Uphold Dignity of Profession, HC CJ tells Vizag Advocates

VISHAKHAPATNAM: Chief Justice of AP High Court, Dhiraj Thakur, has asked the advocates of Visakhapatnam to uphold the dignity of their profession, update their technical skills and remain competitive in the legal field.

Inaugurating a modern court complex here on Sunday, the chief justice highlighted the evolving landscape of legal practice and said advocates should adapt to technological changes.

Justice Thakur praised the city's rich legal heritage and mentioned the names of luminaries like Donald Watts. He emphasized the importance of recognising and respecting the contributions of senior legal figures, who had walked the same corridors over the years.

Stating that the port city continued to grow commercially, Justice Thkaur said there was the need for more qualified advocates to meet the demands of the rapidly increasing caseload.
 
The chief justice commended the bar association for its strength, with approximately 5,000 to 6,000 advocates on its rolls. He pointed out the advantages enjoyed by advocates practising in Andhra Pradesh due to the benefits coming to them from the Advocates' Welfare Fund. This fund provided relief to the sick and retired advocates.

Recognizing the region's scorching climate, the chief guest announced plans for air-conditioning of courtrooms across AP. This would provide comfort to advocates, judges and litigants. Litigants should be treated with dignity and respect, he said.

The chief justice termed the new court complex a "temple of justice." He called on all those involved in the legal profession to uphold the sanctity of this profession. He urged the legal community to mentor and guide the younger generation of advocates.