Context:Supreme Court's recent criticism of an AoR for filing a frivolous case, highlighting the responsibilities and expectations of an AoR in the Indian legal system.
Q: What is the Advocate-on-Record (AoR) system in the Supreme Court of India?
An Advocate-on-Record (AoR) is a category of lawyers in the Supreme Court who are authorized to file cases directly before the Court. They act as a vital link between the litigant and the Supreme Court, playing a key role in the legal process.
Q: Who is an AoR?
An AoR is a lawyer with special qualifications having passed an examination specially for it recognized by the Supreme Court, who has the authority to file cases in the Supreme Court. They serve as a direct point of contact for litigants in the highest court of the country. While AoRs can engage other lawyers, including senior counsels to argue cases, they remain responsible for the case.
Q: How does one become an AoR?
To become an AoR, a lawyer must:
Meet specific eligibility criteria outlined in the Supreme Court Rules, 2013.
Train with a court-approved AoR for at least one year.
Have a minimum of four years of legal practice experience before starting the training.
Pass an examination conducted by the Supreme Court, achieving at least 60% overall and 50% in each subject.
Q: What are the rules governing the AoR system?
The rules are based on the Advocates Act and Article 145 of the Constitution, allowing the Supreme Court to set its own procedures. The AoR system reflects the British legal practice of barristers and solicitors, with AoRs akin to solicitors who handle the client relationship and case filing, while barristers (or senior advocates) focus on arguing cases.
SRIRAM’s: This FAQ provides a clear and concise overview of the Advocate-on-Record system in the Supreme Court of India, crucial for those preparing for civil services examinations or seeking a deeper understanding of India's judicial system.
