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Al-Ahram Weekly

Egyptian lawyers to escalate strike on 7, 8 July over litigation fees increase

The Egyptian Lawyers Syndicate announced on Wednesday that all lawyers across the country will boycott court proceedings and refrain from dealing with court treasuries on 7 and 8 July as part of a broader campaign aimed at protesting the increase in litigation fees. The decision, issued in an official circular by the syndicate following its assembly meeting, applies to all levels of court and legal institutions. It urges regional syndicate branches to prepare for the strike and coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure smooth execution. Regional branches are responsible for implementing the necessary logistical and procedural steps and the appropriate mechanisms. This move comes as part of a broader initiative that began earlier this year, when lawyers across Egypt launched protests calling for pension reforms, improved healthcare coverage, and the safeguarding of professional dignity within the justice system. According to a statement, Abdel-Halim Allam, the syndicate's head, will formally notify all concerned authorities of the planned action, and they will be responsible for the legal framework and its consequences. In March, the heads of the Council of Appeal Courts decided to increase judicial fees for digitization services, sparking nationwide anger from the legal community in Egypt. In response, the Lawyers Syndicate urged its members across all governorates to participate in protests as an initial step in a broader plan to oppose the new charges. On 14 April, Egyptian lawyers launched the first stage of their escalation campaign against the decision by holding a 30-minute protest outside courthouses nationwide. On 18 May, they organized another two-day general strike, during which they refrained from attending hearings in all criminal courts nationwide. On 29 May, they organized a nationwide protest at the primary courts' headquarters (also known as courts of first instance) in all governorates. The protests highlight the legal community's growing concerns over what they view as unjustified financial burdens on litigants and a potential barrier to accessing justice. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link: