The definitions set out in the Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2022 Regulating the Legal Profession and Legal Consultation Profession shall apply to this Resolution. In addition, the following words and expressions shall bear the meanings assigned thereto respectively as follows, unless the context indicates otherwise:
Decree-Law: Federal Decree-Law No. (34) of 2022 Regulating the Legal Profession and Legal Consultation Profession.
The Institute: The Ministry of Justice’s Judicial Training Institute.
Training Program: A training plan created by the Competent Department in coordination with the Institute, and aims to ensure that the practitioners of the Legal Profession, along with their assistants, attain the highest level of professionalism and competence in their practice of the profession.
The Competent Authority: The local Department of Economic Development or the relevant authority in the free zone, as the case may be.
 

Rolls of Lawyers shall be created in the Ministry as follows:
1. The Roll of Trainee Lawyers;
2. The Roll of Practicing Lawyers; and
3. The Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers.
 

The Official Authority in charge of equivalency of academic degrees in the State shall, in coordination with the Committee, establish the rules and conditions for the equivalency of university qualifications in Law or Sharia and Law, as stipulated in Clause (4) of Articles (4) and (12) of this Resolution, provided that such rules and conditions shall include the following:
1. The minimum number of academic credit hours required for obtaining a university qualification;
2. The basic legal subjects qualifying for the equivalency of a university qualification; and
3. The studies and programs necessary to fulfil the equivalency requirements for those who fail to meet the conditions set forth in Clauses (1) and (2) of this Article.

An applicant seeking to have his name listed on the Roll of Trainee Lawyers shall fulfil the following conditions:
1. Must be a citizen of the State;
2. Must be at least twenty-one (21) Gregorian years of age;
3. Must have full legal capacity and be of good conduct and reputation, and must have never been judicially convicted on the grounds of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or breach of trust, nor undergone a disciplinary sanction on account of any of such offenses, even if subsequently rehabilitated; and
4. Must be holding a Bachelor’s degree in Law or Sharia and Law, or an equivalent qualification, from a university or college recognized in the State.
 

1. The application for registration on the Roll of Trainee Lawyers shall be submitted to The Competent Department in accordance with the standard form and procedures adopted thereby. The Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application and may require any documents it deems necessary. The Committee shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of a complete application. In all cases, the decision of the Committee shall involve either approval or rejection of the registration. The lapse of the prescribed time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. The trainee shall be registered on the Roll of Trainee Lawyers upon payment of the prescribed fees.
 

1. The Competent Department shall, on an annual basis and in coordination with the Institute, develop the prescribed Training Program for the certified course of Trainee Lawyers. The duration and requirements of both theoretical and practical training shall be specified in the program,
2. The theoretical training for Trainee Lawyers shall be conducted by the Institute or any other training centers as determined by a resolution of the Minister.
 

The Competent Department shall grant the Trainee Lawyer a membership card confirming his registration on the Roll of Trainee Lawyers upon successful completion of the theoretical training. The Trainee Lawyer shall then be required to undergo practical training at a Law Firm of a Lawyer registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Federal Supreme Court, and who shall supervise the practical training. The practical training shall be conducted at the office of the Supervising Lawyer in accordance with the following conditions:
1. The Trainee Lawyer must perform the professional duties, including but not limited to, the drafting of legal memoranda, the preparation of contracts, and other professional tasks, during the period specified in the Training Program.
2. The practical training shall include the Trainee Lawyer’s attendance and representation before courts of first instance and courts of appeal, the filing of complaints and claims with the competent authorities, and following up on the same.
3. The Trainee Lawyer must perform legal representation and pleading in not less than twenty (20) cases before courts of first instance and courts of appeal, in the name of and under the supervision of the Lawyer with whom he/she is training, in respect of cases handled by the Law Firm of the Supervising Lawyer.
4. The Trainee Lawyer shall maintain the confidentiality of the Law Firm’s secrets, and shall comply with the ethics and principles of the Profession.
5.  The Training Program shall be deemed null and void if the Trainee Lawyer fails to successfully complete the practical training within the prescribed time limit. However, the Committee may, in accordance with the terms and conditions established thereby and at the Trainee Lawyer’s request, grant permission to complete the practical training upon payment of the prescribed fees.
In all cases, the Trainee’s failure to successfully complete the practical training shall not preclude the same from joining in a new training course.

The Supervising Lawyer overseeing the training shall be under an obligation to:
1. Notify the Competent Department of the commencement of the practical training.
2. Enable the Trainee Lawyer, throughout the practical training period, to appear in his name and under his supervision before the courts, police stations, and Public Prosecution.
3. Submit, upon completion of the practical training period, a comprehensive report to the Competent Department on the Trainee Lawyer, indicating:
    a. The Trainee Lawyer’s ability in terms of legal research, drafting and analysis.
    b. Details of the legal work carried out by the Trainee Lawyer.
4. Submit an approved list of the cases attended by the Trainee Lawyer before courts of first instance and courts of appeal during his / her training period, provided that such cases are not less than twenty (20).
 

Both the Supervising Lawyer and the Trainee Lawyer shall have the right to request the replacement of the other party, subject to payment of the prescribed fee. The request shall be submitted, with justifications, to the Competent Department, which shall issue its decision thereon expeditiously.

1. The Trainee Lawyer may submit a request to have his registration transferred from the Roll of Trainee Lawyers to the Roll of Practicing Lawyers or the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers within one (1) year from the date of his successful completion of the practical training and taking of the legal oath prescribed under Article (16) of the Decree-Law.
2. The Committee may, upon the lapse of the one-year period set forth in Clause (1) of this Article, require the Trainee Lawyer to successfully pass written examinations and interview before a committee to be formed by virtue of a resolution of the Minister, as a prerequisite for approving the transfer of his / her registration from the Roll of Trainee Lawyers to the Roll of Practicing Lawyers or the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers.
 

The Roll of Practicing Lawyers shall be categorized into:
1. The Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Courts of First Instance and Courts of Appeal.
2. The Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Federal Supreme Court.
 

Any person seeking to have his/her name registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers shall satisfy the following conditions:
1. Be a citizen of the State.
2. Be at least twenty-one (21) Gregorian years of age.
3. Have full legal capacity and be of good conduct and reputation, and must have never been judicially convicted on the grounds of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or breach of trust, nor undergone a disciplinary sanction on account of any of such offenses, even if subsequently rehabilitated.
4. Be holding a Bachelor's degree in Law or in Sharia and Law, or an equivalent qualification, from a university or college recognized in the State.
5. Successfully complete the training period in accordance with the Training Program approved by The Competent Department, unless he/she has previously engaged in judicial service, the Public Prosecution, or legal work within the legal departments of ministries or governmental bodies, or any profession similar to the Legal Profession for a period of not less than three (3) years.
6. Successfully pass the written examinations and personal interview conducted before a committee to be formed under a resolution of by the Minister.
7. Be medically fit to practice the Profession based on a medical certificate issued by a competent health authority in the State.
8. Complete the necessary procedures and obtain the requisite approvals for registration not later than ninety (90) days from the date of being notified of the approval of registration; failing which, the application shall be deemed null and void.
9. Submit a valid professional liability insurance policy issued by an insurance company licensed to operate in the State, unless the lawyer’s liability is already covered under a law firm's insurance policy.
10. Pay the prescribed fees.

1. An application for registration, renewal of registration, or re-registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Courts of First Instance and Courts of Appeal shall be submitted to the Competent Department using the prescribed form and procedures. The Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require any additional documents deemed necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of a complete application. In all cases, the Committee’s decision shall involve either approval or rejection of the registration. The lapse of the said time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. The Lawyer shall be registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Courts of First Instance and Courts of Appeal upon payment of the prescribed fees.
 

The following persons may have their names registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Federal Supreme Court:
1. A lawyer who has been continuously registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Courts of First Instance and Courts of Appeal for a period of not less than five (5) consecutive years.
2. A former judge or public prosecution member who has served in such a position for a period of not less than five (5) years.
3. A professional person who has engaged in legal work within the legal departments of ministries or governmental bodies, or any profession similar to the Legal Profession for a period of not less than six (6) years.
 

1. An application for registration, renewal of registration, or re-registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Federal Supreme Court shall be submitted to the Competent Department using the prescribed form and procedures. The Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require any additional documents deemed necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of a complete application. In all cases, the Committee’s decision shall involve either approval or rejection of the registration. The lapse of the said time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. The Lawyer shall be registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers who can argue before the Federal Supreme Court upon payment of the prescribed fees.
 

The registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers shall be valid for a term of three (3) years, renewable for successive similar periods.

1. An application for renewal of registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers shall be submitted to the Competent Department using the prescribed form within the thirty (30) days preceding the expiration of the registration, in accordance with the following conditions and requirements: 
    a. The application must be accompanied by documents and certificates confirming the continued fulfilment of the conditions stipulated in clauses (3), (7), and (9) of Article (12) of this Resolution. 
    b. The applicant must have performed legal representation in not less than twenty-five (25) of the cases assigned to their firm or the Law Firm where they are employed during the year preceding the renewal application. The applicant may prove this matter by submitting official documents issued by courts of various instances. The Committee may, at its sole discretion, reduce or fully relieve the lawyer of this requirement. 
    c. The applicant must have successfully completed training courses, participated in academic seminars, workshops, or conferences organized by the Institute, or any other events and programs designated by the Competent Department in the year preceding the submission of a renewal application. 
    d. The renewal of the lawyer’s registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers shall take effect upon payment of the prescribed fees.
2. The Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee, which shall review the application, may require any additional documents deemed necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of a complete application. In all cases, the Committee’s decision shall either approve or reject the renewal. The lapse of the said time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.

The Lawyer, who has been struck off the Roll of Practicing Lawyers, may be re-registered in accordance with the following procedures and controls:
1. The application shall be submitted to the Competent Department in accordance with the form and procedures approved thereby, and the Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require any documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of its submission. In all cases, the Committee's decision shall either approve or reject the re-registration application. The lapse of the prescribed time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. The applicant for re-registration must fulfil the requirements stipulated in Clauses (3), (7), and (9) of Article (12) of this Resolution.
4. The applicant for re-registration must successfully pass the examination prescribed by the Competent Department for this purpose if the deregistration period exceeds three (3) years.
5. The prescribed fees must be paid.
 

Faculty members specializing in Law or Sharia and Law at universities or colleges, and who are citizens of the State and holding a Doctorate degree, may combine their registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers with their positions as faculty members, provided that they secure the approval of the university’s / faculty’s board, as the case may be.

1. A person wishing to have his/her name registered on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers shall meet the conditions stipulated in Clauses (1) through (5) of Article (12) of this Resolution.
2. Registration on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers shall take effect upon payment of the prescribed fees.
3. Registration on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers shall be valid for a term of five (5) years, renewable for similar periods.
 

1. The application for registration on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers shall be submitted to the Competent Department in accordance with the approved form and procedures, and the Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require the completion of any documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of its complete submission. In all cases, the Committee's decision shall involve either approval or rejection of the registration. The lapse of the prescribed time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
 

1. The application for renewal of registration on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers shall be submitted to the Competent Department in accordance with the approved form and procedures, and the Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The renewal of registration shall be subject to the continued fulfilment of the conditions set forth in Article (20) of this Resolution, in addition to explaining the reasons for requesting the renewal of registration on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers request and the supporting documents.
3. The Committee shall review the application, may require the completion of any documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of its complete submission. In all cases, the Committee's decision shall either approve or reject the renewal of registration. The lapse of the prescribed time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
4. The renewal of registration for Non-Practicing Lawyers shall take effect upon payment of the prescribed fees.

1. Lawyers whose names are registered on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers may carry out the activities of the Legal Profession set out in the Decree-Law through legal departments established within private legal persons duly licensed in the State.
2. Non-Practicing Lawyers working in such departments shall be registered on a special Register maintained by the Competent Department, and may only practice the Profession after their names are listed on the Register.
3. Non-Practicing Lawyers referred to in Clause (1) of this Article shall not practice the legal profession’s work for any entity other than their employers. Violation of this prohibition shall result in the removal of their names from the Roll. Furthermore, they may not appear before criminal courts except in civil actions to which the private legal person they serve is a party, as well as in actions filed against the director or employees of such a legal person due to their professional duties.
4. The prohibition stipulated in Clause (3) of this Article shall not apply to cases involving the Non-Practicing Lawyer themselves or their spouse or relatives up to the fourth degree, where such cases are not related to the legal affairs of their employers.
 

1. The application for listing on the special Register referred to in Clause (2) of Article (23) of this Resolution shall be submitted to the Competent Department in accordance with the prescribed form, accompanied by all documents proving the applicant’s place and nature of employment.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require the completion of any documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of its complete submission. In all cases, the Committee's decision shall involve either approval or rejection of the listing. The lapse of the prescribed time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. Listing on the special Register shall take effect upon payment of the prescribed fee.
4. The term of listing on the special Register referred to in Article (23) of this Resolution shall be one (1) year, renewable for similar periods.
5. The renewal of listing on the special Register shall be subject to the same procedures set forth in this Article.
6. The person whose name is listed on the special Register shall notify the Committee of any change in their place or nature of employment, as applicable. Failure to notify the Committee or violation of Clause (3) of Article (23) of this Resolution shall result in the deletion of their registration from the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers, and such deletion shall take effect by a decision of the Committee.

1. The transfer of registration from the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers to the Roll of Practicing Lawyers shall take effect based upon an application to be submitted to the Competent Department, in accordance with the following conditions and procedures:
    a. The application shall be submitted on the prescribed form.
    b. The application must satisfy of the conditions set forth in Clauses (3), (7), and (9) of Article (12) of this Resolution.
    c. The applicant must successfully pass the prescribed written examination, if the term of registration on the Roll of Non-Practicing Lawyers exceeds five (5) years.
    d. Payment of the prescribed fees.
2. The Committee shall review the application to ensure the continued fulfilment of the conditions for registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers and the absence of any of the disqualifications stipulated in the Decree-Law. The Committee shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of its complete submission. In all cases, the Committee's decision shall either approve or reject the transfer. The lapse of the prescribed time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.

A Non-National Lawyer may be licensed to practice the Legal Profession within the State, provided that they fulfil the conditions stipulated in Clauses (2) to (10), excluding Clause (5) of Article (12) of this Resolution, in addition to the following conditions:
1. They must have practiced the Legal Profession for a period of not less than fifteen (15) years.
2. They must have a valid registration in the State where they practiced the Legal Profession.
3. They must be partners in a Foreign Firm licensed in the State.
4. They must practice the Profession solely through the Law Firm referred to in Clause (3) of this Article.
5. They shall attend only the cases brought before the specialized chambers as determined by a decision of the President of the Federal Judicial Council or the Heads of Local Judicial Authorities, as the case may be, excluding criminal cases, administrative cases, and personal status cases for Muslims.
6. If the applicant fails to successfully pass the written examinations stipulated in Clause (6) of Article (12) of this Resolution, they may, upon their request, join a training course organized by virtue of a resolution of the Minister for this purpose, for a period of not less than ninety (90) days, after which, they shall be re-examined.

1. A Non-National Lawyer shall submit an application for registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers to the Competent Department, in accordance with the approved forms and procedures. The Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require any documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of a complete application. In all cases, the Committee’s decision shall involve either approval or rejection of the registration. The lapse of the said time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. The Committee may grant the applicant a time extension for not more ninety (90) days from the date of submission to complete the required documents; failing which, the application shall be deemed null and void.
4. The Non-National Lawyer shall be registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers for a period of one year, renewable for similar periods upon payment of the prescribed fees.
 

A Non-National Lawyer shall submit an application for renewal of registration on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers to the Competent Department, using the designated forms, within thirty (30) days prior to the expiry of their registration. The renewal shall be subject to the following conditions:
1. The applicant’s continued fulfilment of the conditions stipulated in Article (26) of this Resolution.
2. Payment of the prescribed fees.
3. The Committee shall review the application, may require any necessary documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of a complete application. In all cases, the Committee shall either approve or reject the renewal. The lapse of the said time limit shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
 

1. The registration of a Non-National Lawyer on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers shall be terminated in the following cases:
    a. Based upon a written request submitted by the Non-National Lawyer prior to the expiry of their registration, explaining the reasons for the request.
    b. Upon expiration of the registration period without being renewed within the prescribed time limits.
    c. Upon the revocation of their registration in the State where they practiced the Legal Profession.
    d. Upon the termination of their partnership in the licensed Foreign Firm within the State.
    e. Upon expiration of their residency in the State without being renewed.
    f. Upon loss of the condition of good conduct and reputation.
2. The Non-National Lawyer shall notify the Committee within fifteen (15) days upon the occurrence of any of the instances referred to in Clauses (c), (d), and (f) of this Article. Failing which, they shall be removed from the Roll, unless they furnish an acceptable excuse to the Committee.
3. In all cases, the termination or removal of registration shall take effect by a decision of the Committee, without prejudice to the right to be re-registered upon the cessation of the reason for such termination or removal.
 

1. If a client explicitly stipulates in a power of attorney that the Lawyer must attend in person in the cases assigned to him, the Lawyer shall comply with such a stipulation, and shall not delegate another lawyer to attend on his behalf, except in cases of extreme necessity.
2. Delegation between Lawyers shall be subject to the following conditions:
    a. The delegation document shall be executed in writing, bearing the Principal Lawyer’s seal and signature.
    b. The delegation document shall specify the name and registration number of both the principal Lawyer and the delegated Lawyer, the case number, the hearing date, the court and the chamber before which the case is heard, as well as the reason for substitution.
    c. The delegation shall be based on lawful reasons, as determined by the court hearing the case.
    d. A Lawyer shall not issue more than eight (8) delegation documents in the same case throughout all stages of litigation, and the delegation document shall be kept in the case file.
    e. No delegation shall take place for the closing argument hearing of a case, except where the Lawyer furnishes an excuse acceptable to the court.
3. The Principal Lawyer shall be held liable jointly with the delegated Lawyer for any errors committed by the latter on account of their attendance at the hearing for which they are delegated, and which inflict damage upon the client.
4. The Competent Department may request from the courts lists showing the names of Lawyers and the delegation documents made by or to them, along with numbers of the cases subject to delegation and the names of the litigants, and shall verify the seriousness of delegations and their compliance with the controls set out in this Resolution.
5. Any Lawyer who delegates another in a manner that does not comply with the conditions stipulated in this Article shall be subject to disciplinary actions.
 

1. The Lawyer shall have the right to charge legal fees for the work performed by them within the limits of the power of attorney, and to recover the expenses incurred for the purpose of handling the cases or matters entrusted to them.
2. The Lawyer’s legal fees may be charged depending on the type, nature, or circumstances of the work entrusted to the Lawyer, or in accordance with the hourly rate system applied by the Law Firm for handling and completing such work.
3. The Lawyer’s legal fees may be a percentage of the claimed right. In which case, the legal fees shall become due in accordance with the following conditions:
    a. That such a percentage does not exceed twenty-five percent (25%) of the claimed right.
    b. That the Retainer Agreement must be executed in writing prior to commencing the agreed-upon legal work.
    c. That the legal fees may not be an in-kind share of the claimed rights.
    d. That the Lawyer must have completed all judicial procedures covered by the agreement or exhausted all legal procedures in the enforcement file entrusted to them by the client, or must have completed the legal work entrusted to them, as the case may be.
    e. That the court-awarded right must not be withheld from the client if the Lawyer has carried out the procedures for its collection in the name and for the benefit of the client.
    f. That the agreed-upon Legal Fees shall not become due where the case is lost.

The Lawyer appointed by the Court to defend the Accused pursuant to the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Law shall be entitled to Legal Fees, which shall be determined by the Court based on the Fees Assessment Schedule to be issued by a resolution of the Minister upon adjudicating on the case for which the Lawyer is appointed, in accordance with the following criteria:
1. The effort made by the Court-Appointed Lawyer for defending the accused.
2. The number of trial hearings attended by the Court-Appointed Lawyer.
3. The expenses incurred by the Court-Appointed Lawyer in the course of performing the task.
4. The professional experience of the Court-Appointed Lawyer.
The Court’s decision on the Legal Fees shall be final.
 

The Court-Appointed Lawyer shall collect the Legal Fees determined by the Court for the duties assigned to them in accordance with the following procedures:
1. The Lawyer shall submit an application, using the designated form, to the Competent Department, accompanied by a copy of the judgment rendered on the case for which the Lawyer is appointed. The application shall specify a bank account number for payment purposes.
2. The payment shall be made in accordance with the applicable financial procedures of the Ministry.
 

1. It shall be prohibited for the Lawyer to promote themselves in any manner that conflicts with the professional traditions, dignity, and prestige of the Legal Profession, or to seek the same by means of promotion or solicitation through intermediaries, or insinuation of any influence or actual or alleged connections.
2. It shall be prohibited for the Lawyer to display on their printed materials or on the Law Firm’s signage any titles other than their academic qualifications, professional experience, and the level of Court before which they can argue.
3. It shall be prohibited for the Lawyer to use social media platforms or any other means to promote themselves or their Law Firm by publishing or implying false, misleading, or fabricated information.
4. The Lawyer shall comply with media content standards set forth in the applicable laws in the State.
 

The Lawyer shall be permitted to promote himself / herself through the following means:
1. Placing an external sign at the entrance of the Law Firm and the building where the Law Firm is located.
2. Using the Law Firm’s letterhead and stationery.
3. A website for the Lawyer or their Law Firm.
4. Social media channels belonging to the Lawyer or their Law Firm.
 

The Lawyer shall be permitted to engage in the following business activities:
1. To be a partner in a business venture inherited by succession, provided that the Lawyer shall convert such a business into a Limited Liability Company within ninety (90) days from the date of acquiring any stake therein, if the business is carried out through a sole proprietorship. Alternatively, the Lawyer may act as a General Partner in such business venture. The Committee may extend such a time limit based upon a request submitted by the Lawyer, specifying the reasons for the extension.
2. To own and invest in financial and real estate assets.
3. To be a founder, shareholder, or partner in any company in which the Lawyer’s liability is limited to their capital contribution or shareholding.
 

For a person to be listed on the Register of Practicing Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants, the following conditions shall be fulfilled:
1. They must have full legal capacity.
2. They must be of good conduct and reputation, and must not have been convicted on the grounds of a felony or misdemeanour involving moral turpitude or breach of trust, nor based on any disciplinary sanction for any of these offenses, unless subsequently rehabilitated.
3. They must hold a Bachelor's degree in Law or in Sharia and Law, or an equivalent qualification from a university or college recognized in the State.
4. They must successfully pass the medical examination to ensure their fitness to practice the Profession.
5. They must successfully complete the prescribed training program at the Institute.
6. They must submit a valid professional liability insurance policy issued by an insurance company licensed to operate in the State, unless their liability is covered under the insurance policy of the Firm through which they work, in accordance with the controls established by virtue of a resolution of the Minister.
7. They must complete the necessary procedures and obtain the required approvals for their registration not later than ninety (90) days from the date of notification of the approval of their registration; otherwise, their application shall become null and void.
8. They must pay the prescribed fees.
 

1. The application for listing on the Register of Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants shall be submitted to the Competent Department in accordance with the form and procedures approved thereby, accompanied by the documents specified in the form. The Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require any additional documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of the complete application. In all cases, the Committee’s decision shall involve either approval or rejection of the registration. The lapse of such a time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. The Competent Department may, based on the decision of the Committee, grant the applicant a time extension not exceeding ninety (90) days from the date of application submission to complete the required documents, after which, the application shall be deemed null and void.
4. Listing on the Register of Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants shall take effect upon payment of the prescribed fees.
 

1. Legal Consultants shall be registered on the designated register upon the approval of the Committee, under the following categories:
    a. A Legal Consultant of Category (A), provided that they fulfil the required experience as follows:
        1) A UAE citizen must have not less than six (6) years of experience as a Legal Consultant.
        2) A non-UAE citizen must have not less than ten (10) years of experience as a Legal Consultant.
    b. As a Legal Consultant of Category (B), provided that they fulfil the required experience as follows:
        1) A UAE citizen must have not less than three (3) years of experience as a Legal Researcher.
        2) A non-UAE citizen must have not less than five (5) years of experience as a Legal Researcher.
    c. Notwithstanding the experience period requirements stipulated in Clause (1.A) of this Article, the Committee may directly list as a Legal Consultant under Category (A) any person who:
        1) Has previously served in the judiciary or the Public Prosecution in the State;
        2) Has previously worked in a judicial authority or body in their home country for a period of not less than five (5) years; or
        3) Is a faculty member in Law or Sharia and Law at a university or college within the State, holding a doctoral degree, provided that the approval of the university’s / faculty’s board is obtained, as the case may be.
2. Legal Researchers shall be listed on the designated register upon the approval of the Committee, as follows:
    a. UAE Citizens: No experience is required for registration.
    b. Non-UAE Citizen: A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Legal Researcher is required.
 

1. The Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants shall be listed on the Register of Practitioners for a term of three (3) years, renewable for similar periods.
2. The application for renewal of registration shall be submitted to the Competent Department at least thirty (30) days prior to the expiry of the registration term, in accordance with the form and procedures approved thereby. The Competent Department shall refer the application to the Committee.
3. The renewal of registration shall be subject to the applicant’s continued fulfilment of the conditions stipulated in Article (37) of this Resolution.
4. The Committee shall review the application, may require any additional documents it deems necessary, and shall decide on the application not later than thirty (30) days from the date of submission of the complete application. In all cases, the Committee shall either approve or reject the renewal. The lapse of such a time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
5. Renewal of listing on the Register of Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants shall take effect upon payment of the prescribed fees.
6. Failure to renew the registration within the prescribed time limits shall result in the revocation of registration.
 

1. The name of a practicing Legal Researcher or Legal Consultant shall be transferred to the Register of Non-Practitioners in the following cases:
    a. Based upon a written request to be submitted by the Practicing Legal Researcher or Legal Consultant for any reason.
    b. Upon expiration of their employment contract with the Firm they are working for, without renewal.
    c. Upon their voluntary departure from the Firm before the expiration of the employment contract without justification.
2. A Practicing Legal Consultant who encounters a legal impediment preventing them from practicing the Profession shall submit to the Committee a request, within thirty (30) days from the occurrence of such impediment, for transfer of their names to the Register of Non-Practitioners. Failing which, they shall be subject to disciplinary accountability. When the same impediment no longer exists, they may request re-listing in the Register of Practicing Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants. The owner of the Firm for which the Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants is working shall notify the Competent Department of any change in the Legal Researcher’s or Legal Consultant’s registered data.
3. The Legal Researcher or Legal Consultant listed on the Register of Non-Practitioners shall pay the prescribed registration fees.
4. Listing on the Register of Non-Practicing Legal Researchers and Legal Consultants shall take effect for a term of five (5) years, renewable for similar periods.
 

The name of a Legal Researcher or Legal Consultant shall be removed from the Register in any of the following cases:
1. If they lose any of the conditions stipulated in the Decree-Law and this Resolution.
2. If a Disciplinary Board issues a decision removing their registration.
 

The Legal Researcher or Legal Consultant shall have their names re-listed on the Register in accordance with the provisions of Articles (37), (38), (39), and (40) of this Resolution.

1. Subject to the provisions of Article (61) of the Decree-Law, the UAE Legal Consultant who practices their profession through their own licensed Firm shall be authorized to undertake the following:
    a. Draft and sign legal memoranda and consultations pertaining to the nature of their work, not including the memoranda submitted to courts of various instances.
    b. Enter into a Retainer Agreement with clients requesting their services, so that the agreement sets out the nature of the tasks and duties required.
2. In the event that the Legal Consultant is practicing their profession through a duly licensed Law Firm or legal consultation Firm, the legal memoranda and the Retainer Agreement shall be signed by the Firm’s license holder.
 

For an applicant to have their name listed on the Register of Representatives, the following conditions shall be fulfilled:
1. They must have full legal capacity, be of good conduct and reputation, and must not have been judicially convicted on the grounds of a felony or a misdemeanour involving moral turpitude or breach of trust, unless subsequently rehabilitated.
2. They must be holding at least a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification duly authenticated by the Competent Authority in the State.
3. They must successfully pass a medical examination to ensure their fitness to practice the Profession.
4. They must successfully complete the prescribed training program at the Institute.
5. They must pay the prescribed fees.
 

1. The application for listing on the Register of Representatives shall be submitted to the Competent Department in accordance with the approved forms and procedures, accompanied by the documents specified therein. The Competent Department shall refer the application to The Committee.
2. The Committee shall review the application, may require any necessary documents it deems required, and shall decide on the application not later than (30) thirty days from the date of its submission. In all cases, the decision of the Committee shall involve either approval or rejection of the application, and the lapse of the said time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
3. The Competent Department may grant the applicant a time extension not exceeding (90) ninety days from the date of submission to complete the required documents. Failing which, the application shall be deemed null and void.
 

1. Listing on the Register of Representatives shall be valid for (3) three years, renewable for similar periods.
2. A listing renewal application shall be submitted to the Competent Department at least (30) thirty days prior to the expiry of the listing term, in accordance with the approved forms and procedures, and shall be referred to the Committee.
3. Renewal of listing shall be subject to the continued fulfilment of the conditions set forth in Article (45) of this Resolution.
4. The Committee shall review the application, may require any necessary documents it deems required, and shall decide on the application not later than (30) thirty days from the date of its submission. In all cases, the Committee's decision shall either approve or reject the renewal, and the lapse of the said time limit with no response made shall be construed as implicit rejection of the application.
5. Renewal shall take effect upon payment of the prescribed fees.
6. Failure to renew the listing within the prescribed time limits shall give rise to revocation of listing.
 

Every Legal Researcher, Legal Consultant, and Representative shall be prohibited from disclosing any confidential information entrusted to them verbally, in writing, via electronic mail, through technological means, or by any other method, or which comes to their knowledge by virtue of their profession and in the context of providing legal consultations to a client, unless such disclosure is mandatory to prevent the commission of a crime that would threaten human life or safety, cause grave financial harm, or unless the disclosure of the same is an obligatory duty under the laws in force in the State.

A UAE Lawyer may practice the Legal Profession in any of the following cases:
1. Independently through his / her own private Firm or in partnership with other Lawyers registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers.
2. In partnership with international Law Firms under the umbrella of a professional legal company in accordance with the regulations set forth in the Regulations of Law Firms and Legal Consultation Firms, issued by a resolution of the Cabinet.
3. Through a branch of a Foreign Firm duly licensed in the State.
4. Under an employment contract with a duly licensed Law Firm or Law Company in accordance with the provisions of the Decree-Law and this Resolution.
 

A Legal Consultant who is a UAE citizen may practice the legal consultation profession in any of the following cases:
1. Independently through his own Firm.
2. In partnership with other Legal Consultants registered on the Ministry’s Register of Legal Consultants, under the umbrella of a professional legal consultation professional company, in accordance with the regulations set forth in the Executive Regulations Governing Professional Law Firms and Legal Consultation Firms, as issued by a resolution of the Cabinet.
3. Through a branch of a Foreign Legal Consultation Firm duly licensed in the State.
4. Under an employment contract with a duly licensed legal consultation Firm or company in accordance with the provisions of the Decree-Law and this Resolution.
 

Every Lawyer or Legal Consultant shall be required to establish a duly licensed firm to conduct the work of the Profession in compliance with the following controls:
1. The Firm must ensure the confidentiality of clients’ information.
2. The Firm must be exclusively dedicated to practicing the Legal Profession or the Legal Consultation Profession, without prejudice to the right to concurrently practice the Lega Profession and Private Notary Profession.
3. The Firm shall be well-positioned to receive clients and visitors, and shall not be part of a residential property.
 

A register shall be kept by the Competent Department for the listing of Law Firms and Legal Consultation Firms licensed in each emirate or free zone, as the case may be. The Register shall contain the following details:
1. The legal form of the Firm, whether as a Sole Proprietorship, Professional Company, or branch of a Foreign Firm.
2. The name of the Firm, details of its owner, and, if applicable, the names and details of partners.
3. Details of any branches of the Firm, if any.
4. Details of the Firm’s license issued by the Competent Authority.
5. The name and details of the Firm’s director.

In order for a Law Firm or a Legal Consultation Firm to be licensed, the following conditions shall be fulfilled:
1. The license applicant must be registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers or listed on the Register of Practicing Legal Researchers and Consultants, as applicable.
2. The Firm’s premises must be suitable in accordance with the controls set forth in the Decree-Law and this Resolution.
3. The Firm must have a valid professional license issued by the Competent Authority in the State.
4. A valid professional liability insurance contract must be submitted covering the whole term of the license and issued an insurance company duly licensed in the State. The contract shall specify the amount of annual coverage pursuant in accordance with the controls specified under a resolution of the Minister. 
5. Payment of the prescribed licensing fees.
 

1. Law Firms and Legal Consultation Firms may establish branches within the State subject to the following conditions:
    a. Obtaining the approval of the Committee for the opening of the branch.
    b. The legal form of the branch must be identical to that of the Firm of which it is a subsidiary.
    c. Only one branch may be opened within the same Emirate.
    d. Each branch must have at least one Lawyer or Legal Consultant registered on the Roll of Practicing Lawyers or listed the Register of Practicing Legal Consultants.
    e. The branch’s premises must be suitable in accordance with the controls set forth in the Decree-Law and this Resolution.
    f. The branch must have a valid professional license issued by the Competent Authority.
2. The procedures for licensing a branch shall be governed by the provisions of Articles (55) and (56) of this Resolution.
3. The fees applicable to the branch shall be the same as those applied to the Firm of which it is a subsidiary.
 

The license for Law Firms or Legal Consultation Firms shall be issued by a decision of the Committee in accordance with the following procedures:
1. The license application shall be submitted to the Competent Department using the designated form, accompanied by the required data and supporting documents specified thereunder.
2. The Competent Department shall record the license application in the designated Register and provide the applicant with a notice of receipt.
3. The Competent Department shall verify the fulfilment of all licensing requirements and may require any additional documents deemed necessary.
4. The Competent Department shall refer the license application to the Committee, which shall examine and decide on whether or not to grant the applicant preliminary approval within fifteen (15) days from the date of referral.
5. The applicant shall complete the licensing procedures for the Firm with the Competent Authority not later than ninety (90) days from the date of being granted preliminary approval. The Committee may extend such a time limit if justified.
6. In case the license application is approved, the applicant shall be required to pay the prescribed fee.

1. The license of the Firm shall be valid for one (1) year and may be renewed for similar periods.
2. The license renewal application shall be submitted at least thirty (30) days before the expiration of the license term.
3. The Firm shall be prohibited from carrying out any activities of the Profession after the expiration of the license.
4. If the Firm fails to renew its license within ninety (90) days from the expiration date without an excuse acceptable to the Committee, the license shall be revoked, and the Competent Department shall notify the Competent Authority to revoke the Firm’s professional license.
 

The Committee may, upon a request from the owner of a Law Firm or a Legal Consultation Firm, and for the reasons it deems acceptable, grant permission to the Firm to temporarily suspend the provision of legal services for a specified period not exceeding six (6) months, extendable under a decision of the Committee, provided that a written undertaking is submitted confirming that the Firm has no outstanding obligations arising from the provision of legal services and that such suspension would not prejudice the interests of clients.

A Firm shall be removed from the relevant Register under a decision of the Committee in any of the following cases:
1. Where the Firm’s license is revoked by the Competent Authority.
2. When a court order is issued suspending or revoking the license issued by the Committee or the Competent Authority, as the case may be.
3. Upon liquidation of the Firm.
4. Upon the issuance of a merger decision in accordance with the controls set out in this Resolution.
5. Loss of any of the licensing requirements or violation by the Firm of any provisions of the laws in force in the State, the Decree-Law, or this Resolution.
 

The Law Firms or Legal Consultation Firms established as sole proprietorships or branches of a Foreign Firm shall be liquidated in accordance with the following procedures:
1. The owner of the Firm shall submit a liquidation application to the Competent Department, explaining the reasons for liquidation.
2. The Competent Department shall review the application, may require the submission of any required documents, and shall then refer the application to the Committee.
3. The Committee shall issue a decision approving the commencement of liquidation procedures, specifying the necessary tasks and measures to complete the liquidation process.
4. The applicant shall formally notify clients of the liquidation, in order to enable them to hire a substitute Firm, and shall be required to continue to handle their cases until the power of attorney granted to the law firm is terminated.
5. The Committee shall issue the final liquidation decision upon completion of all required procedures.
 

The merger of Law Firms or Legal Consultation Firms shall take effect in accordance with the following procedures:
1. A merger application shall be submitted to the Competent Department using the designated form, signed by the owners of the Firms seeking the merger.
2. If the merger is based on a contract or agreement, a copy of the same shall be attached with the merger application.
3. The merger may involve two or more Firms.
4. Each of the owners of the merging Firms shall notify their clients of the merger application through any of the legally prescribed means of publication.
5. The licenses of the Firms undergoing merger must be valid at the time of submission of the application to the Competent Department and until the Committee’s decision is issued in this regard.
6. The Competent Department shall submit a report on the application to the Committee, including its recommendations based on its review of the underlying Firms’ data.
7. The Committee shall issue a decision after verifying the fulfilment of the conditions within fifteen (15) days from the date of referral of the application, and may extend this time limit for extra durations.
 

1. Where the owner of a Law Firm or a Legal Consultation Firm, who practices the Profession independently through their own firm, passes away or is unable to perform their professional duties for any reason whatsoever, the Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Legal Researcher, Representative, any administrative employee of the Firm, or any of the legal heirs, shall notify the Competent Department of the death or inability.
2. The Competent Department shall issue a decision extending the Firm’s license for three (3) months extendable, and shall notify the relevant authorities of such extension. It shall appoint a Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Legal Researcher, Representative employed by the Firm, or one of the legal heirs to collect clients’ files and notify the clients of the owner's death or inability to allow them to look for a substitute Firm or handle their cases themselves.
3. The Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Legal Researcher, or Representative assigned with managing the Firm shall not accept any new assignments.
4. The Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Legal Researcher, or Representative assigned to manage the Firm shall draw up a detailed report on the Firm’s status in accordance with the requirements specified by the Competent Department and shall submit it to the said Department.
5. The Competent Department shall review the report referred to in paragraph (4) of this article and receive any required documents and shall refer the report to the Committee.
6. The Committee shall issue the necessary decisions and may decide liquidation of the Firm and revocation of its license.
 

A Lawyers and Legal Consultants Affairs Committee shall be established by virtue of a resolution of the Minister, in accordance with the controls set forth in the Decree-Law. The resolution shall set forth the Committee’s terms of reference.

1. The Committee may, upon a request submitted thereto, give permission to any person who practices the Legal Profession in other jurisdictions to perform temporary legal representation for clients on specific cases before the courts, subject to the following conditions:
    a. The client must issue a written approval of legal representation.
    b. There must be a pending civil action or one that is planned to be instituted.
    c. The applicant for permission must be registered on the Roll of Lawyers in their home country.
    d. The applicant must furnish the reasons necessitating the request for temporary legal representation.
    e. The applicant’s jurisdiction must permit Lawyers registered in the State to legally represent clients before its courts, unless the applicant is exempted by virtue of a resolution of the Minister.
    f. Payment of the prescribed fees.
    g. Any other conditions determined by the Committee pursuant to the regulations, resolutions, and instructions issued thereby.
2. The person permitted to perform temporary legal representation shall be prohibited from introducing themselves or implying to the public that they are authorized to practice the Profession in the State beyond the scope of the permission granted to them. Failing which, the permission shall be revoked, without prejudice to the penalties prescribed in this regard.
 

The Competent Department may verify the compliance by Lawyers, Legal Consultants, and Firms with the duties and obligations prescribed under the provisions of the Decree-Law, this Resolution, the Code of Professional Conduct, and the relevant ministerial resolutions, in accordance with the following procedures:
1. The Competent Department may require any documents or paperwork from Lawyers, Legal Consultants, or Firms periodically, unexpectedly, or whenever the need arises, and may take any other measures deemed necessary to verify compliance by those under its supervision with the provisions of the Decree-Law and the resolutions and regulations issued in implementation thereof.
2. The Competent Department shall submit reports on the results of its work to the Committee for consideration in accordance with its powers thereof set out in the Decree-Law and this Resolution.
 

Minister of Justice’s Resolution No. (972) of 2017 on the Executive Regulations of Federal Law No. (23) of 1991 Regulating the Legal Profession, as amended, shall be repealed. Any provision that conflicts with the provisions of this Resolution shall also be repealed.

This Resolution shall be published in the Official Gazette, and shall enter into force one month following the date of its publication.