The Brazilian Bar Association (OAB) released the Census "Speak Young Advocacy" in 2026, revealing the main challenges faced by lawyers at the beginning of their careers. The survey heard 9,102 professionals with up to five years of OAB registration, representing all Brazilian states, and showed that the difficulties go beyond passing the Bar Exam.
Among participants, 36%, equivalent to 3,279 people, cited lack of clients as the biggest obstacle to practicing the profession. Another 2,506 lawyers reported technical insecurity and lack of experience with procedural practice, while 1,547 mentioned the high costs of maintaining a functioning office.
The census also identified that 1,299 respondents felt the lack of mentorship from more experienced professionals to guide them during the transition from academic life to the job market. These data show that legal education, although essential, is not sufficient to fully prepare new lawyers for the practical challenges of the profession.
The survey also revealed that 39% of participants had less than one year of OAB registration, indicating that many professionals are in a very initial phase of their careers. This data reinforces the need for policies and support programs aimed at those beginning their legal practice.
