On the 17th of July 2026, BAC students had the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and experience the world of criminal litigation through a visit to Sivananthan Advocates & Solicitors, one of Malaysia’s leading criminal law firms, with BAC ALSA club.

What does it really mean to defend someone in a criminal case?

Participants had the privilege of visiting Sivananthan Advocates & Solicitors for an eye-opening afternoon of stories, practical insights, and honest conversations about the realities of criminal litigation.

The visit began with an engaging sharing session by the firm’s Founding Partner, Datuk N. Sivananthan, who drew from his decades of experience to provide participants with an honest and insightful look into life as a criminal defense lawyer. Through stories from real cases, he explained the complexities of criminal litigation, the strategic thinking involved in defending clients, and the ethical responsibilities that every lawyer must uphold.

One of the most thought-provoking messages from the session was the reminder that criminal lawyers should approach every case with professionalism and objectivity. Rather than allowing personal opinions to influence their work, lawyers have a duty to ensure that every individual receives fair legal representation and that the rule of law is upheld. This perspective encouraged participants to reflect on the important role that defense counsel plays within the justice system. The session also shed light on the realities of practicing criminal law. Datuk Sivananthan candidly spoke about the fast-paced and demanding nature of litigation, where urgent matters, high-pressure situations, and life-changing outcomes are often part of daily practice. His insights gave participants a realistic appreciation of both the challenges and rewards of a career in criminal litigation – Datuk N. Sivananthan

The visit was an enriching opportunity for the participants to learn directly from an experienced practitioner, gain valuable career insights, and deepen their understanding of the criminal justice system. It served as a reminder that while criminal litigation can be demanding, it is also a field built on advocacy, integrity, and the pursuit of justice.

From inspiring conversations to behind-the-scenes exposure to legal practice, this visit gave participants a valuable glimpse into the world of criminal litigation. A heartfelt thank you to Datuk N. Sivananthan and the team at Sivananthan Advocates & Solicitors for their warm hospitality and for generously sharing their knowledge and experience with the participants. Kudos to the ALSA Club for organizing such a meaningful and enriching visit! Stay tuned for more exciting opportunities to explore the legal profession, follow BAC ALSA, and join them for more insightful law firm visits, industry engagements, and professional development events!

By Jane Dava