Pourquoi consulter un(e) avocat(e) ?

People often think of a lawyer only when a trial is underway. However, their role begins much earlier: good advice can very often prevent things from reaching that point.

When should you consult a lawyer?

Because…

• you want to rent or buy a property
• you are about to sign a contract with your new employer
• you are considering setting up a company
• you are no longer able to manage your debts
• you have been the victim of an accident or assault
• you have been summoned to appear in court
• you are separating from your spouse
• you have a dispute with an administrative body…

In all these situations, a lawyer can be helpful: to advise you, facilitate mediation, or defend you in case of conflict.

What does a lawyer do?

A lawyer is the person to turn to whenever a legal question arises in your personal or professional life. Their profession can be summed up in three words: advise, mediate, and defend.

• They advise you in advance to help you make the right decisions before the situation becomes complicated.
• They can seek an amicable solution, without necessarily going to court.
• And if further action is needed, they represent and defend you in court.

Except in cases provided for by law, a lawyer is also the only person authorized to plead before any court.

This profession is naturally governed by strict rules: lawyers must adhere to a precise code of ethics. If they fail to do so, the Bar president can refer them to the disciplinary council of their Bar. More information on ethics.

Their independence is their strength: a lawyer is not subject to any political, economic, or judicial authority. They defend your interests alone, with complete freedom, including the freedom to accept or refuse a case on principle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you always need a lawyer to defend yourself in court?

Except in special cases, you can defend yourself alone. However, the law and legal procedures are complex, so it is often better to have support. A lawyer reviews your case with an expert eye and tells you frankly what your chances are, which helps avoid going in the wrong direction.

How can you tell if a lawyer is specialized?

Some lawyers specialize over the course of their careers, gaining in-depth experience in a specific field, recognized after their file is reviewed. Not all seek this official recognition—many simply indicate the areas they practice most (their "preferred activities"). In our directory, a star (*) indicates specialized lawyers.

Can someone be both a lawyer and a judge at the same time?

No, except in rare cases: some lawyers occasionally act as substitute judges to replace a magistrate. They must then exercise particular caution—and cannot defend a party in a case they have dealt with in that capacity, even in mediation.

Where does the lawyer’s robe come from?

The current attire dates back to a royal decree of 1968: a black wool gown closed at the front, with wide sleeves, a pleated white collar, and an epitoge (the fur band on the shoulder). However, in district courts located outside the courthouse, lawyers are permitted to appear without their robe.

"The gown worn by lawyers is made of black wool fabric, closed at the front, with wide sleeves and a pleated white collar. It is worn with an epitoge, a piece of black wool fabric gathered in the middle, trimmed at the ends with a row of white fur, which is placed over the left shoulder and hangs down the front and back."