Today, On 10th July, The Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) has urged the Bar Council of India (BCI) to recognize Indian General Counsel (GCs) as legal advisers and grant them attorney-client privilege. They also advocated for GCs to be included in the list of eminent mediators and arbitrators. SILF emphasized the evolving role and global trends of GCs, seeking clarity and accountability.
The SILF has requested the BCI to discuss new rules allowing foreign lawyers and firms to enter India before official notification. The BCI plans to implement these regulations by the end of July. SILF supports the initiative but raised concerns about timing and implementation, urging for discussions before the rules are notified.
India is set to permit UK lawyers and firms to enter its legal market, with amended regulations expected by July’s end. The Bar Council of India shared this during a meeting in London. Discussions addressed various issues, including rules for foreign lawyers and firms, disciplinary jurisdiction, and international commercial arbitration. The BCI aims to finalize the regulations to align with the UK-India free trade agreement.
The Society of Indian Law Firms (SILF) urged law firms to refrain from mass poaching, emphasizing the importance of adhering to its Code of Conduct stressing basic courtesies when recruiting from other firms. SILF condemned attempts to undermine the judiciary, highlighting the need for fair and impartial administration of justice.