CJI emphasises ethical responsibility (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant on Friday cautioned newly inducted advocates-on-record (AoRs) against outsourcing legal work to artificial intelligence or external parties, stressing the ethical obligations of the legal profession.
Addressing the new batch during their induction ceremony at the Supreme Court of India, the CJI said AoRs hold a position of trust and responsibility that must be upheld through diligence and integrity.
Under rules framed by the Supreme Court under Article 145 of the Constitution, only advocates designated as AoRs are authorised to file and plead cases before the apex court.
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The CJI described the designation as a significant milestone, noting that AoRs act as the primary link between litigants and the court. He said they are not merely legal representatives but also “officers of the court,” entrusted with maintaining high professional standards.
Justice Kant explicitly warned against delegating core legal tasks such as drafting petitions to artificial intelligence tools or third parties. He urged advocates to personally handle all aspects of case preparation.
“Do not treat filing as a routine exercise,” he advised, emphasising that every petition filed under an AoR’s name reflects their professional judgment and credibility.
The CJI also cautioned against relying solely on instructions from other lawyers without independent verification. He stressed the importance of carefully reading case briefs, verifying facts, and ensuring that legal arguments are well-founded.
According to him, meticulous preparation and attention to detail are essential for maintaining the quality of legal practice before the apex court.
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Highlighting key principles for young advocates, the CJI underscored the importance of honesty, punctuality, and clarity in submissions. He said that while seniority develops over time, professional credibility must be established from the very beginning of a legal career.
He urged AoRs to approach their responsibilities with seriousness and respect for the judicial institution, noting that their conduct directly impacts the functioning of the justice system.
The address reflects growing concerns around the use of technology in legal work and reinforces the need for accountability in the profession. The CJI’s remarks serve as a reminder that while tools may assist, responsibility ultimately rests with the advocate.
