Romania Senate proposal expands mandatory lawyer services

A legislative initiative (B563/2026) submitted to the Romanian Senate proposes amendments to the Law on the Organization and Exercise of the Legal Profession and the Civil Code. The project seeks to expand activities reserved exclusively for lawyers, potentially requiring legal professionals to draft various documents that currently fall under the purview of accountants, in-house jurists, or private individuals.

Under the proposal, certain documents requiring a written form for validity or evidence—such as employment contracts, salary increase addenda, insurance contracts, and documents for the establishment or modification of companies—would need to be drafted by a lawyer. The initiative also covers legal services provided online and specific cases involving divorces with minor children.

The proposal has faced criticism from lawmakers and professionals. USR Deputy Alexandru Dimitriu, a lawyer, has voiced opposition, stating the party will not support the measure. Critics argue the mandate could increase bureaucracy and financial burdens for small businesses and citizens without a proper impact assessment, while potentially infringing on the roles of accountants and specialized arbitration services.