Lawyer / Advocate
What lawyers in India should know before going online
Rule 36 of the Bar Council of India Rules bars advocates from soliciting work or advertising, directly or indirectly. After an amendment, advocates may run websites carrying limited information: name, address, telephone numbers, email, enrolment number, date of enrolment, the State Bar Council of original enrolment and current roll, professional and academic qualifications, and areas of practice. Keep to that list and avoid testimonials, case outcomes, fee comparisons, photographs with clients or claims of being the best. Many advocates add a disclaimer page that visitors must accept. In India, clients usually find lawyers through referrals from relatives, chartered accountants and other advocates, then check the name online before calling. Mention the languages you appear and consult in, since district-court work often happens in the local language.
Common website mistakes lawyers make
- Listing won cases, client names or “successful track record” claims. These go beyond the factual information Rule 36 permits; remove them and describe practice areas neutrally.
- Adding client testimonials or star ratings. Even genuine praise can be read as solicitation, so leave reviews off the site and let referrals happen offline.
- Missing the enrolment number and State Bar Council. Include both exactly as they appear on your enrolment certificate so visitors can verify your standing.
- Using “top”, “leading” or “expert” in headings and page titles. Replace them with plain descriptions such as “practice areas: property and succession matters”.
- Inviting detailed case facts through the contact form. Ask only for name, contact and general nature of the matter, and state that no advocate-client relationship is formed.