LI Network
Published on: January 20, 2024 at 11:53 IST
The Disciplinary Committee of the Bar Council of Delhi has wielded its authority, suspending the license of an advocate for seven years in response to serious allegations of professional misconduct.
The advocate stands accused of forging court decrees, misleading clients, and contributing to an ex-parte decree of eviction against a complainant’s husband.
The case, brought by the complainant, alleges that the advocate fabricated court documents related to a civil suit filed in 2009. The complainant asserts that the advocate provided forged decrees, misled her and her late husband about legal proceedings, and demanded money for initiating a mutation process, causing unnecessary delays and offering false assurances.
Despite multiple opportunities to present a defense, the advocate consistently failed to appear before the Full House of the Bar Council of Delhi and the Disciplinary Committee. Taking note of the gravity of the allegations and the advocate’s deliberate absence, the committee proceeded ex-parte against him.
In its order issued on 18 Jan 2024, the committee directed the lawyer to pay a compensation of Rs.2,00,000/- (Rupees Two Lacs Only) to the complainant for the damages suffered due to the advocate’s actions. Emphasizing the significance of protecting the credibility and reputation of the legal profession, the committee underscored the need for stringent actions against legal professionals engaged in misconduct.
Committee members stressed that such decisive actions are crucial to maintaining public trust in the justice system. The case serves as a reminder that the legal profession, being noble, demands the highest ethical standards, and any breach of trust or fraudulent conduct will be dealt with severely.
The Disciplinary Committee’s decision aims to send a clear message that professional misconduct will not be tolerated, and legal practitioners are expected to uphold the highest ethical standards in the course of their duties.
Counsel for the complainant: Adv Isha Kapoor and Adv Jai Saini