In a significant development for the legal community, Dubai Decision No. 6/2024 has been issued by the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre, effective from 14 November 2024.

This decision outlines the procedures for handling requests and claims related to attorney fees.

The decision comes after a thorough review of several federal decrees, including the Federal Decree-Law No. 34/2022, which regulates the professions of law and legal consultancy, and the Federal Decree-Law No. 42/2022, which pertains to civil procedures.

Additionally, it considers Dubai Decree No. 26/2013 and Dubai Decree No. 28/2023, which address the establishment and leadership of the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre in Dubai.

Under the new decision, the Centre is designated as the competent authority to consider all requests and claims regarding attorney fees within its jurisdiction.

The decision specifies two distinct procedures based on the existence of a contract between the attorney and the client.

If a contract is present, the fee request will be processed through an order on a petition.

In the absence of such a contract, the request will be handled as a substantive lawsuit.

This decision aims to streamline the process of fee assessment and ensure the proper administration of justice, reflecting the Centre’s commitment to addressing the needs of both legal professionals and their clients.

The legal community is advised to take note of these changes and adjust their practices accordingly.

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