Aleem Akhtar Shaikh’s journey began in 2017 when he decided to pursue LLB (Hons). The inspiration came from his elder brother, Advocate Parwaiz Ahmed Shaikh. Watching his brother practice law and earn respect in society motivated Aleem to follow in his footsteps. He realized that law was not only a career but also a noble way to serve people and uphold justice. With that thought, he took admission at the Metharam Institute of Law, University of Sindh, Hyderabad.
He belongs to Shahdadkot, a well-known town in Sindh that is famous for its agricultural produce. Growing up there shaped his values of hard work, persistence, and community. Even while studying in Hyderabad and later practicing in Karachi, he always carried the identity of his hometown with pride. It gave him a sense of belonging and reminded him to use his knowledge for the betterment of people.
One of the major turning points in his life came when he left Hyderabad, his comfort zone, and moved to Karachi to practice as an Advocate. Karachi, with its competitive environment and fast pace, appeared daunting. Many people around him used to say that living and working in Karachi would be difficult. But Aleem saw it as an opportunity to grow. His move inspired those same people who once feared Karachi, showing them that courage and persistence could turn challenges into opportunities.
His journey has been steady and determined. After completing his LLB (Hons) in 2021, he continued his academic path by enrolling in LLM at Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto University of Law, Karachi, from 2022 to 2024. While studying, he also built four years of practical experience as an Advocate, managing cases and developing his skills in the courtroom. Alongside his legal practice, he participated in academic activities and training programs, believing that continuous learning is essential for growth in the legal profession.
Like every young lawyer, he also faced difficult times. The toughest stage of his career was the initial period of advocacy and internships in law firms. This stage is often the real test for every lawyer. Financial struggles, lack of recognition, and the challenge of applying theoretical knowledge into practical situations tested his patience. However, he did not give up. Those challenges built his resilience, strengthened his confidence, and laid the foundation for the Advocate he is today.
At present, Aleem Akhtar Shaikh is practicing as an Advocate of the High Court and serving as the Managing Partner of Legal Minds, a law firm based in Karachi. His professional journey also extends to global platforms as he is a member of the International Bar Association, Sindh High Court Bar Association, Karachi Bar Association, Pakistan Lawyers, Law Society of Pakistan, and Amnesty International. Through these memberships, he continues to stay connected with both national and international legal communities.
To the young lawyers, his message is simple yet powerful: respect your seniors and work with patience during the initial years of your career. Despite financial struggles or difficulties, the focus should be on learning and building skills. In advocacy, the early years are not about earning but about preparing yourself for the long road ahead. Success in law comes to those who remain patient, disciplined, and dedicated to their growth.
“A lawyer’s true strength lies not only in his knowledge of law, but also in his patience, humility, and persistence.” ~ Aleem Akhtar Shaikh
