India, Feb. 23 -- Supreme Court judge justice Abhay S Oka on Sunday underscored the fundamental duty of lawyers, saying that they are officers of the court and not mere mouthpieces for their clients. He said that in every legal battle the ultimate objective must be the pursuit of justice.

Speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the 21st KK Luthra Memorial Moot Court Competition at the Campus Law Centre, Delhi University, justice Oka advised aspiring lawyers to master trial advocacy, as it forms the backbone of legal practice. According to the senior judge, a thorough study of briefs, keen observation of court proceedings, and understanding the judge presiding over the case are critical skills for every advocate.

He also called for a shi...