Supreme Court Seeks Fund for Young Lawyers

The Supreme Court of India on 19 June 2026 said that a Young Lawyers’ Professional Assistance Fund must be created to support advocates facing financial hardship during the first years of practice. The bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice V Mohana issued notice to the Centre, states, Union Territories, and other stakeholders in a matter concerning young lawyers and women advocates.

Young Lawyers’ Professional Assistance Fund

The proposed fund is intended for first-generation lawyers and advocates from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds. The court said the fund may be placed under the exclusive control of jurisdictional High Courts or an autonomous body constituted by the Union of India in consultation with state governments. The bench said the fund may provide a monthly stipend-cum-honorarium during the formative years of practice. It also said the assistance may be sufficient for basic sustenance for the initial three years of practice and may taper off over seven years.

Possible Sources of Funding

The court referred to several possible funding channels for the proposed corpus. These include donations from senior advocates and experienced practising lawyers, a part of the court fee collected by the judiciary, and a portion of costs imposed in judicial proceedings. The bench also referred to a possible statutory framework for structured donations and contributions. It mentioned incentives such as tax exemptions, national awards, and other honours for donors.

Women Advocates and Court Infrastructure

The bench took note of issues faced by women lawyers who spend substantial time in court premises. It referred to the need for basic infrastructure related to comfort, privacy, safety, and professional functioning. The plea before the court was filed by a group of women advocates and raised questions on accessibility, inclusiveness, and long-term sustainability in the legal profession.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Supreme Court of India is the highest judicial court under the Constitution of India.
• High Courts function as constitutional courts at the state and Union Territory level in India.
• Article 32 of the Constitution of India provides the right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights.
• The Bar in India includes advocates enrolled under the Advocates Act, 1961.

Next Hearing

The matter was posted for hearing on 17 July 2026. The bench requested the Attorney General for India, advocate generals of all states, and standing counsel for Union Territories to remain present.