The Institute of Law, Nirma University hosted an insightful panel discussion on the theme: Career in Law on March 13, 2025. The discussion featured a distinguished panel of legal professionals from diverse backgrounds. The panel comprised eminent experts including Judge Keith Barnes, Dr. Jyotsana Yagnik, Dr. Stephen Barnes, Prof. Brendan Bernicker, Dr. Ylli Dautaj, and Dr. Venkat Iyer and Dr. Anviksha Pachori. The session was moderated by Dr. Stephen Barnes who initiated the discussion by posing thought-provoking questions to the panellists as to their career choices in law.
Prof. Brendan Bernicker, who began as an investigator in a local police branch, initially aspired to be a litigator. However, his interest pivoted towards AI law after engaging with AI startup founders, leading him to specialize in the field and eventually transition into academia. Dr. Stephen Barnes shared his unconventional path, which included earning his Ph.D. and doctorate before moving to China, followed by Uzbekistan and later India, where he continued his academic pursuits. Dr. Ylli Dautaj began his career with aspirations in human rights law, but after facing setbacks, he pursued multiple master’s degrees, including one in English Common Law and another in Arbitration and US Law. His perseverance led him to India, where he established his own firm and started teaching. Dr. Venkat Iyer, originally from India, moved to the UK, where he had to restart his legal education due to differences in qualifications. He specialized in corporate law, overcoming the challenge of adapting to a new legal system. Judge Keith Barnes, recounted his initial passion for basketball before deciding to pursue law, a choice that eventually led him to become a renowned judge. Dr. Anviksha Pachori shared her journey as a first-generation lawyer, initially uncertain about her choice but later discovering her passion for International Humanitarian Law. She built a strong professional network, faced early career challenges, and eventually pursued a Ph.D., leading her to her current role as a professor at ILNU. The session concluded with an open floor for students, where panelists addressed queries regarding pursuing litigation as a career. Their insights provided valuable guidance for aspiring legal professionals navigating the evolving legal landscape. This discussion served as an inspiring platform for students, offering real-world perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the legal profession.