P Balasubramanian Menon, aged 99 and soon to turn 100, was conferred the Senior Advocate tag by the Kerala High Court, in recognition of his record-long legal career. The designation is rare for trial advocates and those over 90.
Kerala HC Honours 100-Year-Old Lawyer as Senior Advocate
In an unprecedented move, the Kerala High Court conferred the designation of Senior Advocate upon P Balasubramanian Menon on October 9, 2026, just days before his 100th birthday. Menon, who holds the Guinness World Record for the longest continuous legal practice, has been active at the bar since 1951, appearing primarily in trial courts across Kerala. The initiative was spearheaded by Chief Justice Soumen Sen, who described the designation as a 'fitting tribute to enduring commitment to justice'.
The High Court invoked its inherent powers under Article 225 of the Constitution and Section 528 BNSS (successor to CrPC Section 482) to approve the request, despite Menon's primary practice being in lower courts, which is uncommon for senior designations typically reserved for advocates appearing in appellate or constitutional matters. The Court emphasized that 'length, integrity, and service to the profession' merit recognition independent of the forum of practice.
This may set a precedent for recognising longevity and dedication within the legal profession, especially for trial lawyers who remain outside the metropolitan legal elite. The designation does not entitle Menon to any special remuneration but carries the obligations of decorum and assistance to the Court under Section 4(1) of the Advocates Act, 1961, as amended. Practitioners note that this symbolic gesture may encourage broader inclusivity in future senior advocate appointments.
Citations
- Article 225, Constitution of India
- Section 528 BNSS
- Section 4(1), Advocates Act, 1961
