Applications are now open for the 2027 edition of the CCBE Amicus Curiae Contest, an annual competition organised by the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe (CCBE) for law students and trainee lawyers across Europe. ELFA is pleased to support this initiative, which offers future legal professionals the opportunity to develop their legal research and drafting skills while engaging with fundamental issues relating to human rights and the rule of law.
The CCBE Amicus Curiae Contest invites participants to prepare a fictitious amicus curiae brief addressing a topic related to the Rule of Law and the protection of the legal profession. Through this practical exercise, participants can put their legal knowledge into practice, gain experience in legal drafting and deepen their understanding of the essential role played by lawyers in safeguarding the rule of law.
The competition is open to law students and trainee lawyers across Europe, including undergraduate, postgraduate, Master’s and PhD students. The initiative provides a valuable opportunity for participants interested in human rights, the rule of law and legal practice to gain practical and international experience.
The winner will receive a trip to Brussels in June 2027 and will be invited to attend the CCBE Plenary Session, where the award ceremony will take place. The achievement will also provide a distinctive addition to the winner’s CV.
The contest opened for participation on 1st September 2026. Deadline for applications is 30 November 2026.
The initiative aims to promote awareness of the essential role of lawyers while providing participants with practical legal drafting experience. Further information is available on the CCBE website.
ELFA encourages its members, partner institutions and the wider community of European law students and young lawyers to share this opportunity with those who may be interested in taking part.