In a landmark move, the Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry has mandated a minimum stipend for junior lawyers, following a directive from the Madras High Court.
A circular issued on Friday mandates that senior advocates and law firms in major cities such as Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore must pay their junior colleagues a stipend of ₹20,000. For other regions in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, the minimum stipend is set at ₹15,000.
This decision comes in compliance with a court order passed by Justices SM Subramaniam and C Kumarappan. The ruling, issued on June 12, emphasized the need to address the cost of living and other expenses faced by junior lawyers.
The circular further highlights the necessity of non-discrimination, ensuring equal stipend payment irrespective of gender. The Court underscored the importance of creating a supportive environment for all members of the legal profession, aiming to foster a culture of equality and mutual respect.
This directive marks a significant step forward in acknowledging the financial challenges faced by junior advocates and ensuring their fair treatment within the legal community.
