Legal profession not a business: Madras High Court calls for removal of online ads by lawyers

The Madras High Court ruled that legal profession is not a business, prohibiting lawyers from advertising services on websites and social media. The court emphasized that legal services are a noble calling, not a commercial venture, and advertising undermines professional ethics. This decision aims to maintain dignity and ensure lawyers prioritize client welfare over profit, aligning with legal ethics globally. It reinforces traditional notions of legal practice as a service-oriented profession, distinct from commercial enterprises. Such rulings impact legal practitioners' marketing strategies and reshape professional conduct norms in the digital age.