Vakalatnama
The formal document by which a client authorizes an advocate to represent them.
In Simple Terms
The paper you sign to officially hire your lawyer for a specific case.
Detailed Legal Meaning
A Vakalatnama is the instrument of authority filed in court by which a litigant appoints an advocate to appear, plead, and act on their behalf in a particular proceeding. No advocate can be recognized by the court as representing a party without a Vakalatnama on record. In e-Filing systems this is increasingly executed and verified digitally (an 'e-handshake').
Common Court Usage
Filed at the first appearance; its absence usually prevents an advocate from being heard for that party.
Sample Usage
“The Vakalatnama executed by the petitioner in favour of the undersigned advocate is annexed hereto.”