How to choose the right lawyer in Tunisia

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Topic: Practical guide

Bar levels, checking registration with the Bar, agreeing on fees: what to know before you hand over your case.

Hiring a lawyer is an important decision: they will defend your interests, sometimes through a long procedure. Here are the key points to help you choose well. 1. Understand the bar levels Tunisian lawyers are registered with the Ordre National des Avocats de Tunisie (ONAT), and the profession is mainly governed by Decree-law no. 2011-79 of 20 August 2011. Lawyers are listed on rolls that depend on their seniority: Trainee lawyer (stagiaire): at the start of their career, working under the supervision of a senior lawyer. Lawyer at the Court of Appeal: pleads before courts of first instance and courts of appeal. Lawyer at the Court of Cassation: the highest level, and the only one who can represent you before the Court of Cassation. If your case may go all the way to cassation, ask about the lawyer's level from the start. 2. Check their registration The roll of lawyers is public on the ONAT website (the "Tableau des avocats" section). A search by name is enough to confirm that someone is a registered lawyer, and to see which roll they are on and their status. 3. Choose according to your dispute Family, employment, property and company law each have their own specifics. Don't hesitate to ask a lawyer about their experience with cases similar to yours. 4. Talk about fees from the start The decree-law governing the profession says fees are set by prior agreement between the lawyer and the client. Ask how they are calculated: a fixed amount, payment per stage, or by the hour. It is best to put this agreement in writing to avoid misunderstandings later. If you and your lawyer disagree about fees, the dispute can be taken to the president of the regional section of the Bar. 5. Proximity and communication A lawyer close to the competent court or to where you live makes meetings easier. Above all, you should feel confident and clearly understand what they explain. Remember that lawyers are bound by professional secrecy: you can speak about your situation openly. This article gives general information and does not replace advice from a lawyer who looks at your own situation.

Last updated: 19 October 2026