Section 23 of AA : Section 23: Right Of Pre-Audience

Explanation using Example

Imagine a high-profile case being heard in the Supreme Court of India. Several advocates are scheduled to present their arguments on a particular day. According to Section 23 of The Advocates Act, 1961, when it comes time for the advocates to speak, the Attorney-General of India, if present and participating in the case, will be given the first opportunity to address the court.

After the Attorney-General, the Solicitor-General of India, if also involved in the case, would present their arguments next. This order of precedence continues with the Additional Solicitor-Generals and then the Advocate-General of a state, if they are representing their state in the case.

Once these officials have had their turn, senior advocates are allowed to speak before other advocates. The seniority among these advocates is also respected in determining the order of presentation. This system ensures an orderly and respectful process where the hierarchy of legal officers and advocates is maintained during court proceedings.