Classification of Advocates in the Supreme Court: Senior Advocates, AOR & More Explained
Introduction: The Supreme Court of India, being the highest judicial forum, has a structured system for legal practitioners. Understanding the hierarchy and roles of Senior Advocates, Advocates-on-Record (AOR), and other Advocates is crucial for aspirants of UPSC, Judiciary, SSC, and CLAT. This classification is governed by the Supreme Court Rules, 2013, and the Advocates Act, 1961.
1. Senior Advocates
A Senior Advocate is a lawyer who has been designated as such by the Supreme Court or a High Court based on their merit, experience, and standing at the Bar.
- Designation: Designated under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961.
- Criteria: Ability, standing at the bar, or special knowledge/experience in law.
- Restrictions: They cannot file a 'Vakalatnama' or appear in court without an Advocate-on-Record. They are also prohibited from drafting pleadings or affidavits directly.
- Dress Code: They wear a distinct gown with a different design (flaps on shoulders) compared to other advocates.
2. Advocates-on-Record (AOR)
The AOR system is unique to the Supreme Court. Only an Advocate-on-Record is entitled to file any matter or document before the Supreme Court.
- Qualification: Must pass a rigorous examination conducted by the Supreme Court.
- Training: An advocate must have at least 4 years of practice and undergo one year of training under an AOR with at least 10 years of standing.
- Responsibility: They are held accountable for all proceedings filed under their name and must maintain an office within a specified radius of the Supreme Court.
3. Other Advocates
These are advocates whose names are entered on the roll of any State Bar Council under the Advocates Act, 1961. They can appear and argue any matter on behalf of a party in the Supreme Court, but they cannot file a 'Vakalatnama' or any document.
Comparison Table: Types of Advocates
| Category | Filing Rights | Arguing Rights | Accountability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Advocate | No | Yes | To the Court/Client |
| Advocate-on-Record | Yes (Exclusive) | Yes | Highest (Legal & Procedural) |
| Other Advocates | No | Yes | To the Bar Council |
Constitutional and Legal Framework
The functioning of advocates in the Supreme Court is rooted in the following:
- Article 145: Empowers the Supreme Court to make rules for regulating the practice and procedure of the court.
- Advocates Act, 1961: Provides the legal framework for the legal profession in India and the Bar Council of India (BCI).
- Supreme Court Rules, 2013: Specifically details the AOR system and Senior Designation process.
Static GK: Quick Facts for Competitive Exams
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Who conducts AOR Exams? | Supreme Court of India |
| Min. Training for AOR | 1 Year |
| Article for SC Rules | Article 145 |
| Who designates Senior Adv? | Full Court (Chief Justice & Judges) |
| Vakalatnama Rights | Only AOR |
Why is it in News? (2024-25 Context)
Recently, the Supreme Court modified the guidelines for designating Senior Advocates (Indira Jaising Case) to ensure more transparency and objectivity in the "points-based system." Furthermore, the use of technology and 'e-filing' has made the role of AORs more tech-driven in 2025.
