SC sets Shari’a bar exams next January

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA—The Supreme Court has set the Shari’a Bar Examinations on January 19 and 26, 2014.

The announcement was contained in one-page court resolution  dated July 2, 2013 and signed by clerk of court Enriqueta Vidal.

The Court set the dates for the exams in reply to a request dated June 4, 2013 from Mehol Sadain of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and upon the recommendation of the Office of the Bar Confidant.

“The Court resolved to grant the request of Mr. Sadain for the scheduling of the 13th Special Shari’a Bar Examinations on January 19 and 26, 2014,” the resolution stated.

The high court also appointed Judge Kaudri I. Jainul as chair of the board of examiners.

Shari’a law practitioners, also called Shari’a counsellors, litigate cases in the Shari’a district and circuit courts, most of which are located in Mindanao. Although they are recognized as special members of the Philippine Bar, Shari’a law lawyers are not allowed to practice law in regular courts and may not use the title “attorney.”

Shari’a courts were created in 1977 to resolve certain cases involving Muslims who are covered by Islamic law. Cases include those on personal status, marriage, matrimonial and family relations, succession and inheritance, and property relations between spouses.

The first Shari’a bar exams were held in 1983.