Supreme Court Lawyer: How does one become a lawyer at the Supreme Court, and how much experience is required?

Supreme Court Lawyer: The journey to becoming a Supreme Court lawyer begins after passing Class 12. Generally, securing 45% or higher marks is considered necessary for admission to most law colleges.

Supreme Court Lawyer: Thousands of law students dream of practicing at the Supreme Court, but the path to doing so is far longer and more challenging than practicing in district courts or High Courts. It requires not just a law degree, but also years of experience, qualifying examinations, and a deep understanding of Supreme Court procedures. So, let us explain how one becomes a Supreme Court lawyer and the amount of experience required.

Preparation begins after Class 12

The first step toward becoming a Supreme Court lawyer starts after passing Class 12. Most law colleges require a minimum of 45% marks for admission. Following this, one can enroll in a 5-year integrated law course—such as BA LLB, BBA LLB, or BCom LLB. Students who have already graduated in another discipline can pursue law through a 3-year LLB course. Admission to many of the country's premier law institutes is granted through entrance exams like CLAT. During their legal studies, students are advised to intern with senior lawyers or law firms. This provides them with an opportunity to gain firsthand insight into court proceedings, legal drafting, research, and case preparation. This experience lays a strong foundation for future court practice.

Permission to practice is granted after Bar Council registration

After completing the LLB degree, a candidate must register with a State Bar Council. Only after completing this process—mandated by the Advocates Act, 1961—can an individual officially practice law in court. Subsequently, the lawyer is also required to pass the All India Bar Examination. Upon passing this examination, a Certificate of Practice is issued by the Council of India, granting authorization to practice law across the country.

Can one practice directly in the Supreme Court?

Once qualified as a lawyer, an advocate is eligible to practice in court; however, filing cases independently in the Supreme Court requires additional qualifications. Many young lawyers begin their careers by working as juniors to senior Supreme Court counsel. This helps them understand the Supreme Court's working style, filing procedures, and case preparation. That said, experts consider starting one's career at the District Court or High Court level to be the best approach. This provides lawyers with ground-level experience in understanding litigation, arguing cases, and navigating court procedures. This foundational experience paves the way for becoming a successful lawyer in the Supreme Court later on.

What is required to file a case in the Supreme Court?

The right to file cases independently in the Supreme Court is reserved for 'Advocates-on-Record' (AORs). Lawyers who are not AORs may argue cases in the Supreme Court but must file them through an AOR. To become an AOR, a lawyer must complete at least four years of legal practice. Subsequently, undergoing one year of training under a recognized Advocate-on-Record is mandatory. The Supreme Court conducts an Advocate-on-Record examination, which covers subjects such as Supreme Court rules, legal drafting, professional ethics, and court procedures. Upon passing this exam, a lawyer attains the status of Advocate-on-Record, enabling them to independently file petitions and argue cases in the Supreme Court.