The recent notice issued by the Bar Council of India (BCI) addresses concerns and misinformation surrounding the Advocates Declaration of Existence in Profession – Bar Council of India Certificate and Place of Practise (Verification) Rules, 2015. The notice emphasizes the need for advocates, including those listed as voters in past Bar Council Elections, to substantiate their existence in the legal profession during the verification process.
Advocates are required to attach crucial documents such as vakalatnama, order sheets, or proof of drafting/deeds, in accordance with the Bar Council of India Certificate and Place of Practice (Verification) Rules, 2015. The verification process becomes necessary either after five years or when submitting fresh verification forms.
The notice explicitly contradicts any previous communications from State Bar Councils and stresses the importance of correcting any incorrect declarations promptly. It urges advocates to meticulously review and rectify their submissions in alignment with established guidelines. Additionally, the BCI has requested State Bar Councils to promptly communicate and reinforce this requirement to all applicants.
To ensure compliance with Form A Column III, advocates must submit certified copies of at least 5 Vakalatnamas or any other document proving five years of active practice. For advocates associated with law firms, a certificate detailing the period of service and nature of work from the authorized personnel of the firm is required. Conveyancing lawyers need to submit five documents from the last three years supporting their claim of being a conveyancing practice lawyer.
In addition to these documents, the notice directs advocates to provide details and updates on their educational qualifications and disclose any filed/pending criminal cases. The comprehensive requirements aim to enhance transparency and accuracy in the verification process, ensuring that advocates meet the specified criteria and adhere to the rules laid out by the Bar Council of India.
