Introduction
Do you dream of becoming a lawyer? Then you are not the only one. The profession of lawyer appeals to your imagination: you assist clients in legal disputes, you can litigate in court and translate complex legislation into practical solutions. But how do you become a lawyer in the Netherlands? In this blog, we explain what education you need, how the lawyer internship works and what steps you need to take to eventually start working as a full-fledged lawyer.
Step 1: A university law degree
To become a lawyer, you must complete a university law degree. You begin with a bachelor's degree in law, which lasts three years. You then pursue a master's degree in law, such as civil law, criminal law or labor law. Most universities offer several graduate programs.
The total university route takes about four years at full time. Upon completion, you may officially call yourself master of law (mr.). This is a required title to be admitted to the legal profession.
Step 2: From college to university (possibly)
Have you completed a higher education in Law? Then you can still advance to university through a premaster program. After completing the premaster program, you will follow the same master's program as university students. The whole process will take a little longer on average, but the end result is equivalent: you will receive the title of mr. and can proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Become an attorney trainee
After completing your studies, you can apply to a law firm. If you are hired, you will start working as a trainee lawyer. That title sounds like you're still in training, but in reality, you'll work fully on real cases from day one. In other words, you rotate right into the office, under the guidance of an experienced patron (a recognized supervisor within the Bar Association).
You can choose to work at a commercial firm, for example at the Zuidas in Amsterdam, or at a social law firm, where you will work for individuals and clients with legal aid (subsidized legal aid). Both routes lead to the same end goal.
Step 4: The Professional Legal Training Program
During your internship period, you will take the Professional Legal Education (BA) program. This course takes two years and consists of class days, peer review and exams. You will have a training day approximately once every two to three weeks, during which you will combine theory with skills such as pleading, writing and negotiating.
The course is mandatory and is an important part of your development as an independent lawyer. You will learn the professional ethics, procedural law and professional depth you need to function as an attorney.
Step 5: From intern to full lawyer
After three years of internship and successful completion of professional training, you are officially an unconditional lawyer. This means that you remain registered with the Dutch Bar Association, without being under the supervision of a patron.
From this point on, you can assist clients independently, litigate independently, and possibly even start your own firm. You are then fully responsible for your practice and bound by the rules of professional conduct.
Conclusion
Becoming a lawyer is an intensive path, but with the right commitment and guidance achievable with legal ambitions. Whether you enter through university or college, the route only ends after professional training and three years of work experience as a trainee lawyer. After that, a versatile and responsible profession awaits, with room for specialization, entrepreneurship and social impact.
This blog was written by mr. Stijn Blom, employment lawyer at Arbeidsadvocaat.nl B.V. Stijn has extensive experience in employment law and supports entrepreneurs and employees on a daily basis with a variety of employment law issues. From dismissal cases to drafting watertight contracts and regulations - with his practical and personal approach, he helps employers and employees move forward. Want to know more? Visit Stijn's page.
Arbeidsadvocaat.nl is happy to think with you if you have questions about employment law. Please feel free to contact us .
April 2025
