The Portuguese Bar Association has terminated the reciprocity agreement with the Brazilian Bar Association (OAB).
The agreement, established in 2008, allowed lawyers from one organization to be registered in the other without the need for internships or exams.
The decision to end this commitment, citing changes in laws and challenges faced by Brazilian lawyers in adapting to the Portuguese legal system, was published on the Portuguese Bar Association’s website.
The Portuguese Bar Association expressed concerns that the difficulties faced by Brazilian lawyers in adapting to the Portuguese legal system could jeopardize the rights and guarantees of both Portuguese and Brazilian citizens.
The OAB expressed regret over the decision and highlighted ongoing discussions to improve the agreement.
They emphasized the importance of respectful dialogue based on equality between nations to resolve disagreements.
The OAB’s priority is to defend and strengthen professional prerogatives, regardless of the practice location.
Following the unilateral announcement, the OAB intends to take appropriate measures to protect the rights of Brazilian professionals eligible to practice law in Portugal or benefit from the agreement.
They also aim to resume dialogue with the Portuguese Bar Association while acknowledging the challenges faced by the European entity due to government pressures.
Terminating the reciprocity agreement between Portugal and Brazil has implications for the legal profession in both countries, and the OAB seeks to address the situation through dialogue and the defense of professional rights.