The Young European Lawyers Project (YELP) is an initiative by the Academy of European Law (ERA), CCBE, EYBA, partnering Bar associations and the European Commission designed to empower the next generation of legal professionals across Europe. To prepare young lawyers for the digital environment, YELP offers two unique training opportunities: CONTEST and ACADEMY
Bridging the Gap: EU Law Meets Digital Innovation
YELP isn't just another training programme - it's a launchpad for young lawyers to thrive in an increasingly digital and interconnected Europe. The project focuses on three critical areas:
- Digital Mastery: Equipping lawyers with cutting-edge tech skills
- EU Law Expertise: Ensuring confident and effective application of EU legislation
- Advocacy Skills: Learning from peers how to convince, conduct negotiations and plead before a judge.
Why YELP Matters
- Future-Proofing Careers: The legal landscape is evolving rapidly. YELP prepares you for the digital transformation of justice systems.
- Practical, Hands-On Learning: Move beyond theory with real-world exercises and case studies.
- European Network: Connect with fellow young lawyers from across the continent, building valuable professional relationships.
Your Training Opportunities
1. The Young European Lawyers Contest (YELC)
- Challenge Yourself: Prepare written submissions, engage in negotiation exercises and pleadings with your teammates across Europe
- Improve your Litigation Techniques: Show your prowess in front of esteemed jurors
- Prestigious Finals: Showcase your skills at the General Court of the European Union
2. The Young European Lawyers Academy (YELA)
- Intensive 8-Day Course: Deep-dive into EU law and digital competencies
- Apply the Law: Learn how to use EU law and digital developments to your advantage in your daily legal practice
- Exclusive Access: Visit the CJEU and European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) to discuss the future of law in personal meetings with the judges of the courts
Who can attend?
The project focuses on lawyers in private practice at the beginning of their career. ’Young lawyers‘ are those who are, at the time of registration, considered trainee lawyers under national law, including those who are in an induction or apprenticeship period; in jurisdictions in which initial training does not include a period of legal practice, newly qualified lawyers with less than three years of experience can apply. The organisers reserve the right to request proof of apprenticeship or qualification during the application process.
YELP is your passport to becoming a tech-savvy, EU law expert ready to tackle the legal challenges of tomorrow. Don't miss this opportunity to supercharge your legal career!
Learn more about the training opportunities and apply for our 2025 events:
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Co-funded by the European Union