In an unusual resolution, the Delhi High Court mandated a lawyer to provide free legal services as a condition for closing a contempt of court case. The advocate, accused of aggressive conduct during a trial, faced the unusual directive following his apology.
The incident unfolded in a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) trial on November 23, 2024, at Saket Court. The lawyer, representing the accused, disrupted the proceedings by raising his voice, pointing at the judge, and challenging the court’s authority with statements like, “You tell me the law,” and “Why don’t you convict the accused now itself?” Despite repeated warnings, he persisted, leading to delays and an intimidating atmosphere in the courtroom.
The advocate’s actions prompted the trial judge to report the behavior to the High Court, resulting in contempt proceedings. During the hearings, the lawyer apologized unconditionally, attributing the outburst to an isolated lapse in an otherwise two-decade-long legal career.
A Division Bench, while accepting the apology, underscored the importance of maintaining courtroom decorum. “Unnecessary aggression and disrespect in court are unacceptable. Lawyers must uphold the dignity of the judicial process,” the judges remarked.
As a gesture of accountability, the Court instructed the advocate to render pro bono legal services in at least two cases in the Saket Court’s POCSO division. The presiding judge of the trial court will assign the cases where his services are required.
With this directive, the Court balanced the principle of accountability with an opportunity for the advocate to contribute meaningfully to the legal community. The contempt case was closed following this decision, marking an innovative approach to upholding professional ethics in the judiciary.