New Delhi, India — The Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC) has taken a significant step toward enhancing the standing of in-house lawyers in India by submitting a formal appeal to Arjun Ram Meghwal, the country’s Minister of Law and Justice. This move, dated March 18, 2025, pushes for amendments that would allow in-house lawyers to be recognized as full legal practitioners under the Advocates Act of 1981.
The initiative by the ACC comes in response to a recent proposal by the Department of Legal Affairs that aimed to broaden the definition of “legal practitioners” to include in-house counsel. Although the proposed amendments were retracted in late February, the ACC is actively advocating for the reinstatement of these changes, citing the benefits it would bring to the legal profession and corporate sectors in India.
In her correspondence with Minister Meghwal, Susanna McDonald, Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of the ACC, based in Washington, emphasized the critical nature of the changes. McDonald argued that recognizing in-house lawyers as advocates would allow them to maintain their professional status and have their roles within corporations formally acknowledged.
The ACC’s letter pointed out that such recognition would not only affirm the professional and ethical standards adhered to by in-house counsel but also enhance their capacity to effectively serve their organizations. Furthermore, this would align India’s legal framework with global practices, improving its competitive stance on the international stage.
McDonald also put forth an offer to collaborate with the Indian government and its bar council on initiatives aimed at the legal education and professional development of in-house counsel. She highlighted the potential for this partnership to elevate the quality of corporate legal practice in the country.
These developments come at a time when the role of in-house counsel is evolving globally, with many jurisdictions recognizing the importance of these practitioners in the broader legal landscape. The ACC’s advocacy efforts in India reflect a broader trend towards integrating in-house lawyers more deeply into the legal frameworks that govern corporate law.
The ACC believes that the formal recognition of in-house lawyers as full legal practitioners not only validates their expertise and roles but also ensures they are subject to the same rigorous standards that govern the broader legal community. This recognition is essential for maintaining the integrity and efficacy of legal services within corporate environments.
The outcome of this appeal remains to be seen, but it stands as a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue about the role of legal counsel within India’s corporate and legal sectors. The push for such legislative amendments showcases the evolving nature of legal professions worldwide, as they adapt to meet the needs of modern businesses and societies.
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