3 days ago
PLPC: Why are Bahrain's Top Law Firms Backing This Legal Training Program?
Bahrain's legal sector faces a defining moment, with an increasing demand for proficient, business-savvy, ethical, and globally competent lawyers. In a rapidly evolving legal landscape, the need for structured training and mentorship for law graduates has become increasingly critical.
Law firms must go beyond recruitment and actively invest in the next generation. The Professional Legal Practice Certificate (PLPC) Course is helping the landscape with exactly that, a bold and collaborative initiative that serves as a solid foundation for the Kingdom's young legal talent.
Since its inception in 2019, the PLPC has become a cornerstone of legal training in Bahrain. Now in its fourth cohort with 30 graduates, this six-month course by the Judicial & Legal Studies Institute (JLSI) bridges the gap between academic study and the real-world demands of legal practice.
Beyond a very robust curriculum, what sets the PLPC apart is the collective commitment it has garnered from Bahrain's leading law firms.
PLPC's success is no accident. The program has grown into a robust, 16-module experience that covers everything from legal ethics and negotiation to corporate law and anti-money laundering. The entire program is delivered in English and is designed with input from Bahrain's top legal minds. Dr. Khaled Serry Seyam – JLSI Dr. Reyadh Seyadi – JLSI
Dr. Khaled Serry Seyam, Chairman of JLSI, emphasises the program's broader impact: 'PLPC goes beyond the scope of legal training; it's a vehicle for achieving Bahrain's Vision 2030. By equipping graduates with practical skills and strong English proficiency, we're preparing them to be catalysts for legal and economic progress.'
Dr. Reyadh Seyadi, JLSI's Director, who ensures that the program remains aligned with the ever-evolving needs of Bahrain's legal and corporate sectors, believes that the program enhances legal expertise, fosters proactive risk management, and strengthens corporate governance. 'It empowers young lawyers to become ethical, strategic contributors within their organisations,' says Dr. Seyadi.
At the core of this initiative is Sulaf Zakharia, Head of Institutional Relations, who conceptualised and developed the course. The leadership at JLSI has built a national pathway that's nurturing and equipping Bahrain's future legal professionals with hands-on experiences.
For many of the program's supporters, the PLPC is a means to build a sustainable legal ecosystem in the Kingdom.
Dr. Hassan Ali Radhi of Hassan Radhi & Associates sees the program as essential to closing the gap between theory and practice: 'The diversity of topics and the practical insights offered by PLPC help prepare young professionals to handle real-life legal challenges. These efforts uplift the entire profession and reflect positively on Bahrain's legal reputation.' Dr. Hassan Ali Radhi – Hassan Radhi & Associates Saad Jaber Al Doseri – Al Doseri Law Noor Al Rayes – Al Tamimi & Company
For Saad Al Doseri, Founder of Al Doseri Law, the motivation to support the PLPC is deeply personal. 'As a bilingual legal professional, I recognise the paramount importance of English proficiency and practical training within our industry. The PLPC adeptly equips graduates with these essential skills. It is an honour to contribute to a program that so closely aligns with our mission to cultivate and enhance Bahraini legal talent.'
From her role as Partner, Head of the Dispute Resolution Department at Al Tamimi & Company, Noor Al Rayes sees the program as essential to closing the gap between theory and practice. 'This program goes beyond theory. It provides young lawyers with the skills, confidence, and ethical grounding they need to succeed. Being involved in their development has been deeply rewarding,' she said. 'It's the passion and commitment demonstrated by every participant in this program that gives us hope for a strong legal future in Bahrain.'
The PLPC has evolved into a platform for transformation as law graduates step out of the program with the readiness to take on the challenges of the professional world. For Balall Maqbool, Knowledge Lawyer and Regional Knowledge Manager at DLA Piper Middle East, who has contributed to both the content and delivery of the program, 'PLPC students emerge with foundational legal knowledge, critical thinking abilities, and commercial awareness. These are precisely the attributes that law firms value today.' Balall Maqbool – DLA Piper Middle East Ahmed Al Fardan – Newton Legal Ali Abdullah Al Aradi – Ali Al Aradi Attorneys & Legal Consultants
This sentiment is echoed by Ahmed Al Fardan, Partner at Newton Legal, and the results are tangible. 'The course fosters practical application of law and sharpens skills needed for both in-house and private practice roles. The level of engagement and enthusiasm from the participants is always inspiring.'
Other legal leaders also commend the program's strategic vision. Ali Abdullah Al Aradi, Founder & Senior Partner, Ali Al Aradi Attorneys & Legal Consultants, sees it as a meaningful bridge between education and employment – 'The PLPC is successful in exposing young lawyers to real-world challenges. The involvement of experienced practitioners prepares them for future service to clients and the community.'
What makes the PLPC uniquely impactful is its industry-led model. Law firms are not passive sponsors – they are active participants in shaping the curriculum, teaching modules, and mentoring students. This real-world exposure is instrumental in preparing graduates for the multifaceted demands of legal practice. Ameena Saleh – MENA Chambers Yasmin Sebah – Middlesex University Dubai José M. Zapatero – Urbaser Bahrain
MENA Chambers Bahrain's Senior Associate, Ameena Saleh, sums it up perfectly: 'PLPC covers everything from commercial law to critical soft skills like negotiation and interpersonal skills. It's a comprehensive package that prepares students to transition smoothly into the profession.'
For academics like Yasmin Sebah, Senior Lecturer at Middlesex University Dubai, PLPC offers a model of legal education worth emulating. 'This program symbolises Bahrain's commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability. It continually evolves, incorporating global best practices and training methods.'
The course also benefits from cross-disciplinary expertise. José M. Zapatero, Director of Waste Management – Middle East at Urbaser Bahrain, noted, 'The program's organisation and the students' drive are exemplary. I was honoured to contribute to the training of a legal community committed to high standards and accountability.'
Since its inception, the program has seen a total of over 90 graduates walk into the professional realm, signifying that the PLPC's legal talent pipeline is growing steadily, and so is its impact. Beyond employability, the program shapes legal minds ready to uphold justice, navigate complex regulations, and contribute meaningfully to the corporate world.
The PLPC represents a collective investment in Bahrain's legal future. Law firms that engage with the program today are shaping the standards, values, and capabilities of tomorrow's legal profession.
As the next cohort prepares to embark on this journey, the message is clear: structured, collaborative training is not optional, but essential.
