What is a lawyer?
- A lawyer is a qualified professional who can guide you through the legal process so that you can make informed legal decisions.
- A lawyer may also represent you in legal documents, proceedings, and other matters related to the law.
- A lawyer may not act as a broker. Lawyers who engage in bribery or other attempts to unlawfully influence the legal process may lose their license to practice and face criminal charges due to misconduct.
- In Myanmar, there are two main categories of lawyer: Higher Grade Pleader and Advocate. For more information see Question 3: What is the difference between Higher Grade Pleader and Advocate?
Can I use the LannPya app instead of a lawyer?
- This app provides only general legal information. An individual’s rights and responsibilities may vary depending on the type of case and the specific factual circumstances.
- This app cannot replace a lawyer because does not, and cannot, advise the user on the best options to take nor inform the user of likely outcomes.
- A lawyer is expected to apply the law to the specific facts of a client’s case and advice on the best actions to take and likely outcomes. Only a qualified lawyer should provide you with such legal advice.
- You may also need a lawyer to directly represent you in court proceedings.
What is the difference between Higher Grade Pleader and Advocate?
- In Myanmar, there are two main categories of lawyer:
- A Higher Grade Pleader is a lawyer who may only practice at the Township and District Court levels and is subject to the Legal Practitioner’s Act (1879).
- An Advocate is a lawyer who may practice at all levels including the Supreme Court, and is subject to the Bar Council Act (1926) (amended 1989). Some provisions of the Legal Practitioner’s Act (1879) also apply to Advocates.
How can a lawyer help me with my situation?
- A lawyer can help you understand your rights and the law relevant to your situation.
- A lawyer will advise you on available legal options and their possible consequences.
- You should hire a lawyer even if you believe you are guilty of the charges against you and wish to plead guilty. A lawyer can help guide you through the process of pleading guilty or facing trial and ensure that your rights are respected.
What is a paralegal?
- Paralegals are persons who have received training in skills such as advocacy and mediation but are not lawyers.
- Paralegals may provide information on the legal process and available remedies. They may also engage with wide-range of administrative institutions and customary authorities on your behalf.
- Paralegals may also provide support to qualified lawyers but cannot replace lawyers in all instances. For example, only qualified lawyers should provide you with legal advice and represent you in court proceedings.
What are my rights to a lawyer as a person charged with a crime?
- Every accused person has the right to be defended by a lawyer in criminal proceedings.
- This includes the right to privately communicate with a lawyer while in detention, including within 24 hours of arrest.
- If the offence is punishable with death, the State should provide a lawyer for the accused free of charge.