Bar Council of India (BCI)

Bar Council of India (BCI): The Bar Council of India (BCI) has amended its rules to allow foreign law firms to operate more freely in India, particularly in the field of international arbitration.

• About the BCI: A statutory body established by Parliament under the Advocates Act, 1961, following the recommendations of the All India Bar Committee.

o It serves as the apex body to regulate the legal profession and represent advocates across India.

o Its core mission is to protect the rights, interests, and privileges of practicing lawyers nationwide.

• Composition of the BCI: Includes members elected from each State Bar Council, along with ex officio members such as the Attorney General of India and Solicitor General of India.

o State Bar Council members have a five-year term.

o Elects its own Chairman and Vice-Chairman, who serve for two years from among its members

• Key Functions: Sets the code of conduct, professional ethics, and oversees disciplinary proceedings against advocates.

o Frames norms for legal education and accredits universities whose law degrees qualify candidates for enrolment.

o Conducts the All India Bar Examination (AIBE), mandatory for advocates to obtain a Certificate of Practice to legally practice law in India.