‘The teachers here were my backbone’

She is from the 2018 batch at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg. At present, she is working in the Jalandhar District Court as a legal advisor. Alongside her work, she is preparing for the PCS Judiciary exam. Meet Nehal Chadha. In a candid interview, she shares the difference between a lawyer and an advocate, among other things.

How did your school years influence your decision to pursue law?

During my school years, I was deeply involved in debates and discussions. I was always inclined towards expressing my views and participating actively. Those experiences encouraged discipline and strengthened my sense of fairness and responsibility. I believe my interest in law began there, through those early opportunities to speak, question, and think critically.

What are some fond memories from your school days?

I participated in debates, assemblies, and several co-curricular activities, even competitions like salad making. What stands out the most is the support of my teachers. They were my backbone. I still remember standing on stage and seeing them in front of me, encouraging and cheering me on. Their faith in me, even when I made mistakes, gave me immense confidence.

How has your courtroom experience been so far?

Courtroom experience is not as easy as it appears. It requires patience, presence of mind, and emotional control. You cannot rely only on theoretical knowledge. In court, you have to listen carefully to both parties, understand the facts thoroughly, and remain calm.

Did anything surprise you during your first courtroom experience?

The real courtroom environment is very different from what we see in movies. Films portray it in a very polished way. In reality, courtrooms are much more practical and sometimes less organised. In fact, movie courtrooms often appear cleaner and more structured than actual courts.

What inspired you to pursue the judiciary?

As an advocate, you represent your client and argue from their perspective. But as a judge, you must remain completely neutral. You have to listen to both sides and make independent decisions strictly based on the law and facts. My experience as an advocate has given me practical exposure and helped me understand how cases function in reality. I feel that the judiciary offers a broader perspective and greater responsibility, which inspires me to pursue this path.

The difference between a lawyer and an advocate.

A lawyer is someone who has completed a law degree, but may not necessarily be practising. An advocate is someone who actively practices law, handles cases independently, and appears in court.

 How do you balance judicial preparation with your legal responsibilities?

It requires discipline and consistency. My routine is quite demanding. I attend court in the morning, manage my online classes from 10 am to 3 pm, and then return to court if needed. If I miss a class due to court work, I catch up late at night.

How would you describe this career path overall?

It is challenging but rewarding. It teaches discipline and strengthens ethical values. It is not easy, but if you are committed and consistent, it is deeply fulfilling.