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A Senior Advocate is a distinguished advocate in India who has been recognized for their exceptional
knowledge, experience, and contributions to the legal profession. Senior Advocates are granted special
privileges and recognized for their expertise in specific areas of law. The designation of Senior
Advocate is not an automatic promotion, but rather a title given to advocates who meet specific criteria
set by the Supreme Court of India or High Courts.The designation of Senior Advocate is governed by
the Advocates Act, 1961 and the Rules framed by the Bar Council of India (BCI). The rules regarding
the designation of Senior Advocates are also outlined by the respective High Courts and the Supreme
Court.
An Advocate on Record (AOR) is a specific type of advocate in India who is entitled to practice before
the Supreme Court of India. The role of an Advocate on Record is significant because they are the only
lawyers authorized to file legal documents and pleadings in the Supreme Court. This status provides the
advocate with special privileges and responsibilities. The concept and criteria of an Advocate on
Record are governed by the Supreme Court Rules, 2013, and it is distinct from regular advocates or
Senior Advocates.An Advocate on Record is a lawyer who has been enrolled with the Supreme Court
of India and is recognized as authorized to represent clients in the Supreme Court. This advocate is
permitted to file petitions, appear in hearings, and sign pleadings before the highest court in the
country. An Advocate on Record plays an essential role in the judicial process of the Supreme Court,
especially in ensuring that legal documents are presented correctly and in compliance with the court's
procedures.
Advocates Roll
the "Advocates Roll" is a crucial part of the legal system. It is essentially a register or list maintained
by the Bar Council of India and State Bar Councils that contains the names of individuals who are
legally qualified to practice law as advocates in Indian courts.
Amicus curiae
Amicus curiae, a Latin term meaning "friend of the court," refers to a person or organization that is not
a party to a case but is allowed to offer information, expertise, or arguments that may assist the court in
its decision-making process. An amicus curiae is generally invited by the court or sometimes by one of
the parties involved in the case, but they do not have a direct stake in the outcome. Their role is to
provide a broader perspective, legal analysis, or knowledge that may help the court better understand
complex issues, particularly when they have public interest or constitutional implications. Amicus
curiae is typically a brief or written submission by a third party that offers insights, data, or arguments
relevant to the case, even though the third party is not directly involved in the litigation.The primary
function of an amicus curiae is to assist the court by presenting arguments or information that may not
be fully presented by the parties involved. This could be useful in complex legal matters, especially
when a case has broader societal, constitutional, or policy implications.
Lawyers Privilege.
Lawyer's privilege, also known as attorney-client privilege, is a legal concept that protects the
confidentiality of communications between a lawyer and their client. It ensures that anything shared
between the two for the purpose of seeking or providing legal advice remains private and cannot be
disclosed without the client's consent. This privilege encourages open and honest communication,
which is essential for effective legal representation.
The privilege applies to:
1. Verbal or written communications between a client and their lawyer.
2. Documents prepared by the lawyer in anticipation of litigation (under the work product doctrine).
However, it does not apply if the communication involves the commission of a crime or fraud (the
crime-fraud exception) or if the client waives the privilege by disclosing the communication to third
parties. Additionally, it typically survives after the client's death, depending on the jurisdiction.
Duty to self.
A lawyer's "duty to self" refers to the ethical obligation to maintain their own professional competence,
mental well-being, and personal integrity, ensuring they can effectively represent clients while
upholding the highest standards of legal practice, including avoiding burnout and conflicts of interest
that could harm their own reputation and ability to function effectively. Some of the key points are
mentioned below:
1. Maintaining professional competence.
2. Ethical conduct.
3. Managing workload and stress.
4. Seeking help when needed.
5. Self-reflection and improvement.
Duty to colleagues.
A duty to colleagues can include being respectful, taking responsibility, and being a good leader. Some
of important key points are mentioned as under:
1. Duty to report professional misconduct
2. Duty of professional courtesy and cooperation
3. Duty to mentor and guide junior advocates
4. Consent of fellow advocate to appear.
Restriction on Advertisement. The Legal Profession in India is administered by the Advocates Act of
1961, which prescribes its professional code of conduct and standards for advocates. Under its ambit,
exists the Central Bar Council (BCI and Bar Councils of States). As per Rule 36 of the BCI Rules,4
"An advocate is prohibited from soliciting work or advertising, either directly or indirectly, whether by
circulars, advertisements, touts, personal communications, interviews not warranted by personal
relations, furnishing inspiring newspaper comments or producing his photographs to be published in
connection with cases in which he has been engaged or concerned. Even the signboard, nameplate or
stationery of an advocate should not indicate that he is or has been the President or Member of a Bar
Council or of any Association or that he has been associated with any person or organisation or with
any particular cause or matter or that he specialises in any particular type of work or that he has been a
Judge or an Advocate General."
Refusing to Accept a Case. In fact, in some situations, lawyers cannot accept a case or agree to
represent a certain client.Various laws and ethics rules govern the cases (and clients) a lawyer can–and
cannot–accept.Generally, lawyers have a duty not to agree to representation in the following situations:
1. When the lawyer is not competent to handle the case.
2. When the lawyer is too busy to handle the case properly.
3. When the lawyer’s physical or mental health is impaired in a way that will or could impact the
representation.
4. When the lawyer’s personal feelings would prevent proper representation.
5. When the client, or the lawyer, has a corrupt motive.
6. Where the lawyer has an actual or likely conflict of interest
7. Where the client’s claim or case is frivolous/cannot be supported by law.
8. Where the lawyer might be called as a witness at trial in the action.
Professional Misconduct. The Advocates Act defines professional misconduct as any act or omission
by an advocate violating the standards of professional conduct prescribed by the Act or the rules made
thereunder. Section 35 of the Act enumerates various acts that constitute professional misconduct,
including:
1. Lawyers cannot charge fees based on a percentage of the legal dispute or hire others to generate
work.
2. Lawyers cannot communicate directly with clients represented by another lawyer unless they do so
through that lawyer.
3. Advocates are restricted from advertising their services or soliciting work, directly or indirectly,
except in specified circumstances.
3. Failure to appear before a court or tribunal without sufficient cause, neglecting to attend to matters
entrusted, or willful disobedience of any lawful court order constitutes misconduct.
4. Disrespectful behaviour toward the courts or interfering with the fair administration of justice
constitutes professional misconduct.
5. If an advocate is found guilty of a crime that reflects poorly on their character, it is considered
professional misconduct.
6. Any action that undermines an advocate’s professional independence or brings discredit to the legal
profession is deemed professional misconduct.
Review if its Own Order. The power to review its own order is a statutory power that courts can
exercise in certain circumstances. The purpose of a review is to correct an error or injustice that
resulted from a previous decision.
Supreme Court
. The Supreme Court can review its own orders under Article 137 of the Constitution of India.
. The Supreme Court's review power is separate from its appellate jurisdiction.
. The Supreme Court will not rehear the case when reviewing its own order.
. The Supreme Court will only review its own order if there is an obvious error or a substantial
injustice.
High Court
. The High Court can review its own orders under Article 226 of the Constitution of India.
. The High Court can review its own orders by invoking Article 215 of the Constitution.
Disciplinary committee of a state bar council. The disciplinary committee of a state bar council is a
group of people who investigate and decide on cases of professional misconduct involving advocates.
The committee's role is to uphold ethical standards and public trust in the justice system. Which
includes:
. Investigates complaints
. Gathers evidence
. Holds hearings
. Determines disciplinary action
. Ensures fair proceedings
. Adheres to legal principles and procedural safeguards
Disciplinary Committee of the Bar Council of India. The Disciplinary Committee of the Bar Council
of India is a body responsible for addressing cases of professional misconduct among advocates.
Comprising three members, including two elected by the Bar Council and one co-opted advocate, it
investigates complaints, gathers evidence, and holds hearings to determine disciplinary
action.Empowered by section 42 of the Advocates Act, 1961, it has authority akin to a civil court,
including summoning witnesses and receiving evidence. The committee ensures fair proceedings,
adhering to legal principles and procedural safeguards, and may review its own orders. Its role is vital
in upholding ethical standards within the legal profession and maintaining public trust in the justice
system.
Transfer of Proceedings. Under the Code of Civil Procedure (CPC) Section 24, "transfer of
proceedings" refers to the power of a higher court to move a civil case from one subordinate court to
another, typically exercised when the original court lacks jurisdiction or when a fair trial might not be
possible in that court; while in the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) Sections 406-412, it signifies
the ability to transfer a criminal case from one court to another based on similar grounds, primarily to
ensure a fair trial and proper administration of justice. Key points about transfer of proceedings;
. Bias or prejudice: If a judge in the original court is perceived as biased towards one party.
. Lack of jurisdiction: When the original court does not have the legal authority to hear the case.
. Convenience of parties: To facilitate easier access to the court for the parties involved.
. Public interest: In cases where a fair trial might be compromised due to local influence or other
factors.
Advocates Welfare fund. An Advocates Welfare Fund is a financial support system established to
assist advocates (lawyers) in times of need, such as during health emergencies, disability, or financial
hardship. The fund is often set up by bar councils, legal associations, or government bodies to ensure
the welfare of advocates who may face challenges due to various personal or professional
circumstances. These funds are typically contributed to by practicing advocates through a small annual
fee or by other means, and they provide financial assistance, medical help, or support in cases of
unforeseen circumstances.The specific eligibility criteria, benefits, and fund management details can
vary based on the country, state, or governing body overseeing the fund.
CHAPTER 3
Contempt of Court. Contempt of Court refers to any act that disrespects or disobeys the authority,
dignity, and authority of the court. It is a legal term used to describe behavior that disrupts the normal
functioning of the judicial system, undermines the court's authority, or shows disrespect for legal
proceedings.In India, Contempt of Court is governed under Article 129 of the Constitution and the
Contempt of Courts Act, 1971. It empowers the Supreme Court and High Courts to take action for
contempt. However, the act also recognizes certain exceptions, such as cases where the act does not
obstruct justice or harm the public interest. There are two types of contempt they includes 1). Civil
Contempt and 2). Criminal Contempt. Some of the grounds for the contempt of the courts are:
.Disobeying court orders.
.Acting in a way that obstructs the administration of justice.
.Speaking or writing in a manner that undermines the authority of the court.
Civil Contempt.Section 2(a) of the Contempt of Court Act, 1971 states Civil Contempt as wilful
disobedience to the order, decree, direction, any judgment or writ of the Court by any person or
willfully breach of undertakings by a person given to a Court. Since Civil Contempt deprives a party of
the benefit for which the order was made so these are the offences essential of private nature. In other
words, a person who is entitled to get the benefit of the court order, this wrong is generally done to this
person.
Criminal Contempt.According to Section 2(c) of the Contempt of Court Act, 1971, Criminal
Contempt is Defined as (i) the publication of any matter by words, spoken or written, or by gesture, or
by signs, or by visible representation or (ii) doing of any act which includes:
a) Scandalize or tends to scandalise, or lowers or tends to lower the authority of any court, or
b) Biasness, interferes or tends to interfere with the due course of any type of Judicial proceedings, or,
c) obstructs or tends to obstruct, interfere or tend to interfere with the administration of justice in any
manner.
Punishment for Contempt of Court.Section 12 of the Contempt of Court Act, 1971 deals with the
punishment for Contempt of Court. High Court and the Supreme Court have been given the power to
punish someone for the Contempt of Court. Section 12(1) of this Act states that a person who alleged
with the Contempt of Court can be punished with simple imprisonment and this imprisonment can
extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to two thousand rupees or can be of both type
punishment.
Defenses Against Civil Contempt of Court. Civil Contempt of court is the act of being disrespectful
to a court of law or its officers. It can also include disobeying a court order or breaking an undertaking
to the court. Some defenses against civil contempt of court include:
Lack of knowledge: The accused person can claim that they were unaware of the court order. The
court is responsible for serving the order to the accused, either by post, in person, or through certified
copy.
Order was vague or ambiguous: The accused can claim that the order was unclear or had more than
one reasonable interpretation.
Good faith: The accused can claim that they made a statement in good faith about the presiding officer
of a subordinate court.
Truth: The accused can claim that they were justified in their actions.
Not willful disobedience: The accused can claim that they did not disobey the court order willingly.
Contempt by judicial Officer: Contempt by judicial officers refers to actions by judges or other court
officials that undermine or disrespect the authority, dignity, or functioning of the court. It typically
involves behavior that obstructs the administration of justice, such as:
1. Failure to comply with court orders: A judicial officer may be held in contempt if they refuse or
neglect to follow a lawful court order or act in ways that disrupt legal proceedings.
2. Misuse of authority: If a judge or judicial officer uses their position to exert personal influence,
engage in biased behavior, or otherwise abuse their power, it can be seen as contempt of court.
3. Public disrespect or misconduct: Engaging in public conduct that discredits the judicial office or
diminishes the public's trust in the legal system may also lead to contempt charges.
In most legal systems, contempt of court is taken seriously to preserve the integrity of the judicial
process, and penalties may include disciplinary action, suspension, or removal from office.
Bar and bench relation.
Bar: Lawyers become registered advocates after completing their L.L.B. degree from a university and
undergoing specific training supervised by another advocate, as per the rules. Collectively, these
lawyers are known as the ‘Bar,’ and an advocate represents the Bar. In most cases, the term “Bar” refers
to a group of licensed attorneys who practice in the courts of a state or a specific court.
Bench: The term “bench” refers to all the judges collectively, in contrast to the term “Bar,” which
encompasses all legal professionals. It also refers to the official part of the court when judges are in
session. Originally, the term ‘Bar’ referred to the section of the court related to attorneys, but now it
refers to the part of the court dealing with judicial officers, known as the Bench.
Bar Bench relations refer to the dynamic interaction and cooperation between lawyers (the Bar) and
judges (the Bench) within the legal system. This relationship is fundamental to the administration of
justice. Lawyers represent their clients’ interests in court, while judges make impartial decisions based
on the law. Maintaining a respectful and collaborative partnership between the Bar and the Bench is
crucial for the effective functioning of the legal system. It ensures that cases are heard fairly, legal
principles are upheld and justice is served. Communication, professionalism and mutual respect are key
elements in fostering a strong Bar Bench relationship, which ultimately benefits the legal profession
and the individuals seeking justice.
Respect for Judges: Advocates should show respect and reverence for judges, refraining from any
form of disparagement or criticism of the judiciary.
Assist Judges: During court hearings, advocates should assist judges by accurately and clearly
conveying the relevant legal principles.
Handling Judicial Errors: If advocates believe there is an error in a judge’s decision, they should not
criticize the judge openly. Instead, they should follow proper legal procedures, such as filing an appeal,
to address and rectify any perceived mistakes.
Avoid Manipulation: Advocates should not exert undue pressure or attempt to control judges to obtain
favorable orders. They must refrain from using illegal or inappropriate means to influence court
decisions
Prevent Unfair Practices: Advocates have a responsibility to guide and discourage their clients from
engaging in unfair or unethical practices in court proceedings.
By adhering to these principles, advocates contribute to the preservation and strengthening of the
relation between Bar and Bench, ultimately enhancing the administration of justice
Mutual Respect: Just as advocates show respect to judges, judges should also respect advoca
Maintaining mutual respect is crucial for a healthy working relationship between bar and bench.
Open-Mindedness: Judges should approach each case with an open mind, free from bias or prejudice.
Impartiality: Judges must act impartially, refraining from favouring any party involved in the dispute.
Their decisions should be solely based on the merits of the case and the applicable law.
Minimal Intervention: Judges should avoid unnecessary interference with lawyers’ interactions with
witnesses and their arguments.
Clarity in Legal Interpretation: When interpreting complex legal rules, documents or statutes, judges
should provide clear explanations to ensure justice for all parties involved.
Adjournments: Judges should grant adjournments sparingly and only when reasonable and
appropriate grounds exist.
Respectful Conduct: Judges should refrain from making unwarranted public remarks about a lawyer’s
competence in open court.
Legal Knowledge: Judges should possess a deep understanding of the law, apply it to the evidence 0
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Moral Responsibility and Honesty: Judges should be held to the highest standards of moral
responsibility and honesty, commanding respect in both their personal and intellectual capacities.
Communication: Regular briefings and meetings between judges and advocates should be scheduled
to facilitate discussion and resolution of issues, strengthening the relationship between Bar and Bench.
By following these principles, judges contribute to a productive and respectful relationship with
advocates and ensure the fair administration of justice in the legal system.
CHAPTER 4
CASES ON PROFESSIONAL MISCONDUCT.
1.The petitioner filed a partition suit against Grija Devi and Premadevi. The
respondent Mr.Iswarappa was the general power of attorney holder of Smt.
Girija Devi and Premadevi and also acted as Advocate for them in the said
case. He misused his position as an Advocate and dominated the will of
Girija Devi and Premadevi and purchased one portion of the suit property on
30/3/93 from them.
2. Mr.Iswarappa took the signature of kirmani in a ten rupee bank bond paper
promising to compromise the partition suit and thereafter committed theft of
the same bond paper.
3. During the pendency of the partion suit Mr.Iswarappa often visited the
house of the complainant in a drunken stage, through the complainant had
asked him not to visit his house during the pendency of the suit.
4. Iswarappa has falsely filed a criminal case against the complainant which
was dismissed after enquiry. During the enquiry Iswarappa admitted that he
was the general power of attorney of GirijaDevi and Premadevi and has
purchased their property for valuable consideration and paid the full amount
and denied all other allegations.
The Bar Council of India also dismissed the appeal on the following grounds:
2.The complainant was wasting valuable time of the court and also the
revenue of the Govt.P.R. referred this contempt petition to the District Judge.
District Judge referred it to High Court. The court advised P.R. to lodge a
complaint against V.I. before the State Bar Council for professional
misconduct. Hence P.R. filed a complaint against the respondent alleging
professional misconduct because he has filed contempt petition on false
grounds under his signature against the presiding officer by name and
bringing down the reputation of he presiding officer. The respondent also
acted on his own and not under the instruction of his client.
The Bar Council of Andhra Pradesh after enquiry held that by filing the said
contempt petition against the presiding officer with serious allegation, the
respondent has committed professional misconduct. In the mean time the
respondent was also selected and appointed as District Munsif Magistrate and
he ceased to be an Advocate. So, the Bar Council expressed its inability to
pass any order of punishment against him for professional misconduct. So,
they forward this order and other records to the High Court of Andhra
Pradesh for necessary action.
CHAPTER 5
10. UNESCO
• The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
promotes gender equality through education. UNESCO works to ensure that women and girls
have access to quality education, particularly in science and technology, which empowers them
to pursue leadership roles in their communities and countries.
Conclusion:
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 represented a crucial step in modernizing India’s criminal
justice system, especially concerning women’s rights and protection from sexual violence. The law
introduced key reforms to make sexual violence laws more stringent and to offer better support to
victims. However, challenges remain in its implementation, and the criminalization of marital rape
continues to be a subject of debate in India.
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act,
2013 (commonly referred to as the Sexual Harassment Act, 2013) is an Indian legislation that aims to
protect women from sexual harassment at the workplace. It provides a mechanism for women to report
incidents of harassment, ensures that employers take preventive measures, and sets forth guidelines for
handling complaints. Here's an overview of the key provisions of the Act:
5. Redressal Mechanism
• The Act provides for confidentiality during the complaint process to protect the identity of the
complainant.
• If the ICC finds the allegations to be true, it can recommend disciplinary action against the
harasser, which may include termination, suspension, or other measures as per the company's
policies.
• In case the complainant is not satisfied with the findings of the ICC, they can appeal to the
Local Complaints Committee (LCC) or approach the labor court.
Conclusion:
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act,
2013 was a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and dignity of women in the workplace. It is
a tool for empowerment, offering a structured and transparent approach to address sexual harassment
and protect the rights of women at work. The law emphasizes the importance of creating a respectful,
safe, and inclusive environment where women can work without fear of harassment.
3. Arbitration types
The many forms of arbitration in India are categorized as:
3.1 In-House Arbitration- Domestic arbitration is the process of using arbitration to settle a
dispute between two parties who are in a legal relationship and who both reside or are based
in India. In these circumstances, there is the least ambiguity as to which laws should be used
to decide the issues. The representation of parties before the arbitration tribunal is assisted
by the arbitration attorneys in India.
3.2 Arbitration internationally- International arbitration is used when one of the parties is
from a nation other than India and the issue is being arbitrated in accordance with Indian law.
In such situations, the presence of an international component is clear.
3.3 Ad- Hoc Arbitration- Ad-hoc arbitration is used when parties mutually agree to arbitrate
disputes even if there is no legal need to do so. In India, it is one of the most popular forms of
arbitration. In some situations, the disputing parties may agree to disagree on the arbitration
procedure to be used.
3.4 Fast track Arbitration- The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996's Section 29B
establishes a fast track arbitration system. This method of conflict resolution through
arbitration is the most effective one available among the other types. To speed up processes,
items are typically summarized in papers.
3.5 Arbitration under Contract- A contract is a formal agreement in which the parties
stipulate a number of terms. A contract's parties may stipulate in an arbitration provision that
any disputes must first be resolved through arbitration rather than in court.