Mexico celebrates Lawyer’s Day on July 12; it was instituted by President Adolfo Lopez Mateos in 1960. It is a day to recognise not only attorneys but also their work as advocates for rights and justice. It commemorates the day Fray Bartolomé Fras y Albornoz handed over the first chair of law in Mexico to the Pontifical University. Originally, the Diario de México or Mexican newspaper intended to use this date to commemorate the beginning of the legal profession in Mexico.
The background of Mexico: Lawyer’s Day
During the Spanish viceroyalty, the roles of lawyers and jurists were distinct. Jurists engage in legal consultations and research, whereas solicitors attend court. Lawyers were identified by their black suits with short trousers, gold or silver buckled shoes and traditional gowns. As a result of Mexico’s independence, they began to wear simpler uniforms for their professional endeavours.
In Mexico, high school pupils who wish to become lawyers must complete four or five years of legal education. They have options for obtaining their law degrees, including a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree. Then, they receive their professional licence from the General Professions Bureau or ‘Dirección General de Profesiones.’ The student’s university contacts this federal authority directly to process the licence request. This is legitimate in all Mexican states, with no restrictions on legal counsel throughout the country. However, notaries cannot represent another party in court proceedings.
There are no required textbooks or documented codes of conduct for attorneys under Mexican law. There are, however, numerous civil bar associations created by attorneys in various states to advance the practise of law. This is accomplished by promoting and sharing knowledge and legal methods. There is no connection between these private bar associations and any national or regional government authority. They adhere to their own norms of conduct per association, and if a member violates their internal code of conduct, they are disbarred.
The law has adapted to the changing circumstances, and so have solicitors. A lawyer’s duty will always consist of acting in the client’s best interest and ensuring that justice prevails.
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5 QUALITIES OF A GOOD LAWYER
Assertive
Attorneys who are assertive voice their opinions and make themselves heard while maintaining a respectful demeanour.
Creative
Every client and circumstance is different, so the ability to think creatively when seeking solutions is essential.
Articulate
They must understand how to effectively convey information to clients, judges, and juries.
Patient
Research and preparation for cases, as well as cases that can last for months or even years, require fortitude.
Compassionate
Understanding your client and opponent is facilitated by empathising with them.
MEXICO: LAWYER’S DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 12 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | July 12 | Friday |
| 2025 | July 12 | Saturday |
| 2026 | July 12 | Sunday |
| 2027 | July 12 | Monday |
