Legal Education and Teachings for Social Justice.

Abstract

Legal education is vital in shaping legal professionals who uphold justice and equity. However, traditional law school curricula often focus on doctrinal learning while neglecting critical perspectives on social justice and access to justice. To bridge this gap, legal education must adopt a more holistic approach that integrates social justice principles, fostering lawyers who can address systemic inequalities. This article explores the role of legal education in promoting social justice, examining its constitutional foundation in India, particularly through the Directive Principles of State Policy and socio-economic legislation. It also highlights the judiciary’s role in advancing social justice through landmark rulings. Additionally, the article emphasizes the need for experiential learning, legal aid clinics, and inclusive legal training to equip future lawyers with the tools to challenge injustice. By embedding social justice into legal education, law schools can produce professionals who not only understand the law but also work toward a fairer and more equitable society.