From Courtroom to Boardroom

ALSA BAC, through its Training, Exchange & Development (TED) Department, launched the “Courtroom to Boardroom: Advocacy in Practice” initiative on 17^th June 2025. This one-day visit was not just another academic event. It was a powerful learning journey hosted at the esteemed Kuala Lumpur Bar Council Legal Aid Centre, where law students stepped into the heart of justice in action.

For many participants, the event offered a first glimpse into the world of legal advocacy beyond textbooks and lecture halls. With its focus on public interest law and social justice, the visit pulled back the curtain on the daily work of legal aid officers and advocates who are at the frontlines of defending the rights of marginalised communities.

It was a day in the life of Justice Advocates, as participants were immersed in the workings of legal advocacy. Through interactive sessions, real-life case studies and conversations with practising lawyers, students explored how legal professionals tackle systemic inequalities and provide access to justice for those who need it most.

The event served as a living classroom, transforming abstract legal principles into tangible realities. Discussions focused on the vital role of advocacy in safeguarding human rights, promoting fairness and ensuring that the law remains a tool for equity rather than exclusion.

Through firsthand exposure, students gained a deeper appreciation of how legal aid centres function as pillars of the justice system. They learned about the procedural intricacies involved in offering pro bono assistance and how dedicated professionals work tirelessly to ensure no one is denied justice due to a lack of resources.

Whether heading into litigation, policy work or community lawyering, students left the visit inspired and informed, carrying with them a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of how they, too, can play a role in shaping a just society.

Courtroom to Boardroom: Advocacy in Practice was more than a field trip, it was a formative experience that reminded future lawyers of their ethical duty to serve not just clients, but communities.

Don't just study the law, experience it!