The Delhi High Court has expressed strong displeasure over the prolonged pendency of an appeal where the appellant failed to complete service of notice for nearly two years, and a proxy counsel appeared without knowledge of the case. The Court flagged the lapse as a serious concern for professional standards at the Bar, underlining that such casual appearances undermine judicial efficiency.
The matter came up after the registry reported that necessary steps for service of notice in the appeal had not been taken, despite the case remaining pending for two years. When the case was called, a proxy counsel appeared on behalf of the appellant but informed the Court that he was unaware of the facts and did not know what procedural steps were required to complete service.
The exchange brought the focus squarely on the responsibility of advocates appearing before constitutional courts, particularly in long-pending matters where procedural compliance remains incomplete.
Taking note of the situation, the Court observed that under the Advocates Act, 1961, a lawyer entering appearance is expected to be sufficiently prepared to assist the Bench. It remarked that a proxy counsel who is unfamiliar with the case “cannot meaningfully assist the Court.” Stressing professional accountability, the Court added that even at a minimum level, counsel must be aware of the stage of proceedings and the basic contours of the matter.
It urged younger members of the Bar to read their files carefully before stepping into court and directed the counsel to study the case record and relevant legal provisions to provide effective assistance. The matter has now been listed for further hearing on 10 February 2026.
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