Delhi High Court Discharges Lawyer in Criminal Contempt Case, Advises Against Future Aggressive Conduct

The Delhi High Court recently addressed a criminal contempt case involving a lawyer accused of misbehavior during court proceedings. The incident originated from an order issued in October 2024 by the Principal Judge of the Family Courts at Patiala House, alleging that the lawyer had acted inappropriately during a matrimonial case hearing. In response, the High Court summoned the lawyer on December 9, 2024, to explain why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against him.

On January 22, 2025, the lawyer appeared before the High Court and offered an unconditional apology for his conduct. He explained that his primary concern was the timely adjudication of an application under Section 24 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, by the Family Court. Additionally, he disclosed that he was undergoing treatment for a serious medical condition, which may have influenced his behavior. He emphasized that such allegations were unprecedented in his career, asserting that he had consistently maintained proper decorum in courtrooms.

The division bench, comprising Justice Prathiba M. Singh and Justice Dharmesh Sharma, considered the lawyer's apology and his medical circumstances. Taking a compassionate stance, the bench accepted the apology, noting the lawyer's acknowledgment of his misconduct and his commitment to uphold court decorum in the future. The court emphasized the expectation that, as a legal professional, the lawyer should maintain the dignity of the court at all times.

In its concluding remarks, the bench discharged the contempt proceedings, cautioning the lawyer to refrain from any aggressive behavior in future court appearances. The court's decision underscores the judiciary's willingness to consider personal circumstances and genuine remorse, while also reinforcing the importance of maintaining decorum within legal proceedings.

This case highlights the balance the judiciary seeks between upholding the integrity of court proceedings and acknowledging individual circumstances that may affect behavior. It serves as a reminder to legal practitioners of the paramount importance of professionalism and respect in the courtroom.