FAQ

What is the difference between an advocate and a legal adviser?: There are two legal professions in Poland: advocates and legal advisers. The difference between these two professions mainly concerns the right to represent clients in criminal cases which is almost exclusively reserved to advocates. As regards criminal cases, legal advisers cannot represent the accused.

In commercial cases, heard by common courts or in arbitral proceedings, both advocates and legal advisers are fully entitled to represent clients. However, if a case has some criminal aspects, it is advisable to have the representation of an advocate.

Generally, advocates and legal advisers conduct their professional activity either individually or in partnerships comprising lawyers of one or both legal professions.

Subject to passing an exam, foreign lawyers can be enrolled on the list of advocates or legal advisers.

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Litigation News

Easier to amend environmental decisions

It often happens that the plans for a project are modified after a decision on environmental conditions is issued but before issuance of a permit for the project itself (e.g. the building permit). Is it necessary to amend the environmental decision?
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Transfer of environmental permit to acquirer of installation is not the rule

When a company has been issued an environmental permit, e.g. to release particles into the atmosphere, may it freely assign its rights under the permit?
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Arbitration in Poland

Interest in arbitration is growing, due to its effectiveness, professionalism, confidentiality and speed—particularly important benefits for businesses. But the parties do not always take full advantage of the possibilities.
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