Romania considers mandatory legal counsel for divorces involving minors

A new legislative proposal submitted to the Romanian Senate aims to expand the professional duties of lawyers and introduce mandatory legal assistance in specific civil matters. The project, initiated by the National Union of Bars in Romania, proposes that divorces involving minor children must involve legal counsel, even if the parents reach an agreement through a notary.

Proponents argue these measures are necessary to protect the legal interests of children caught in separation processes. The bill also suggests that certain written contracts, which currently require only a private signature for validity, may need to be drafted by a lawyer to ensure legal certainty. While the proposal is currently registered for debate in Parliament, its final form remains subject to legislative changes.