Disqualifications for enrollment as an Advocate

          Section 24A which has been inserted by Advocate (Amendment) Act, 1973 lays down the conditions under which a person shall be disqualified for being enrolled as a member of the State  Bar Council.  Originally there were two grounds of Disqualification, 1) For conviction of an offense under the Untouchability Act, 1955. and; 2) Conviction of an offense involving moral turpitude. However a third clause has been inserted by the Amendment of 1993 that dismissal or removal from employment or office under the State on any charge involving moral turpitude.  


The self explanatory provisions of Section 24 A are as follows :

(1) No person shall be admitted as an advocate on a State roll —

(a) if he is convicted of an offence involving moral turpitude;

(b) if he is convicted of an offence under the provisions of the Untouchability (Offences) Act, 1955

(c) if he is dismissed or removed from employment or office under the State on any charge involving moral turpitude.



Explanation—

         In this clause, the expression “State” shall have the meaning assigned to it under Article 12 of the Constitution:

            Provided that the disqualification for enrolment as aforesaid shall cease to have effect after a period of two years has elapsed since his release or dismissal or, as the case may be, removal.

(2) Nothing contained in sub-section (1) shall apply to a person who having been found guilty is dealt with under the provisions of the Probation of Offenders Act, 1958.

         Apart from the above provisions of disqualification of an advocate the Maharashtra and Goa Bar Council under Rule 1(1) denies simultaneous practice of another profession along with the practice law.   

 See.. famouse case  in this respect →→ Dr. Haniraj Chulani Vs. Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa


See also : 

Professional Misconduct


Punishments that can be given to an Advocate under the Advocates Act,1961 for Professional misconduct