New Delhi, Dec 30: The Supreme Court has issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) prescribing strict timelines for oral arguments and written submissions by lawyers, aiming to improve court management and expedite the delivery of justice.
In a circular issued on Monday, the apex court said senior advocates, arguing counsel and advocates-on-record (AoR) must submit a timeline for their oral arguments at least one day before the commencement of hearings in all post-notice and regular matters. The timelines are to be filed through the existing online portal used for appearance slips.
The SOP further mandates that arguing counsel, including senior advocates, shall file a brief written note not exceeding five pages after serving a copy to the opposing side at least three days before the hearing. Such submissions are to be routed through the AoR or a nodal counsel nominated by the bench, if any.
Emphasising discipline during proceedings, the circular said all counsel must strictly adhere to the timelines fixed by the court and conclude their oral arguments accordingly. The SOP comes into effect immediately. (Agencies)
