Lawyers' Disrespectful Conduct Unacceptable: Allahabad High Court

The Division Bench, comprising Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra and Justice Dr. Gautam Chowdhary, stressed that lawyers must avoid using disrespectful language towards judges. In its September 10 order, the Court noted that advocates, as officers of the court, should not act discourteously or use inappropriate language against presiding judges, as such behavior disrupts the cordial atmosphere necessary for judicial proceedings.

The Court made these remarks while addressing a reference made by a Civil Judge regarding a lawyer, Yogendra Trivedi. Trivedi was accused of snatching a file from the court staff and making inappropriate comments against the trial judge during a proceeding last year. Although Trivedi later submitted an unconditional apology after being served with a notice in contempt proceedings, both the Civil Judge and the High Court found the apology insufficient. The Court adjourned the matter, allowing Trivedi to submit a better affidavit, which he did, again offering an unconditional apology and expressing remorse.

During the hearing on September 10, Trivedi appeared in court and promised never to repeat such behavior. His counsel argued that he was a young lawyer and urged the Court to show leniency. While the Court acknowledged this, it issued a stern warning, making it clear that any future misconduct would lead to the revival of contempt proceedings with serious consequences. The Court also directed that a report on Trivedi's conduct be submitted by the district judge to the High Court’s registry after two years. Advocate Sharad Kumar Srivastava represented Trivedi in the proceedings.