About “Lawyer” in Japan

Japanese Attorney BadgeThere are several types of “LAWYER” in Japan.
(linked to english Wikipedia)

  1. Gyosei-Shoshi (Administrative scrivener)
  2. Shihou-Shoshi (Judicial scrivener)
  3. Bengoshi (Attorney at Law)

Though all are professionals in each area, only “Bengoshi” (Attorney at Law) is legally allowed to represent clients in district courts, family courts, or more advanced stages of litigation.

So if you need legal support in Japan, and if there is a chance for some kind of negotiation or litigation (lawsuit) in the future, it is advisable to consult a Bengoshi lawyer (attorney at law) from the beginning.

Published by

Kei Sumikawa

Kei Sumikawa

Attorney at law (lawyer) in Kawasaki city (next to Tokyo and Yokohama). Member of Kanagawa Bar Association (former Yokohama Bar Association).