In a decisive step aimed at alleviating the financial pressures on budding legal professionals, the Bar Council of India (BCI) has unveiled a proposal for a structured stipend program for junior advocates. This initiative is designed to support those starting their careers in the legal field, working under senior advocates, law firms, and independent practitioners.
The proposal, emerging in response to a July 29 directive from the Delhi High Court, traces its origins to concerns highlighted by Advocate Simran Kumari about the economic hardships new lawyers face. Additionally, a precedent for this kind of financial support was voiced earlier by the Madras High Court, advocating for a monthly stipend of ₹15,000 to ₹20,000 for junior lawyers.
The BCI’s guidelines recommend a stipend of ₹20,000 per month for juniors in bustling urban settings, while their counterparts in quieter, rural areas would receive ₹15,000. This financial assistance is advised to continue for at least three years from the start of the junior advocate’s professional engagement.*
However, the guidelines stipulate that these payments are recommended rather than compulsory, acknowledging that senior advocates and smaller firms in less profitable markets might struggle with these stipulations. The BCI’s circular, which has been sent to all state bar councils and associations, emphasizes the importance of supporting junior advocates not just financially but also through mentorship. This should include practical training opportunities such as courtroom observation, legal research, and case strategy.
The BCI is encouraging formalized agreements between juniors and their senior counterparts to clearly outline the terms of engagement, including stipend details and the duration of support. These agreements are to be accompanied by diligent record-keeping, with annual reports submitted to state bar councils.
For junior advocates facing issues with stipend payments or other aspects of their engagement, the BCI provides a channel to lodge complaints with their state bar council. The council, however, will consider complaints keeping in mind the financial constraints that may affect certain senior advocates’ ability to pay.
To ensure the stipend program’s effectiveness and adaptability, the BCI plans to establish a committee tasked with periodically reviewing these guidelines and adjusting stipend amounts to reflect economic trends and feedback from stakeholders.
