On 21 May 1993, the Law on the Bar of the Republic of Latvia entered into force, one of the important steps in rebuilding a state governed by the rule of law after the restoration of independence. On the same day in Riga, at the Small Guild, Latvian advocates took the advocate’s oath and became sworn advocates of Latvia. The law strengthened advocates’ independence and professional status, defining their role in providing legal assistance and defending and representing lawful interests in court and pre-trial proceedings.

After 4 May 1990, Latvia had to restore not only its symbols and institutions, but also an independent justice system. The Law on the Bar helped move from Soviet-era regulation to a model of professional, autonomous legal assistance appropriate to a democratic state.