Lawyers extend strike: Crisis in Moroccan courts heading towards escalation

Unexpected developments in the regulation of the legal profession in Morocco

In a move that disappointed litigants and ended expectations of a near resolution to the crisis, the Council of the Association of Bar Associations in Morocco decided, during a decisive meeting on Thursday evening, to proceed with the stoppage of work. This decision expresses the rejection by the associations of the provisions of Law No. 66.23 regarding the organization of the legal profession, which has sparked a wave of anger among members of the “black robe.”

Background of the decision and its impact on the judiciary

Estimations in recent days pointed to the possibility of suspending the strike and returning to courtrooms, especially after the new law was published in the Official Gazette, with many associations actually preparing to resume sessions early next week. However, the Association’s recent meeting shifted the power balance, favoring the option of continuing the protest until demands are met or a consensus is reached to end the tension.

Impact of the strike on court operations

The continuation of this national strike is having heavy repercussions on the normal functioning of justice in the Kingdom. The ongoing stoppage has caused the disruption of thousands of hearings and the postponement of cases and citizen matters, placing the judicial facility in a state of “paralysis” that may intensify in the coming days. The Association of Bar Associations is expected to issue an official, detailed statement explaining the circumstances of this decision and clarifying the next protest steps in light of the ongoing legal and professional controversy surrounding Law 66.23.