The Supreme Court has directed the creation of a 'Young Lawyers' Professional Assistance Fund' in every state and Union territory to support financially struggling young lawyers.
The court warned that the legal profession risks a 'brain drain' if young lawyers are forced to abandon litigation for more secure careers due to financial hardships.
The fund will provide a reasonable monthly stipend to eligible young advocates during the formative years of their practice, while being attached to experienced members of the Bar and rendering professional services as associates.
The court also proposed a self-sustaining model under which lawyers who benefited from the fund during their early years could later contribute back to it through phased repayments once they become financially established.
The court's directives came while hearing a petition filed by a group of six women lawyers concerning infrastructure and welfare measures for members of the Bar across the country.
The court also emphasized the need for better infrastructure for women advocates, including adequately equipped Ladies' Bar Rooms and other essential facilities.
