February 12, 2014

Comparing yourself with Napoleon Bonaparte is great :- SC Judge complimented

I am narrating this story without naming actual persons. Because everyone does not approve name dropping without their consent.

A matter of a great national importance was being argued before a Constitutional Bench of five judges in Supreme Court.

As it so happened, height of arguing senior advocate was about 5' feet. The senior advocate opposing was about 6' feet plus. The contrast in heights was obvious.

The arguing counsel made a submission with a little more politeness than necessary.

Judges checked him,"Please do not underestimate yourself. We regard you with high esteem."

Then other judge added smilingly and wittily,"We do not judge you by your size."

"Regarding that I am helpless. There is a status quo order regarding my height," the senior advocate replied with matching wit.

Then a moment later, he added, " I can only compare myself with Napoleon Bonaparte regarding my height."

The whole court burst into laughter. The presiding judge appreciated and said that, that is really a great thing to say.

Moral of Story

A lawyer should never underestimate himself.

Haresh Raichura
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