Discover the complete roadmap to becoming an Advocate on Record (AOR) in 2026. This guide walks you through every step to become an Advocate on Record (AOR) in 2026, from eligibility and training to the AOR exam and registration. Learn the complete timeline, key requirements, and how this prestigious title can transform your legal career.
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Think about the cases that excite you most. The ones that matter, that challenge you, that could define your reputation. Now imagine having full access to argue them before India’s highest court,”the Supreme Court”. That’s what becoming an Advocate on Record (AOR) can do for your career, it’s not just a designation, it’s a professional transformation.
The path to becoming an AOR requires dedication and strategy, but it’s more achievable than you might think. Different lawyers have different timelines depending on where they’re starting from. Your experience, specialization, and current practice all shape what your journey looks like. The important thing is understanding where you stand today and building a roadmap that works for your specific situation.
What makes this credential worth pursuing? AORs don’t just get prestige, they unlock real opportunities. Supreme Court briefs, high-value matters, clients who specifically seek them out, and the ability to command premium rates for specialized expertise. You’re essentially joining an elite group of practitioners who handle the cases that set legal precedent and move industries. For many lawyers, this represents the ceiling they’ve been aiming for all along.
Ready to find out if this path is right for you? We’ll break down what an AOR actually does, the concrete steps to get there, and how to assess whether this credential aligns with your career goals. Let’s start your journey.
Who is an Advocate on Record (AOR)?
An Advocate on Record is a specialized legal professional authorized under Order IV of the Supreme Court Rules, 2013 to act and plead on behalf of parties before the Supreme Court of India. Think of an AOR as the gatekeeper to Supreme Court practice, they’re the only advocates who can file vakalatnamas, petitions, and other legal documents directly with India’s highest court of law.
What makes an AOR different from a regular advocate practicing in lower courts or High Courts? The key distinction lies in their exclusive rights and specialized training. While there are over 15-20 lakh enrolled advocates in India, only about 3,789 are registered as AORs. This exclusivity stems from the rigorous qualification process involving years of practice, specialized training, and a demanding examination.
As an AOR, you become personally responsible for all procedural aspects of cases filed in the Supreme Court. All official correspondence, notices, and orders from the Court are sent directly to the AOR. You’re also personally liable for ensuring that all court fees and charges are paid. Furthermore, no other advocate can appear or plead in the Supreme Court unless instructed by an AOR, even if a senior advocate is arguing the case, an AOR must be on record.
Why is AOR Designation Mandatory for Supreme Court Practice?
The AOR system wasn’t created arbitrarily, it serves critical functions in maintaining the efficiency and quality of Supreme Court proceedings. Article 145(1) of the Constitution of India grants the Supreme Court the power to frame rules regulating its practice and procedure, including rules governing who can practice before it. This constitutional authority, ensures that only highly skilled and knowledgeable advocates handle the complex matters that reach India’s highest court of law.
Here’s why this system matters: the Supreme Court is the court of last resort, dealing with constitutional questions, public interest litigations, and appeals involving intricate legal issues across all branches of law. Having advocates who are specifically trained in Supreme Court procedures, drafting standards, and ethical practices ensures that cases are presented properly, procedural requirements are met, and the Court’s time isn’t wasted on technical defects or improperly drafted pleadings.
The AOR designation also serves as a quality control mechanism. By requiring advocates to demonstrate their competence through four years of general practice, one year of specialized training, and passing a comprehensive examination, the system filters out those who aren’t adequately prepared for Supreme Court practice. This ultimately benefits clients, who can be confident that their AOR has proven expertise in handling matters before India’s highest judicial authority.
What are the benefits of becoming an AOR?
The benefits of achieving AOR status extend far beyond just the ability to practice in the Supreme Court, they transform your entire legal career. Let me break down the most significant advantages you’ll enjoy once you become an AOR.
- Enhanced professional status and recognition
The AOR designation is seen as an elite achievement in the Indian legal fraternity. Even if you choose to continue practicing primarily in your home state’s High Court or lower courts, your status as a Supreme Court advocate elevates your professional reputation. Judges, fellow lawyers, and clients all recognize the rigorous qualification process you’ve completed.
- Increases earning potential
The Supreme Court Rules, 2013, prescribes a set of fees for filing cases in the Supreme Court. However, the reality may not be as set out in the rules. Many AORs charge ₹15,000–₹20,000 just to sign on the vakalatnama or to file a petition. If they have to perform substantial drafting work, the charges can be higher. Typically an AOR charge minimum ₹20,000–₹25,000 to draft a single petition for the Supreme Court, though they can charge less if they are assisting another senior lawyer and not directly working for a client.
With 3–4 years of experience, direct client work often brings in ₹75,000–₹1,00,000 per case, with higher fees for complex matters which can go up to ₹2,00,000, these are standard Delhi market rates.
Court appearance fees are separate and lucrative ₹30,000–₹50,000 per hearing is common, and seasoned AORs may charge ₹50,000–₹1,00,000 per hearing, rivaling senior advocate rates.
Lawyers also charge for conferences, i.e meeting with senior/other advocates, clients etc.
AORs also earn through retainers, case-specific fees (ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹25 lakh or more), and success-based payments. In short, it is easily possible to earn at least an additional from ₹12,00,000 to ₹20,00,00 per year from Supreme Court work, even if you are not based in Delhi.
Given the premium nature of Supreme Court practice, clients willingly pay high fees for quality representation, making successful AORs among the most in-demand and well-compensated lawyers in India.
- Gain exclusive access to a national practice platform
The Supreme Court has all India jurisdiction, meaning you can handle cases originating from any state. This dramatically expands your potential client base and allows you to work on matters of national importance. Furthermore, as an AOR, you’re entitled to membership in the Supreme Court Bar Association and access to the Supreme Court’s extensive legal library and research resources.
Finally, AOR status opens doors for further career advancement. Many sitting and former Supreme Court judges including Justice Surya Kant, Justice U.U. Lalit, Justice Indu Malhotra, Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, and Justice Madan Lokur were AORs before being elevated to the Bench. The AOR designation is also a stepping stone toward being designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court, which treats AORs as a separate category during the designation process.
Framework Governing AOR Designation: From Constitutional Authority to Practice Rules
Article 145 of the Constitution of India
The constitutional foundation for the entire AOR system rests on Article 145 of the Constitution of India. This provision grants the Supreme Court the power to make rules for regulating its general practice and procedure, subject to the approval of the President. This constitutional authority is crucial because it establishes that the AOR system isn’t merely an administrative convenience it’s a constitutionally sanctioned framework for regulating who can practice before India’s highest court.
Under Article 145(1), the Supreme Court can frame rules concerning various aspects, including provisions related to persons practicing before it. This is where the requirement for AOR designation comes in. The Supreme Court has used this constitutional power to create a specialized category of advocates who meet specific qualifications and demonstrate proven competence in Supreme Court practice and procedure.
Order IV of Supreme Court Rules 2013
The AOR designation is granted under the provisions of Order IV of the Supreme Court Rules, 2013, which governs the registration, qualification, and conduct of AORs.
Rule 1(b) of Order IV of the Supreme Court Rules, 2013, explicitly states that no advocate other than an AOR shall be entitled to file any appearance or act for a party in the Supreme Court. This is the foundational rule that creates the exclusive practice rights of AORs. It further clarifies that no advocate other than an AOR can appear and plead unless instructed by an AOR or permitted by the Court to address it in particular cases if it deems this desirable.
Rule 5 of Order IV of the Supreme Court Rules, 2013, sets out the detailed eligibility criteria for AOR registration, including the mandatory four years of practice, one year of training, and successful completion of the AOR examination. The other rules deals with disqualification, rights and duties of an AOR and other requirements and conditions. Therefore, understanding these rules isn’t just academic they form the legal framework that governs your entire journey to becoming an AOR and your subsequent professional obligations once registered.
What are the Eligibility Criteria to Become an AOR?
What is the Educational Qualification Requirement?
Must You Have an LLB or LLM Degree?
Yes, you absolutely must have a qualifying law degree to begin the journey toward becoming an AOR. The basic educational requirement is a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a Bar Council of India approved institution, UGC recognized university. This can be either a three-year LLB (for graduates) or a five-year integrated BA LLB/BBA LLB/B.Com LLB program.
An LLM (Master of Laws) degree is not mandatory for AOR eligibility. While having an LLM certainly enhances your legal knowledge and may be beneficial in your practice, the Supreme Court Rules don’t require postgraduate legal education as a pre-requisite. What matters more is practical experience, the four years of legal practice and one year of specialized AOR training that follow your basic law degree.
Is State Bar Council Enrollment Mandatory?
Absolutely yes, enrollment with any State Bar Council in India is a fundamental pre-requisite for AOR eligibility. You cannot begin the AOR qualification process without first being enrolled as an advocate under the Advocates Act, 1961. This enrollment must be with one of the State Bar Councils, and your name must remain on the roll for at least four years before you can commence your one year AOR training.
Is It Mandatory to Clear the AIBE Examination?
Yes, clearing the All India Bar Examination (AIBE) has become a mandatory requirement for practicing as an advocate in India. The AIBE, conducted by the Bar Council of India, is a qualifying examination that tests your knowledge of core legal subjects and ensures a minimum standard of competence among practicing advocates.
You must be a practicing advocate with at least four years of practice before you can apply for AOR training, you’ll need to have cleared the AIBE as part of your initial enrollment as an advocate. If you have completed your LLB before the year 2010, you need not clear the AIBE, so if you’re planning to become an AOR in 2026, clearing the AIBE is a non-negotiable pre-requisite.
The good news is that the AIBE is far less challenging than the AOR examination itself. It’s a multiple choice examination covering basic legal subjects, and most law graduates clear it without extensive preparation. The more important consideration for your AOR journey is building substantive practice experience after your initial enrollment.
How Many Years of Legal Practice are Required Before AOR Training?
Does the 4 Year Practice Period Include Internships?
No, the mandatory four year practice period does NOT include internships or articleship during law school. This is a crucial point that many aspiring AORs misunderstand. The four years of practice must be completed after your enrollment as an advocate with a State Bar Council, meaning your name must be borne on the roll of a State Bar Council for at least four years.
What Types of Legal Practice Qualify for AOR Eligibility?
Does Litigation Only Practice Count?
Yes, litigation practice definitely counts towards your four year practice requirement, and in fact, it’s the most relevant type of practice for preparing you for AOR training. Working in courts whether at the District level, High Court level, or in Tribunals gives you practical exposure to courtroom procedures, drafting pleadings, and advocacy skills that will be invaluable when you begin your AOR training.
Many successful AORs built their foundation through litigation practice in lower courts or High Courts before transitioning to Supreme Court practice. This litigation experience helps you understand the journey of cases through the judicial system, which is crucial when you’re eventually handling appeals and Special Leave Petitions in the Supreme Court. If you’re serious about becoming an AOR, spending at least some of your four year practice period in active litigation is highly recommended.
However, you don’t need to practice exclusively in litigation. A mix of litigation and advisory work is acceptable, and this combination can actually make you a more well rounded legal professional. The key is that your name must be on the State Bar Council roll continuously for four years, what you do during those years in terms of specific practice areas has some flexibility.
What are the Disqualifications for AOR Exam?
Order IV Rule 6 of the Supreme Court Rules 2013
Order IV Rule 6 of the Supreme Court Rules 2013 sets out the specific grounds on which an AOR’s name can be removed from the register, and understanding these disqualifications is crucial because many of the same grounds can prevent your initial registration as well. These disqualifications ensure that only advocates of good character and professional standing are entitled to practice independently before the Supreme Court.
The rule states that if an advocate is convicted of a crime involving “moral turpitude” (think fraud, bribery, forgery, etc), that advocate cannot take the Advocate-on-Record (AOR) exam unless the conviction has been stayed or suspended by any court or on and from the date of such conviction and thereafter for a period of two years with effect from the date he has served out the sentence, or has paid the fine imposed on him.
Provided that the Chief Justice may, if he thinks fit so to do, relax the provisions of this rule in any particular case or cases
This does not apply to an advocate who has been released on probation of good conduct or after due admonition and no penalty has been imposed thereafter in the manner provided under the provisions of the Probation of Offenders Act, 1958 (20 of 1958) or under section 360 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (2 of 1974).
What are the steps to becoming an AOR?
Step 1: Completing the Mandatory 4 Year Practice Period
How to Calculate Your 4 Year Practice Period?
Calculating your four year practice period is straightforward but requires attention to specific dates. Your practice period begins on the date your name is first entered on the roll of any State Bar Council. This enrollment date is your starting point, and you must count exactly four years from this date to determine when you become eligible to commence your one year AOR training.
For example, if you’re enrolled with the Delhi Bar Council on August 1, 2026, your four year practice period will complete on July 31, 2030. At that point, you’re eligible to begin your one year AOR training. It’s important to note that the Supreme Court is strict about this timeline, you cannot start your AOR training even one day before completing four years on the roll. Any training started prematurely won’t be counted as valid training for the purposes of AOR examination eligibility.
Here’s a practical tip: keep your State Bar Council enrollment certificate and related documents carefully preserved. You’ll need to submit proof of your enrollment date when you begin AOR training and later when you apply for the AOR examination.
Step 2: Finding and Securing AOR Training (The 1 Year Training Requirement)
What is the Purpose of 1 Year AOR Training?
The one year training period under an AOR with 10+ years of experience serves multiple critical purposes in your preparation for Supreme Court practice.
- Procedural Knowledge and Practical Exposure
It provides hands on exposure to Supreme Court procedures, which are significantly different from trial court or High Court procedures. During your training, you’ll learn about the specific filing requirements, the cause list system, the mentioning process before the Registry, the protocols for getting matters listed before different benches, and the unique procedural nuances that govern Supreme Court practice.
- Specialized Drafting Skills Development
The training period allows you to develop specialized drafting skills required for Supreme Court documents. Drafting a Special Leave Petition, a review petition, or a curative petition requires understanding specific formats, citation styles, and argumentation techniques that differ from pleadings in lower courts. Your training AOR will guide you through these drafting requirements, often having you draft documents under supervision and providing feedback to refine your skills.
- Professional Integration and Networking
Third, the training provides professional socialization into the Supreme Court bar. You’ll learn the unwritten customs and courtesies that govern practice before the Supreme Court, build relationships with other AORs and senior advocates, understand how to interact with the Supreme Court Registry officials, and generally absorb the professional culture of Supreme Court practice. This social dimension of training is often undervalued but is crucial for your long-term success as an AOR. The Supreme Court bar operates as a professional community with its own norms and networks, and your training year is your initiation into this community.
How to Find an AOR Mentor for Training?
Where Can You Access the List of Registered AORs?
The Supreme Court of India maintains an official list of all registered AORs on its website at www.sci.gov.in.
Navigate to the “Advocate-on-Record” section, where you’ll find a searchable database and a downloadable PDF containing the complete list of AORs, including their unique AOR codes, names, and contact information.
This list is updated regularly as new AORs are registered and is your primary resource for identifying potential training mentors.The list typically shows several thousand registered AORs, organized alphabetically.
Additionally, the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) is another resource you can tap into. SCAORA maintains information about its members and can sometimes help facilitate connections between aspiring trainees and AORs looking for trainees. However, the official Supreme Court list remains your primary and most reliable source for finding potential training mentors.
What Should You Look for in an AOR Mentor?
Choosing the right AOR mentor is one of the most important decisions in your AOR journey. You want to find someone who has an active and diverse practice, is willing to invest time in training you properly, has a reputation for professional ethics and good standing with the Court, and whose practice areas align with your interests.
An active practice is crucial because you need exposure to real cases and live court proceedings. An AOR who rarely appears in court or handles minimal work won’t provide you with the rich learning experience you need. Look for an AOR who regularly appears before different benches, handles various types of matters (appeals, SLPs, writ petitions, original suits), and has a steady stream of work. This ensures you’ll get practical, hands-on experience throughout your training year.
The mentor’s willingness to teach is equally important. Some AORs are excellent practitioners but don’t have the patience or inclination to train junior advocates properly. You want someone who will explain procedures, review your drafts carefully, allow you to attend court hearings with them, and provide constructive feedback. When you approach potential mentors, ask about their approach to training do they have a structured training program, how many trainees have they trained previously, and what’s their philosophy about the training process?
Finally, consider the mentor’s reputation and practice area. Training under an AOR who has high ethical standards and good relations with the Supreme Court Registry will benefit you when you eventually register as an AOR yourself. The Supreme Court legal community is relatively small, and your training mentor’s reputation reflects on you. If possible, choose a mentor whose practice area aligns with your long term interests if you want to specialize in constitutional law, training under an AOR who primarily handles constitutional matters will give you deeper exposure to that field.
What Does AOR Training Actually Involve?
Daily Responsibilities During Training
During training, you’ll attend court with your AOR, draft Supreme Court documents, conduct research, manage files, and coordinate with the Registry. A typical day involves checking the cause list, observing court proceedings, then drafting petitions, preparing notes, and reviewing documents. You’ll master the e-filing system, document compilation, certification requirements, and court fee procedures.
Supreme Court Procedures and Practices You’ll Learn
During your training, you’ll gain comprehensive exposure to the unique procedures that govern Supreme Court practice. You’ll learn the mentioning procedure for urgent matters, different listing types, and how stay applications and interim relief work at the admission stage. Training covers review and curative petitions (unique to the Supreme Court), two judge bench precedents, larger bench references, and original jurisdiction under Articles 131 and 32.
Drafting Skills Development
Drafting is the most critical skill. You’ll learn to structure Special Leave Petitions with effective synopses, proper grounds of appeal, compelling fact narratives, and appropriate citations. You’ll also draft review petitions (demonstrating error on record or new evidence), miscellaneous applications, and other specialized documents. Mastering citation technique proper formats, binding versus persuasive authorities, and presenting conflicting precedents is essential for professional credibility.
How to Register and Certify Your Training with the Supreme Court?
Training Intimation Letter and Documentation
When you begin your training with an AOR, you must submit the following documents to the AOR Examination cell:
- The continuity certificate you procured from the State Bar Council (in original)
- Your Enrollment Certificate issued by the State Bar Council (self-attested copy)
- Your Certificate of Practice issued by the State Bar Council (self-attested copy) (not required for pre-AIBE candidates)
- A letter on your letterhead notifying the AOR Exam Cell that you have started your training
- A letter from the senior AOR notifying the AOR Exam Cell that you have started your training (called the Commencement Certificate)
You need to submit these documents within 7 days of procuring the commencement certificate.
You need not be physically present in Delhi to deliver these documents to the AOR Exam Cell, and anybody can do this on your behalf. Make sure that they make a copy of the documents and take a receipt from the concerned officer while submitting the documents.
You will receive an email from the concerned department on verification of the documents. If there are any discrepancies or defects in the documents, you can submit fresh copies after rectification. You can find sample formats of the documents here: AOR Training Intimation Documents
This intimation is not merely a formality, it starts the official clock on your training period and creates a record with the Supreme Court that you’ve commenced AOR training.
Certificate of completion of training
At the conclusion of your one year training period, your AOR must issue you a certificate confirming that you’ve successfully completed the requisite training under their supervision. This training completion certificate is a mandatory document for your AOR examination application without it, you cannot sit for the exam.
The training completion certificate must be on the AOR’s letterhead and should specify the exact dates of your training period (starting date and ending date), confirm that the training lasted continuously for one year, state that you attended court proceedings regularly, assisted in drafting and research work, and gained practical knowledge of Supreme Court procedures and practices. The certificate should be signed by your training AOR and should include their unique AOR code.
On submission of this certificate, you are officially eligible to write the AOR Examination. You are not mandated to take the examination that very year, and can take the examination at a later date. No fresh certification is required
The Supreme Court takes these training certificates seriously, and your AOR is making a professional certification about the quality and completeness of your training. Don’t treat this as a mere formality ensure you actually complete the full training period, maintain regular attendance, and genuinely learn from the experience. The AOR examination itself will test whether you’ve actually acquired the knowledge and skills that your training was supposed to provide, and candidates who did superficial or incomplete training typically struggle with the exam.
Here’s an important timing consideration: the Supreme Court usually requires that you submit your training completion certificate at the time of AOR examination application. This means your one year training must be completed before the examination application deadline. Plan your training timeline accordingly if the AOR exam typically happens in May-June each year and applications are due in April, make sure your training is completed by early April so you have your certificate ready when you apply.
Can You Practice as an Advocate During AOR Training?
Yes, you can continue your regular legal practice in other courts during your AOR training period. The one year AOR training requirement doesn’t demand that you practice exclusively under your training AOR or that you abandon your existing practice in lower courts or High Courts. This flexibility makes AOR qualification accessible to advocates who have established practices and cannot afford to take a full year away from their existing work.
However, you need to strike a balance between maintaining your existing practice and fulfilling your training obligations properly. Your training AOR expects you to be available for court hearings when their matters are listed, to complete drafting and research assignments in a timely manner, and to be present in their office regularly to gain practical exposure to Supreme Court work. If you’re rarely available because you’re occupied with your own practice, you’re not getting the training experience you need, and this will show when you attempt the AOR examination.
Many trainees work out an arrangement with their training AORs where they’re available for Supreme Court work on specific days of the week and manage their own practice on other days. For example, you might be in the Supreme Court on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and handle your High Court or trial court work on Tuesday and Thursday. Such arrangements can work well if both you and your training AOR are clear about the expectations and you’re diligent about honoring your commitments.
My advice: during your training year, prioritize learning over earning. Yes, you need to sustain yourself financially, but this year is an investment in your long-term career as an AOR. Be present, be engaged, and make the most of the training opportunity. The knowledge and skills you gain during this year will directly impact your performance in the AOR examination and your success as an AOR subsequently. Don’t shortchange your training by being too preoccupied with other work.
When Should You Start Planning for AOR Training?
Ideally, you should start planning for your AOR training at least 6-12 months before you complete your four years of practice. This advance planning allows you to research potential training AORs, make initial contacts, understand their practice areas and training approach, and secure a training position well before you’re actually eligible to start.
Why start so early? Good training positions with established AORs are competitive. Many AORs receive multiple requests from advocates seeking training, and they can afford to be selective about whom they take on as trainees. If you wait until your four years are just completing to start looking for training, you might find that the AORs you’re interested in already have trainees or aren’t taking new trainees at that time. Starting your search early gives you more options and allows you to find the best fit for your needs.
Use your network to facilitate introductions to potential training AORs. If you know any advocates who practice in the Supreme Court or who have connections with AORs, ask for introductions. Attending Supreme Court proceedings as an observer can also help you identify active AORs whose practice style and manner you admire. Approach them respectfully with a brief introduction of yourself, your background, your practice experience, and your interest in training under them.
When you make initial contact, be professional and clear about your timeline. Explain when you’ll complete your four years and when you’ll be eligible to start training. Ask about their availability for taking a trainee, their expectations for the training period, and their approach to training. This early conversation helps both you and the potential training AOR assess whether there’s a good fit, and it gives you time to explore multiple options before committing to one.
What Happens If You Change Your AOR Mentor Mid-Training?
Changing your AOR mentor mid-training should be avoided unless absolutely necessary due to genuine incompatibility or serious issues. The Supreme Court does permit trainees to change their training AOR. If you need to change your training AOR, you must formally inform the Supreme Court Registry about the change.
Here’s the key point: choose your training AOR carefully in the first place to minimize the chances you’ll need to change mid training. Have candid conversations upfront about expectations, training methodology, and mutual commitments. If issues arise during training, try to resolve them through open communication with your training AOR before deciding to change mentors. A mid-training change should be your last resort, not a casual decision.
Step 3: Appearing for the Supreme Court AOR Examination
Overview of AOR exam
The Advocate on Record (AOR) exam is a prestigious and held annually by the Supreme Court of India in May-June, spanning four days with four descriptive paper. Candidates need 50% per paper and 60% overall to pass, with a historically low pass rate, making it a challenging qualification for advocates to file and argue cases before the apex court.
When Can You Apply for the AOR Examination?
What is the Timing of AOR Exam Announcements?
The Supreme Court typically announces the AOR examination through an official notification released on its website in March or April each year. This notification contains all essential details including the examination dates (usually in May-June), the application deadline (typically mid to late April), the examination fee, the application procedure, and the detailed syllabus for each paper.
You need to monitor the Supreme Court website regularly starting from February onwards if you’re planning to appear for that year’s examination. The notification is posted in the “AOR Examination” section of the website, and it’s your responsibility to check for updates. The Supreme Court doesn’t send personalized notifications to potential candidates. Missing the application deadline means you’ll have to wait another full year for the next examination, so staying vigilant about the notification timing is crucial.
Once the notification is released, you typically have 2-3 weeks to submit your application. Given that you need to gather various documents (One photograph has to be pasted at the designated place, i.e., on the topright side of the application form and self-attested and legible copy of the Enrolment Certificate has to be annexed to the Application Form, Completion Certificate) and complete the application form, don’t wait until the last day. Start preparing your application documents as soon as the notification is released.
Must Your Training Be Complete Before Exam Application?
Yes, your one year training must be fully completed before the AOR examination application deadline. You cannot apply for the examination if your training is still ongoing or will complete after the application deadline. This is a strict requirement, and the Supreme Court verifies training completion through the certificate submitted with your application.
Plan your training timeline strategically to ensure you complete the full year well before the examination application deadline. For example, if you expect the AOR examination application deadline to be around mid-April 2026, your training should be completed by early April 2026 at the latest, giving you time to obtain your training completion certificate and prepare your application.
Some candidates make the mistake of calculating their training period too optimistically or starting their training late, only to discover they’re a few days or weeks short of completing one year when the application deadline arrives. Don’t cut it close if your training completion date is very near the expected application deadline, consider starting your training a month or two earlier to ensure you’re safely within the eligibility window.
How to Apply for the AOR Examination 2026?
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The application process for the AOR examination begins with obtaining the official application form from the Supreme Court registry. The form can be collected in person from the registry or downloaded from the Supreme Court’s official website during the application period. First, carefully read the official notification and application guidelines on the Supreme Court website. Download the application form provided in the notification (usually available as a PDF) and fill it completely and legibly. Here’s a sample notification for the June 2025 exam for your convenience.
The completed application form must be filled out carefully, and no part should be left blank. You need to provide the following information/documents along with the application form.
- One photograph has to be pasted at the designated place, i.e., on the topright side of the Application Form.
- Self-attested and legible copy of the Enrolment Certificate has to be annexed to the Application Form.
The scanned copy of duly filled Application Form with photograph affixed thereon, along with the self-attested copy of the Enrolment Certificate, may be sent through e-mail at [email protected], subject to submission of the hard copy of the same.
Scanned copy of the Application Form must be accompanied by the requisite documents, failing which it is liable to be rejected
After due verification of the Application Form and documents, if it is found in order, the applicant-Advocate will be informed through e-mail whereafter he/she has to deposit the prescribed examination fee online within 2 days from the date of receipt of confirmatory email.
After submission of the requisite fee, the applicant-Advocate is required to submit the hard copy of the following documents through post/courier to the address mentioned in the AOR Exam notification: (i) His/her Application Form, with one copy of photograph affixed thereon. (ii) Self-attested copy of his/her Enrolment Certificate. (iii) Receipt of payment (iv) Completion Certificate.
Your application will be accepted if you send the hard copies.
What Documents Are Required for an AOR Exam Application?
The mandatory documents for your AOR examination application include the duly filled and signed application form with your photograph affixed, a self-attested copy of your State Bar Council enrollment certificate showing your enrollment date, the training completion certificate from your training AOR confirming you completed one year of training, proof of payment of the examination fee.
Some additional documents that may be required depending on your specific situation include your law degree certificate if requested, your AIBE clearance certificate, a no-objection certificate from your State Bar Council if specified, and identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, or passport). Always check the specific document checklist provided in that year’s examination notification, as requirements can sometimes change.
Ensure every document is clearly legible when scanned. Poor quality scans that are unreadable can lead to rejection of your application. Use a proper scanner or high quality scanning app on your phone rather than just taking photos of documents. Similarly, when sending hard copies, use clear photocopies on good quality paper don’t send faded or unclear copies that might be difficult for the Registry staff to verify.
What is the AOR Examination Fee Structure?
The AOR examination fee has historically been ₹750, though you should verify the current fee in the official notification for the year you’re applying. This fee covers the cost of conducting the four paper examination and is quite modest considering the significance of the qualification you’re pursuing.
The fee payment must be made through online bank transfer to the account details provided in the exam notification. You cannot pay the fee before applying—the sequence is: submit application → receive acceptance confirmation email → pay fee within 48 hours → send hard copy of documents. This structured process ensures proper tracking of applications and payments.
When making the online payment, you must mention your full name in the remarks or narration field of the payment transaction. This is crucial for the Registry to match your payment with your application. Take a clear screenshot or save the PDF of your payment receipt, as you’ll need to submit this as proof of fee payment with your hard copy application documents. Keep multiple copies of the payment receipt for your records as well.
How Many Attempts Are Allowed for the AOR Exam?
You’re allowed a maximum of five attempts to clear the AOR examination. Each time you appear for even one paper of the exam, it counts as one attempt, regardless of whether you write all four papers or only some of them. This five attempt limit is strictly enforced, and candidates who have exhausted all five attempts cannot apply for the examination again.
Here’s an important rule to understand: if you fail all four papers in one attempt, you’re not eligible to apply for the immediate next examination. There’s a one attempt cooling off period, meaning you’ll have to skip one examination cycle before you can reappear. This rule is designed to encourage candidates to prepare more thoroughly rather than appearing repeatedly without adequate preparation.
Given the five attempt limit and the difficulty of the examination, you should treat each attempt seriously and prepare thoroughly rather than adopting a “let me try and see how it is” approach. Many candidates underestimate the exam’s difficulty in their first attempt, appear with inadequate preparation, fail all papers, and then find themselves with only four remaining attempts and a one-year gap before they can try again. Don’t make this mistake prepare systematically and appear only when you’re genuinely ready.
What are the Passing Criteria for AOR Examination?
Minimum Marks and Aggregate Percentage Required in Each Paper
To pass the AOR examination, you must secure a minimum of 50% marks in each individual paper. This means you need at least 50 marks out of 100 in each of the four papers individually. Additionally, you must obtain an aggregate of 60% marks (240 marks out of 400) across all four papers combined. Both conditions must be satisfied simultaneously; failing either criterion means you fail the examination.
This dual requirement creates an interesting challenge. Suppose you score 85, 80, and 75 in three papers an excellent performance totaling 240 marks. But if you score only 45 in the fourth paper, you fail the entire examination despite having 285 total marks (71.25% aggregate) because you didn’t achieve 50% in that one paper. Conversely, if you score exactly 50 marks in each paper, you get 200 marks total (50% aggregate), which again results in failure because you haven’t achieved the 60% aggregate requirement.
This requirement means you cannot afford to neglect any paper during your preparation. Some candidates make the mistake of focusing heavily on papers they find easier (like case laws or procedure) while under preparing for papers they find challenging (like drafting or ethics). This strategy is risky. You need balanced preparation across all four papers to ensure you cross the 50% mark in each one and also obtain 60% aggregate across all four papers combined. Identify your weaker areas early in your preparation and allocate extra time to strengthen those areas.
What Should You Do If You Fail the AOR Exam?
Re-Attempt Process and Waiting Period
If you fail the AOR examination, the first step is to carefully analyze your result to understand which papers you failed and by what margin. This analysis will guide your preparation strategy for your next attempt. Request your answer sheets from the Supreme Court if possible some years they provide photocopies of evaluated answer sheets upon request, which can give you valuable insights into where you lost marks and what the examiners are looking for.
Based on your performance analysis, create a focused preparation strategy for your next attempt. If you failed only one or two papers while passing others, concentrate your preparation on the failed papers. If you failed all four papers, you need a more comprehensive preparation overhaul. Consider whether you need to change your study materials, join a coaching program, or find a study group with other AOR aspirants.
Remember if you fail in all four papers, then you will not be permitted to appear in the next exam. This means you will have to wait for one year before re-appearing. If you score 50% in one paper but achieve the 60% aggregate, you will need to retake only the paper you failed. If you score 50% in each paper but fall short of the 60% aggregate, you may be allowed to re-write a paper of your choice to meet the requirement.
Use this time wisely. Don’t view it as wasted time; instead, use the extra year to build much stronger preparation. Many candidates who fail their first attempt but prepare systematically for 18 months before their second attempt perform significantly better.
Are There Any Restrictions on Re-Attempts?
The primary restriction is the five attempt limit, which I’ve already discussed. Each appearance in the examination, whether you write all papers or only some, counts as one attempt. Once you’ve exhausted all five attempts without passing, you cannot appear for the AOR examination again. This is a lifetime limit with no provisions for exceptions or waivers.
The second restriction is the cooling-off period after failing all papers. If you fail all four papers in one attempt, you’re ineligible to apply for the immediately following examination. This means a minimum one year gap before your next attempt. However, if you pass even one paper in an attempt, you’re eligible to apply for the next examination.
Given these restrictions, my advice is to be strategic about when you appear for the examination. Don’t appear just because you’ve completed your training and the exam is announced. Assess your preparation honestly. If you don’t feel adequately prepared, consider using the additional year to prepare more thoroughly rather than using up an attempt with suboptimal preparation. With only five attempts available and a rigorous examination, each attempt is precious. Use them wisely.
Step 4: Registration as Advocate on Record with the Supreme Court
How to Apply for AOR Registration After Passing the Exam?
Registration Formalities and Documentation
Once you’ve successfully passed the AOR examination, you’ll receive an official result notification from the Supreme Court. You will be granted a certificate by the Registry. This marks the beginning of your final step toward becoming an AOR.
You need to submit a formal registration application to the Supreme Court Registry along with all required documents and fees.
The registration application form can be obtained from the Registry office. Along with the application form, you must submit several documents such as original or certified copy of your AOR examination pass certificate, your State Bar Council enrollment certificate, your training completion certificate.During registration, you will need to provide an office address within a radius of 16 kilometers from the Supreme Court and give an undertaking to employ, within one month of being registered as an advocate-on-record, a registered clerk.
Ensure all documents are properly attested and complete. Incomplete applications can cause significant delays in your registration, postponing your ability to start practicing as an AOR. Given that you’ve already invested years in reaching this stage, don’t let careless documentation hold you back at the final hurdle.
What is the AOR Registration Fee?
The AOR registration fee is ₹250, which is quite nominal given the significance of the qualification you’re obtaining. This fee is payable to the Supreme Court at the time of submitting your registration application. You’ll receive a fee receipt that becomes part of your permanent registration record with the Supreme Court.
While the registration fee itself is minimal, remember that you’ll have additional costs associated with setting up your office, registering a clerk, and other initial establishment expenses. Budget for these expenses in advance so you’re not caught off guard by the financial requirements of completing your AOR registration.
The low registration fee reflects the Supreme Court’s approach of keeping the AOR qualification accessible to deserving advocates based on merit rather than creating financial barriers. However, don’t let the low official fee mislead you about the total costs involved in becoming an AOR, the training year (during which you may earn less than your normal practice would generate), exam preparation materials, coaching if needed, examination fee, and post qualification establishment costs add up to a significant investment, though one that pays for itself many times over in your subsequent AOR career.
Office Establishment Requirement: Setting Up Your Supreme Court Office
What is the Mandatory Office Location Requirement?
Every AOR must maintain a registered office in Delhi within a radius of 16 kilometers from the Supreme Court building. This requirement is non-negotiable you cannot be registered as an AOR without proving that you have established such an office. The rationale is practical: as an AOR, you’re responsible for receiving court notices, attending to urgent matters, filing documents with the Registry, and being available for court proceedings, all of which require a physical presence in Delhi.
The office doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive a small professional space is sufficient as long as it’s within the specified radius and properly documented. Many AORs, particularly those just starting out, share office space with other AORs or rent modest chambers in office buildings near the Supreme Court. The key requirements are: the address must be within 16 km of the Supreme Court, you must have a legal right to use the space (lease agreement or ownership document), and the office must be suitable for professional legal practice (not a residence or commercial establishment unrelated to legal practice).
When you apply for AOR registration, you must provide documentary proof of your office establishment. This typically means a rent agreement or lease deed if you’re renting the space, or property ownership documents if you own the office. The Supreme Court Registry may verify your office location, so ensure your documentation is genuine and your office is actually established and functional.
Can You Share Office Space with Another AOR?
Yes, you can share office space with another AOR or even with multiple AORs, which is a common practice, particularly for newly registered AORs. Sharing office space reduces your overhead costs significantly and can provide practical advantages, you have colleagues to consult with, you can share support staff, and you benefit from the professional environment of practicing alongside experienced AORs.
When sharing office space, ensure that the arrangement is properly documented. Your lease agreement or sublease agreement should clearly specify your right to use the premises for your AOR practice. Both you and the AOR(s) you’re sharing with should have clear documentation of the arrangement, as the Supreme Court may ask for proof of your office establishment during registration and subsequently.
Many Supreme Court office buildings house multiple AORs in shared chambers. This arrangement works well because Supreme Court practice doesn’t require large office spaces the way trial court practice might. Much of your work—drafting, research, client consultations—can be done in a modest professional space. What matters is that you have a legitimate office address where the Supreme Court can send notices and where clients can reach you.
Office Setup Costs and Documentation
The costs of setting up your AOR office vary widely depending on the location, size, and quality of space you choose. If you’re sharing with other AORs, your share of the rent will be proportionately less.
Beyond rent, you’ll need to budget for office furnishing (desk, chairs, bookshelves, filing cabinets), basic technology (computer, printer, internet connection), office supplies, and utilitiesc if you’re setting up a new office from scratch. However, many newly registered AORs minimize these costs by sharing space where furniture and infrastructure already exist.
The documentation you need for proving office establishment includes a registered rent agreement or lease deed for at least 11 months (some AORs use 11-month agreements with renewal options to avoid registration requirements for shorter-term agreements), rent receipts showing you’ve actually paid rent, a no-objection certificate from the property owner for using the premises as a professional office, and utility bills (electricity, internet) in your name or showing your office address. Keep all these documents organized, as you’ll need to submit them with your registration application and maintain them for your records.
Clerk Employment Requirement: Hiring a Registered Clerk
What are the Qualifications for a Supreme Court Clerk?
A Supreme Court clerk is a critical part of your AOR practice this person assists with filing documents, collecting orders and certified copies from the Registry, running errands to the court, and handling various administrative and procedural tasks. The Supreme Court has specific requirements for who can serve as a registered clerk for an AOR.
The clerk must be at least 18 years old and must register with the Supreme Court Registry by submitting an application along with identity documents, educational certificates (typically minimum matriculation or equivalent), and an affidavit. The clerk must also have their photograph and signature on file with the Registry and receive a unique clerk registration number.
When selecting a clerk, look for someone who has experience working in the Supreme Court environment if possible. Many clerks have worked with other AORs previously or have experience in legal offices, which means they already understand Supreme Court procedures, know their way around the Registry, and can handle the practical aspects of court work efficiently. If you’re hiring someone without prior Supreme Court experience, be prepared to invest time in training them about filing procedures, cause list checking, and other routine tasks.
Your clerk’s reliability and trustworthiness are paramount. This person will handle important documents, interact with the Registry on your behalf, and represent your office in various administrative matters. Many AORs develop long-term professional relationships with their clerks, who become invaluable partners in managing the practice efficiently. Take the time to find the right person rather than rushing into hiring the first available candidate.
How to Register Your Clerk with the Supreme Court?
Registering your clerk with the Supreme Court involves submitting an application to the Registry along with the clerk’s documents. The application should include your clerk’s full name, date of birth, residential address, educational qualifications, and contact details. You’ll also need to attach photocopies of the clerk’s identity proof (Aadhaar card, voter ID, or passport), address proof, and educational certificates.
Your clerk must provide passport size photographs and give specimen signatures, which will be maintained on record by the Registry. Once the application is processed, the Registry will assign a unique registration number to your clerk. This registration number must be mentioned on all documents that your clerk signs or files on your behalf, establishing their authority to act for you.
The registration process typically takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the Registry’s workload. Start this process as soon as you’ve hired your clerk, don’t wait until the last moment, especially since you need to complete clerk employment within one month of your AOR registration. Having your clerk registered promptly ensures you’re compliant with the requirements and can start practicing without any administrative hindrances.
What is the Timeline for Clerk Employment After AOR Registration?
The Supreme Court Rules require you to employ a registered clerk within one month of being registered as an AOR. This is a mandatory compliance requirement, failure to employ and register a clerk within this timeframe can lead to complications with your AOR registration status.
Here’s the practical timeline you should follow: As soon as you know your AOR registration is being processed (after submitting your application and documents), start looking for a clerk. Once your AOR registration is confirmed and you receive your unique AOR code, finalize your clerk hiring immediately. Submit the clerk registration application to the Registry within the first week of your AOR registration. Follow up with the Registry to ensure the clerk registration is processed smoothly.
By the end of the first month after your AOR registration, you should have your clerk fully registered and working with you. Some AORs handle this even faster, completing clerk employment within the first two weeks of registration. The key is to plan ahead and not treat this as an afterthought. Your clerk is an essential part of your practice infrastructure, and having this in place from day one allows you to start taking on matters without any procedural gaps.
How Long Does the AOR Registration Process Take?
The AOR registration process, from submitting your application to receiving your unique AOR code and being officially registered, typically takes anywhere from 2-8 weeks, though the exact timeline can vary based on the Supreme Court Registry’s workload and whether your application and documents are complete and in order.
The process involves several steps that take time: the Registry reviews your application and verifies all submitted documents, checks your office establishment documentation to confirm you have a proper office within the specified radius, processes your registration fee payment, and coordinates with the Chamber Judge who approves new AOR registrations. If there are any discrepancies or missing documents, the Registry will request clarification or additional documentation, which can extend the timeline.
You can expedite the process by ensuring your application is complete and accurate from the outset. Double-check that all documents are properly attested, all information is correctly filled in the application form, and all supporting documents are clearly legible. If you’re asked to provide any additional information or clarification, respond promptly to avoid delays.
Once your registration is approved, you’ll be notified by the Registry and assigned your unique AOR code. At this point, you’re officially an Advocate on Record of the Supreme Court of India. You can start accepting matters, filing cases, and practicing before the apex court. Many newly registered AORs mark this moment with a formal update to their professional letterhead, visiting cards, and online profiles, proudly displaying their new AOR designation and code.
What is the Unique AOR Code and How is it Assigned?
Every registered AOR is assigned a unique identification code by the Supreme Court. This AOR code is typically a sequential number that identifies you individually in the Supreme Court’s records and systems. For example, if you’re the 3,401st person to register as an AOR, your code might be AOR-3401 or simply 3401, depending on the Supreme Court’s numbering system.
Your AOR code serves multiple important purposes. First, it’s your unique identifier in all Supreme Court filings every document you file must bear your AOR code, establishing that the filing is by a properly registered AOR. Second, all court notices, orders, and correspondence addressed to you will reference your AOR code, ensuring proper identification and routing. Third, your AOR code is used in the Supreme Court’s case management system to track all matters in which you’re the AOR on record.
You’ll use your AOR code on all professional documents and correspondence related to Supreme Court matters. Your letterhead should prominently display your AOR code along with your name. When you file vakalatnamas, your code must be clearly mentioned. When you sign petitions and applications, your code appears alongside your signature. This code becomes an integral part of your professional identity as a Supreme Court practitioner.
Once assigned, your AOR code is permanent and doesn’t change. Even if you change your office address or other details, you retain the same code throughout your career as an AOR. This continuity is important for maintaining consistent records across all the matters you handle over the years. Your AOR code also becomes a mark of seniority, lower numbers indicate earlier registration, and within the Supreme Court community, AOR codes provide an instant indication of how long someone has been practicing as an AOR.
Complete Timeline: From Law Degree to AOR Registration
Year by Year Career Roadmap to Becoming an AOR
Years 1-4: Building Your Legal Practice Foundation
Your journey to becoming an AOR truly begins the moment you enroll with a State Bar Council after completing your law degree. These first four years are about building your foundation as a legal professional while keeping your long term AOR goal in mind. During this period, focus on gaining diverse legal experience, developing strong drafting and research skills, understanding court procedures across different levels, and building your professional reputation.
In Year 1, establish your practice area and start taking on matters regularly. Whether you’re working under a senior advocate, practicing independently, or working in a law firm, make sure you’re actively engaged in legal work. Use this year to understand how courts function, learn the basics of pleading drafting, and start building your litigation or advisory skills. Make it a point to attend High Court proceedings whenever possible to observe appellate advocacy, as this will be relevant to your future Supreme Court practice.
In Years 2-3, expand your expertise and start handling more complex matters. By now, you should have a clearer sense of which areas of law interest you most. If possible, start specializing in areas that have significant Supreme Court jurisprudence, constitutional law, taxation, criminal law, arbitration, or intellectual property. Read Supreme Court judgments regularly in your practice area to understand how the apex court approaches these issues. Start building relationships with advocates who practice in the Supreme Court, as these connections will help you find training opportunities later.
In Year 4, start preparing concretely for your AOR journey. By the beginning of this year, you should start researching potential training AORs and making initial contacts. Understand their practice areas, their reputation in the bar, and their approach to training. Attend Supreme Court proceedings as an observer whenever possible to familiarize yourself with the Court’s procedures and atmosphere. By the end of Year 4, you should have identified your training AOR and be ready to commence training as soon as you complete four years on the State Bar Council roll.
Year 5: Securing AOR Training and Mentor
Year 5 is your training year, arguably the most intensive and transformative year in your journey to becoming an AOR. This year is entirely devoted to learning Supreme Court practice under the guidance of your training AOR. You’ll transition from being a general practitioner to becoming a specialized Supreme Court practitioner with expertise in the unique procedures, drafting styles, and professional practices of the apex court.
The first few months of training involve absorbing a tremendous amount of new information. Supreme Court procedures are distinct from what you’ve learned in lower courts, the cause list system, the mentioning procedure, the filing requirements, the Registry protocols, and the courtroom proceedings all have their own conventions. Your training AOR will guide you through these procedures, often by having you accompany them to court, observe how they handle matters, and gradually take on responsibilities under their supervision.
By the middle of your training year, you should be actively drafting Supreme Court documents, Special Leave Petitions, review petitions, miscellaneous applications, and vakalatnamas. Your training AOR will review your drafts, provide feedback, and help you refine your drafting style to meet Supreme Court standards. You’ll learn how to research and cite case laws properly, how to structure legal arguments for appellate advocacy, and how to anticipate and address potential objections to your petitions.
Toward the end of your training year, you should start preparing for the AOR examination while still fulfilling your training responsibilities. The exam typically happens in May-June, so start your focused exam preparation around January-February. Use your training year not just to complete the formal requirement but to genuinely master Supreme Court practice, the knowledge and skills you gain during training will directly impact your exam performance and your subsequent success as an AOR.
Year 6: Completing Training, Appearing for Exam, and Registration
Year 6 is the culmination year where all your efforts come together. By the beginning of this year, you should have completed or be close to completing your one year training. Your immediate focus is preparing for and passing the AOR examination, which typically takes place in May-June.
From January to April, intensify your exam preparation. Review all four papers systematically, practice Supreme Court procedures, practice drafting under time pressure, study professional ethics and conduct rules thoroughly, and memorize the list of leading cases. Join study groups with other AOR aspirants if possible, as collaborative preparation can be extremely beneficial. Solve previous years’ question papers under exam conditions to build your speed and accuracy.
In April, apply for the AOR examination as soon as the notification is released. Ensure all your documents are in order and submit your application well before the deadline. Use the remaining weeks before the exam for final revision and practice. In May-June, appear for the examination with confidence, having prepared thoroughly. Give your best effort across all four papers, ensuring you cross the minimum marks threshold in each.
If you pass the examination (results are typically declared by August-September), immediately begin your AOR registration process. Set up your office in Delhi within the required radius, finalize arrangements for hiring a clerk, prepare all registration documents, and submit your registration application to the Supreme Court Registry. Complete your clerk registration within the one month deadline. By the end of Year 6, you should be a fully registered AOR with your unique code, ready to embark on your Supreme Court practice.
What is the Minimum Time Required to Become an AOR?
The absolute minimum time required to become an AOR from the date you first enroll as an advocate is approximately 6 years. Here’s the breakdown: you need 4 years of enrollment with a State Bar Council before you can start AOR training, then 1 year of training under an existing AOR, followed by appearing for and passing the AOR examination and finally completing the registration process (which takes another 2-8 weeks). Some advocates take even longer if they pursue AOR qualification later in their careers after establishing themselves in other areas of practice.
However, this minimum timeline assumes everything goes perfectly, you start your training immediately upon completing four years, you pass the AOR exam on your first attempt, and your registration process is smooth and quick. In reality, many advocates take longer. Some take time to find the right training AOR, some need multiple attempts to pass the examination, and some face delays in the registration process due to documentation issues or other factors.
The key insight is that becoming an AOR is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires sustained commitment over several years, systematic preparation, and patience through the various stages of qualification. Don’t be discouraged by the lengthy timeline, view it as an investment in achieving one of the most prestigious qualifications in the Indian legal profession. The exclusivity and benefits of AOR status are directly correlated to the rigorous qualification process that ensures only truly competent advocates earn this designation.
Are There Any Exemption from the AOR Examination?
Who are exempted from writing the AOR Examination?
The undermentioned categories of advocates are exempted from appearing for the AOR Examination as per Order IV Rule 5 of the Supreme Court Rules:
- an attorney;
- a solicitor on the rolls of the Bombay Incorporated Law Society if his/her name is, and has been borne on the roll of the State Bar Council for a period of not less than seven years on the date of making the application for registration as an advocate on record
Other exemptions
The Chief Justice of India may also grant an exemption:
- from the requirement of the mandatory training in the case of an advocate, whose name is borne on the roll of any State Bar Council for a period of not less than ten years.
- from the requirement of four years of practice and from mandatory training in the case of an advocate having special knowledge or experience in law.
However, these discretionary exemptions are rarely granted and are reserved for truly exceptional cases. Having ten years of practice doesn’t automatically entitle you to an exemption, it merely makes you eligible for the Chief Justice to consider granting an exemption if warranted by your special knowledge or experience. In practice, most advocates, regardless of their seniority or expertise, go through the standard training and examination process.
Why the AOR designation is a career milestone in litigation
The AOR designation represents a career milestone that fundamentally transforms your professional trajectory in the legal field. Unlike many other professional qualifications that merely add credentials to your name, becoming an AOR gives you exclusive practice rights that no other category of advocate possesses, the right to independently file cases and represent clients before the Supreme Court of India. This exclusivity, combined with the rigorous qualification process, creates a professional moat around your practice that significantly enhances your value proposition to clients.
What makes AOR status truly transformative is how it repositions you within the legal profession’s hierarchy.
You’re no longer just another advocate among lakhs of lawyers, you’re part of an elite group of 3789 professionals who can practice independently at the apex of India’s judicial system.
This elite status has tangible benefits beyond just professional pride. Clients seeking Supreme Court representation must engage an AOR, creating consistent demand for your services. Your ability to handle matters from inception in lower courts all the way through to the Supreme Court makes you a comprehensive legal solution provider, which is highly valuable to clients with significant legal needs.
Moreover, AOR status opens pathways to the legal profession’s highest honors and positions. Many Senior Advocates, Supreme Court judges, Attorney Generals, and Solicitor Generals began their journey as AORs. For example, Justice Indu Malhotra became an AOR in 1988 and, thereafter, she was designated as a Senior Counsel by the Supreme Court in 2007, eventually becoming the first woman to be appointed as a Judge of the Supreme Court directly from the Bar in 2018.
The practical Supreme Court experience you gain as an AOR, combined with the professional recognition the designation carries, positions you for these career advancement opportunities. Whether you aspire to judicial appointment, senior advocacy designation, or simply building a thriving Supreme Court practice, AOR registration is your essential foundation. In litigation careers, few achievements rival the professional impact and long term benefits of becoming an Advocate on Record.
Conclusion
Becoming an Advocate on Record of the Supreme Court of India is a journey that demands dedication, strategic planning, and sustained effort over several years. From completing your law degree and gaining four years of diverse practice experience, to securing quality training under an established AOR, preparing systematically for one of the legal profession’s most challenging examinations, and finally completing the registration formalities, each step builds toward the prestigious AOR designation that marks you as an elite Supreme Court practitioner.
The path I’ve outlined in this comprehensive guide shows that while the journey is demanding, it’s also structured and achievable for advocates who approach it with commitment and proper planning. The minimum timeline of 6 years from your initial Bar Council enrollment to AOR registration reflects the profession’s commitment to ensuring that only thoroughly prepared and competent advocates earn the right to practice independently before India’s highest court. This rigorous qualification process is precisely what gives the AOR designation its value and exclusivity.
As you embark on or continue this journey, remember that every year of practice you accumulate, every skill you develop, and every connection you build contributes to your ultimate goal of AOR registration. Don’t view the lengthy timeline as an obstacle, instead, see it as an investment in achieving one of the most prestigious qualifications in Indian law. The professional recognition, earning potential, exclusive practice rights, and career advancement opportunities that come with AOR status make the years of preparation worthwhile many times over.
Start planning your AOR journey today. If you’re still in law school, focus on building strong academic credentials and gaining practical experience through quality internships. If you’ve recently enrolled as an advocate, work on developing excellent drafting, research, and advocacy skills while keeping your long term AOR goal in mind. If you’re approaching the four year mark in your practice, start identifying potential training AORs and preparing for your training year. And if you’re in the midst of training or exam preparation, stay focused and committed, you’re in the final stretch toward achieving your AOR goal. The Supreme Court bar awaits you, and with proper preparation and dedication, you’ll soon join the elite ranks of Advocates on Record.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum age to become an AOR?
There is no minimum or maximum age restriction for becoming an AOR. The Supreme Court has not specified any age limits in the eligibility criteria, making the AOR pathway accessible to advocates at any career stage as long as they meet the educational and other requirements of four years’ practice, one year training, and passing the examination.
Do I need to relocate to Delhi to become an AOR?
While you must maintain a registered office in Delhi within 16 kilometers of the Supreme Court as a requirement for AOR registration, you don’t necessarily need to relocate permanently to Delhi. Many AORs maintain their primary residence and practice in their home states while traveling to Delhi when their Supreme Court matters require their presence.
What is the difference between an AOR and a Senior Advocate?
An AOR is an advocate authorized to independently file cases and handle procedural aspects before the Supreme Court, while a Senior Advocate is a designation of excellence given to distinguished advocates in recognition of their expertise and contribution to law. AORs handle the on record work and file documents, while Senior Advocates are briefed by AORs to provide specialist arguments. Importantly, once designated as a Senior Advocate, you cannot become an AOR.
How many AORs are currently registered with the Supreme Court of India?
Currenyly, 3789 advocates are registered as AORs with the Supreme Court of India.
Can a law firm be registered as an AOR?
Yes, a law firm can be registered as an AOR if all partners of the firm are individually registered AORs. The firm registration requires that every partner hold valid AOR registration, ensuring that the firm as a whole has the qualified personnel to handle Supreme Court matters.
Can the AOR registration be revoked?
Yes, AOR registration can be revoked by the Supreme Court under certain circumstances outlined in Order VI of the Supreme Court Rules 2013. Grounds for revocation include conviction for an offense involving moral turpitude, professional misconduct, contempt of court, providing false information in registration documents, or failure to maintain the required office and clerk as per regulations. The Supreme Court takes these professional standards seriously to maintain the integrity of the AOR system.
What is the validity period of AOR registration?
AOR registration is valid for life unless revoked for misconduct or other grounds specified in the Supreme Court Rules. Once you’re registered as an AOR and receive your unique code, you remain an AOR throughout your professional career. You don’t need to renew the registration periodically, though you must continue maintaining the required office and clerk and remain enrolled with a State Bar Council.
Can I represent clients in the Supreme Court immediately after AOR registration?
Yes, once you’re officially registered as an AOR and have received your unique code, you can immediately start accepting matters and representing clients before the Supreme Court.
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