Access to the profession: the subgroup focused on internships and practical training

The Ukrainian National Bar Association hosted a regular meeting of the subgroup «Access to the profession and training of advocates. Organizational forms of legal practice» of the Working Group on the Implementation of the Rule of Law Roadmap regarding the reform of advocacy.

During the meeting, participants discussed approaches to modernizing the internship as a stage of practical training for candidates, as well as how to ensure the substantive content of this institution without formalization. The focus was on the relationship between legislative regulation and regulation at the level of bar self-governance, taking into account contemporary needs, particularly digital skills and online formats of interaction.

Separately, it was noted that when assessing potential changes, it is impossible to ignore European models of access to the profession. At the same time, it is also important to proceed from Ukrainian realities and not create unnecessary barriers that would have no practical significance for the quality of training.

The discussion also raised issues related to the practical content of the internship and the proper execution of this stage. In this context, approaches were discussed on how to balance quality requirements, program oversight, and maintaining the model’s realism for candidates and internship supervisors.

As a reminder, the Rule of Law Roadmap was approved by Cabinet of Ministers Order No. 475-r dated May 14, 2025. By Resolution No. 125 of the BCU dated December 12, 2025, the Program for its implementation regarding the reform of advocacy was approved, and a working group was established.