Serious lawyers keep themselves updated with reports, news on bills, Barrister Obi

Legal Practitioner and Policy Commentator, Barrister Zebulon Chinedu Obi Esq, who specializes in electoral justice and constitutional law, speaks with Stanley Ihedigbo on his career and experience in the profession. Excerpt

What inspired you to become a lawyer, and what drives your passion for your area of expertise?

What inspired me to be a Lawyer is the need for justice in society. I knew Law was a tool for social engineering, and I needed to make a change.

Can you explain your most notable case and the outcome?

This is a fraud matter, and the matter is slated for judgment at which I know it would be in my favour.

How do you stay current with changes in the law, and what impact do you think recent developments will have on your practice?

We keep ourselves updated with case laws from courts of record by getting subscribed to law reports, same also keep updated with the news on bills.

What’s your approach to working with clients, particularly in high-stakes or sensitive cases?

Confidentiality and intelligence must be clear on any highly sensitive case to the Client.

How do you balance the demands of a high-profile case with your personal life?

It’s about intelligence as to setting up your timing and keeping designated time as to dealing with the matter at your table, and also easing off as to your personal life.

What’s your perspective on the current state of the legal system, and are there any reforms you’d like to see?

There are still struggles regarding issues regarding laws in regard elections in Nigeria, and there is a need for reform.

Can you offer advice to aspiring lawyers or law students?

Law is not about Courtroom integrity; it matters a lot.

How do you handle difficult or unpopular cases, and what’s your strategy for managing public perception?

I should stick to facts and apply the law; there is always a law for every situation.

What’s the most challenging part of being a lawyer, and how do you overcome obstacles?

The issue of delivering excellence can be draining; a lawyer should never underperform, even under a very tight schedule.

Are there any misconceptions about lawyers or the legal system that you’d like to address?

We lawyers are not always combative as it seems; in fact, lawyers are very peaceful.

How do you advise clients on navigating complex regulatory environments?

Always have lawyers you pay at your corner for legal advice and services, at least if you are venturing into businesses or more.

What’s your approach to defending Clients in high-profile or contentious cases?

Prepare both yourself and the Client.

How do you support clients through sensitive family matters?

Being calm and intelligent, sometimes diplomatic and in the interest of my client and the society at large.