A New Era for Qatar’s Legal Profession: Key Reforms Under Law No. 19 of 2025

Law No. 19 of 2025 introduces landmark reforms to the Legal Profession Law (originally Law No. 23 of 2006), marking a pivotal moment for the legal sector in Qatar. These amendments are not just technical updates, they reflect a broader vision to strengthen the profession’s role as a partner in protecting rights, upholding justice, and contributing to national development.

Why It Matters

The legal profession plays a crucial role in safeguarding rights, ensuring access to justice, and fostering a trusted business environment. By modernising regulations, Ministry of Justice aims to make the sector more competitive, transparent, and aligned with international standards, supporting the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.

Highlights of the Reforms

🔹 Empowering State Legal Representation

• The State Cases Department can now contract Qatari lawyers or external legal experts for cases abroad, with ministerial approval.
• This ensures the government has access to specialised expertise and unified legal representation.

🔹 Transparent Lawyer Admissions

• A restructured Attorneys’ Admission Committee will be chaired by the Minister of Justice and include judges, prosecutors, practising lawyers, and ministry officials.
• This balanced structure strengthens oversight and promotes fairness in admissions.

🔹 Broader Business Opportunities for Lawyers

• Lawyers can now register in the commercial registry and hold shares in companies (without managing them directly).
• This opens new avenues for investment while safeguarding professional independence.

🔹 Advertising & Digital Outreach

• Lawyers are now permitted to promote their services through traditional and electronic media, under clear committee regulations.
• This helps modernise the profession and enhance visibility.

🔹 Flexible Fee Agreements & Legal Aid

• Lawyers and clients may now agree on contingency fees of up to 25% of awarded amounts.
• A new Judicial Assistance Committee will assign lawyers to represent individuals unable to afford legal fees, ensuring equal access to justice.

What This Means Going Forward

These reforms position Qatar’s legal profession as a cornerstone of justice and sustainable development, fostering transparency, attracting investment, and encouraging the growth of private legal practice.

By aligning with global best practices, these changes empower lawyers to innovate, expand their reach, and contribute to a stronger rule of law.