New Delhi: Supreme Court judge Justice Sanjay Kumar on Thursday prohibited advocates from directly approaching or contacting officers and staff attached to his court after the son of an advocate-on-record allegedly verbally abused a woman court officer over the telephone.

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Expressing strong displeasure over the incident, Justice Kumar summoned the advocate-on-record (AoR) concerned and questioned him about his son's conduct towards the woman staffer.

"Who spoke to her on the phone? You spoke to her? Your son spoke to her, and you have obviously not taught him how to speak to a lady. Perhaps it's time you did so," the judge remarked.

The incident prompted Justice Kumar to introduce restrictions on interactions between lawyers and his court staff, making it clear that advocates would no longer be permitted to approach the officers directly, either in person or over the phone.

"As a consequence of your action, from now on, all physical appearances will be immediately given as soon as the case is over. No one will speak to my court officers about it, be it in person or on the phone. No one will approach them or speak to them," he said.

Judge questions advocate over son's conduct

Justice Kumar took exception to the language allegedly used by the advocate's son, particularly the remarks directed at the woman court officer.

The judge observed that it would be inappropriate to describe the individual as a gentleman in view of the insinuating and abusive language he had allegedly used.

"He used abusive language; who does he think he is? Is he a lawyer?" Justice Kumar asked.

The judge also enquired whether any elected representative of the Supreme Court Bar Association was present in the courtroom.

He further directed that the matter involving the advocate be referred to the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA).

'I will not have my court officers abused like this'

Continuing his remarks, Justice Kumar criticised the advocate over his son's alleged behaviour and warned lawyers against approaching court officers in the future.

"If you can't teach your family members how to speak to a woman, then perhaps they have no right to even address a woman. Don't even dare to make a mention now! Henceforth, I am serious about this. No one will approach the court officers. I will not have my court officers abused like this," the judge said.

He emphasised that court staff performed their duties sincerely and should not be subjected to abusive language or unfounded insinuations.

"They do their job with utmost diligence. You make all kinds of insinuations, using all kinds of abusive language. There is no limit to this, to the extent that I can go on. You made me lose my temper first thing in the morning," Justice Kumar added.

What is an advocate-on-record?

An advocate-on-record is a lawyer who has obtained special authorisation to act on behalf of clients before the Supreme Court.

Only advocates-on-record are permitted to file appearances, petitions and other legal documents in the apex court, making them responsible for ensuring compliance with its procedural requirements.