Interview: Dr. (h.c.) Pawan Reley | AOR, Supreme Court of India

Dr. (h.c.) Pawan Reley is an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court of India and the youngest recipient of an honorary doctorate (Doctorate Honoris Causa) from Azteca University, Mexico, at the age of 33. A first-generation advocate from a small town, Panna in Madhya Pradesh, he comes from a middle-class family and studied in a Hindi medium school.

With no godfather in the legal field, he carved his path and set up a very successful independent practice as The Chambers of Pawan Reley. He has been conferred with prestigious awards such as the APJ Abdul Kalam Inspiration Award, 2024, Bharat Vibhushan Purushkar, 2024, Atal Samman, 2023, Most Admired Global Indian, 2023, Udbhav Samman, 2023, and many others. He is also a TEDx Speaker and the author of two notable legal books. Through his work, he has guided over 4 lakh legal professionals across India. His journey exemplifies determination, resilience, and excellence in the legal profession.

Interview: Dr. (h.c.) Pawan Reley | AOR, Supreme Court of India

We recently got a chance to interview Mr Pawan Reley :

Legal Bites: Sir, Reflecting on your journey from law school to becoming an Advocate-on-Record at the Supreme Court, what were the pivotal moments that shaped your career?

Pawan Reley: My journey in the legal profession has been a challenging yet transformative experience. Coming from a Hindi medium background, I encountered significant hurdles, especially during my time in law school.

In my very first semester, I struggled a lot with English and Economics and ultimately failed in both subjects. My peers were always cordial on a personal level, but professionally, they were often hesitant to interact with me, either for moot court teams or academic articles.

Subsequently, I immersed myself in literature and legal judgments to improve my command of the language. Writing articles on various topics and participating in moot court competitions as the sole speaker helped me confront my fears and gain immense confidence to overcome these issues slowly and steadily. With time, my efforts bore fruit and my colleagues began to take notice of my dedication, and I started earning their admiration. Ultimately, everything fell into place and by the time I graduated, I had topped my final semester and was honoured with the title of ‘Student of Excellence.’

While I received various placement offers, I chose to follow my passion and started to pursue the path of practising law in Delhi. My first role at the Supreme Court of India came with a stipend of ₹10,000 which I believed was a sum that was far from sufficient for a young lawyer building his life in the capital.

In 2016, I started volunteering for pro bono law classes for underprivileged students preparing for judicial services. By 2023, I felt ready to take the Advocate-on-Record (AOR) examination. The years I spent mentoring judicial aspirants played a crucial role in achieving this goal.

Reflecting on my journey, I firmly believe that while brilliance can be an asset in law, it is patience, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to learning that are truly indispensable and something an advocate should really pursue. These qualities have shaped not just my professional life but also my personal growth, guiding me through every challenge along the way.

Legal Bites: Sir, How important do you think it is to practice in the lower courts before one starts practising before the High Courts or Supreme Court?

Pawan Reley: I wouldn’t say that practising in lower courts is mandatory, but I truly believe that gaining experience in the original court or rather the original side, is crucial for any advocate. The original side depends on the area of law you choose to specialize in.

For example, if someone is working in electricity law at the Supreme Court, they need a solid understanding of how cases are handled before electricity commissions. Similarly, in service matters, familiarity with the procedures of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) is essential. For those focusing on civil or criminal law, for them, the trial court experience is indispensable because one should be in a position to appreciate the intricacies involved in a trial before the lower courts.

The Trial courts have something unique to offer, they teach you the real value of facts. This is where you learn to construct a narrative for your case, filling gaps in evidence and building a foundation that’s hard to challenge later. It’s also where you master the art of cross-examination, a skill that not only brings immense satisfaction but also equips you for the complexities of litigation throughout your career. More importantly, even a minor oversight at the trial stage can undermine an otherwise strong case in the appellate courts.

In my view, spending time on the original side isn’t just helpful; it’s essential for anyone aspiring to become a well-rounded litigator.

Legal Bites: Sir, As someone who handles diverse cases, including civil and criminal, could you share an experience that was particularly challenging and how you navigated through it?

Pawan Reley: Early in my career, I encountered a case that tested my resolve and commitment to the legal profession, a moment that remains etched in my memory. It was my first major case, coming my way when I had just spent approximately seven months in practice. On the evening of February 12, 2016, a group of about 8-10 people came to my office with an urgent request.

They explained that the Delhi Government was cutting down thousands of trees in the green belt of Sector 15-16 Trilokpuri to build flats for those displaced by the Nizamuddin Metro project. The urgency of their plea was striking and the High Court was scheduled to hear the final arguments on February 14.

They wanted me to file a case before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) the very next day and an Impleadment application in the High Court immediately afterwards. They informed me that other advocates had declined to take up the case, citing the tight timeline and low fees, which led them to approach me. They asked if I could manage everything. Without much hesitation and, perhaps, with more confidence than experience, I said “Yes.

Exhaustion and self-doubt crept in with time but deep down, I knew this was one of those defining moments, one of those moments that could shape my path in this profession. I pushed through, gathering every bit of determination, and managed to complete the draft by 10 AM without a wink of sleep. The following day, I filed the case before the NGT, serving copies to five opposing counsels and mentioning the matter for an urgent hearing. To my immense relief, after presenting my arguments, I secured a stay from the NGT.

The next night brought its challenges. I had to prepare and file the Impleadment application before the High Court, leaving no time to rest. Somehow, I managed to file it just in time. The Hon’ble High Court not only allowed my application but, after hearing the matter, ruled that while providing housing for displaced persons is the government’s duty, it cannot come at the cost of cutting down trees.

I consider this case as a turning point in my career because this was the case that introduced me to local communities and brought independent clients who sought me out for representation. But more than that, it reinforced a valuable lesson, adversity and challenges are inevitable, especially for young advocates. 

Legal Bites: Sir, Winning the Atal Samman and the Udbhav Cultural Award reflects your significant contributions to the legal field. How do you handle the balance between a successful legal practice and your role in academia?

Pawan Reley: I am deeply humbled and truly honoured to receive these awards. My passion for academia has been a cornerstone of my journey in the legal profession, offering me a unique perspective that bridges the worlds of theory and practice. Whether I’m handling a civil or criminal matter that requires interpreting a legal provision, my dual role as both an academician and a lawyer gives me the ability to see angles that might sometimes be overlooked. This combination allows me to approach cases with greater depth, often uncovering insights that are proven invaluable in courts.

I’d like to share a personal anecdote that illustrates how academia has influenced my practice. Back in 2017, I was waiting for my matter to be called before a single bench of the Delhi High Court. During the proceedings, a fellow advocate was arguing a case and mentioned that he had sent a representation to the government.

The Hon’ble Judge interrupted him with a straightforward but fundamental question: “When is the communication of a proposal and acceptance considered complete, and under which provision of law?”

My colleague started citing judgments, but the Judge clarified that they were seeking the exact provision of law, not case precedents. When no answer was forthcoming, the Judge turned to the members of the Bar present in the courtroom and posed the question to them. At that moment, my academic background proved to be a true asset. 

Legal Bites: Sir, How important do you believe it is for legal professionals to contribute to legal education and mentorship?

Pawan Reley: In today’s rapidly evolving society, there is an undeniable and pressing need for skilled and ethical legal professionals. Time and again, during my interactions with law students across the country, I have noticed one consistent trait, they are eager, enthusiastic, and genuinely aspire to excel in the legal field. However, this zeal often meets a roadblock in the form of inadequate guidance and mentorship. Many young and bright minds lack access to the kind of direction that is crucial for shaping their journeys, and unfortunately, the current structure of legal education in many institutions doesn’t bridge this gap effectively.

While legal education confined to textbooks and classroom discussions are considered to be of paramount importance, it is simply not enough to develop a truly capable lawyer. The law is not just learned, rather it is thoroughly experienced. It is in the courtrooms, in the debates, in poring over real cases, and in witnessing the intricate dynamics of justice being served that one begins to truly understand its depth. Law students need exposure to the practical aspects of this profession, and this can only happen when experienced professionals take the time to mentor and guide them.

I firmly believe that we, as legal practitioners, owe it to this profession to give back to the community. The knowledge and wisdom we’ve acquired through years of practice should not stay with us but it must be shared with those who are just beginning their journey. It is not just an opportunity but a duty to nurture the next generation of lawyers with honesty, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility. 

Together, we can create a legacy of competence, integrity, and service that will shape the future of the legal field for generations to come.

Legal Bites: Sir, Outside of your legal endeavours, what are your personal hobbies or interests that help you unwind and find balance in your busy schedule?

Pawan Reley: Life as a legal professional is undeniably demanding, from long hours, and intense preparation, to the responsibilities of ensuring justice can often take a toll on the mind and spirit. To stay grounded and maintain my sense of balance, I turn to pursuits outside the legal realm that provide both solace and inspiration. One such passion is chess. For me, chess is far more than a game; it’s a mental retreat that challenges and refreshes me. The quiet intensity of planning moves, anticipating outcomes, and recalibrating strategies mirror the intellectual rigour of law, but with a calming, almost meditative undertone.

Another significant part of my life is my deep engagement with Indian philosophy or Bhartiya Darshan. Our philosophical traditions, spanning the rational scepticism of Charvak to the intricate logic of Mimamansa, are like a treasure trove of wisdom. Exploring these schools of thought is not just an intellectual exercise for me; it is a journey of self-reflection. These philosophies resonate deeply with the values I hold dear in my practice of law, which are- reason, ethics, and the pursuit of truth. They remind me that law is not just about statutes and precedents but also about justice, morality, and the larger good of society.

In my quieter moments, I find immense joy in immersing myself in the world of Hindi literature. I’ve always had a special place in my heart for the works of our literary giants, and recently, I’ve been reading Gaban by Munshi Premchand.

Legal Bites: Sir, What has been your journey towards receiving an honorary doctorate in Social Work, and how does it feel to be on the path to becoming the youngest lawyer in history to receive an honorary doctorate from any Indian or foreign university?

Pawan Reley: Before I delve into the journey that led to the said feat, I would like to share that I am humbled to receive this honour from the Universidad Azteca, a University based in Mexico and listed in the International Association of Universities under UNESCO.

I consider myself fortunate that the Universidad Azteca perceived my work deserving to have conferred me with an Honorary Doctorate of Advances Studies (DAS) in the field of Social Work & Human Rights and bestowing upon me the opportunity of becoming the youngest Indian Advocate to receive this prestigious honour from any Indian or International University.

Now coming back to the journey which led to this significant event in my life, ever since I started my journey as an advocate I was determined that regardless of what the future holds for me, I will never compromise with my morals and principles that were inculcated in me by my parents, my teachers and other notable figures of my life. It is very easy for people to lose sight of the chaos that this legal profession entails, however, it is only through sheer grit and perseverance that an advocate navigates through all the chaos without compromising their morals. In the process of establishing oneself as a promising advocate, one has to suffer through a lot in the initial stage.

I would like to state that working for the interest of such people who are often refused justice in our country and are barely given a chance to speak up, is something that has been instilled in me by my parents. Coming from a small town in Madhya Pradesh, I grew up around people who were often denied opportunities at a higher level regardless of their calibre. Therefore, I made a decision that whenever I get an opportunity, I shall take a stand for them and get them what is rightfully theirs.

Legal Bites: Sir, What advice would you give to aspiring legal professionals, considering your own experiences and the evolving landscape of the legal field?

Pawan Reley: As someone who has walked the often challenging but deeply fulfilling path of a legal career, I would like to share a few pieces of advice for aspiring advocates. These insights come not just from my personal experiences but also from observing the journeys of countless peers, mentors, and juniors over the years.

1. Find Your Right Mentor

A good mentor is not only a skilled lawyer but also a person of integrity and empathy. They should give you opportunities to engage meaningfully in the practice of law, whether it’s conducting research, assisting in drafting, or arguing smaller matters in court. Use internships and networking opportunities to observe potential mentors and identify those whose professional ethos aligns with your aspirations. 

2. Read Judgments Consistently

As a budding advocate, there is no substitute for the habit of reading judgments. This practice is the foundation of a strong legal understanding. Begin with concise judgments to build your confidence, and gradually progress to more complex and landmark cases such as Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973) or K. S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017).

Dedicate yourself to this habit consistently and set aside a specific time each day, even if it’s just 30 minutes. With time, you’ll notice a marked improvement in your confidence and competence.

3. Improve Your Communication Skills

The ability to communicate effectively is as important as understanding the law itself. No matter how profound your legal knowledge, if you cannot articulate your ideas clearly and persuasively, you will face challenges. This is why it is of great importance that one should take active steps to develop this skill. Engage in debates, join moot courts, and practice public speaking whenever possible. 

4. Maintain a Positive Social Media Presence

In today’s digital age, social media can be a powerful tool for first-generation lawyers. It allows you to share your insights, connect with professionals, and build a visible presence in the legal community. However, this must be done with care. Therefore, in my opinion, one must ensure that whatever you post is accurate, well-researched, and professional.

5. Start with the Trial Courts

For first-generation lawyers, I cannot stress enough the importance of gaining experience in trial courts. Trial courts are where the essence of lawyering begins as they teach you the procedural aspects of the law, how to manage client expectations and the art of courtroom advocacy. I have seen many first-generation lawyers start their careers directly in higher courts, only to struggle due to the limited number of cases they receive.

Starting in trial courts builds resilience, provides a steady stream of work, and prepares you for long-term growth in the legal field rather than just crashing and burning due to the instability that this profession often projects.

6. Embrace Hard Work, Dedication, and Patience

The legal profession is not a sprint and it’s a marathon. Success does not come overnight, and the path is often strewn with challenges and setbacks. Hard work, dedication, and patience are the cornerstones of a successful legal career. Be prepared to put in the hours, to learn from your mistakes, and to persevere even when the going gets tough. Trust the process, and remember that the lessons you learn along the way are as valuable as the milestones you achieve.

Legal Bites: Sir, It is a popular view that litigation throws numerous challenges in the initial stages; likewise can you share your insights and experiences regarding the same?

Pawan Reley: As I reflect on the challenges faced by young advocates entering the legal profession, I am reminded of the hurdles that shape the trajectory of one’s career. These challenges, while often intimidating, are also the crucible in which resilience, character, and excellence are forged. One of the foremost struggles for any budding lawyer is finding the right mentor. I was fortunate to have a mentor like Mr. Vinod Sharma (AAG, Haryana), whose guidance was instrumental in my growth.

The financial strain of the initial years in litigation is another formidable challenge that is faced by everyone. Many young advocates face a period of minimal earnings, which can test their resolve. This reality often discourages talented individuals from pursuing a career in litigation, yet these struggles are not without merit. They instil lessons in perseverance, resourcefulness, and the critical importance of skill-building. 

Stepping out of a senior’s office to build an independent practice brings its trials, particularly in finding clients. Establishing a client base is no small feat because it requires a lot of hard work, networking, and earning trust. This phase is both challenging and rewarding, testing one’s dedication and resolve. One’s reputation becomes their most valuable asset, and the diligence and sincerity that one brings to each case, no matter how modest, lay the groundwork for future opportunities. 

Navigating the courtroom is another test of patience and adaptability. 

Legal Bites: Sir, To what extent do you believe platforms such as Legal Bites are beneficial for students and contribute to their learning and development?

Pawan Reley: I understand that platforms like Legal Bites are transformative for students, especially in the legal field. The way Legal Bites structures its resources and delivers content demonstrates a profound commitment to legal education and professional development. Platforms such as Legal Bites serve as a comprehensive repository of legal knowledge. Its diverse offerings which range from case analysis, study materials, and articles to updates on contemporary legal developments are invaluable for students striving to deepen their understanding of the law.

Another notable strength of Legal Bites that I found impressive is its commitment to fostering holistic development. Beyond academic resources, the platform highlights opportunities for internships, workshops, webinars, and certificate courses. These experiences are critical in shaping a well-rounded legal professional. For instance, participating in moots, debates, and quizzes not only hones practical skills but also instils confidence, an essential trait for any lawyer.

By making these resources accessible online, they ensure that students from diverse regions and economic backgrounds can learn, grow, and compete on an equal footing.

Legal Bites: Sir, Would you recommend platforms like Legal Bites to both law students and professionals, considering the valuable services they offer?

Pawan Reley: I strongly recommend platforms like Legal Bites to both law students and legal professionals. The value they provide is multifaceted and far-reaching, catering to the needs of both newcomers to the field and seasoned practitioners alike.

For law students, Legal Bites serves as an indispensable tool for learning and growth. It offers an extensive range of resources, from comprehensive study materials, case notes, and articles on legal principles, to guidance on preparing for competitive exams. 

Given the competitive nature of legal education, platforms like Legal Bites give students an edge by supplementing their classroom education with real-world insights, critical analysis, and exam-focused preparation. Beyond academic benefits, Legal Bites also fosters a sense of community among law students. Whether through interactive forums, webinars, or career opportunities shared on the platform, students gain access to networking avenues that can significantly boost their professional prospects.

For legal professionals, the platform is equally valuable. It provides resources on the latest legal developments, judgments, and ongoing trends in the legal profession, which are crucial for any practitioner who wants to stay at the top of their game. Legal Bites not only helps professionals keep abreast of important updates but also offers opportunities for skill enhancement through specialized courses and certifications. The platform's focus on professional development, including tips on improving legal writing and communication, makes it a useful tool for practitioners looking to refine their craft.