Potential Breakthrough in Opening up India’s Legal Market to UK Lawyers and Firms
India’s Legal Market Set to Open Up to UK Lawyers and Firms
After years of discussions and setbacks, it seems that India may finally be opening up its legal market to foreign lawyers and law firms, starting with those from the UK. A recent meeting between the Law Society of England and Wales and the Bar Council of India (BCI) has indicated that amended regulations governing the entry of foreign legal professionals to India could be implemented by the end of July.
The BCI has informed the Law Society that they are on track to finalize the regulations, which would initially allow lawyers and law firms from the UK to practice in India. This development comes after the BCI published draft rules last year, proposing to permit foreign law firms to establish offices in India to advise their foreign clients on foreign laws. However, the implementation of these rules was delayed due to objections raised by various stakeholders, including the Society of Indian Law Firms.
A legal challenge was also filed in the Delhi High Court to block the reforms, but the BCI is optimistic that the challenge will be dismissed, allowing the amended regulations to be published and implemented as planned. The specifics of the regulations, including rules on ‘fly-in, fly-out’ work and the extent of Indian advocates’ practising rights in international firms, are still being discussed.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson expressed optimism about the potential for increased cooperation between English and Welsh lawyers and their Indian counterparts. He stated, “India is an immensely important jurisdiction for us, and it has been a pleasure to have hosted the Bar Council of India to further reaffirm our shared interests.”
With the prospect of UK lawyers and law firms gaining access to the Indian legal market, the legal profession in both countries could see significant opportunities for collaboration and growth. Stay tuned for further updates as the regulations are finalized and implemented in the coming months.
