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Mitesh Jain   01 July 2025

Job as an advocate or employee in law firm

Hi all, I just wanted to know that If have obtained my certificate of practice from BCI, then Can I work in Law firm ? Or it will be disallowed as per BCI rules as it will be called as full time employment. Again all those who are working in law firms , have they got their COP or they are working just as employees without COP. I just want to know that how can I work in law firm with my COP.


 2 Replies

Dr. J C Vashista (Advocate )     02 July 2025

The Certificate of Practice (COP) issued by the Bar Council of India (BCI) is a mandatory document for advocates in India. It is obtained after successfully clearing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) and allows advocates to legally practice law in any court across the country. Without this certificate, even with an LLB degree, practicing law is not permitted. 
 
After obtaining certificate of practice the candidate can join a law firm, which is not a full time job.

T. Kalaiselvan, Advocate (Advocate)     03 July 2025

An advocate working in a law firm is both an advocate and, in most cases, an employee. While they are registered with the Bar Council and have the right to practice law, they also enter into an employer-employee relationship with the firm. As a legal professional, an advocate is enrolled with the Bar Council and has the right to represent clients in court. When an advocate joins a law firm, they typically enter into an employment contract with the firm, agreeing to work for a salary and under the firm's direction. Rule 49 of the Bar Council of India Rules prohibits advocates from being full-time salaried employees of any person, government, or firm while continuing to practice. However, this rule is primarily aimed at preventing conflicts of interest and ensuring advocates maintain their independence. 


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