Adwokaci

Adwokaci are licensed Polish lawyers who provide legal services to individuals, companies, and institutions. They offer legal advice, prepare pleadings and contracts, negotiate settlements, and represent clients in court and before authorities. The profession is rooted in advocacy and public trust, and adwokaci may practice independently or as part of a law firm.

To become an adwokat, a candidate completes a law degree and enters a professional training period known as aplikacja adwokacka, typically lasting three years under supervision. After completing training, applicants take the adwokacki egzamin and, upon passing, are admitted to the bar by the Naczelna Rada Adwokacka and registered with a regional Izba Adwokacka. Adwokaci must join one of the local bars to practice and are required to participate in continuing education and adhere to ethical rules.

Adwokaci are regulated by the organizations of the Polish bar, notably the Naczelna Rada Adwokacka and regional Izby Adwokackie. They are bound by the Code of Ethics of the Adwokatura, professional confidentiality, conflict-of-interest rules, and disciplinary standards.

In the Polish system, adwokaci are distinct from other legal professions such as radcowie prawni. While both provide legal services, adwokaci are traditionally associated with advocacy and court representation, whereas radcowie prawni focus more on legal counsel and advisory work, though both groups operate under common professional standards.