Resumption of Legal Services in Morocco
On October 7, 2026, a significant turnout of lawyers gathered at the Hay Riad Court in Rabat, marking the resumption of administrative and judicial services following a five-month hiatus. This interruption began in June as a protest against a controversial law governing their profession. Approximately 19,000 lawyers across Morocco have temporarily returned to their duties in the nation's courts, signaling a new phase in their ongoing struggle.
The decision to resume work was made by the Moroccan Bar Association (ABM), aimed at facilitating dialogue with the new government formed after the legislative elections on September 23. The lawyers have voiced their concerns regarding the law introduced by Minister of Justice Abdellatif Ouahbi, which they believe undermines their independence.
Political Context and Future Actions
Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, the new head of government, commenced discussions this week with political parties to establish the upcoming governmental team. The ABM is set to determine its next steps in the coming days, following this critical development.
During the meeting at the Hay Riad Court, lawyer Abid Eddine Lotfi Abderrahman confirmed the suspension of the strike in accordance with the ABM's directives, emphasizing that any future actions would be decided collectively by the Association, the sole entity capable of managing this crisis. The temporary resumption of work includes all forms of litigation, particularly in criminal cases involving defendants in pre-trial detention.
According to reports, Aziz Rebbah, President of the Rabat Bar, asserted that the resumption of work does not indicate a retreat from their chosen course of action, nor does it signify a concession or inability to continue advocating for their profession. Instead, this development marks the beginning of new mobilization efforts on the ground.
This resumption effectively concludes the significant delays in court proceedings, which have been one of the primary repercussions of the lawyers' strike. Various cases, including criminal, civil, commercial, social, and family matters, have been affected, particularly those involving urgent family or financial issues, as well as individuals awaiting trial.
The situation has also raised concerns among judicial magistrates. A letter dated July 29 from the King’s Attorney General at the Court of Appeal in Settat highlighted a "near paralysis" in case processing due to the refusal to provide defense for clients.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
