Territorial Jurisdiction of Lawyers in France: Where Should You Choose Your Lawyer?

When looking for a lawyer (registered with the bar), one common question arises: Does my lawyer need to be registered in a specific city to represent me? In other words, is there a territorial jurisdiction for lawyers in France?

The answer is no, except for certain cases. Let’s explain!

General Rule: A Lawyer Can Plead Anywhere in France

Contrary to popular belief, French lawyers are not restricted to practicing in the jurisdiction of their registered bar. A lawyer registered with the Paris Bar can fully assist a client in Marseille, Lyon, or Bordeaux. They can operate throughout the country, whether for legal advice or courtroom representation.

Exceptions: When a Lawyer Must Be Locally Registered

However, for certain procedures, territorial jurisdiction does matter. Here are the cases where a lawyer must be registered with a specific bar or work with a local colleague:

Cases Before the Judicial Court (Tribunal judiciaire)

• A lawyer must be registered with the local bar for cases requiring mandatory representation (e.g., debt recovery over €10,000, inheritance disputes, divorce...). However, mandatory representation does not apply to all cases.

• If the chosen lawyer is not registered with the local bar, they must work with a postulating lawyer, a local colleague who will handle procedural matters.

  
  

Cases Before the Court of Appeal

• Except in certain cases, representation before a Court of Appeal requires a postulating lawyer registered with the local bar.

• If the chosen lawyer is not registered with that local bar, they must appoint a local colleague to handle the case.

  
  

How to Choose Your Lawyer?

🔹 For litigation cases, choose a lawyer experienced in pleading before the relevant court.

🔹 For legal advice, a lawyer can be chosen freely, without geographic restrictions.

In Summary

✅ A lawyer can operate anywhere in France.

❌ However, for certain courts (Judicial Court, Court of Appeal), a locally registered lawyer is required for procedural matters.

📌 The key selection criteria should be the lawyer’s expertise, rather than their location.

If you are looking for a lawyer, remember that you are not limited to professionals in your city. The most important factor is to choose a lawyer suited to your needs, who, if necessary, can collaborate with a local colleague.