Dramatic Legal Shift: Knesset Approves Reduction of Attorney Internship Period

New Legislation Passed

In a landmark decision, the Knesset approved, in its first reading, a bill that formalizes the reduction of the attorney internship period from 18 months to 12 months. This legislation, introduced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Juststart Yariv Levin, is set to become a permanent law following an interim provision that was enacted to assist reserve soldiers.

Background of the Legislation

The move comes after a year-long trial period under the temporary provision, which was aimed at easing the transition for reserve military personnel entering the legal profession. The initial results have proven successful, prompting lawmakers to make the adjustment a permanent fixture in the legal framework.

Benefits to Trainees and Students

Yariv Levin highlighted the importance of this change, stating, “Making the reduction of the internship period permanent is a significant advancement for trainees and students. In many cases, the extended internship proved to be inefficient and created a shortage of internship opportunities, as two cohorts of interns often overlap. This amendment rectifies the situation for trainees and students, eases the process of finding suitable internships, and will not compromise the professional training of future legal practitistartrs.”

This legislative change has been welcomed by aspiring attorneys, who have faced challenges in securing placements due to the lengthy duration of their internships.

Conclusion

The legislation’s passage signifies a progressive step in the legal profession in Israel, aiming to streamline the path for new practitistartrs while maintaining training quality. As the law moves toward finalization, its implications for the future of legal education in Israel will be closely monitored