Bar Council of India Cracks Down on Unregistered Global Law Firm Collaborations

The Bar Council of India reiterates its stance against unauthorized collaborations between Indian and foreign law firms, emphasizing adherence to the Advocates Act, 1961. The Council warns against misleading practices and potential misconduct, highlighting the need for proper registration under the amended 2023 Rules to avoid severe consequences.

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has rescinded its August 5, 2025, press release, issuing a new statement after a legal submission in the Delhi High Court case of Atul Sharma vs Bar Council of India and Another. The fresh release underscores that unauthorized partnerships between Indian and foreign law firms violate BCI rules and the Advocates Act, 1961.

Raising concerns, the Council highlighted the prevalent trend of foreign law firms forming alliances with Indian firms through Swiss Vereins, strategic partnerships, exclusive referrals, and joint branding. Such alliances, BCI states, create a deceptive impression of a unified global legal practice, which is not allowed. Recalling the Supreme Court's ruling in Bar Council of India v. A.K. Balaji & Ors, the BCI pointed out that foreign lawyers cannot indirectly engage in Indian legal practice through partnerships or co-branding strategies.

The Court clarified that 'practice of law' encompasses more than just court appearances, covering legal advice, contract deals, and related activities. Under the amended 2023 Bar Council rules, foreign firms must register prior to operating in India. The BCI warned that entities using combined or co-branded identities without registration will be violating the Rules.

BCI stated that foreign lawyers can only practice non-litigious foreign or international law post registration and are barred from Indian courts and arbitrations involving Indian law unless the arbitration is confined to foreign law without oath-based evidence. The BCI intends to penalize law firms and individuals not complying with the 2023 Rules.

Unregistered collaborations will invite disciplinary actions for misconduct as per the Advocates Act, 1961. Entities persisting with such practices face aggravating consequences. Rule 36 of the Bar Council's professional code prohibits solicitation, advertising, or promoting a unified global brand, warranting strict scrutiny and potential action if violated.

The BCI urges law firms to review public content, warning clients and the public to verify registration before engaging in cross-border services. While encouraging lawful international collaboration, the BCI intends to preserve the integrity of Indian legal practice by preventing any that undermine its sovereignty.