Standing Counsels engagement revised: new eligibility, panel sizing, duties, performance review and fee schedule effective 07.09.2016. Guidelines revise empanelment, eligibility, allocation, duties, performance review and payment for Standing Counsels representing the Income tax Department. Reappointment must begin six months before expiry, panels include a 25% non paid buffer, and selection follows advertised calls, Screening Committee evaluation using prescribed pro formas and minimum benchmarks. Senior and Junior eligibility requires advocacy enrolment and specified direct tax experience or prior departmental/tribunal service subject to disciplinary clearance. CCIT manages allocation (approx. 450-500 appeals per Senior), quarterly and annual performance reporting is mandated, duties and private practice restrictions are set, and Annexure II prescribes a fee/retainer schedule effective 07.09.2016 with billing, deduction and dispute resolution procedures.