Significant Changes in Legal Profession Regulation in Morocco
On August 20, 2026, Morocco officially implemented a pivotal law governing the legal profession, marking a transformative moment for the country’s judiciary system. This law, published in the official gazette (Issue 7536), follows the provisions set forth in Article 50 of the Moroccan Constitution, which mandates the publication and enforcement of legal statutes. The enactment of this law concludes a prolonged period of political and professional debate surrounding the regulations affecting the esteemed practitioners of the legal field—often referred to as those in 'the black robes.' This legislative development is poised to enhance the autonomy of the profession and modernize its operational frameworks to bolster judicial efficiency and governance.
Key Features of the New Law
The newly established regulations introduce several significant enhancements, particularly concerning access and professional qualifications for aspiring lawyers. One of the most notable innovations is the creation of a specialized institute dedicated to legal training. Aspiring lawyers must pass an entrance examination and complete a year of foundational theoretical training to acquire a competence certificate. The law stipulates a minimum age of 21 and a maximum age of 45 to undertake this examination, alongside the requirement of holding a master’s degree or an equivalent advanced diploma in legal studies or Sharia. Furthermore, the legislation defines a mandatory training period of 24 months and establishes a compulsory annual continuing education requirement, allowing for specialization that culminates in the designation of 'specialist lawyer.'
Additionally, the new legal framework diversifies practice modalities and expands the responsibilities of legal professionals. This includes options for individual practice, partnerships between law offices, and civil professional companies, as well as opportunities for international collaboration under specific regulations. Moreover, the tasks of lawyers have broadened to encompass legal consulting, drafting corporate contracts, and engaging in arbitration and mediation, while litigation before all courts within the kingdom remains exclusive to registered lawyers.
To enhance governance and transparency within legal bodies, the new law mandates rigorous oversight of lawyer's accounts and fees, subject to scrutiny by the High Court of Accounts, ensuring financial transparency. It also requires written agreements from clients to establish fees and secure the rights of all parties involved.
As reported by elaph.com.
