General Practice Law at Cameroon
In Cameroon, the legal profession is governed by Law No. 90/059 of 1990, which establishes the framework for the practice of law in the country. The Cameroon Bar Association (Ordre des Avocats au Barreau du Cameroun) oversees the admission, training, and ethical conduct of lawyers..
Legal System Overview
Cameroon's legal system is a mixed jurisdiction, combining elements of French civil law and English common law, reflecting the country's colonial history under both France and the United Kingdom. The judiciary is independent, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest appellate court. Legal practitioners in Cameroon are authorized to perform both advisory and advocacy functions, as the profession is unified.
🎓 Pathway to Legal Practice
To practice law in Cameroon, individuals must meet the following requirements:
1. Educational Qualifications
Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.): Obtain a law degree from a recognized institution.
Certificat d'Aptitude à la Profession d'Avocat (CAPA): Complete the professional training program, which includes:
Passing the Bar Examination, comprising written and oral components.
Undergoing approximately one year of academic training.
Completing an additional year of practical training.
2. Admission to the Bar
Application: Submit a stamped application for admission to undergo training.
Documentation: Provide the following:
Certificate of nationality.
Copy of birth certificate.
Copy of the criminal record (not more than 3 months old).
Certified true copy of the LL.B. diploma.
Proof of success in the entrance examination for pupilage
3. Foreign Trained Lawyers
Eligibility: Foreign-trained lawyers may be admitted if they:
Have been practicing law for at least two years.
Hold a law degree.
Meet other criteria set by the Cameroon Bar Association.
🧑⚖️ Legal Practice and Ethics
Once admitted, lawyers are expected to uphold the ethical standards and professional responsibilities outlined by the Cameroon Bar Association. This includes maintaining client confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and engaging in continuous legal education to stay abreast of legal developments.
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