Businesses that do not have a lawyer to support day to day functions expose themselves to a wide range of risks. They may be exposed to contractual vulnerabilities, compliance issues, missed deadlines, and more.
Commercial lawyer
A commercial lawyer is a lawyer that specializes in trade and commerce related laws, helping businesses navigate through the legal requirements of company operations. They help in protecting business interests throu... moreCommercial Lawyer Who Cares About Your Business.
Businesses that do not have a lawyer to support day to day functions expose themselves to a wide range of risks. They may be exposed to contractual vulnerabilities, compliance issues, missed deadlines, and more.
Commercial lawyer
A commercial lawyer is a lawyer that specializes in trade and commerce related laws, helping businesses navigate through the legal requirements of company operations. They help in protecting business interests through the following:
1. Contract Review and Drafting
Contracts are an integral part of every business. Although in the past, agreements were made orally, in today’s age, more and more businesses enter into written contracts with clients, vendors, and even entities that are part of the business organization. A commercial lawyer can help you draft clear contracts with precise and clear clauses, avoiding legally flawed, or unenforceable terms. Lawyers also help in reviewing contracts issued by other parties, and highlight problematic or one-sided clauses that expose your business to unforeseen financial burdens.
2. Compliance support
The UAE laws and regulations are constantly evolving to ensure that they are in line with the changing world and international laws. A lack of legal oversight in this regard could lead to legal violations which could in turn lead to fines and penalties. Non-compliance with local regulations in the UAE can lead to hefty fines and even the shutdown of the business.
Commercial lawyers Dubai also helps in the setting up of businesses, helping one identify the right type of entity to choose from. The United Arab Emirates also allows the setting up of business either in the mainland or in the freezone. Each option comes with a distinct set of advantages. Commercial lawyers can help one understand the advantages of these options with regard to their business.
3. Protection of company assets including intellectual properties
Company assets are not limited to tangible properties such as real estate, vehicles and money. It also includes intangible assets such as patents, copyrights, trademarks and more. Commercial lawyers play an important role in safeguarding the assets of a company. They help in securing intellectual properties by registering them and ensuring that the IP rights are not infringed by third parties. Additionally, they also ensure that the business is not infringing third party IPs, protecting the business from legal liabilities.
4. Support during dispute
Businesses may be involved in disputes from time to time. However, with a commercial lawyer, these disputes may be managed early, which may positively impact the interests of the company. Commercial lawyers can help the business in settling minor disputes before they escalate into expensive litigation. Additionally, in case of litigation, commercial lawyers can provide strong legal representation, increasing the chance of a favorable outcome.
Conclusion
In an attempt to avoid the costs of hiring a commercial lawyer, businesses can risk serious legal liabilities and expensive litigation. It is therefore highly advised to hire a commercial lawyer to ensure a smooth business.
An attorney at law refers to a person who has the license to practice law in a specific jurisdiction. This term is mainly used in the United States of America, to signify that a person who has not just acquired a degree in law, but is also qualified to practice before the court of law under a specific jurisdiction. Alternatively, the term ‘lawyer’ is used to refer to a person who has acquired a degree in law but may not be licensed to speak before a j... moreAttorney at Law Who Fights for What’s Right
An attorney at law refers to a person who has the license to practice law in a specific jurisdiction. This term is mainly used in the United States of America, to signify that a person who has not just acquired a degree in law, but is also qualified to practice before the court of law under a specific jurisdiction. Alternatively, the term ‘lawyer’ is used to refer to a person who has acquired a degree in law but may not be licensed to speak before a judge. In the United Arab Emirates, a person who is licensed to appear before the local courts is referred to as an Advocate.
An Advocate, or an attorney has specific qualities that make them practice law ethically. The article delves into the key qualities and responsibilities of advocates who prioritize fairness and integrity in their practice.
1. Providing realistic prospects to the clients
It is vital for an advocate to provide their clients an honest analysis of a case. This includes setting realistic expectations regarding timelines involved in a case, costs, and even outcome. This is an extremely important step in building trust with the clientele and meeting client expectations.
2. Clear communications
Lawyers are infamous for using legal jargon that is seen to confuse clients, especially if they hail from non-legal backgrounds. Clients appreciate lawyers who are able to clearly explain legal concepts in simple language to ensure that the client fully comprehends the situation.
An important task for advocates is strategizing and planning the case to ensure that the process goes ahead smoothly. However, it is very important that the plan involves long term solutions, wherein the clients are not required to go through multiple cases. Instead, the legal procedure must provide a clear outcome that is beneficial to the client.
4. Confidentiality and loyalty
Advocates routinely deal with high profile cases that may involve large stakes. In such situations, it is extremely important that the case is handled with the utmost confidentiality. Lawyers must also ensure that there are no conflicts of interest that could compromise their ability to represent the client's best interests objectively
5. Respectful conduct
Advocates must ensure that they lead the case with dignity and respect, not only with the clients and court officials but also with the opposing parties. Treating individuals with courtesy and civility helps in potential negotiations that the parties may enter into at later stages of the case.
6. Financial integrity
Showing financial integrity involves charging clients a reasonable amount with regard to the case. It also includes clear communication regarding the basis of the changes. Advocates must also ensure to safeguard client property and segregate client funds from personal or firm funds.
Understanding Child Custody: What Parents Need to Know
In the UAE, child custody laws are covered under the UAE family law which includes Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024 governing Muslims in the UAE (“Federal Personal Status Law”), Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 governing non-Muslims in the UAE except in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021, governing non-Muslims within the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
The three laws differ with regard to the provisions of child custody. In... moreUnderstanding Child Custody: What Parents Need to Know
In the UAE, child custody laws are covered under the UAE family law which includes Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024 governing Muslims in the UAE (“Federal Personal Status Law”), Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022 governing non-Muslims in the UAE except in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Law No. 14 of 2021, governing non-Muslims within the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
The three laws differ with regard to the provisions of child custody. In the event of a divorce, child custody laws may vary depending on the religion of the parties involved, and the jurisdiction that are applicable to them. A child custody lawyer can help parties effectively navigate through the UAE family law.
Federal Personal Status Law
As per the Federal Personal Status Law under Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024, the affairs of the children, after the divorce of the parents, are divided into custody and guardianship. Custody refers to the day-to-day care and responsibilities of a child and is granted to the mother of the child, while guardianship refers to the overall responsibilities over the child and is granted to the father of the child. Custody includes physical custody and therefore, the children will live with the mother until the end of the custody age. Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2024 states that the age of custody is 18 for both male and female children. Nevertheless, the children have the right choose to live with the other parent after they have attained the age of 15, provided that the court does not believe that such choice is against the best interests of the children.
Civil Personal Status Law
Under the civil personal status law, after a divorce, parents are generally granted joint custody over the children, unless either parent gives up their right to custody or if one of the parents is found to be ineligible for custody as per the provisions of the law.
Under Federal Decree Law No. 41 of 2022, the custody age of the children is until the age of 18 after which the children may choose between either parent while under Abu Dhabi law No. 14 of 2021, custody age is until 16 after which the children have the right to choose.
Due to the differences between custody laws in the Federal Personal Status Law and the civil personal status law, and the variations between the Federal Civil Personal Status Law and the Abu Dhabi Civil Personal Status Law, it is highly advised that divorcing parties consult with a competent child custody lawyer to understand and obtain the best outcome in a case.
Legal Advice for Growing Businesses: Stay Safe and Strong
Dubai has emerged as a hub for investors and entrepreneurs from across the world. Every business aims at a comprehensive growth and expansion of business. However, this expansion may consist of new risks and legal implications for the business. Here are a few legal aspects to be considered to ensure steady growth in your business.
Company formation and structure
A strong foundation and a solid structure are extremely important in the ... moreLegal Advice for Growing Businesses: Stay Safe and Strong
Dubai has emerged as a hub for investors and entrepreneurs from across the world. Every business aims at a comprehensive growth and expansion of business. However, this expansion may consist of new risks and legal implications for the business. Here are a few legal aspects to be considered to ensure steady growth in your business.
Company formation and structure
A strong foundation and a solid structure are extremely important in the case of any institution. This is also applicable for your business. Dubai offers a variety of options in the form of mainland companies, and free zone or offshore entities. Similarly, entrepreneurs may also choose structures such as LLCs (Limited liability companies), sole proprietorships, partnerships etc. Each of these options has distinct advantages. While starting a new business, it is important that you choose the right type of license and structure depending upon the type and nature of business to be carried out. Legal advice may be extremely beneficial at this stage.
Legal compliance
Businesses in Dubai must also be mindful of the legal framework and the various legal compliance surrounding the type of business. This includes compliance with labour law, tax and VAT, AML laws, etc. Labour law requirements include remuneration, housing and healthcare to be provided, hours of work, rest periods, end of work benefits and many more. Similarly, Dubai has regulations related to Value Added Tax (VAT), where companies are required to be registered for VAT if its turnover exceeds a particular threshold.
AML and CFT refers to anti money laundering and counter financing of terrorism respectively. THE UAE government lays down certain systems such as KYC requirements as AML and CFT measures. Non-Compliance of these regulations can lead to penalties including fines, revocation of licenses and even the closure of the business.
Protection of IP
Businesses may hold important intellectual properties (IP) such as patents, trade secrets, copyrights and trademarks. It is important to take early measures to protect company IPs. Measures must also be taken to avoid the breach of IP laws due to the use of intellectual properties belonging to other entities. Legal advice in Dubai on the registration of IPs, and advice regarding the correct usage of other IPs can help protect the interest of the company and avoid disputes with other entities.
Contract drafting and negotiations
Running a business often involves entering into legally binding agreements after reaching mutually agreed terms. The agreed terms are recorded in a contract and signed by both parties, granting it enforceability before the courts. It is therefore integral that the businesses are aware of their rights and responsibilities as per these contracts. Businesses must also ensure that they are able to obtain favorable terms, by negotiating with the other party. Sound, well-drafted contacts can minimize the occurrence of disputes in the future.
Dispute Resolution
Disputes are inevitable when carrying out a business. However, corporate litigation is not the sole solution available. Businesses may also settle disputes amicably through mediation and arbitration. It is therefore necessary that companies take early risk assessment steps and add clauses to contracts to enforce mediation or arbitration proceedings before resorting to litigation.
Conclusion
In order to achieve consistent, long-term growth in your business, it is vital that you address the necessary legal considerations. Consequently, you can safeguard your hard work, build a strong reputation and establish a strong foundation by seeking the correct legal advice at each step.
Child custody is one of the more sensitive and painful aspects of the divorce process. Child custody cases impact not only the disputing parties, but also their children, who are generally minors. It is therefore extremely important such cases are handled by qualified and competent child custody lawyers. Let us look into the key factors to be considered when hiring a child custody lawyer.
Experience in the field
You may have often wondered wh... moreUAE Child Custody Lawyer You Can Trust in Court.
Child custody is one of the more sensitive and painful aspects of the divorce process. Child custody cases impact not only the disputing parties, but also their children, who are generally minors. It is therefore extremely important such cases are handled by qualified and competent child custody lawyers. Let us look into the key factors to be considered when hiring a child custody lawyer.
Experience in the field
You may have often wondered why different lawyers have different fee structures. The answer to this is experience. Lawyers with a substantial amount of experience have the benefit of having dealt with a large number of cases, making them exceedingly familiar with the laws and the legal procedures surrounding the case. Child custody lawyers deal with family laws. Thus, experienced lawyers would have dealt with thousands of family cases, allowing them to understand the nuances of each case and predict the outcomes of the case more effectively.
Expertise and Reputation
Expertise refers to the area of law practiced by a lawyer. As the legal field comprises of various fields such as criminal, corporate, banking, real estate etc., it is important to select a lawyer that is experienced in family law, when dealing with child custody cases. A lawyer’s expertise and reputation can have a significant impact on your case. Outside of legal expertise, a reputed lawyer can also help in enabling amicable negotiations and settlements.
Accessibility and Communication
It is always important to understand the communication process of the lawyer that you are hiring. Certain lawyers may be hard to access as a result of their many commitments, due to which they may not be able to provide regular updates. However, an increasing number of lawyers now set up a dedicated system to issue regular updates to their clients regarding the ongoing litigation, and also make themselves available to answer any legal queries that their clients may have.
Understanding and Empathy
Child custody is a sensitive matter that requires a high amount of empathy. This is also reflected in the way UAE laws and the UAE courts handle child custody cases wherein they prioritize the best interests of the child above all else. Therefore, it is extremely important that child custody lawyers are able to deal with the cases with sensitivity, not only so that they are in line with the policies of the country, but also to minimize the impact of the court cases on the children involved.
Knowledge of local court procedures and local culture
Court procedures vary in different jurisdictions. Knowledge of the practical aspects of court procedure is gained through active participation in the field. It is therefore extremely important to select a lawyer who is aware of the local court procedures. Similarly, knowledge of the culture of the land is also important, particularly in child custody and family cases as they involve personal matters, which are directly impacted by local cultures and practices. These aspects can also help the lawyer predict the outcome of the case, and help you prepare for the future of your children.
Conclusion
To secure the safety of the children and to ensure the best outcome in a child custody case, it is essential that you choose the right lawyer, who will help you effectively navigate the legal system and guarantee a favorable outcome.
Abu Dhabi’s Top Property Lawyers for Safe Property Deals
The Abu Dhabi real estate sector has seen rapid and consistent growth in the last decade, involving multi-million-dirhams’ worth of investments. The trend is a result of the robust laws and regulations surrounding this sector, as well as an increase in first-time investors from the expatriate community.
Real estate investments can be profitable and secure only if the investors are diligent regarding the buying process. Let us look into t... moreAbu Dhabi’s Top Property Lawyers for Safe Property Deals
The Abu Dhabi real estate sector has seen rapid and consistent growth in the last decade, involving multi-million-dirhams’ worth of investments. The trend is a result of the robust laws and regulations surrounding this sector, as well as an increase in first-time investors from the expatriate community.
Real estate investments can be profitable and secure only if the investors are diligent regarding the buying process. Let us look into the various ways in which a real estate investor can make secure investments in properties in Abu Dhabi.
1. Conducting Due diligence of the property and the developers
It is of the utmost importance that investors conduct thorough due diligence of the property before investment. Buyers must ensure that the property does not have outstanding arrears, and is not involved in any legal dispute. This may be done by verifying the title deed. Additionally, investor must ensure that the developer is duly licensed with RERA and guarantees compliance with the local laws.
Property lawyers in Abu Dhabi can help new investors carry out due diligence of property and the developers. Due to their expertise in the legal filed, they will be able to thoroughly analyze title deeds and pick out irregularities in the documents, if any.
2. Contract review and negotiations
Real estate transactions are bound by the agreements between the parties, in the form of the Sale Purchase Agreement (SPA) and any other contract between them. In order to understand the rights and obligations of the seller, it is extremely important to examine the agreements and ensure that the provisions in the contract are balanced and not against the interests of the investor. The SPA also lists out the project timeline and penalties in case the project is not completed in the said timelines. This is crucial for investors to understand whether the project is facing delays.
Abu Dhabi property lawyers can help investors review and negotiate the terms of the contract and advise them if the contract is biased against the investor’s interests.
3. Ensuring legal compliance
In addition to conducting due diligence of the property before its purchase, it is also important to understand the legal framework around real estate in Abu Dhabi to ensure that the purchase is compliant with the local laws. The Abu Dhabi real estate law is provided under Abu Dhabi Law No. 19/2005. Expatriate investors must also ensure that the property to be purchased is within the investment areas prescribed for investment for non-nationals of the UAE.
It is for this reason that investors are advised to consult with Property lawyers in Abu Dhabi to understand local laws governing real estate transactions.
4. Safeguarding financial transactions
Real estate transactions involve a large amount of money and it is important to safeguard this money until the property development is complete. Investors are thus advised to deposit the money in ESCROW accounts registered with the competent authorities, to mitigate risks and achieve secure deals.
Investment in properties is lucrative and can yield large profits if done correctly. It is therefore advised that investors, particularly when investing for the first time, consult with the Property lawyers in Abu Dhabi to ensure profitable investments, and secure and smooth transactions.
Fast Facts: Arbitration Lawyers In Dubai Explained.
Arbitration is an alternate form of dispute resolution, where parties opt out of approaching the local courts and the litigation process and instead settle matters privately. Most countries allow arbitration orders to be ratified by the courts, granting them legal legitimacy. Arbitration also reduces backlog of cases in the local courts and enables parties to reach quicker resolutions.
Dubai businesses often choose arbitration in case of dis... moreFast Facts: Arbitration Lawyers In Dubai Explained.
Arbitration is an alternate form of dispute resolution, where parties opt out of approaching the local courts and the litigation process and instead settle matters privately. Most countries allow arbitration orders to be ratified by the courts, granting them legal legitimacy. Arbitration also reduces backlog of cases in the local courts and enables parties to reach quicker resolutions.
Dubai businesses often choose arbitration in case of disputes as they allow flexibility in due process and procedures, while being faster and cost effective. It also allows confidentiality as businesses can keep sensitive information out of public records. Additionally, international businesses choose Dubai as the place of arbitration, due to the cosmopolitan nature of the city, and the ease of business. Dubai has also set up institutions such as the Dubai International Arbitration Center (DIAC), which helps in the streamlining of the processes. Let us look at the significance of arbitration lawyers in Dubai.
Expertise in the filed
Due to the exposure to the large number of international arbitrations that are carried out in the UAE, Dubai Arbitration lawyers have been able to gather extensive experience in the field. They handle cases across various sectors including construction, banking, real estate, Intellectual Property, international trade and business, energy and many more.
Knowledge of local laws
Arbitration lawyers in Dubai are also deeply familiar with the local laws, which enable them to effectively secure the interests of their clients. Although many think that arbitration lawyers do not need expertise in local laws, this knowledge is key to ensure the validity, and outcome of arbitration proceedings. Knowledge of local laws is also particularly important while enforcing arbitration decisions.
Industry Specific Knowledge
Dubai arbitration lawyers have also developed an expertise in specific industries, making them extremely effective in dealing with disputes in those areas. Sectors such as real estate, information technology, construction, Intellectual properties witness a high number of arbitration disputes. Resolving them requires a certain amount of technical knowledge. Certain arbitration lawyers have carved out a niche in these industries helping them understand the nuances of the disputes that may be missed by others.
Experience in International Arbitration
Due to the global nature of arbitration disputes, arbitration lawyers are required to have knowledge of various international legal systems particularly with regard to business law, so as to provide effective legal representation in complex arbitration cases. Knowledge of international law is also required in cases where arbitration awards are required to be enforced across borders.
Conclusion
Arbitration lawyers have been integral in ensuring effective dispute resolution for businesses and individuals in Dubai, increasing trust and legitimacy in the Arbitration process. Due to their dedication to the field, Dubai has fast emerged as a leading center for international arbitration, across the globe.
Lawyers are an integral part of the modern dispute resolution process. From a businessman, landowner, to an employee or a tenant, any individual may require legal assistance from a lawyer at some point in their life. In the UAE, in order to provide legal advice and to appear in the UAE courts, individuals must obtain the appropriate license after fulfilling certain criteria.
Legal Consultant
Legal consultants are individuals who are licensed b... moreWhy a Court Lawyer Is Key to Winning Your Case
Lawyers are an integral part of the modern dispute resolution process. From a businessman, landowner, to an employee or a tenant, any individual may require legal assistance from a lawyer at some point in their life. In the UAE, in order to provide legal advice and to appear in the UAE courts, individuals must obtain the appropriate license after fulfilling certain criteria.
Legal Consultant
Legal consultants are individuals who are licensed by the government to provide legal advice. In order to be eligible to obtain a legal consultant license, one must have a degree in law from a recognized university, and a particular number of years of experience in the legal field. However, a legal consultant cannot represent a person before the court of law.
Advocate
In the UAE, advocates are individuals who are licensed to represent clients before the UAE courts. Advocates, or court lawyers must also fulfil certain requirements before applying for an advocate’s license, such as experience in the legal field. Furthermore, only UAE citizens can apply for an advocate’s license.
Key characteristics of an advocate
1. Experience in Law
Advocates are required to be well aware of the facts and circumstances of the case as they are the voice of their clients, before the court of law. Additionally, they are also required to be experts in UAE Law.
2. Understanding of court procedures
As an advocate, one deals with a large number of cases, representing individuals before the UAE courts. Consequently, advocates acquire a deep understanding of the procedural aspects of a case.
3. Submission of statement of claim or response
The statement of claim is a legal document submitted to the court by the party initiating the case. This document will consist of the facts of the case, the supporting claims and the relief sought by the party. This statement of claim is submitted by the advocate representing the party. Drafting the statement of claim is one of the most crucial steps in a legal case.
4. Submission of evidence
As part of the court process, advocates are required to submit all evidences to prove the claims made by their party. This evidence is important in convincing the judge of the validity of one’s claims.
5. Examining witnesses
Advocates are required to examine the witnesses as part of the court procedures. They must not only examine the witnesses appearing on behalf of their client, but also cross-examine the witnesses from the opposite side. Testimonial evidence from witnesses is an integral part of UAE’s court process.
6. Execution petitions and appeals
Once the court passes a judgement, the advocate, on a request from their client, may take any further step required in the case. If the court has passed a favorable order, the advocate may file an execution petition, if required. If the order is not favorable, the advocate may file an appeal in a higher court.
Advocates are thus a pillar of the UAE judicial system. It is extremely important to choose the right advocate to represent yourself in a legal dispute before the UAE court.
If one faces a situation that requires legal guidance, it is always important to ensure that they approach the right kind of lawyer. Hiring a private lawyer, either for legal advice, or for legal representation in a court of law, will be easier if you are aware of the questions that you must ask a lawyer, in advance. Below is a list of questions that you can ask a private lawyer before hiring their services.
1. Area of expertise and years of exp... more
7 Smart Questions to Ask Your Private Lawyer.
If one faces a situation that requires legal guidance, it is always important to ensure that they approach the right kind of lawyer. Hiring a private lawyer, either for legal advice, or for legal representation in a court of law, will be easier if you are aware of the questions that you must ask a lawyer, in advance. Below is a list of questions that you can ask a private lawyer before hiring their services.
1. Area of expertise and years of experience
It is important to understand the area of expertise of the lawyer before hiring them to handle your case. You must also be well aware of the nature of your case. If you are facing criminal allegations, or if you are a victim of a crime and looking for legal clarity, you can approach a criminal lawyer. Similarly, if you are facing marital issues, or require advise regarding your business, you may consult a family lawyer or a business lawyer respectively. A lawyer with a significant amount of experience can also be very helpful in dealing with a legal matter as they are likely to have already dealt with cases similar to yours.
2. Qualification and licenses
In the UAE, it is important to enquire about the license of the lawyer as each type of license denotes specific functions. A lawyer who is licensed as a legal consultant can provide legal advice but cannot represent clients before UAE courts. However, a lawyer who is a licensed advocate has the right to represent clients in the court. You may choose the right lawyer, suitable for your requirements.
3. Communication style
Certain lawyers actively communicate with clients, providing timely updates of the cases, while other lawyers may provide updates at longer intervals. If you are facing a stressful legal situation, you may want to hire a lawyer that is known to have a shorter turn around time with regards to queries and updates.
4. Fees
A lawyer’s fee is dependent on their experience and skill set. It is always wise to enquire about the fees prior to hiring the lawyer, so as to ensure a smooth and long-term lawyer-client relationship.
5. Strategy and potential outcomes
During the initial consultation, you may request the lawyer to lay down the strategies that he plans for the case. Legal issues can be dealt in various ways, requiring different resources and produces different outcomes. It is also important to enquire about all the potential outcomes expected in the case, so as to understand whether these outcomes are in line with your expectations and interests.
6. Timeline
In case of formal legal proceedings, you may enquire the estimated timeline with regard to your case. Different types of cases require different amounts of time to reach a resolution. Understanding the expected time period may help you plan other related matters.
Conclusion
A structural approach to legal consultations can result in a smoother legal process. Individuals can also take informed decisions and minimize unpleasant surprises in the future.
Unforeseen legal issues can arise at any time. These legal issues may stem from personal problems, or business complications. If not addressed appropriately in a timely manner, these issues can grow more serious, having grave consequences, financially or otherwise. It is therefore necessary that legal issues are resolved comprehensively and with the help of a competent lawyer.
Attorneys in UAE
Although the terms lawyer and attorney are used interchangeably, ... moreBest Legal Help: Attorneys in UAE
Unforeseen legal issues can arise at any time. These legal issues may stem from personal problems, or business complications. If not addressed appropriately in a timely manner, these issues can grow more serious, having grave consequences, financially or otherwise. It is therefore necessary that legal issues are resolved comprehensively and with the help of a competent lawyer.
Attorneys in UAE
Although the terms lawyer and attorney are used interchangeably, lawyer is a broader term that includes anyone with a law degree and work in the legal industry. This may include a person who deals with drafting and review of contract, someone who exclusively advises clients on a particular field of law, individuals involved in corporate legal work, or persons licensed to appear before a court. Attorneys on the other hand are lawyers who have been licensed to practice law. In the UAE, lawyers with the license to appear before a court of law are referred to as an advocate, while lawyers who are licensed to advise clients on matters of law, without the right to appear before a judge, are called legal consultants.
When do you need an advocate or a lawyer in the UAE?
Advocates become necessary in situations that require legal representation before a UAE court. Thus, in circumstances where one has initiated a case or where one has been made party to a case, it is important to hire an advocate to represent themselves in the court of law. However, in scenarios where one requires the review or drafting of contracts, or sending a legal notice to a person, an advocate is not necessary and the legal consultant can fulfill the role.
If you are looking to appoint an advocate or an attorney to represent yourself in a case, it is recommended that you prioritize the following characteristics:
Years of experience
The number of years of experience contributes to the competence of an advocate. With a large number of years in the field of advocacy, advocates become familiar with the court procedures and the authorities. They also develop an understanding of the culture of the place.
Expertise in Law
The expertise of the advocate in a particular field of law is also vital when hiring a lawyer. If you are involved in a criminal case, it is important to hire a criminal advocate, who is familiar with the criminal code and the procedural law. The civil and criminal procedures vary immensely. The knowledge of procedures is as important as the knowledge of laws, to ensure that cases are not dismissed due to technicalities.
Communication skills
Good communications skills are of the utmost importance while looking for a competent advocate. Advocates may be required to converse with the judges, as well as examine witnesses for a case. They may also be required to communicate with other government authorities or negotiate with the opposite party.
Drafting
Court procedures involve filing a number of statements and memos to the court. From claim statements and petitions, to evidence and temporary injunctions, court cases involve the submission of a number of documents. It is important that these documents are filed as per the correct procedures.
Conclusion
In order to ensure quality legal services in the UAE, make sure that you contact the best UAE attorneys in the field that you are looking for, be it civil, criminal, corporate, commercial, or family law. UAE is home to the best legal talent from across the globe. An informed decision in hiring a good attorney can go a long way in obtaining a favorable outcome in your case.
In today’s world, where international travel is commonplace, and international business is the norm, lawyers have become an essential aspect of daily life. From assisting business transactions through legal contracts, to helping in dispute resolutions, lawyers are involved in every step of business. In certain cases, one may require the legal knowledge from another jurisdiction to carry our transnational trade deals. Similarly, in personal life too... moreHow Online Lawyers Solve Legal Problems Fast .
In today’s world, where international travel is commonplace, and international business is the norm, lawyers have become an essential aspect of daily life. From assisting business transactions through legal contracts, to helping in dispute resolutions, lawyers are involved in every step of business. In certain cases, one may require the legal knowledge from another jurisdiction to carry our transnational trade deals. Similarly, in personal life too, lawyers play a key role in marriage, divorce, child custody and financial settlements.
Online legal services
To meet growing demands, certain lawyers and law firms have commenced online legal consultation, providing legal advice and other legal services through online mediums. Consultations are carried through Zoom meetings and other online platforms, allowing lawyers to give real time legal advices to their clients who may be sitting thousands of miles away. Lawyers also take up document review and drafting through online clients.
Why is there a need for online lawyers?
Here are the reasons for the growing demand for online lawyers:
Accessibility and convenience:
Online consultations allow lawyers and clients from far away to sit together for a meeting. Thus, clients who are in need of legal advice from a faraway jurisdiction can contact a lawyer from that jurisdiction, without the need to travel to the place. Online consultations also help individuals who are constantly travelling, allowing them to contact their lawyers from any country around the world.
Efficiency
Online consultations are also efficient and saves time. It does not require a designated meeting area. Furthermore, such consultations are not restricted by time constraints, particularly helping clients who have lawyers from different time zones.
Cost Effective
Online consultations are generally offered at a reduced cost, compared to face to face meetings. Therefore, it is within the means of individuals who may not have been able to afford legal advice under different circumstances.
Advice at crucial times
In certain cases, circumstances may require quick decision making. Online consultations allow individuals to consult with their lawyer at such instances, leading to informed decision making.
Conclusion
Although online lawyers form an effective way to obtain legal help, ensure that the lawyers you approach are legitimate, qualified and have the expertise in the legal issue that you are facing.
One may have come across various terms describing a legal expert, including lawyer and legal advisor, sometimes even used interchangeably. However, each term has a distinct meaning, and individuals serving as legal advisors or lawyers, have specific roles assigned to them.
Lawyer
A lawyer is generally an umbrella term used to denote individuals with legal expertise, providing a legal service. This includes providing legal advice, drafting con... moreUAE lawyer vs Legal Advisor: know the difference
One may have come across various terms describing a legal expert, including lawyer and legal advisor, sometimes even used interchangeably. However, each term has a distinct meaning, and individuals serving as legal advisors or lawyers, have specific roles assigned to them.
Lawyer
A lawyer is generally an umbrella term used to denote individuals with legal expertise, providing a legal service. This includes providing legal advice, drafting contracts, reviewing agreements, or representing clients in a court of law.
When a lawyer has the power of representation in a court, he is called an advocate. In the UAE, an advocate must fulfill certain criteria and must obtain a license to practice before the UAE courts. Only UAE citizens who have graduated from an institution recognized by the competent authority in the Emirate or the UAE can obtain an advocate’s license. Additionally, individuals must be of legal capacity and of good conduct, must pass the required training, must be employed in an advocacy firm and must not practice any other commercial or professional activity in addition to his/her work within the firm except for teaching or training in a specific field of law or legal practice.
Legal advisor
A legal advisor is a lawyer who provides legal consultation, without representing the client in the court of law. In the UAE, legal advisors are referred to as legal consultants. Legal consultants may advice clients, draft and review agreements and even assist in drafting statements to be submitted to the court. However, they may not represent clients in a court of law.
A legal consultant is also required to be licensed to carry out consultation and related activities in the UAE. To obtain a legal consultant license, applicants must submit an application through the Legal Profession System (LPS) Portal. They must have the required educational qualification from an institution recognized by the competent authority. They must also have a prescribed number of years of experience in the legal field, as prescribed by law.
Although legal consultants do not have the right of audience before the UAE local courts, they continue to hold a significant position in the UAE legal landscape. They serve as a preliminary point of contact for their clients, explaining the law in detail. They also assist the advocate in drafting and the preparation of appeal.
In conclusion, a lawyer who is licensed to appear before a court of law is referred to as an advocate, while a lawyer who is licensed to provide legal advice, without the power to appear before a court is called a legal consultant. The UAE issues separate licenses to UAE lawyers and legal consultants if they fulfill the required criteria.
