New Delhi: In a notable development within the Indian judicial and legal fraternity, the Supreme Court of India has conferred the prestigious designation of Senior Advocate on four distinguished former judges of various High Courts.
High Court Judge Designation
The decision — taken during a Full Court Meeting of the Supreme Court chaired by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on December 10, 2025 — underscores the apex court’s recognition of their judicial expertise, legal acumen, and enduring contribution to the justice delivery system.
This elevation is not merely ceremonial; it formally acknowledges these experienced jurists as part of the elite legal bar, enabling them to practice as Senior Advocates with enhanced authority and standing at the Supreme Court and other courts across India.
Understanding the High Court Judge Designation to Senior Advocate
Under the Advocates Act, 1961 (Section 16), advocates with exceptional ability, standing at the bar, or specialized expertise in law may be conferred the title of Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court or High Courts. This honor reflects recognition of professional excellence, deep legal insight, and sustained contribution to jurisprudence.
While the traditional pathway to becoming a Senior Advocate has typically been through distinguished careers at the bar, extending this designation to retired judges bridges the divide between judicial experience and advocacy, enriching the legal profession with seasoned juristic perspectives.
Profiles of the Newly Designated Senior Advocates
1. Justice Abhinand Kumar Shavili: A former Judge of the High Court for the State of Telangana, Justice Shavili brings decades of adjudicatory experience. His tenure on the bench was marked by judicious handling of complex civil and criminal jurisprudence.
2. Justice Pavankumar B. Bajenthri: Justice Bajenthri served as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Judicature at Patna, one of India’s oldest High Courts. His leadership in judicial administration and pronouncements in constitutional and civil law fields have been widely acknowledged within legal circles.
3. Justice Satyendra Singh Chauhan: As a former Judge of the High Court of Judicature at Allahabad, Justice Chauhan’s contributions spanned significant legal domains, including family law, property disputes, and statutory interpretation. His elevation as a Senior Advocate reflects widespread respect for his legal intellect.
4. Justice T.S. Sivagnanam: Justice Tirunelveli Subbiah Sivagnanam concluded his judicial service as Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court in September 2025. His tenure saw active engagement in judicial reform and modernization efforts, enhancing the efficiency of court processes.
