Lawyer Solicitation Through Online Platforms: In a landmark judgment passed on July 3rd, 2024, the Madras High Court took a strong stance against lawyers soliciting work through online service providers. The court emphasized that the legal profession is not a business driven by profit, but rather a service to society. The verdict comes in response to a petition filed against websites like Quikr, Sulekha, and Justdial, which offered online lawyer services. Madras High Court Cracks Down on Lawyer Solicitation Through Online Platforms Unethical Solicitation and Violation of Rules: The court, presided over by Justice SM Subramaniam and Justice C Kumarappan, highlighted that such practices violate the Bar Council of India (BCI) Rules. These rules strictly prohibit lawyers from advertising or soliciting work directly or indirectly, including actions like furnishing newspaper comments or publishing photographs related to cases. The bench pointed out the fundamental difference between the legal profession and other professions. Legal services are not a “job” or a “business,” but rather a means to provide social welfare. While lawyers do receive fees, these fees are a token of respect for their knowledge and time invested in a case. Dignity and Integrity at Stake on Lawyer Solicitation Through Online Platforms : The court expressed concern about the growing trend of “business models” within the legal profession. Practices like lawyer rankings and customer ratings were deemed detrimental to the dignity and integrity expected from legal professionals. Justice Subramaniam stated, “It is agonising that some legal professionals today are trying to adopt […]
News Tags: Legal advertising reform Madras High Court
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