Training Pathway:

Becoming a lawyer in Belarus requires a Diploma of Higher Education in Law from an accredited institute or university. The degree program typically spans five years, during which students study subjects such as civil law, criminal law, constitutional law, administrative law, and procedural law. Many lawyers also pursue further education, such as Master’s Degree, to specialize in particular areas such as international law, corporate law, or intellectual property law.

Certification Requirements:

After completing their legal education, aspiring lawyers have two pathways to obtain certification: 1) Complete at least 3 years of work in the legal field (for example as a lawyer assistant) followed by a 3-6 month internship or 2) complete 6-12 month internship without prior experience. Special exceptions exist to allow certain categories of specialists to pass the internship in 3 months or less (court, prosecution, and law enforcement employees among others). The intern lawyer must then pass the Qualification Examination held by the Qualification Committee created by the Ministry of Justice to be qualified for employment as a lawyer. This comprehensive exam tests candidates on various areas of Belarusian law, international law, and legal procedures. The newly qualified lawyer then must join a regional bar association.

Continuing Legal Education (CLE):

Lawyers in Belarus are required to participate in yearly professional development programs. Those with less than 3 years of experience must complete yearly professional seminars, while those with 3 or more years of experience generally complete professional development courses every 5 years. Regional bar associations are entitled to set the specific requirements for their members.