HIGH COURT BAR ASSOCIAITON, NAGPUR

Guidelines

The High Court is a temple of justice. Every Advocate, whether a member of the High Court Bar Association, Nagpur or not, is expected to conduct himself or herself with dignity, courtesy and professionalism. The following guidelines are intended to preserve the decorum of the Court and maintain the noble traditions of the legal profession.

​

1. Maintain the Dignity of the Court. Always conduct yourself in a manner befitting an Officer of the Court.

2. Observe the Prescribed Dress Code. Advocates shall appear in proper professional attire as prescribed under the applicable rules and conventions.

3. Photography and Videography Prohibited. Do not take photographs, selfies, videos, or shoot social media reels anywhere within the Court premises unless expressly permitted by the competent authority.

4. No Live Streaming or Recording. Recording Court proceedings or conversations within Court premises without permission is strictly prohibited.

5. Maintain Silence. Avoid loud conversations, laughter, or unnecessary discussions in corridors, waiting areas and outside Courtrooms.

6. Mobile Phones. Ensure that mobile phones and other electronic devices are switched off or kept on silent/vibration mode while inside Courtrooms.

7. Respect Court Proceedings. Enter and leave Courtrooms quietly without disturbing ongoing proceedings.

8. Punctuality. Be present before your matter is called and avoid unnecessary delays in Court proceedings.

9. Offer Seats to Senior Members. While inside Courtrooms or Bar Association premises, extend the courtesy of offering available seats to senior members of the Bar, elderly Advocates and persons with disabilities whenever appropriate.

10. Do Not Carry Food or Beverages Near Courtrooms. Tea, coffee, snacks and other refreshments should be consumed only in the designated canteen or kiosk areas. Do not carry them towards Courtrooms or Court corridors.

11. Maintain Cleanliness. Do not litter. Use the dustbins provided and help keep the Court and Bar Association premises clean.

12. Avoid Blocking Corridors. Do not gather in groups that obstruct passageways, Courtroom entrances or office entrances.

13. Maintain Queue Discipline. Follow queues wherever required, including filing counters, photocopy facilities, canteen and administrative offices.

14. Treat Court Staff with Respect. Interact courteously with Judges' staff, Registry officials, security personnel, Bar Association staff and housekeeping personnel.

15. Respect Fellow Advocates. Maintain professional courtesy towards all members of the Bar regardless of age, experience or standing.

16. Avoid Arguments in Public Areas. Professional disagreements should never result in loud altercations or inappropriate behaviour within Court premises.

17. Do Not Misuse Court Premises. Court premises are meant for judicial work and professional activities. Avoid activities unrelated to the administration of justice.

18. Maintain Confidentiality. Exercise discretion while discussing clients' cases in public areas where conversations may be overheard.

19. Respect Security Protocols. Cooperate fully with security personnel and comply with all security checks and directions.

20. Protect Court Property. Treat Court furniture, library resources, Bar Association facilities and all public property with care.

21. Smoking, Tobacco and Alcohol. Smoking, consumption of tobacco products, alcohol or any intoxicating substance within the Court and Bar Association premises is strictly prohibited.

22. Parking Discipline. Park vehicles only in authorised parking areas and avoid obstructing emergency access routes or entrances.

23. Maintain Professional Language. Use courteous and dignified language while interacting with Judges, fellow Advocates, litigants, Court staff and visitors.

24. Mentor Young Advocates. Senior members of the Bar are encouraged to guide and support junior Advocates, while juniors should show due respect and courtesy towards seniors.

25. Assist Litigants with Courtesy. Litigants visiting the Court often face anxiety and uncertainty. Treat them with patience, courtesy and empathy.

26. Follow the Directions of the Court. Promptly comply with directions issued by the Court, Registry and authorised officials regarding movement, seating and conduct.

27. Maintain Decorum in the Bar Association Premises. The Bar Association premises should be used in a manner consistent with the dignity and objectives of the Association.

28. Preserve the Noble Traditions of the Legal Profession. Every Advocate should remember that his or her conduct reflects not only upon the individual but also upon the legal profession and the institution of justice.