Delhi Bar Council Cautions Against Lawyers Advertising Legal Services On Social Media
The Bar Council of Delhi has issued a formal Notice of Caution to lawyers who are using social media platforms to advertise or solicit legal work, either directly or indirectly to curb unethical practices within the legal profession.
The notice, issued under the authority of Surya Prakash Khatri, Chairman of the Bar Council of Delhi, and a Member of the Legislative Assembly, highlights growing concerns over the rise of “legal influencers” and Advocates promoting themselves online in violation of professional ethics.
“The Bar Council of Delhi has observed that many lawyers are indulging in posting contents and videos to solicit work by way of advertisement either directly or indirectly through circulars advertising personal interactions, interviews, producing their photographs to publish in connection with the cases etc. Such methods clearly constitute unethical canvassing, infringing upon professional ethics and dignity of legal practice,” the notice dated August 04, 2025 reads.
Citing the steep rise of self-styled legal influencers, the Bar Council noted that many such individuals may not even possess the appropriate legal credentials and are contributing to misinformation on critical legal issues.
The notice explicitly refers to Rule 36 of the Bar Council of India Rules, which strictly prohibits advertising by lawyers in any form. It further states:
“Any violation of the aforesaid Rule amounts to serious misconduct and an Advocate can be held guilty to be proceeded against under Section 35 of the Advocates Act, which can lead to suspension or cancellation of licence to practice as an Advocate.”
Calling the situation “serious,” the Bar Council has directed all advocates active on social media in such a manner to immediately remove such content. Failing to do so will attract disciplinary proceedings under Section 35 of the Advocates Act, 1961.
The notice read, “It is therefore, directed that all such advocates who are active on social media in this regard as mentioned above may remove their contents or otherwise action shall be initiated on individual cases under section 35 of the Advocates Act, 1961.”
This warning comes amid a digital age where many lawyers and legal commentators increasingly use platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to share legal opinions, discuss judgments, or promote their legal services.