The Uttar Pradesh cabinet on Wednesday approved a proposal to raise the retainership and per-hearing fees of advocates representing the state government in various courts by approximately 50 percent. This decision follows a recent review of the existing fee structure, which, according to a cabinet note, had remained largely unchanged for 10 to 15 years.
Key Details of the Fee Revision
Cabinet Minister Suresh Khanna stated that advocates empanelled with the state law department play a crucial role in effectively defending the interests of Uttar Pradesh in courts. The revised fee structure will benefit lawyers engaged in district courts, the Allahabad High Court and its Lucknow bench, and the Supreme Court.
New Fee Structure for District Government Counsels
- District Government Counsels: Monthly retainer fee of Rs 14,000 and an appearance fee of Rs 2,500 per working day.
- Additional District Government Counsels: Monthly retainer fee of Rs 11,000 and an appearance fee of Rs 2,300 per working day.
- Assistant District Government Counsels: Monthly retainer fee of Rs 10,000 and an appearance fee of Rs 2,300 per working day.
- Deputy District Government Counsels: Monthly retainer fee of Rs 9,000 and an appearance fee of Rs 2,000 per working day.
Objective of the Fee Enhancement
The government stated that the enhancement in retainership and hearing fees aims to ensure effective legal representation for the state and align compensation with current professional requirements. The state law department will take further steps to implement the revised fee structure.
