November 2026 · Abdulmalik Alwarhi
The executive regulation of the Law Practice Law was issued in 1446H and replaced the earlier one. Most of it regulates the profession itself, but several provisions affect clients directly. These are the ones that matter most.
1. A written agreement before work begins
A lawyer must sign a written contract with the client before starting the agreed work, and fees fall due under that contract (Article 24). Ask for the agreement before you hand over documents, and check that it states what is and is not included.
2. Dismissal must be in writing
If you decide to end the relationship, you must notify your lawyer in writing (Article 26). Written notice protects both sides and fixes the date responsibility ends.
3. How fees are assessed in a dispute
In a fee dispute the court may appoint an expert, who weighs factors including the nature of the work, market rates and the lawyer's experience (Article 27). A clear agreement at the outset avoids the question entirely.
4. Trainees work under supervision
A trainee lawyer may carry out professional work, including appearing in court under a power of attorney, under the supervising lawyer's direction and responsibility, unless the client requires the lawyer personally (Article 33). If that matters to you, put it in the agreement.
5. Confidentiality on online platforms
A lawyer working through an intermediary platform must protect your confidentiality and verify that the platform complies with the law, unless it is approved by the Saudi Bar Association (Article 19).
This article is general information, not legal advice on any particular matter. Article numbers follow the text published in Umm Al-Qura.
