Are you a lawyer looking to start your own law firm in Dubai? Starting a law firm in Dubai can be a challenging but rewarding industry. With the right strategy and knowledge, you can launch a successful legal practice in this bustling city. Many lawyers and foreign investors are choosing to open law firms in Dubai due to the favorable economic stability and encouragement of foreign direct investment in the region.
Key Factors to Consider Before Starting a Law Firm in Dubai
Before you start on your journey to start a law firm in Dubai, here are some important factors to take in mind:
The Dual Court System
Dubai performs on a dual court system that includes local and federal courts, with the apex court residing in Abu Dhabi. The court system operates at three distinct stages:
1. Court of First Instance
2. Court of Appeals
3. Court of Cassation.
Source of Law in the UAE
UAE’s legal framework is primarily based on Islamic Sharia Law, supplemented by various elements of International Law.
Legal Practitioner’s Rules
As per UAE’s legal conditions, all legal practitioners, including advocates, lawyers, attorneys, etc., must register with the Ministry of Justice, post which, they are permitted to practice in a federal court or any other Emirati court.
Lawyer’s Ethics
Lawyers are expected to have a complete understanding of the laws and rules of the country. Hence, they are required to attach to a prescribed set of rules and regulations.
Service Pricing
The fees charged by lawyers play an important role in deciding the demand for their services. Reasonable pricing, irrespective of the law firm’s size or efficiency, is a key factor in attracting clients.
Steps to Start a Law Firm in Dubai
Step 1: Choosing the Right Location
The location of your law firm is of the highest importance. According to the regulations, the selected premises for your law firm should be a minimum of 40 square feet.
Step 2: Collaborating with a Local Lawyer
Onboarding a local lawyer who is well-versed with the land’s rules and regulations and is affiliated with a local court is a condition for opening a law firm in Dubai.
Step 3: Documentation
1. Ensure that all necessary documents are in place. These include:
2. Registration and authorization application form
3. Photocopy of the applicant’s passport (along with the visit/residency permit) and a letter of no objection from the existing sponsor if the applicant is on a resident visa
4. External approval from H.H. the Ruler’s Court – Legal Affairs
5. RERA tenancy contract registration certificate
6. Electronic Appointment contract of a local service agent, issued by the Department of Economic Development
7. Copy of the latest Practicing Certificate or letter of good standing from the bar association or law firm at least three months before the date of submission.
Step 4: Acquiring the Relevant License
Getting a suitable license from the Ministry of Justice of the UAE is the final step before you can start your law firm in Dubai. After receiving the license and other relevant documentation from the Ministry of Justice, these need to be submitted to the economics department.
Conclusion
Starting a law firm in Dubai requires careful planning, legal compliance, and effective marketing strategies. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can set yourself up for success in the booming legal industry of Dubai. Good luck with your new law firm venture!
Connect with Neeja Corporate Services
Are you looking to start your company in Dubai but feeling overcome by the registration process? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Setting up a business in a foreign country can be challenging, but with the right guidance and support, it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Neeja’s business setup services offer complete support and serve as a one-stop shop for company setup in Dubai. We provide a wide range of value-added services, such as license applications and VAT registration. Over the years, we have successfully advised many new entrepreneurs to make their business dreams a reality.
To book a free consultation, call on +971 43243031. You can also send a WhatsApp message at +971 50 465 2843. To connect over email, send us your query at [email protected].
