76 High Court advocates get ‘senior’ designation

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has designated 76 advocates as Senior Advocates, including at least five women. The process was initiated over a year ago.

The decision, taken by the Chief Justice and Judges of the High Court, marks one of the largest designations in recent years, recognising advocates for their standing, professional eminence and distinction in advocacy.

In all, 210 advocates had applied for the distinction under the High Court of Punjab and Haryana (Designation of Senior Advocates) Rules. Initially, 64 candidates were cleared for designation following interaction, but 12 more names were added after intense deliberations during the Full Court meeting, With the latest designations, the number of Senior Advocates practising before the High Court has crossed 300.

The previous round of designations was carried out in 2021, when 19 advocates were conferred the status. The conferment, made under the provisions of the Advocates Act, 1961, bestows a special status upon those found deserving of the honour reserved for advocates of exceptional ability, reputation and integrity.

Each of the newly designated Senior Advocates will also be required to undertake 10 pro bono legal aid cases every year.