The Legacy of Justice Sanjay Karol: Empowering Young Lawyers
In the judiciary, some judges are remembered for their groundbreaking judgments, while others are celebrated for their enduring contributions to constitutional principles. However, Justice Sanjay Karol, who concludes his tenure at the Supreme Court today, is distinguished by another vital legacy: his unwavering support for young legal professionals. His impact, though less conspicuous, has been no less significant in shaping the careers of many budding lawyers.
During my early clerkship at the Supreme Court from July to September 2025, I had the privilege of observing Justice Karol in action. The courtroom atmosphere was distinctly welcoming to young lawyers, a rarity in an institution where seasoned experience typically commands respect. Justice Karol’s approach was revolutionary in that he believed youth deserved a chance to be heard, and he ensured that even juniors making their first submissions were given the opportunity to present their cases.
Justice Karol was known to encourage senior advocates to allow their juniors to argue cases, and he often acknowledged the efforts of young lawyers who presented well-constructed arguments. At a farewell event organized by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) before his retirement, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant highlighted this admirable quality. He emphasized how Justice Karol’s encouragement could be more impactful for young advocates than any external validation. The CJI also noted the numerous young lawyers who had the opportunity to assist Justice Karol as amicus curiae, illustrating his commitment to nurturing the next generation of legal minds.
In his farewell address, Justice Karol expressed that the true development of a lawyer occurs within the courtroom. He urged young advocates to seize every opportunity and clarified that appointing them as amicus curiae was not a favor but a fulfillment of his constitutional duty. By asking which lawyers were the youngest or had the least experience with their own cases, he actively created opportunities for them to take the spotlight.
Justice Karol’s belief in nurturing young talent transcended his courtroom practices. He understood that the Supreme Court is not only a venue for resolving disputes but also a crucible for shaping legal professionals. His courtroom became a space where young lawyers could overcome their initial trepidation and take their first steps towards a successful career. On several occasions, particularly during court vacations, he encouraged young lawyers to argue while senior advocates observed, sending a powerful message that the Supreme Court should not be restricted to those already established in the legal profession.
Beyond his support for young lawyers, Justice Karol was known for his empathy towards the individuals behind the cases. CJI Surya Kant described his courtroom as a place where even intense disagreements were resolved through dialogue rather than confrontation, making it a less intimidating environment. In motor accident cases, Justice Karol made a notable effort to highlight procedural delays. For instance, in Naseema v. Rajendra Singh, he prominently displayed the time elapsed at each litigation stage, ensuring that such delays could not be ignored. Similarly, in Shishu Pal @ Shish Ram and Others v. Surjit and Others, he examined over 100 motor accident compensation matters and issued directives for their timely resolution.
As a former law clerk, I often wished for the chance to appear before Justice Karol. Not for the prestige, but for the invaluable learning experience his courtroom offered. For young lawyers, hearing the words “Why don’t you argue?” from a Supreme Court judge like Justice Karol could be career-defining. His tenure has left a lasting impact, not only as a dispenser of justice but as a mentor who created space for the voices of the younger generation.
