Limited Access for Foreign Lawyers

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Another important debate on parliament’s agenda is a 68-article draft law that would overhaul the regulation of the legal profession and, for the first time, allow foreign lawyers to appear in Bahraini courts in limited cases.

The government-backed bill, issued under Decree No. 16 of 2025, replaces the existing framework with updated rules covering registration, training, legal offices, fees, disciplinary action and professional conduct.

A key provision would permit the licensing of non-Bahraini lawyers to work alongside local lawyers in specific specialised cases, particularly commercial disputes, while excluding criminal, administrative and Sharia matters. Foreign legal consultancy offices may also participate in cases governed by foreign law under strict conditions.

The draft also introduces tighter professional standards, requiring lawyers returning after five years out of practice to retake entry exams, and allowing inactive lawyers to move to a non-practising register if they fail to prove active work.

It further strengthens training requirements: trainee lawyers must complete structured practice, pass exams, and work under supervision before qualifying.

Other provisions include mandatory annual registration renewal, new insurance requirements for lawyers, expanded oversight powers for inspections related to financial compliance, and stricter penalties for impersonating lawyers or practising without a licence.

Client confidentiality rules remain in place, but the bill introduces exceptions linked to serious crimes and legal obligations such as anti-money laundering laws.

The Services Committee recommended approval in principle, while making several amendments, including changes to disciplinary timelines and fee assessments. The Supreme Judicial Council said it had no objections to the draft.