Mozambique Bar Association targets illegal law offices and digital misconduct

The Mozambique Bar Association (OAM) has raised alarms regarding the rise of illegal law offices and the misuse of digital platforms for unauthorized legal services. In the Niassa province, specifically within the Lichinga district, the OAM reported a recurring issue with clandestine offices operating without legal authorization. Francisco Sadia, head of the department combating illicit practice, noted that these offices often evade inspection and are typically only discovered after citizens seek help and find their issues unresolved, leaving them vulnerable to fraud.

Simultaneously, the OAM's National Council has issued a mandatory deliberation to address the improper use of social media by lawyers, interns, and unqualified individuals. The association aims to prevent the commercialization of the profession and the illicit solicitation of clients through digital means. New regulations prohibit the use of content that promises specific legal results or exploits citizen vulnerability. Furthermore, the OAM has restricted the use of professional attire, such as the legal robe, prohibiting its use in promotional or exhibitionist social media videos, limiting it strictly to court proceedings and authorized institutional activities.