Punjab & Haryana High Court rebukes lawyers for using AI, Google on phones during hearings
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, October 5, 2025 — The Punjab and Haryana High Court has strongly reprimanded lawyers for relying on artificial intelligence tools and Google searches on their mobile phones to answer queries during hearings, calling the practice "unacceptable."
As reported by Live Law, Justice Sanjay Vashisth, while taking strict note of the conduct, even seized the mobile phone of a lawyer for a certain period to emphasize the seriousness of the issue. The court observed that such behavior was both unprofessional and discourteous.
"Firstly, using a mobile phone while addressing the Court reflects an unprofessional attitude, which cannot be condoned. Secondly, unlike iPads or laptops, which are integrated with case files and official records, mobile phones are not acceptable tools for arguments in court," Justice Vashisth remarked.
In another instance, when a lawyer attempted to use his phone to find answers to a query raised by the bench, the court said such information should have been gathered in advance while preparing the case.
The judge also noted repeated instances of advocates using phones during hearings, sometimes causing delays in proceedings. He cautioned that such practices hinder the decorum of the courtroom and must be avoided.