Can new rules bring order to senior advocate selection?
Summary
The Supreme Court is preparing to revise the criteria for awarding the title of senior advocate, with a special committee set up to make the process more transparent and merit-based. The proposed changes would also allow suspension or revocation of the title for misconduct or professional violations.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court has formed a three-justice committee to overhaul the criteria for conferring the senior advocate title.
- The committee plans to base eligibility on professional performance and contribution, while also adding rules to suspend or revoke the title for misconduct.
- The title has long faced criticism in Nepal over inconsistent appointments, including awards to lawyers no longer actively practising.
- Nepal Bar Association president Bijay Prasad Mishra said the process must be transparent and free from political or personal influence.
