This interview was conducted by Abhishek Kumar, a Campus Leader at Lawctopus.
Senior Advocate Kuldeep Singh Katiyar has been practicing in the Court of Tis Hazari Delhi for over a decade. He handles various types of cases including civil, criminal, matrimonial, property, and tax. He is a highly reputed Advocate in the criminal and matrimonial fields.
Originally from Uttar Pradesh, he also practised law in the Allahabad High Court. His father was a stenographer in the district court of their village. Kuldeep Singh Katiyar completed his graduation and law degrees from Allahabad University. He cleared the National Eligibility Test (NET) on his second attempt.
Who/What inspired you to pursue a Career in litigation?
Kuldeep Singh Katiyar’s journey into the legal profession was sparked by his environment and early influences. Growing up near a district court, where his father worked as a typist, he was fascinated by the advocates’ dress code and demeanour.
His frequent visits to the court during his school days piqued his interest in law. By the time he reached graduation, his interest had solidified. Encouraged by a friend’s query about his post-graduation plans, he decided to pursue law, successfully clearing the entrance test for Allahabad College of Law.
After completing his law education, he began practising at the Allahabad High Court before eventually moving to Delhi Court.
Can you share some memorable experiences from your law school days?
Katiyar reminisced about his law school days, particularly his participation in moot courts. These simulated court proceedings allowed him to develop his argumentative skills, adhere to the formal dress code, and gain confidence speaking before judges.
The experience of preparing for moot court, presenting arguments, and receiving feedback was a highlight of his academic journey, shaping his practical understanding of the legal field.
What are the key milestones in your career?
- Katiyar takes pride in several significant milestones throughout his career:
- Being a first-generation lawyer, starting from a village background, and successfully entering the legal profession.
- Clearing the law entrance test without any prior knowledge of what it entailed.
- Persisting through challenges to establish himself in the field of law.
What achievements are you most proud of?
Clearing the National Eligibility Test (NET) on his second attempt while actively practising litigation. Achieved a remarkable 67% in his postgraduate exams, a feat unmatched in his village and college. Practicing law at the Tis Hazari Court is a testament to his professional growth and dedication and have good reputation that I gained in my career life.
How do you handle stress and maintain a work-life balance while practising law?
Avoiding excessive expectations and focusing on earning enough to meet basic needs, rather than striving for immediate wealth and status. Keeping professional and personal lives separate, ensuring that family time remains undisturbed by work-related stress.
Engaging in yoga and physical fitness to maintain mental and physical well-being. Focusing on hard work and implementing practical strategies rather than overthinking, to prevent stress and achieve better results.
What are the current trends in the legal field that law students should be aware of?
- The introduction of new laws and guidelines, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.
- The importance of staying updated with apex court rulings and guidelines for lower courts, especially for those pursuing litigation.
- The necessity of internships under senior advocates or in district courts for students aiming for judicial positions, to understand court procedures and the lawyer’s perspective.
- The increasing role of technology in the legal field, with numerous legal websites and digital tools aiding in research and case management.
What advice would you give to law students who are about to graduate?
While the corporate sector may seem appealing, it often leads to limited growth and satisfaction. He advises students to consider litigation or judiciary roles for a more impactful career. Emphasizing hard work and a dedicated mindset, he cautions against the unrealistic dreams that some new graduates have, which he refers to as the Babu.
For first-generation lawyers, he suggests practicing under a senior advocate to gain experience while handling individual cases to build personal connections and clientele. Prioritizing the development of trust and connections with clients over the pursuit of immediate financial gain.
What changes would you like to see in the Legal Education System?
Creating a more practical learning environment for law students. Facilitating collaborations between law schools, the Bar Council of India (BCI), and senior advocates to provide students with practical experience through internships. Organizing regular moot court competitions to help students develop a deeper understanding of the law and build professional networks.
Key quotes and insights from the interviewee
Senior Advocate Kuldeep Singh Katiyar’s journey from a village background to practising in prominent courts exemplifies determination and resilience. His insights reflect the importance of practical experience, continuous learning, and a balanced approach to career and personal life.
His advice to law students and calls for educational reform highlights the need for a more hands-on approach to legal training, preparing future lawyers for the dynamic and challenging nature of the profession.
While taking the Interview he told me a thing that we read about academic Bar and Bench is equal but in reality, this is contrast/irony no facility is provided to the Advocate to sit and deal with the client and MM has a chamber with all necessary facilities, MM treat Advocated as a Boss not as a Judge or Part of bar and Bench, only famous lawyer earn good amount but what about the remaining and MM have fixed salary, facility provided by Government such as Home, Vehicle, Security and others so its clear contrast or huge discrimination between bae and bench.
While studying law it is also equally important to know the practical use of law through doing an internship under senior advocates, and organising moot court competitions, Seminars, and debates.
Hard Work and Patience are the only keys to success in the field of litigation there is no shortcut to growth and earning name-fame in this field.
Source: Lawctopus
