The Bombay High Court directed Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa to initiate action against a lawyer for not appearing in proper attire before the Court.
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Maharashtra: The Bombay High Court directed the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa to initiate action against a lawyer for failing to appear in proper attire before the Court.
Justice Prithviraj K. Chavan observed that the lawyer’s attire did not comply with the prescribed rules.
“He is not in proper attire, in the sense, he is without bands and advocate’s gown as prescribed by the Rules,”
-the order dated June 14 stated.
As a result, the Court instructed the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa to take appropriate action against the advocate, Jagdish M. Ahuja. This directive was issued during a hearing of a criminal writ petition from 2018 in which the concerned lawyer was present.
The emphasis on proper courtroom attire underscores the importance of maintaining decorum and adhering to professional standards within the legal profession.
The directive from the Bombay High Court to the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa to take action against a lawyer for improper attire highlights several important aspects of legal practice and professionalism.
- Upholding Professional Standards: The legal profession has established dress codes to maintain decorum and convey respect for the judicial process. Adhering to these standards ensures that lawyers present themselves with the dignity and seriousness that the profession demands.
- Maintaining Courtroom Decorum: Proper attire contributes to the overall decorum of the courtroom. It signifies respect for the court and the judicial process, and helps maintain a formal and orderly environment, which is essential for the administration of justice.
- Consistency and Equality: Dress codes apply uniformly to all lawyers, ensuring a sense of equality and professionalism. When one lawyer fails to adhere to these standards, it can undermine the uniformity and equality that the dress code seeks to promote.
- Public Perception: Lawyers are often seen as representatives of the legal system. Their appearance can influence public perception of the legal profession. Maintaining a professional appearance helps reinforce the integrity and seriousness of the legal system in the eyes of the public.
- Legal and Ethical Obligations: Lawyers have an ethical obligation to comply with the rules and regulations set by their governing bodies. Non-compliance not only reflects poorly on the individual lawyer but can also erode trust in the legal profession as a whole.
- Judicial Authority: The court’s directive underscores the authority of the judiciary to enforce standards of conduct within its domain. This action reinforces the importance of judicial oversight in maintaining the standards of the legal profession.
In conclusion, while some may argue that attire should not overshadow the substantive legal work lawyers do, maintaining proper attire is a matter of professional responsibility and respect for the judicial process. The court’s decision to enforce these standards serves as a reminder of the importance of professionalism and decorum in the legal field.
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