ISLAMABAD: In a landmark ruling aimed at reforming legal education in Pakistan, the Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the reduction of the LLB (Bachelor of Laws) program duration from five years to four years. The decision was made during a hearing on legal education reforms.
Presiding over the case, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar also directed the abolition of the controversial C-Law test, which had been mandatory for foreign law graduates seeking to practice in Pakistan.
Read More: Major Behind Abhinandan’s Capture Martyred in Waziristan
“The purpose is to uplift the standard of legal education, not to impose unnecessary burdens,” Justice Mazhar remarked. He called for urgent and structured reforms in the country’s legal education system, urging stakeholders to improve the quality of legal instruction and infrastructure rather than shutting down institutions.
The court specifically addressed concerns surrounding SM Law College, one of the oldest law institutions in South Asia. Justice Mazhar stated, “If there is any deficiency in SM Law College, then it should be rectified – not shut down.” He noted that the college existed even before the creation of Pakistan and remains a significant contributor to legal academia.
Read More: Power Division Gears Up for Ashura Heatwave
Although the bench has postponed further hearings indefinitely, the court made it clear that comprehensive legal reforms will continue under judicial supervision.
The move has been welcomed by many legal professionals and academics, who believe these steps could streamline legal education, make it more accessible, and bring it in line with international standards
