Landmark Reform Expands Legal Recognition Beyond Court Practice
In a historic move, the Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025, proposes to redefine the term “legal practitioner,” granting corporate lawyers, in-house counsel, and legal professionals outside traditional litigation roles statutory recognition. The amendments mark a significant shift in India’s legal landscape, addressing long-standing demands for inclusivity in the profession.
Key Changes Under the Bill
The proposed definition of “legal practitioner” expands beyond enrolled advocates to include:
- Law graduates engaged in legal work, even if not registered with the Bar Council.
- Corporate lawyers working in law firms, private companies, and public sector organizations.
- In-house counsel practicing law within corporate entities, statutory bodies, and multinational firms.
The Bill also introduces a revised definition of “law graduate,” ensuring broader inclusion of individuals with three-year, five-year, or other recognized law degrees. Additionally, it mandates experience certificates from state bar councils, courts, tribunals, and organizations as proof of legal practice.
Legal Experts Welcome the Move
The decision has been widely applauded by legal professionals, with many calling it a long-overdue reform. General Counsels (GCs) from leading corporations took to social media to express their support.
Tejal Patil, GC at Wipro, remarked:
“It is the beginning of ‘Re-thinking, Re-defining, and Re-evolving’ the legal profession in India. Deeply appreciate the vision of the Hon’ble Law Minister and the move to recognize in-house lawyers as legal practitioners.”
Dr. Sanjeev Gemawat, MD & Group General Counsel, Essar Group, echoed similar sentiments:
“Grateful to the Hon’ble Law Minister Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal for spearheading legal reforms. These amendments will strengthen the legal framework, ensure greater transparency, and enhance the profession’s integrity.”
Judicial Perspective on the Reform
In a recent ruling, the Delhi High Court observed:
“Legal practice is not limited to courtrooms. The evolution of legal services in corporate environments and advisory roles necessitates statutory recognition.”
This observation aligns with the Bill’s objective of broadening the scope of legal practice beyond litigation.
Public Consultation Open Until February 28
The Union Law Ministry has invited feedback on the Bill, with stakeholders and the public encouraged to submit their views via email to dhruvakumar.1973@gov.in and impcell-dla@nic.in by February 28, 2025.
