Back
Mandates Registration, , Uniform for Advocate Clerks and Interns
In a decisive move to restore discipline and decorum within its premises, the has issued comprehensive directions mandating the registration, , and prescribed uniform for all advocate clerks and law interns. The order, passed by Justice Ravi Chirania on , comes in the wake of two disturbing incidents where clerks were found behaving inappropriately inside courtrooms.
The Conduct That Sparked Action
The court took
after observing two advocate clerks engaged in unbecoming behavior on the same day. One clerk was found sitting in an unauthorized area with earphones plugged in, engrossed in his mobile phone for a prolonged period. Another was seen in the second row with folded sleeves, in what the court described as a
"highly relaxed and inappropriate manner."
These acts, the bench noted,
"cannot be allowed during Court hours,"
and underscored the urgent need to regulate the entry, identification, and functioning of advocate clerks.
A Deep-Rooted Problem: Over 50% of Clerks Unregistered
During proceedings, the court was informed by the presidents of both the Lawyers’ Association and the Advocates Association, as well as office-bearers of the , that while approximately 330 persons were working as advocate clerks, only 163 were duly registered under the Rules, 1952. The last registration exercise had taken place in , leaving a vast majority operating without formal identification or regulatory oversight.
Bar Associations Unite to Demand Reform
The bar associations made a joint prayer before the court, emphasizing the need to regulate the functioning of advocate clerks so that only registered individuals could enter the premises for official work. The admitted to internal delays and undertook to facilitate the registration of all eligible persons who had been working since or earlier. It also informed the court that the membership fee had been reduced from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 5,000 to encourage compliance.
was appointed as to assist the court. Along with the bar presidents, he placed before the court a detailed set of suggestions covering registration, identification, dress code, and conduct for both advocate clerks and law interns.
Key Directions: Registration, , and Temporary IDs
The court issued a series of directions to be implemented forthwith:
- Registration of Advocate Clerks All unregistered advocate clerks must submit their applications within 10 days from the date of the order, complete with requisite documents. The President of the will counter-sign the applications and forward them to the Registrar (Judicial), who will then coordinate with the Registrar (Administration) to complete the process within 45 days.
- Mandatory For the first time, the court mandated independent for all applicants, noting that an advocate’s alone cannot substitute for a background check. Each applicant must disclose any past criminal cases, arrests, convictions, or pending proceedings. However, the court cautioned that such disclosures would not lead to mechanical rejection and would be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Temporary and Permanent Identity Cards During the transitional period, temporary identity cards valid for 45 days will be issued in a distinct color, once the application form is submitted. No person who fails to apply within the 10-day window will be permitted to enter the court premises as an advocate clerk. After registration, permanent ID cards with QR codes containing all relevant details will be issued.
- Uniform and Conduct All registered clerks must strictly adhere to the prescribed uniform during court hours. The use of mobile phones in an inconsistent manner, wearing earphones or earbuds in courtrooms, and sitting in areas not designated for clerks are strictly prohibited. The bar associations and the clerk association have assured strict compliance.
Regulation for Persons Ineligible for Registration
Those who have worked as advocate clerks for less than one year and are not yet eligible for registration under the Rules can only work under a duly registered clerk and under the direct supervision of the advocate. They must produce a certificate or from the concerned advocate.
Law Interns: Dress Code and Entry Rules
Recognizing that law internships are now an integral part of legal education, the court also prescribed a uniform and conduct code for law students attending court proceedings. Male interns must wear formal attire with a tie, while female interns can opt for a salwar suit with a black coat or shirt-trousers with a tie. All interns must carry their college ID cards along with a court-issued pass.
The court observed,
"Advocate Clerks form an important and integral part of the functioning of the legal institution. At the same time, their access to the Court premises and their interaction with the Court administration require proper regulation."
Zero Tolerance for Unauthorized Persons
The court warned that anyone found working as an advocate clerk without registration or a valid temporary ID will be detained, and appropriate action, including the lodging of an FIR, may be taken. The respective advocates' chambers and institutions through which interns attend proceedings have been directed to communicate the code of conduct to all concerned.
Compliance and Next Hearing
The court appreciated the sincere efforts of , and the presidents of the two bar associations— and —for their valuable suggestions. The matter has been listed for compliance on , giving all stakeholders time to implement the new regime.
With these directions, the has taken a significant step towards restoring discipline, ensuring security, and maintaining the dignity of the institution—a move that is likely to serve as a model for other high courts across the country.
