7-Day Notice to Client Not Mandatory When Advocate Files “No Instructions” Pursis: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court clarified that the Bombay High Court Appellate Side Rules do not require a mandatory 7-day notice to the client when an advocate files a “no instructions” pursis. The Court explained that such notice aims to protect litigants but cannot be rigidly imposed when counsel clearly expresses inability to represent due to lack of instructions. The decision balances procedural fairness with practical realities of legal representation. It reiterates that advocates must act responsibly and inform clients, but courts should not insist on rigid compliance when circumstances justify counsel’s withdrawal.