Supreme Court Mandates One-Year Reduction in LLB Program Duration

On June 25, 2025, the Supreme Court of Pakistan ordered a significant reform in legal education by reducing the duration of the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program from five years to four years. This decision emerged from a constitutional bench hearing focused on the ongoing case concerning legal education reforms in the country.

The ruling was led by Justice Aminuddin Khan, who emphasized the necessity for improvements in law colleges rather than their closure if they fail to produce satisfactory results. "If the SM Law College was not producing the desired results, improvements should be made in it rather than closing it," Justice Khan remarked. He highlighted the historical significance of the college, stating it was established prior to the creation of Pakistan. This decision reflects a broader trend in the education sector aimed at enhancing the quality of legal training in the country.

This reduction in program duration has sparked a variety of responses from stakeholders in the legal education sector. According to Dr. Ayesha Malik, Associate Professor of Law at the University of Karachi, “This decision could serve as a double-edged sword. While a shorter program may attract more students, it also raises concerns about the sufficiency of training and preparedness for the legal profession.” Dr. Malik’s concerns echo the sentiments of other legal educators who fear that compressing the curriculum might hinder comprehensive learning.

In contrast, Mr. Faisal Rahman, CEO of the Association of Legal Educators in Pakistan, praised the ruling, stating, “This reform aligns with global trends in legal education where many countries have already transitioned to a four-year LLB program. It is a progressive step towards modernizing legal education in Pakistan.” This perspective highlights the ongoing global dialogue about the length and content of legal education programs, where adaptability is key to maintaining relevance in a rapidly changing legal landscape.

The Supreme Court's decision also comes in the context of recent criticisms regarding the quality of legal education in Pakistan. A report published by the Pakistan Bar Council in March 2025 indicated that many law graduates lack practical skills necessary for effective legal practice, calling for immediate reforms in law colleges across the nation. The report advocated for enhanced training programs and better infrastructure to support legal education.

Furthermore, the ruling has implications for law graduates currently enrolled in the five-year program. As per the court's order, those students will now have their programs adjusted to comply with the new structure, raising questions about the transition and its management. The Pakistan Law Commission has been tasked with overseeing these changes to ensure a smooth transition.

Internationally, various jurisdictions have already adopted similar reforms, showcasing a trend toward shorter and more focused legal education. For instance, in the United Kingdom, law schools have largely settled into a three-year LLB format, followed by a one-year Legal Practice Course, which has been deemed effective in preparing students for the legal profession. This context raises questions about whether Pakistan's move will lead to comparable improvements in the competency of its legal graduates.

In conclusion, while the Supreme Court's order to reduce the LLB program duration may appear as a progressive reform, it must be accompanied by a robust framework for ensuring quality education and practical training. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, the implications of this decision will likely reverberate throughout the legal community in Pakistan. Stakeholders will need to closely monitor the outcomes of this reform to ensure that it meets the educational and professional needs of future lawyers in the country.