Who can provide legal services in Northern Cyprus?
Until recently, many legal services could be provided by both licensed and registered lawyers, as well as law firms without a lawyer's license. However, a law prohibiting the conduct of many legal procedures by individuals without a lawyer's license came into effect in November 2023.
Legal services requiring a lawyer's license:
- drafting wills;
- preparing powers of attorney, acts, and all types of written agreements;
- preparing articles of incorporation and bylaws for companies, foundations, and associations;
- preparing all types of documents required for the registration of trademarks, trade names, patents, copyrights, intellectual and artistic rights;
- representing the interests of any individual or legal entity in arbitration, arbitration courts, mediation, disciplinary, and similar commissions or boards.
Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Matters in Northern Cyprus
Can lawyers without a lawyer's license provide consultations?
Yes, they can, but not within the framework of the aforementioned list of legal procedures. Providing legal, advisory, and research services on these matters falls within the field of lawyers' activities.
Where else can I seek assistance on these matters besides lawyers?
You can also seek assistance in the specified areas of service not only from lawyers with the appropriate license but also from legal companies that have a lawyer with a license to practice law in Northern Cyprus as one of their founders, for example, DeJure.
What are the consequences for those who violate the new law?
Providing legal services in the specified areas by individuals who are not registered and licensed lawyers will be considered a crime. The measures of responsibility are being worked out.
Are documents prepared by non-lawyers legitimate?
According to the approved scope of questions, services provided without the corresponding license will not have legal force starting from November 1, 2023.
Subscribe to North Cyprus news on Telegram and stay informed about changes in legislation in the northern part of the island, including the issue of responsibility for violating the new law on legal activities.
Author
Born and raised in Yekaterinburg, visited more than 40 countries, lived in the USA for some time, and in 2022, moved to Northern Cyprus. Education: Ural State University (now Ural Federal University), Faculty of Political Science and Sociology. Professional Experience: Since 2008, worked in the…
