How to Become a Supreme Court Lawyer in India: Qualifications, AOR and Career Path
Quick answer: To become a Supreme Court lawyer you need an LLB from a recognised university, enrolment with a State Bar Council, a pass in the All India Bar Examination, and practice experience. Any enrolled advocate may argue in the Supreme Court if instructed by an Advocate-on-Record (AOR), and to file cases yourself you must become an AOR by meeting the experience, training and examination requirements.
The path in six steps
- Complete school and a degree. After Class 12 you can take a five-year integrated LLB (such as BA LLB) through CLAT or other entrance tests, or complete a three-year LLB after any graduation.
- Enrol with a State Bar Council. After LLB, enrol as an advocate, for example with the Bar Council of Delhi.
- Pass the All India Bar Examination (AIBE). It gives the Certificate of Practice from the Bar Council of India.
- Gain practice. Work under a senior in trial courts and the High Court to learn drafting, procedure and advocacy.
- Appear in the Supreme Court. Any enrolled advocate can argue before the Court when instructed by an AOR.
- Become an Advocate-on-Record. Only an AOR can file petitions and appear on record.
Becoming an Advocate-on-Record
Under the Supreme Court Rules, 2013 an advocate must generally:
- have been enrolled for a minimum number of years (currently four);
- complete one year's training with an AOR of sufficient standing;
- pass the AOR examination conducted by the Supreme Court; and
- have an office within the prescribed distance of the Court and a registered clerk.
Rules change from time to time, so check the current requirements on the Supreme Court website.
Senior Advocate designation
Under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961 the Supreme Court or a High Court may designate an advocate as a Senior Advocate on the basis of ability, standing at the Bar and special knowledge or experience in law. It is an honour and not an exam.
Skills and tips
- Strong legal writing and research.
- Mastery of constitutional law, civil and criminal procedure.
- Reading judgments daily.
- Working as a law clerk or junior in a Supreme Court chamber.
- Specialising: tax, arbitration, service, criminal, family or constitutional law.
If you need a Supreme Court lawyer rather than becoming one, see our Supreme Court lawyer in Delhi, Supreme Court advocate and Supreme Court criminal lawyer pages. Learn about our team: Advocate Anant Misra.
Frequently asked questions
Can any advocate practise in the Supreme Court?
Yes, any enrolled advocate can appear if instructed by an Advocate-on-Record, but only an AOR can file.
Is there a separate exam for the Supreme Court?
Yes, the AOR examination, for those who want to file cases.
How long does it take?
Typically several years of practice and training after enrolment.
Do I need a law degree from a top college?
No, but strong skills and experience matter. Any BCI-recognised LLB works.
What is the difference between a senior advocate and an AOR?
An AOR is entitled to file and appear on record; a Senior Advocate is an honour and may argue but not file directly.
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Call +91-98680 84425Book an appointmentThis page is general legal information for readers in India, not legal advice, and no lawyer-client relationship is created by reading it. Laws and court practice change, so confirm the current position with a qualified advocate before acting. AM Legal, 2589 Hudson Lane, GTB Nagar, Delhi 110009.