An Advocate-on-Record (AoR) is an advocate entitled to file matters before the Supreme Court of India on behalf of a litigant. Created and regulated by the Supreme Court Rules, the AoR designation is a distinct professional qualification — an advocate with years of Bar practice must pass a separate Supreme Court examination to become an AoR. Only an AoR can formally sign and file a petition (SLP, writ petition, review, curative) before the Supreme Court.
**The examination.** Conducted annually by the Supreme Court, the AoR examination tests knowledge of the Supreme Court Rules, leading practice (drafting skills specific to SLPs and SC writ petitions), professional ethics, and general practice areas. Passing the exam, along with a minimum number of years of Bar practice and an apprenticeship, qualifies the advocate as an AoR.
**Role at the Supreme Court.** Any petition before the SC must be signed by an AoR. Advocates, senior advocates, and even other very senior counsel can argue the matter — but the AoR signs the vakalatnama, files the petition, and is ultimately responsible for the correctness of the paperbook. This system exists because the SC handles a very large volume of cases and needs accountability concentrated in a smaller, specialized bar.
**Practical relevance.** Solo practitioners and small firms that occasionally need to file in the Supreme Court engage an AoR on a case-by-case basis. The AoR's fee typically covers filing, certification of the paperbook, and attendance at the admission hearing; arguments may be conducted by other counsel briefed by the AoR.