The concept of legal education in India goes back to the Vedic age when it was essentially based on the concept of Dharma. The Kings either used to dispense justice themselves or appoint Judges to administer justice, not necessarily trained in law but who were known for their righteousness and justness and had the reputation of being fair and impartial. According to Brihaspathi Smrithi, there was a hierarchy of courts in Ancient India beginning with the family Courts and ending with the King. The lowest was the family arbitrator. The next higher court was that of the judge; the next of the Chief Justice who was called Praadivivaka, or adhyaksha and at the top was the King’s court. 

The gurushishya parampara has existed ever since Vedic era making education an integral part of human development. It is education which ultimately results in shaping or transforming the whole society ‘Law is the cement of society and an essential medium of change’. The significance of legal education in a democratic society cannot be over-emphasized. Knowledge of law increases one’s understanding of public affairs. Its study promotes accuracy of the expression, facilitates in arguments and skill in interpreting the written words, and understanding of social values.