Training Pathway:

To become a lawyer in Guatemala, individuals must earn a Licenciatura en Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales (Licentiate in Legal and Social Sciences) from a university. This program typically takes five to six years to complete and includes coursework in constitutional law, civil law, criminal law, and procedural law, as well as legal research and ethics. After earning their licentiate degree, graduates may choose to specialize in different areas of law through postgraduate studies or professional training programs.

Certification Requirements:

To practice law in Guatemala, graduates must register with the Colegio de Abogados y Notarios de Guatemala (Guatemalan Bar and Notary Association) within six months of their graduation. This registration is a legal requirement and grants authorization to represent clients, provide legal services, and perform notarial functions.

Continuing Legal Education (CLE):

Professional development for lawyers in Guatemala is regulated by the Guatemalan Bar and Notary Association. To maintain their legal practice, lawyers must participate in continuing legal education programs, including seminars, workshops, and specialized courses on new laws, legal procedures, and ethical standards. Additionally, lawyers seeking higher positions, such as judges, public prosecutors, or law professors, may need to pursue postgraduate degrees, such as a master's or doctoral degree in law. Participation in ongoing professional development is essential for career advancement and ensuring legal professionals stay updated with changes in Guatemalan and international law.