Bar Council Of India Issues Urgent Notice To Advocates On Declaration Of Existence In Profession

The Notice has been issued by BCI in light of recent concerns/apprehensions surrounding misinformation and improper notifications, by State Bar Councils/Members of State Bar Councils/Advocates in their individual capacity.

The Notice says, “Contrary to previous communications, if any, from State Bar Councils, etc. it is crucial to emphasize that Advocates, including those listed as voters in previous Bar Council Elections, must substantiate their existence in the legal profession during verification, either after five years or when submitting fresh verification forms.”

“This verification process necessitates the attachment of essential documents such as vakalatnama, order sheets, or proof of drafting/deeds in non-litigious work, etc. in accordance with the Bar Council of India Certificate and Place of Practice (Verification) Rules, 2015,” the Notice adds.

As per the Notice, incorrect declarations, if any, stemming from inaccurate information being provided to applicants must be promptly rectified.

BCI has earnestly implored all concerned Advocates to meticulously review and rectify their submissions, aligning them with the established guidelines; and furthermore, requested and directed the State Bar Council/s to reiterate this aspect promptly to all applicants.

As per the Notice, to ensure compliance with Form A Column III, Advocates are reminded to submit:

1. Certified copies of at least 5 Vakalatnamas or any other document/cause list establishing five years of active practice.

2. For Advocates associated with law firms, a certificate from the authorized personnel of the firm detailing the period of service and nature of work.

3. For conveyancing lawyers, submission of five documents from the last three years supporting the claim of being a conveyaning practice lawyer.

In addition to these documents, the Notice directs the Advocates to provide details and updates, if any, on educational qualifications, and disclose any filed/pending criminal cases.