The Professional Legal Practice Certificate (PLPC) Course has been providing young law graduates with an immersive learning experience since 2019, significantly enhancing their professional journeys. This 6-month training program, offered by the Judicial & Legal Studies Institute (JLSI), bridges academic study and professional legal practice for Bahrain’s aspiring law professionals.
Participants emerge from the PLPC Course well-prepared to tackle real-life legal challenges with a solid understanding of Bahrain’s commercial registration process, the CBB and its regulatory role, as well as how to negotiate effectively, conduct legal research, draft legal texts, significantly enhancing their employability and readiness to contribute to the legal profession.
Annually, nearly 80 aspirants vie for a spot in this program, but only twenty-three endure a rigorous selection process to hone their skills through real-world scenarios. The third cohort of participants recently graduated from the intensive program in June 2024 with a thorough practical understanding of the current legal landscape in the Kingdom.
“The PLPC program serves as a vital conduit for realizing Bahrain’s Vision 2030. By equipping young lawyers with practical skills, legal expertise, and proficiency in English, we empower them to contribute significantly to the growth of the Kingdom’s legal sector. As these graduates step into their roles, they become catalysts for progress, aligning with the vision of a prosperous, knowledge-driven Bahrain.”
Dr Khaled Serry Seyam, Chairman, JLSI
“Empowering new lawyers with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex legal landscape, the PLPC course provides a tailored curriculum to enhance legal expertise, foster proactive risk mitigation, and strengthen corporate governance, allowing legal professionals to drive success and ethical excellence within their organizations.”
Dr Reyadh Seyadi, Director, JLSI
The course, created by JLSI’s Head of Institutional Relations, Sulaf Zakharia, boasts a rich and diverse curriculum, covering 16 key modules—from legal ethics and corporate law to negotiation skills and anti-money laundering. These modules are crafted and imparted entirely in English by some of Bahrain’s foremost lawyers and legal experts, equipping graduates not only with essential legal knowledge but also with critical language skills for global practice.
“Having personally participated in and supported the JLSI’s basic and continuous training programs for lawyers since the Institute’s inception in 2005, I can attest to its pivotal role in elevating the legal profession. JLSI has successfully trained a large number of lawyers, enhancing the overall legal landscape of the Kingdom. Its commitment to continuous education and professional development is invaluable to the sector.”
Abdulrahman AlGhunaim, AlGhunaim Attorneys & Legal Consultants
PLPC is a collaborative model driven by JLSI in partnership with Bahrain-based law firms. The program is supported by Hassan Radhi & Associates, Al Doseri Law, Al Tamimi & Co., Newton Legal Group, DLA Piper Middle East, Ali Alaradi Attorneys & Legal Consultants, and MENA Chambers Bahrain, and independent trainers Ms. Yasmin Sebah, and Mr. José María Zapatero.
Gulf Insider spoke with these partners to find out what made them support the program and how this model of learning equips young graduates to handle the challenges of the field.
Dr Hassan Ali Radhi is a licensed attorney before all categories and degrees of Bahrain Courts, handling local and international arbitration disputes as an arbitrator and counsel. Dr. Radhi holds a PhD in Law from the University of London, where he conducted a comprehensive study on the Bahrain Judicial System. He has served in several prestigious roles, including a former member of the ICC and LCIA Courts, and the Board of Trustees of BCDR/AAA Bahrain. Dr. Radhi is also a founding member and former president of the Bahrain Bar Society.
“My experience with PLPC was very positive. The organization of the program and the dedication of the JLSI team supervising the program are indeed remarkable. I enjoyed being part of this initiative which allowed me and other experienced lawyers to contribute to the development of the younger generation of lawyers and hopefully enhance their professional values and quality. The diversity of topics covered in the PLPC program, focusing on critical skills and areas of Bahraini law, in my view is an essential step for every young lawyer joining the profession. The program in my opinion helps give young professionals practical insights in the field, with real-life examples and case studies. This helps bridge the gap between the undergraduate theoretical studies and the actual professional experience. It is essential to implement such programs for the overall enhancement of the profession which will reflect on the clients’ experience and Bahrain’s reputation as a jurisdiction.“
Dr Hassan Ali Radhi
Noor, Partner and Head of Litigation at Al Tamimi & Company in Bahrain, boasts over fourteen years of experience across the GCC. Qualified to appear before Bahrain’s highest courts, she represents local and international clients, including banks, financial institutions, and commercial companies in litigation and arbitration. Noor’s expertise spans general banking, commercial law arbitrations, regulatory matters, and complex cross-border cases. Recognized as a leading practitioner, she was named a next-generation partner and featured on the Legal 500’s Private Practice Power List for Arbitration in the Middle East in 2022 and 2023.
“Being involved in the PLPC course is deeply rewarding. The students’ enthusiasm and engagement make it a fulfilling experience. Their passion for the legal profession is evident in their active participation, thoughtful questions, and eagerness to master legal complexities. Contributing to the PLPC allows you to shape Bahrain’s next generation of legal professionals, preparing them to navigate and contribute meaningfully to the legal field’s growth and development. The PLPC program plays a crucial role in preparing young professionals for success in the legal industry. This program goes beyond the theoretical knowledge gained in law school and focuses on practical skills necessary for legal practice. It also provides aspiring lawyers with a comprehensive understanding of the day-to-day realities they will face in their careers. The PLPC holds great significance in building a strong generation within the legal industry in Bahrain and it equips lawyers with the tools they need to succeed in their careers. It further provides the students with a solid foundation in legal principles and exposes them to real-world scenarios, enabling them to develop problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills.“
Noor Al Rayes
Saad, the founding partner of Al Doseri Law, is a prominent lawyer with over a decade of experience in the region. Before establishing his firm in 2018, he worked at notable law firms like Haya Rashed Al-Khalifa and Al Tamimi & Co., significantly contributing to the latter’s launch and growth in 2014. A former Captain in the Bahrain Defence Force for ten years, Saad combines his military background with legal expertise to lead Al Doseri Law. He is also a licensed practitioner, Mediator, and Arbitrator, actively involved in arbitration at the GCC Commercial Arbitration Centre and the Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution.
“Since its inception, Al Doseri Law has shown its unwavering commitment to supporting and training young Bahraini talent. As a firm, we feel strongly that we must actively support programs and initiatives within the Kingdom which help to elevate the skills and knowledge of the next generation of lawyers. As a sponsor of the PLPC, we hope that our involvement in the program will make a meaningful contribution to support the growth and development of law graduates and we are honoured to be involved in the program. The PLPC is an innovative, immersive program that covers a wide range of practice areas such as legal ethics, corporate law, financial law, and more. It emphasizes practical training, bridging theory and practice by engaging key practitioners and using real-world scenarios. The program also supports candidates in their job search and stresses the importance of English proficiency, delivering all modules in English. As a bilingual lawyer, I recognize the critical role of English in business and legal transactions in Bahrain.“
Saad Jaber Al Doseri
Ahmed has advised a number of leading national and international companies such as the National Bank of Bahrain, Mumtalakat, Ahli United Bank, Bapco Energies and Eurofins. He has experience in legal disputes over various jurisdictions, before and after they materialize to active cases, whether in litigation or arbitration. Ahmed advised a state-owned company on cost-saving measures imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to advising clients on business transfer transactions and mergers. He has also contributed to the Legal 500’s International Arbitration Comprehensive Guide.
“It was delightful to train young legal professionals and share our knowledge and experiences. The well-organized sessions and provided support ensured effective training. The program’s focus on the practical application of laws resonated with participants, leading to insightful discussions. Their enthusiasm and commitment were commendable. By addressing the theory-practice gap, the program offers valuable insights to improve performance in roles, whether in private practice or as in-house lawyers. Participants build strong networks with peers and gain exposure to leading professionals and law firms. This experience is instrumental in shaping their careers and enhancing their legal expertise.“
Ahmed Al Fardan
Balall Maqbool is a seasoned knowledge lawyer and certified Money Laundering Reporting Officer with 14 years at DLA Piper Middle East, based in Bahrain. He guides global KM, IT, and L&D teams, enhancing the firm’s knowledge management platforms and training initiatives. A University of South Wales law graduate, Balall specializes in Corporate, Employment, and Intellectual Property law, providing strategic support across sectors and regions. Additionally, he has spent over five years teaching courses at universities throughout the GCC as part of the firm’s pro bono efforts, including the PLPC program by JLSI.
“My involvement with the PLPC program is multifaceted, encompassing not only module delivery but also syllabus development, topic selection, and examination formulation. I am constantly inspired by the dedicated team behind the program, whose passion and pursuit of excellence easily motivate everyone involved. The engagement and calibre of the students in the classroom are particularly gratifying. Seeing graduates use their acquired skills to advance in their careers is a testament to the program’s success, as evidenced by alumni encouraging new students to enrol and even returning as contributors. The course is meticulously designed to equip students with essential skills from day one in a law office. It emphasises a robust foundational understanding of the law, critical legal thinking, and client-oriented solution finding that balances commercial and legal considerations. Additionally, it enhances vital soft skills necessary for effective teamwork and building client trust and relationships.“
Balall Maqbool
Ali Abdullah Al Aradi, founder of Ali Al Aradi Attorneys & Legal Consultants, is a Senior Lawyer in Bahrain accredited before the Court of Cassation. With over 27 years of legal expertise in areas like dispute resolution, diplomacy, and governmental affairs, Al Aradi is fluent in English and Arabic.
He has served as the First Deputy Speaker of the Council of Representatives and is a current member of the Shura Council. Additionally, he is a certified arbitrator and mediator recognised by numerous international legal organisations.
“Ali Al Aradi Attorneys & Legal Consultants is dedicated to developing successive generations of Bahraini lawyers. We continuously support the Judicial Legal Studies Institute (JLSI), contributing to the education and training of aspiring lawyers. Participating in the PLPC program has been a privilege, allowing us to impart both theoretical knowledge and practical experience to junior lawyers, enriching their professional growth. The PLPC program focuses on enhancing the practical legal skills of young Bahraini lawyers, successfully meeting its objectives. Many experienced lawyers participate, inspiring newcomers to the profession. The program significantly impacts candidates, introducing them to the legal field and equipping them with essential skills for future client service.“
Ali Abdullah Al Aradi
Ameena Saleh is a licensed Bahraini lawyer, currently holding the role of Senior Associate at MENA Chambers Bahrain. Before joining MCB, she trained in various governmental as well as private corporations such as the Bahrain Chamber for Dispute Resolution “BCDR-AAA”, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority “TRA” Bahrain, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bahrain and the Bahrain National Insurance Company.
“MENA Chambers Bahrain is dedicated to fostering young, distinguished, and independent leaders in the legal sector, aligning perfectly with the goals of the PLPC program. In Bahrain, the PLPC program stands out for its comprehensive approach, covering key practice areas such as commercial law, corporate affairs, finance, and alternative dispute resolution. Moreover, the program places a strong emphasis on developing essential soft skills for lawyers, such as legal ethics, research, negotiation techniques, and critical thinking. These elements are designed to bridge the gap between academic study and professional legal practice.“
Ameena Saleh
Yasmin is a Senior Law Lecturer at Middlesex University Dubai, teaching International Commercial Arbitration and various Commercial Law modules. She also serves as an International Trade and Investment Law Advisor, specializing in cross-border disputes and trade policy negotiation across the Middle East and Africa. Yasmin consults for UN organizations like UN Women and UNCTAD, advising on investment policies and green provisions. She has represented states in international arbitration at ICSID and PCA and facilitates legal training programs in the Middle East and Africa. Yasmin is Vice-Chair of the Arbitration Fund for African Students (AFAS).
“As a trainer for Bahrain’s Professional Legal Practice Course (PLPC), I am privileged to contribute to a program that symbolizes Bahrain’s commitment to legal education excellence. The PLPC, under the Bahrain JLSI, nurtures legal talent and promotes lifelong learning within the profession. Having grown significantly, it adapts to the evolving needs of the global legal landscape, transforming from a modest initiative into a comprehensive course. The PLPC continuously updates its curriculum with the latest legal trends and teaching methods, delivered by a faculty of experienced legal professionals, thus equipping participants with crucial insights into practical legal practice.“
Yasmin Sebah
For the past three decades, José M. Zapatero has dedicated his career to waste management, with a particular emphasis on waste treatment. For the last six years, he has held a senior management position at Urbaser Bahrain where he is actively involved in researching innovative methods for waste treatment. This research has culminated in the development of a process that converts waste into organic fertilizers, thereby promoting a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to waste management.
In addition to improving operational efficiency, a significant portion of José’s role involves enhancing team performance and fostering a culture of motivation. It is in this capacity that he discovered his passion for productivity strategies and training, leading to his involvement with the PLPC.
“My involvement with the PLPC has been truly rewarding. This opportunity has enabled me to significantly contribute to the education of budding lawyers, an endeavour I hold in high regard. I’ve had the privilege of imparting my knowledge while gaining invaluable insights from the students. The meticulous organization of the program has enhanced my experience, making my participation enjoyable. The students’ enthusiasm and motivation have left a lasting impression on me. The PLPC program, a standard of excellence, instils a sense of responsibility and commitment to upholding the highest standards of the profession, setting it apart.“
José M. Zapatero
Is your institution’s information current and accurate? Keep your details up-to-date to boost visibility and connect with prospective students.
Click the link below to add/request an update to your profile
Add/Request