Welcome to the CCBE website, particularly in this year 2010, which is a special year for this organisation since we will commemorate the 50th anniversary of its founding. Fifty years of being the voice of the legal profession in a united Europe; fifty years of serving not only the interests of European lawyers, but also those of the society for which we work; an arduous and long experience which encourages us to continue to work to uphold the rule of law.

This year also marks the implementation of the Lisbon Treaty, which introduces significant changes in the legal structure of the European Union, for which we are willing to provide our loyal collaboration. We will ensure at all times that developments take place without compromising the rights of anyone - not just lawyers, but also citizens - by reaching MEPs and the EU Institutions with our warnings and vigilance.

We are aware that proper administration of, and high standards in justice are a guarantee of development and social progress. That is why we offer our contribution to the development of Community law, which is essential in a world as complex as the current one, where it is increasingly difficult for citizens to know their rights and assert them. This is particularly true in transnational issues caused by the increasing movement of people and capital and free provision of services.

Relying on the assistance of a lawyer is essential throughout the EU. The work of lawyers through their professional bodies and national bars has a social component to assist defendants, victims, citizens in general, which the CCBE coordinates and facilitates through the benefits of IT, thus cooperating in the development of the European online Justice program (e-Justice).

Browsing these pages will show you the structure of the organisation, its key positions, and also – what is most important – it will allow you to better understand the invaluable work of the European legal profession towards the construction of the European Union.

José-María DAVÓ-FERNÁNDEZ
2010 CCBE President