Unlocking the Language of the Law: My Journey Through Legal Terminology

 Unlocking the Language of the Law: My Journey Through Legal Terminology 

Law school is a rigorous and arduous endeavor, fraught with challenges and obstacles. During my years in law school, I distinctly recall struggling to comprehend the case's full text and feeling overwhelmed by the barrage of unfamiliar terms and phrases that seemed to populate every legal text I encountered. 

It was in these moments of frustration that I developed a technique that help me improve myself and guide me throughout my law school journey. I began writing down every strange term or phrase I came across while reading, acknowledging my limitations and accepting that I was not yet fluent in English. Armed with my trusty Merriam-Webster's Dictionary and a dedicated notebook, I would gather the courage to explore the definitions of those words, determined to unravel their meaning. 

At first, the process was slow and painstaking. Each definition I sought out felt like a tiny victory, as if I were piecing together a complex puzzle. But as time went on, I started to notice a significant improvement in my comprehension of legal texts. The more words I uncovered, the more confident I became in navigating the intricate language of the law. 

This technique became an integral part of my daily routine. I would set aside dedicated study sessions, immersing myself in legal texts and gradually expanding my vocabulary. I discovered that by breaking down the unfamiliar terminology into smaller, digestible parts, I was able to comprehend the overall context of the cases I was studying. What once seemed insurmountable gradually became manageable. 

There were moments of doubt along the way, times when I questioned my ability to conquer the language barrier that stood between me and my dreams of becoming a successful lawyer. However, I persevered, always keeping in mind that growth is a personal journey, and every small step forward counts. 

My determination to understand legal terminology not only helped me survive law school but also laid the foundation for my future career in law. As I delved into the practice of law, I encountered new terms and phrases that were specific to various areas of legal specialization. Yet, armed with my proven technique, I tackled each challenge head-on. The more I exposed myself to legal language, the more comfortable and fluent I became in using it to articulate my arguments and advocate for my clients. 

In retrospect, I am grateful for the struggles I faced during my law school years. They taught me humility, resilience, and the importance of seeking knowledge beyond my comfort zone. I am also grateful for the role my faith played in providing me with the strength and determination to overcome obstacles. To God, I attribute all the glory for guiding me through those challenging times. 

To those who, like me, find themselves grappling with the complexities of legal terminology, I offer this advice: Embrace your limitations, but never allow them to define you. Acknowledge that the path to mastery may be challenging, but remember that every small step you take towards understanding brings you closer to your goal. Arm yourself with the necessary tools, whether it be a trusty dictionary, a dedicated notebook, or an unwavering spirit. Most importantly, have faith in your ability to grow and learn, and never underestimate the power of determination. 

ATTY. RUWEE OBOGNE TUPUE

The language of the law may be intricate, but it is not impenetrable. With perseverance, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge, you too can unlock its secrets and excel in your legal journey.

📸: Supreme Court of the Philippines_PIO