Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy of the Madras High Court has implemented a Standard Operating Procedure to enhance case disposals by streamlining processes. This includes eliminating early morning mentions, early case listings, limiting adjournments, and encouraging better communication among lawyers. These changes aim to increase efficiency and accountability in the legal system, promising timely justice.
Chennai: Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy of the Madras High Court has introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aimed at expediting case disposals and minimizing court time wastage. This initiative targets streamlining procedures for mentioning matters, preventing unnecessary adjournments, and fostering better communication among lawyers.
Key Highlights of the SOP
- No Early Morning Mentions for Fresh Cases
Justice Chakravarthy emphasized that lawyers no longer need to vie for attention during early hours to list urgent cases. The SOP permits lawyers to directly obtain motion slips from the Court Officer and submit them to the Registry. These cases, if deemed urgent, will be listed for hearing the next day.
“The court trusts the Bar members will objectively apply their mind and take the slips only in appropriate cases,” the SOP stated. - Early Listing of Pending Cases
A dedicated register has been placed in the courtroom where lawyers can list case numbers they wish to be heard early. The judge assured that these cases would be scheduled as soon as possible, primarily on Thursdays and Fridays. - Restrictions on Adjournments
To curb unnecessary delays, the SOP disallows early morning mentions for adjournments. “Requests for adjournments can only be made when the matter reaches,” said the judge. If an advocate is unavailable, the case will be passed over and revisited post-lunch at 2:15 p.m. - Simplified Communication and Case Preparation
Justice Chakravarthy urged lawyers to coordinate effectively and share case papers in advance. He stated that adjournments would not be granted on the grounds of non-receipt of case papers. If required, hard or soft copies can be obtained from the Court Officer.
“These matters cannot be represented to the court, and no adjournment will be given on that basis,” the SOP clarified. - Submission of Citations
Lawyers are encouraged to submit citations they intend to rely on directly to the Court Officer or the Law Clerk. The court has committed to accessing these judgements digitally ahead of hearings, ensuring a smooth and informed process.
Justice Chakravarthy also took steps to modernize courtroom decorum by stating that advocates need not use traditional honorifics like ‘MiLord’ or ‘Your Lordship.’ He emphasized that respectful communication suffices in addressing the court.
This SOP is a proactive measure to address persistent inefficiencies in the legal process. By reducing redundant mentions, streamlining case listings, and discouraging adjournments based on logistical issues, it aims to enhance productivity and ensure timely justice delivery.
This new procedure is expected to set a precedent for other courts, demonstrating the importance of clear communication, technological adoption, and judicial accountability. For litigants and lawyers alike, Justice Chakravarthy’s SOP promises a more organized and effective legal system.
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