Should one be represented or assisted by a lawyer before the labor court?

Verified 25 February 2026 - Public Service / Directorate of Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

The Labor Court (CPH) settles individual disputes between an employer and an employee arising in connection with any employment contract. The parties are summoned by the CPH to a hearing. Who can assist or represent the employee and the employer? We present you the information to remember.

No, the presence of a lawyer before the labor court is not required. The parties can defend themselves.

Yes, the employee can be assisted or represented.

The persons entitled to assist or represent the employee are as follows:

  • Employee or employer belonging to the same industry
  • Trade Union Advocate
  • Person with whom the employee lives as a couple
  • Father, mother or guardian for a minor employee
  • Lawyer.

The representative must provide proof of a written document allowing him to intervene in the name and on behalf of the employee during the labor court proceedings. This writing is called special power.

Before the Conciliation and Guidance Office, this writing must authorize him to conciliate on behalf of and on behalf of the principal.

If it is a lawyer who represents the employee, he does not need this power.

Minors who cannot be assisted by their father, mother or guardian may be authorized by the labor court to defend itself.

The president and vice-president of the labor court may not assist or represent the employee.

The prud'hommes councilors, may not attend or represent the employee before the labor court to which they belong.

Yes, the employer can be assisted or represented.

The persons entitled to assist or represent the employer are:

  • Employee or employer belonging to the same industry
  • Trade Union Advocate
  • Person with whom the employer lives as a couple
  • Lawyer
  • Member of the company or institution power of attorney or authorized to do so.

The representative must provide a written document allowing him to intervene on behalf of the employer during the labor court proceedings. This writing is called special power.

Before the Conciliation and Guidance Office, this writing must authorize him to conciliate on behalf of and on behalf of the principal.

If it's a lawyer representing the employer, they don't need that power.

The chairman and vice-chairman of the labor court may not assist or represent the employer.

The prud'hommes councilors, may not attend or represent the employer before the labor court to which they belong.

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