Today, On 4th June, The Supreme Court criticised the rising trend of newly designated senior advocates skipping ongoing cases. Justice Amanullah called it “highly unethical,” stressing that becoming a senior advocate means greater responsibility, not an excuse to avoid appearances.
In a Supreme Court hearing Today, Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah emphasized important concern regarding the increasing trend of lawyers who, after being designated as senior advocates, neglect their ongoing cases.
The issue arose when the Court called a case and noted the absence of any legal representative for the petitioner.
A counsel present in the courtroom, although not involved in the case, notified the bench of Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice SVN Bhatti that the advocate-on-record (AoR) representing the petitioner had recently received the designation of Senior Advocate.
Lawyer in the courtroom remarked,
“I believe the petitioner’s counsel has recently been designated as a senior advocate, so perhaps that’s why…”
In response, Justice Amanullah spoke sternly, stating,
“This is a troubling new trend, and frankly, I consider it highly unethical behavior by the Bar. Does elevation to senior advocate mean abandoning ongoing cases? They should now provide guidance in their senior capacity.”
Also Read: Behind the Gown: The Rigorous Process of Senior Advocate Designation
He strongly condemned this behavior as entirely unprofessional, adding,
“They’ve accepted this responsibility this is completely unprofessional conduct. I’ve observed this happening in this Court, and nowhere else.”
The judge reflected on past practices, sharing his own experiences,
“I recall when I was… special permission had to be sought, and government approval was required. These practices in the Supreme Court are deeply improper.”
Justice Amanullah’s remarks highlight critical issues concerning professional ethics and the responsibilities of senior advocates in maintaining continuity in legal representation.
His comments highlights the necessity of upholding the standards of the legal profession, particularly within the nation’s highest court.
Case Title: Biswanath Kundu v. State through C.B.I