The Incorporated Council of Legal Education was established in 1900 under the Council of Legal Education Ordinance No. 2 of 1900. Sri Lanka Law College was accordingly established under the said Council of Legal Education to impart a formal legal education to those who wish to be lawyers. The Council plays a pivotal role in upholding the quality and integrity of legal education provided by Sri Lanka Law College. The Ordinance outlines the composition, administration, powers of the Council and the power to form by-laws regarding the curriculum, academic staff, and examinations pertaining to Sri Lanka Law College.
In 1974, the Ordinance was amended by Act No. 6 of 1974 to modify the Council’s composition and introduced a provision for Council Rules to be formulated with the concurrence of the Minister of Justice. Furthermore, the Council of Legal Education (Amendment) Act, No. 33 of 1993 brought about further changes to the Council's composition.
Current Composition of the Council- Section 2A
The Council is presently comprised of several key members: the Chief Justice serves as Chairperson, alongside the Attorney General, Secretary to the Minister of Justice, and Solicitor General who are ex-officio members. Furthermore, there are two Judges of the Supreme Court nominated by the Chief Justice, two members nominated by the Bar Association, and six additional members appointed by the Minister of Justice. These additional members are selected from individuals with significant experience and expertise in the legal profession, including those who have held judicial office, engaged in legal teaching or research, or demonstrated academic excellence or contributions to legal knowledge.
Powers of the Incorporated Council for Legal Education includes the following:
- Prescribing the courses of studies and examinations to be observed by law students.
- Appointment of lecturers and examiners and fixing the salary or fees paid.
- Fixing the minimum number of marks to be earned by candidates at the examinations.
Powers of Minister in relation to the Council
The Minister is also empowered to provide written directions to the Council regarding general policies related to the Council's duties and powers.