Supreme Court Seeks Replies From State Bar Councils on Plea Against Lawyers Advertising Through Reels and Social Media Videos
The Supreme Court has sought responses from State Bar Councils on a public interest litigation raising concerns over the growing trend of advocates promoting their legal services through Instagram reels, YouTube videos, influencer collaborations and other social media content. The petition contends that such practices amount to indirect solicitation and violate the professional ethics governing the legal profession.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V. Mohana issued notices on the petition filed by advocate Anil Pandey. The petitioner alleged that the legal profession is witnessing an unchecked rise in digital marketing, with some advocates using social media platforms to attract clients through promotional content, branding and monetised legal videos.
According to the plea, many lawyers are recording reels and promotional videos inside court premises, including court corridors and waiting areas, often while dressed in official court attire. The petition argues that such content frequently includes contact details, claims of expertise, client testimonials and sensational commentary on pending cases, with the primary objective of enhancing professional visibility and soliciting legal work.
The petitioner has argued that these activities violate Rule 36 of the Bar Council of India Rules, which prohibits advocates from advertising or soliciting professional work, directly or indirectly. It further submits that merely describing promotional videos as “legal awareness” or “know your rights” content cannot shield lawyers from disciplinary action if the dominant purpose is self-promotion or client acquisition.
The PIL seeks directions to the Bar Council of India to frame a comprehensive digital ethics code governing advocates’ use of social media. It also prays for disciplinary proceedings against lawyers found engaging in digital solicitation and requests a prohibition on photography, videography and content creation by advocates within court and tribunal premises to preserve the dignity of judicial institutions.
The Supreme Court has not expressed any opinion on the merits of the allegations at this stage. By issuing notices to the State Bar Councils, the Court has initiated a wider examination of whether the existing regulatory framework adequately addresses lawyers’ conduct in the digital age. The outcome of the case could significantly influence the future regulation of social media use, legal influencers and professional advertising by advocates across India.
