The Ministry of Law and Justice, Department of Legal Affairs (Judicial Section) has issued a fresh order restructuring the panel of advocates who represent the Central Government before the Supreme Court of India.
The order, dated 21st November 2025, details both the engagement of new advocates and the up-gradation or revision of existing panel counsel.
The President of India has approved the engagement of advocates listed in Table ‘X’ of the order for a period of three years. These advocates will handle Central Government litigation before the Supreme Court, with their engagement commencing immediately and continuing either for three years or until further orders — whichever occurs earlier.
In addition to fresh engagements, the government has also approved the up-gradation and revision of panel counsel earlier empanelled under Table ‘Y’. These advocates will now serve as Group ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’ Panel Counsel for Supreme Court matters.
The revised panel will also hold office for three years, with the same condition of continuation until further orders if applicable. Importantly, the order specifies that the names of the advocates who have been upgraded or revised—appearing in Table ‘Y’—will stand deleted against their previous ranks, ensuring the updated panel reflects the latest approved structure.
This order aligns with the government’s broader efforts to streamline legal affairs, improve litigation management, and ensure effective coordination between departments and the legal officers representing them. The Department of Legal Affairs periodically assesses performance, caseload, and specialization of advocates before modifying panels.
