In a significant advancement towards digital transformation, the Sindh Bar Council has announced the full development and implementation of its new automation system (API) and software. This groundbreaking initiative was spearheaded by Mr. Kashif Hanif, Vice Chairman, Mr. Yasir Arfat Shar, Chairman of the Executive Committee, and the Members of the Executive Committee of the Sindh Bar Council. The new system went live today, offering a range of online facilities for advocates and law students.
The automation system can be accessed via the following link: https://app.sindhbarcouncil.org/advocates_portal
Through this automation system, advocates and pupils can now avail themselves of several online services, including:
1. Online Intimation: Qualified law graduates desiring to join the legal profession can now apply online for enrolment as advocates of Subordinate Courts. The process involves submitting documents and information through the system, which generates an intimation reference number. Upon successful enrolment, a lifetime registration number will be issued, serving as a reference for all future correspondence and court-related matters.
2. Online Payment Service: Digital payments can be made through HBL by searching for ‘Sindh Bar Council’, or via other banking applications using a 1 Bill Invoice/Voucher.
3. Online Individual Portal: This portal allows users to check their enrolment status, outstanding dues, and statements of paid payments.
4. Online Application Processing: Applications for ID cards, standing certificates, and other certificates can now be processed online.
5. Online Forms: Forms for various claims such as death, retirement, medical, and disability can be filled out and submitted through the online portal.
6. Tutorials and Learning Videos: To assist advocates and pupils in using the new system, a tutorial video will be available from June 10, 2024. The video can be accessed at [https://www.youtube.com/@sindhbsofficial](https://www.youtube.com/@sindhbsofficial).
To ensure a smooth transition, the Sindh Bar Council has decided to run both manual and automated payment systems concurrently until June 30, 2024. From July 1, 2024, to encourage the use of the new automation system, an additional service charge of Rs. 500 per manual transaction will be imposed. Relevant banks have also been instructed to apply a similar service charge for manual transactions made in favor of the Council.
Mr. Kashif Hanif expressed his enthusiasm about the new system, stating, “This automation is a milestone in our efforts to modernize and streamline our processes, ensuring greater efficiency and convenience for our learned advocates and future lawyers.”
The Sindh Bar Council’s initiative is expected to significantly enhance the administrative efficiency of legal processes, providing a seamless and user-friendly experience for all users. This digital transformation marks a pivotal step towards modernizing the legal profession in Sindh, setting a precedent for other bar councils across the country.
