The Society of Asian Lawyers (SAL), the largest organisation representing Asians in the legal profession, was established in the early 1990s.
Its President, Ranjit Sond, is an experienced solicitor with a deep commitment to diversity within the legal profession. He has been a driving force behind SAL’s recent "Diversity and the Judiciary" campaign, which has hosted multiple events.
In an interview with Asian Voice, Sond discussed the presence of South Asians in the legal profession, shared insights from his personal journey, and expressed his hopes for the future.
Can you share your journey into the legal profession and what inspired you to become a lawyer?
My interest in becoming a solicitor was sparked during a one-week work experience at a local law firm when I was in Year 10. This high street firm in East Ham served as a central hub for the local community’s legal needs. I was deeply impressed by the solicitors’ dedication to providing assistance and advice on a wide range of legal matters, both minor and significant. This experience inspired me to pursue a career in law, with the goal of helping and supporting my local community.
What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of your career so far?
The most rewarding aspects of my career have been the opportunities to make a tangible difference in people’s lives and to contribute positively to my community. It has been incredibly fulfilling to provide legal support and guidance to those in need, reinforcing my commitment to the legal profession. I am proud to continue this ethos of serving the community in my current role at the Government Legal Department (GLD), where I can contribute to the public good on a broader scale.
What are some common stereotypes about South Asian lawyers that you have encountered in your career?
One prevalent stereotype is the perception that South Asian lawyers are not as capable as their peers in securing positions at prestigious city law firms or handling high-value corporate and commercial work. When I began my career, many Asian lawyers were often pigeonholed into high street practices, focusing primarily on family law and criminal law.
However, significant progress has been made since then. Today, an increasing number of Asian lawyers are practicing in diverse areas of law, breaking away from these limiting stereotypes. Stereotypes can naturally be discouraging and may dissuade individuals from pursuing careers in certain areas of law. This is why role models are incredibly important. I am a firm believer in the notion that “if you can see it, you can be it”. There are more role models today for the younger generation than when I was starting out, which is a positive development. For instance, we now have an Asian Court of Appeal Judge. In 2022, 8% of barristers and 12% of solicitors came from an Asian background, which is encouraging compared to the national population of 9.3%
While progress has been made, there is still more work to be done to fully overcome these stereotypes and ensure equal opportunities for all.
Alternatively, are there any stereotypes or preconceived notions about lawyers within the South Asian community itself? How do these stereotypes affect individuals pursuing a legal career within the community?
Within the South Asian community, the legal profession is held in high regard as a noble and prestigious career. The popularity of law among South Asians is evident from the significant number of individuals pursuing qualifications as solicitors or barristers. However, there remains a pervasive sense within the community that we are still “playing catch up” and that we must be twice as good to succeed. This sentiment can create additional pressure on individuals pursuing a legal career, potentially leading to feelings of inadequacy or the need to overcompensate. It is my hope that future generations will not experience these sentiments and will feel confident in their abilities and opportunities without the burden of these preconceived notions.
What advice would you give to young South Asians aspiring to enter the legal profession?
To young South Asians aspiring to enter the legal profession, I offer the following advice: persevere and remain dedicated to your goals. Seek out mentors and role models who can provide guidance and support. Embrace opportunities for networking and professional development, and always strive to excel in your chosen field. Remember, your heritage and background are strengths that can enrich your professional journey.
What does South Asian Heritage Month mean to you personally? How do you see South Asian Heritage Month impacting younger generations within the community?
South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM) holds significant personal meaning for me as it provides an opportunity to celebrate our rich heritage and foster mutual learning within our community. It also serves as a platform to showcase to the world the essence of being South Asian. For the South Asian community, SAHM represents a recognition that we are seen and heard, and that our contributions to wider society are valued. Representation is crucial.
I believe that SAHM will instil confidence and pride in younger generations, reinforcing the idea that their history and heritage are worthy of celebration. Additionally, it serves as a timely reminder to all members of the South Asian community, both young and old, of our identity, our journey, and our collective achievements.
