Is Every Lawyer An Advocate? Supreme Court Answers

The Supreme Court clarified that while all advocates are lawyers, not all lawyers are advocates. Only individuals enrolled with State Bar Councils under the Advocates Act, 1961, have the right to practice law before courts. The judgment addressed public confusion over terminology, defining the rights, privileges, and responsibilities attached to being an “advocate.” The Court’s interpretation brings clarity to professional status, regulatory jurisdiction, and ethical boundaries within the legal profession. It distinguishes practising advocates from law graduates, consultants, or corporate legal professionals.