<h1>Enforcement Directorate summoning lawyers for legal advice crosses limits, threatens attorney-client privilege and profession independence</h1> The Supreme Court expressed serious concern over the Enforcement Directorate summoning lawyers for providing legal advice to clients, stating the agency is 'crossing all limits.' A bench heard a suo motu case addressing implications on legal profession independence, triggered by summons issued to senior advocates. The Chief Justice emphasized that lawyer-client communications are privileged and questioned how notices could be issued against attorneys for rendering legal opinions. The Attorney General and Solicitor General acknowledged the summons were inappropriate and confirmed the agency was instructed not to issue notices to lawyers for legal advice. Senior advocates warned this practice creates a dangerous precedent with chilling effects on the justice system, comparing the situation to authoritarian crackdowns in other countries. The court directed comprehensive notes be filed and scheduled further hearing, emphasizing the need for guidelines to protect legal profession autonomy.