#Japan #Tokyo #Legal Profession #TMI Law Firm #Rakusei High School

Discovering the Legal World: Rakusei High School's Program at TMI Law Firm

On August 19, 2026, TMI Law Firm, located in Minato, Tokyo, hosted a special program for first-year students from Rakusei High School in Kyoto. This initiative aimed to deepen students' understanding of the legal profession and assist them in making informed career choices. It was part of the school's annual “Tokyo Training” program, which encourages students to explore various fields through interaction with alumni working in diverse sectors, such as government and corporate institutions.

For the past four years, Rakusei High School has organized this Tokyo training, which includes visits to prestigious places like the University of Tokyo, the National Diet, and ministries in Kasumigaseki, allowing students to gain insights from successful alumni. This year, two TMI lawyers, who are also alumni of Rakusei High School, presented their stories and discussed the allure of pursuing a legal career.

Attorneys Koichiro Hanamoto and Hiroshi Tomita made the complexities of corporate law accessible by explaining the unique characteristics of their firm. They facilitated an interactive mock trial, re-enacting exchanges between a defendant and a lawyer, giving students a vivid image of courtroom dynamics. They also tackled relatable themes, such as disasters and advertisements, emphasizing the exciting perspective that attorneys bring to these issues beyond mere legal knowledge. The lawyers introduced the innovative use of AI in their practice, providing a comprehensive overview of the responsibilities and difficulties faced within the legal field.

“This program is not just about learning law; it's about inspiring the next generation,” said Koichiro Hanamoto, one of the speakers, highlighting their commitment to nurturing young talent. The firm’s efforts in education aim to support the growth and evolution of future leaders.

Program Outline

• - Opening remarks and introduction to the firm through a video presentation.
• - Lectures by lawyers followed by a Q&A session.

- Speakers:
- Koichiro Hanamoto, Attorney
- Hiroshi Tomita, Attorney
- Lecture Topics:
- Pathways to becoming lawyers after graduating from Rakusei High School.
- Insights into the daily work at TMI.
- Discussing the excitement and satisfaction of being an attorney.

• - Visit to the mock courtroom.

About TMI Law Firm

Founded in 1990 and based in Minato, Tokyo, TMI Law Firm is renowned as one of the largest law firms in Japan, employing 726 attorneys and 100 patent attorneys (as of August 3, 2026). With approximately 1,400 staff members, it operates domestic offices across eight locations and has 19 overseas offices. As a global firm, TMI is dedicated to providing localized legal services tailored to corporations, organizations, and communities both domestically and internationally.

Aside from its legal services, the firm is known for its innovative approach, founding venture companies and establishing agreements with local governments and educational institutions. TMI continuously strives to redefine the modern image of law firms and legal practitioners, aiming to proactively offer solutions to the diverse needs of its clients.