THE MASTER’S DEGREE IN LEGAL PRACTICE AND THE TRAINING OF BARRISTERS ACCORDING TO THE LAW 34/2006, ON ACCESS TO THE LEGAL PROFESSION: REFLECTIONS AND PROPOSALS

Abstract

The system established to regulate the access of Law graduates to the professions of barrister and solicitor has been discussed in Spain for decades. Finally, in 2006 a law determined that such access should be done taking an exam, which should be preceded by a specific training course, designed as a master organized by the universities. This paper analyzes this training course, also known as “Master en Abogacía” (Master’s degree in Legal Practice). It begins with an introduction to
the models of legal profession and training of lawyers, and also shows its complex legal framework, its structure and functions, the noticeable diversity among the staff and the students also, and finally the Internship and a Master’s dissertation. The paper ends with a reflection on the access exam and its adjustment to the Master’s content and dynamics.