for…
1. Lay out what the case is about in the 1st para itself. For instance, in a contractual dispute, say, at the very outset, that this case concerns a software license agreement where X gave Y license to use it’s software. The parties are before this Court/Tribunal because the contract does not – at least…
1. Be fair & honourable. An advocate is a story-teller but she’s an ethical story-teller. You don’t take creative liberty with the facts. You may be entitled to your own opinions or interpretations but you are not entitled to your own facts. 2. But there is a creative element in how you present those facts.…
“Cross-examination is the greatest legal engine ever invented for the discovery of truth.” John Henry Wigmore 1. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail. You have to LIVE the case to be able to cross examine well. 2. When the witness is under cross examination, you are on trial too; especially when giving suggestions, as…
1. Explain each incriminating evidence specifically and clearly. 2. Ensure that your narrative in S.313 is consistent with your defence in the case (as discernible from bail applications, cross examination of PWs, discharge application, etc). 3. Traditional/generic responses such as “This is false case” or “This is a matter of record. I am innocent.” simply…
1. Your argument should, at the very outset, answer : WDWTW. Who did what to whom? Legal issues can come later. 2. Storytelling is key. Use choice details to paint a vivid image. 3. Carefully sift admitted and disputed facts. Narrow down the point of controversy. 4. Concede bad facts. Be fair. Build credibility. Be…