---
title: "How to Become a Lawyer (Advokat) in Indonesia"
description: "Indonesian advocates (lawyers) need a law degree, PKPA training, a bar exam, a two-year apprenticeship, a minimum age of 25 and an oath at the High Court."
lang: en
canonical: "https://kariraman.com/en/careers/lawyer/"
datePublished: "2026-10-08"
dateModified: "2026-10-08"
sources:
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/UU0182003.pdf"
  - "https://www.mkri.id/public/content/persidangan/putusan/95_PUU-XIV_2016.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp83-2008.pdf"
  - "https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/ini-isi-lengkap-kebijakan-ma-terbaru-terkait-penyumpahan-advokat-lt5609849a4e604/"
  - "https://dandapala.com/article/detail/disumpah-jadi-advokat-40-pengacara-berjanji-tak-akan-menyuap-hakim"
  - "https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/pkpa-dipalsukan--ketua-ma--cabut-izin-advokatnya-lt56b48aa97c698/"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/uu16-2011bt.pdf"
  - "https://sidbankum.bphn.go.id/"
  - "https://ojk.go.id/id/regulasi/Documents/Pages/Pelindungan-Konsumen-dan-Masyarakat-di-Sektor-Jasa-Keuangan/POJK%2022%20Tahun%202023%20Pelindungan%20Konsumen%20dan%20Masyarakat%20di%20Sektor%20Jasa%20Keuangan.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp36-2021bt.pdf"
  - "https://disnaker.batam.go.id/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2025/06/DOC-20250522-WA0002.-1.pdf"
  - "https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/peraturan/detail/2686/surat-edaran-menteri-nomor-6-tahun-2025"
  - "https://ahu.go.id/pencarian/profil-pt"
  - "https://jdih.jabarprov.go.id/page/info/produk/53539/"
  - "https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/3005"
  - "https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/ump-dan-umk-jabar-2026-lt695805af72d43"
  - "https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/2252"
  - "https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp-no-49-tahun-2025.pdf"
  - "https://jdih.jakarta.go.id/dokumen/detail/14763"
  - "https://kemnaker.go.id/news/detail/wamenaker-apresiasi-paket-kebijakan-kesejahteraan-pekerja-dki-pascapenetapan-ump-2026-bisa-dicontoh-oleh-daerah-lain"
  - "https://www.bps.go.id/id/pressrelease/2026/08/05/2606/keadaan-ketenagakerjaan-.html"
  - "https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/asset/data_puu/2025senaker006.pdf"
  - "https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Download/31128/UU%20Nomor%2013%20Tahun%202003.pdf"
  - "https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker"
  - "https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai"
  - "https://finance.detik.com/tips-dan-trik/d-7941714/waspada-marak-modus-penipuan-lowongan-admin-e-commerce"
  - "https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu"
  - "https://www.bca.co.id/id/informasi/awas-modus/2024/09/18/08/24/Awas-Modus-Panggilan-Interview-Kerja-Ini-Ciri-cirinya"
  - "https://www.detik.com/bali/hukum-dan-kriminal/d-8524702/niat-cari-kerja-di-bali-pria-sumba-malah-disekap-disiksa-2-wanita"
  - "https://www.medcom.id/nasional/daerah/Wb7zXLaN-polisi-tunggu-pelaporan-korban-kasus-staycation"
  - "https://www.ojk.go.id/id/berita-dan-kegiatan/info-terkini/Documents/Pages/Booklet-Waspada-Penipuan-Scam-OJK/Booklet%20Waspada%20Penipuan%20Mengintai%20Kita%2c%20Ayo%20Lawan%20dan%20Hindari%21.pdf"
  - "https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20240112093139-78-1048464/waspada-modus-penipuan-file-apk-pps-pemilu-yang-bisa-kuras-rekening"
---

> Markdown version of https://kariraman.com/en/careers/lawyer/. Cite that HTML page and its update date.

# Lawyers (advocates) in Indonesia: requirements, PKPA, bar exam, apprenticeship and oath

Written by KarirAman editorial team Approved by [Kaiser Khan](https://kariraman.com/en/authors/kaiser-khan/) (editor), 8 October 2026 Updated 8 October 2026

Indonesian advocates (lawyers) need a law degree, PKPA training, a bar exam, a two-year apprenticeship, a minimum age of 25 and an oath at the High Court.

## Summary

Professional requirements: Appointment by a bar association and an oath at the High Court Medium scam risk

- Law 18/2003 Articles 2 and 3 require a law degree, special advocate professional education (PKPA), passing a bar association exam and a two-year continuous apprenticeship.
- A candidate advocate must be at least 25 years old and must not be a civil servant or state official (Law 18/2003 Article 3).
- Before practising, an advocate must take an oath at an open session of the High Court (Pengadilan Tinggi) for their legal domicile (Law 18/2003 Article 4).
- Advocates must give free legal aid to people who cannot afford it (Law 18/2003 Article 22 and Government Regulation 83/2008).
- High Courts swear in candidate advocates proposed by various bar associations, under Supreme Court Chief Justice Letter 73/KMA/HK.01/IX/2015.

## What is an advokat in Indonesia, and what does a lawyer do?

An advocate (advokat) provides legal services to clients in and out of court: advice, acting under a power of attorney, representing, accompanying, defending and drafting legal documents. Law 18/2003 Article 1 points 1 and 2 define advocates and their legal services, and Article 5(2) sets their working area as the whole of Indonesia. Advocates work in law firms, run their own practice or work at legal aid institutes.

- Give legal advice to individual and business clients.
- Draft lawsuits, statements of defence, warning letters (somasi), appeal briefs and other legal documents.
- Represent and accompany clients in court, at the police or in mediation.
- Research laws and court decisions to build case strategy.
- Negotiate and draft settlements or contracts for clients.
- Keep client matters confidential and follow the advocates' code of ethics.
- Give free legal aid to people who cannot afford it.

## What do you need to become a lawyer in Indonesia?

Law 18/2003 Articles 2 and 3 require an Indonesian citizen living in Indonesia with a law degree, who has completed special advocate professional education (PKPA), passed the bar association exam and served an apprenticeship of at least two continuous years at an advocate's office, is at least 25 years old, is not a civil servant or state official and has never been sentenced for a crime carrying five years or more in prison.

- **Licence or certificate:** Appointment by a bar association and an oath at the High Court
- **Issued by:** Bar associations (PKPA, exam, appointment, code of ethics) and the High Court (oath)
- **Legal basis:** Law 18/2003 on Advocates, Articles 2 to 4 and 26 to 30; Constitutional Court Decision 95/PUU-XIV/2016; Supreme Court Chief Justice Letter 73/KMA/HK.01/IX/2015

## What does a typical lawyer job ad in Indonesia ask for?

Law firm ads usually separate sworn advocate posts from assistant or candidate advocate posts for people still taking PKPA and the apprenticeship, then name the practice area such as litigation, corporate or employment law. The description below is our own summary of common ad patterns, not a vacancy from any firm. A genuine ad names the firm, its address and the employment status offered.

General example, not a vacancy

We wrote this description ourselves from what job ads usually ask for. It is not a vacancy from any company.

### Commonly requested requirements

- A law degree; for advocate posts, already appointed and sworn in at the High Court.
- For assistant or candidate advocate posts, a law graduate taking or about to take PKPA and the apprenticeship.
- Legal research, writing and oral argument skills.
- English for firms that handle corporate or foreign clients.
- Integrity and the ability to keep confidences.

### Skills

Legal research, Legal drafting, Litigation, Negotiation, Case law analysis, Client communication, Professional ethics, Case management.

Ministry of Manpower Circular M/6/HK.04/V/2025 bars employers from discriminating on any basis in recruitment. An age requirement is allowed only where the nature of the job genuinely affects ability and it does not remove the chance of work, and the same applies to workers with disabilities. Law 13/2003 Articles 5 and 6 guarantee equal opportunity and treatment without discrimination. [JDIH Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan](https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/asset/data_puu/2025senaker006.pdf) 8 October 2026 [JDIH BPK RI (peraturan.bpk.go.id)](https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Download/31128/UU%20Nomor%2013%20Tahun%202003.pdf) 8 October 2026

## How much does a lawyer earn in Indonesia?

An advocate's income comes from fees, which under Law 18/2003 Article 21 are set reasonably by agreement with the client, or from a salary when employed by a law firm. There is no official rate per case. For law firm employees with less than one year of service, Government Regulation 36/2021 bans pay below the minimum wage, except in micro and small businesses (Article 36). KarirAman has no advocate salary or fee data that meets our standards yet.

**Advocate (Lawyer): available pay data (as of 8 October 2026)**

| Data | Figure | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Pay range in KarirAman verified vacancies | Not enough data yet (n < 30) |   |
| Average net wage of employees, Professional, scientific, technical, administrative and support services (BPS Sakernas May 2026) | IDR 4,039,293 | reference for the Professional, scientific, technical, administrative and support services sector, not specific to this career; net (after deductions)<br>[Badan Pusat Statistik](https://www.bps.go.id/id/pressrelease/2026/08/05/2606/keadaan-ketenagakerjaan-.html) 8 October 2026 |
| Minimum wage (UMP/UMK) as the floor | IDR 2,317,601 to IDR 5,729,876 | Lowest 2026 UMP IDR 2,317,601 (West Java), highest IDR 5,729,876 (Jakarta)<br>Micro and small businesses are exempt from the minimum wage rules; pay there is set by agreement and still has a legal floor. [Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp36-2021bt.pdf) 7 October 2026 |

[Check your city's minimum wage (2026)](https://kariraman.com/en/minimum-wage/) [Work out your take-home pay](https://kariraman.com/en/tools/take-home-pay/) [How we handle salary data](https://kariraman.com/en/methodology/salary/)

## What is the education route to becoming a lawyer in Indonesia?

The route starts with a law degree (S1 Hukum), then special advocate professional education (PKPA). Under Constitutional Court Decision 95/PUU-XIV/2016, PKPA is run by a bar association that must work with a university whose law faculty is accredited at least B, or a law school accredited at least B. Then come the bar association exam and a two-year continuous apprenticeship at an office that, under Law 18/2003 Article 29, must provide supervision, training and practical opportunities.

- [**Bachelor's degree (S1) in Indonesia: when jobs require one and how to check a university**](https://kariraman.com/en/education/bachelors-degree/)

## How do the oath and bar associations work in Indonesia today?

After appointment by a bar association, a candidate must take the oath at an open session of the High Court for their legal domicile (Law 18/2003 Article 4) and then become a member of a bar association (Article 30). Supreme Court Chief Justice Letter 73/KMA/HK.01/IX/2015 lets High Court presidents swear in advocates proposed by various bar associations. In October 2025, for example, the Surabaya High Court swore in 40 advocates from one of them.

## What free legal aid must advocates in Indonesia provide?

Law 18/2003 Article 22 requires advocates to give free legal aid to people who cannot afford it. Government Regulation 83/2008 sets the procedure: a written request with a statement of inability to pay, advocates may not refuse a request or accept or ask for anything in return, and the bar association imposes sanctions. Legal aid providers under Law 16/2011 Article 8 must be legal entities and accredited.

## How do you become a lawyer (advocate) in Indonesia, step by step?

The steps to becoming an advocate follow Law 18/2003. The law does not fix the order of the exam and the apprenticeship; what matters is that every requirement is met before appointment.

1. Graduate with a law degree.
2. Complete special advocate professional education (PKPA) run by a bar association together with a university whose law faculty is accredited at least B (Constitutional Court Decision 95/PUU-XIV/2016).
3. Pass the exam held by the bar association.
4. Serve an apprenticeship of at least two continuous years at an advocate's office.
5. Be appointed by the bar association once you meet the other conditions, including a minimum age of 25.
6. Take the oath at an open session of the High Court for your legal domicile, then become a member of a bar association.

If you come across a collection outfit that calls itself a law firm and tells staff to threaten debtors, report it to OJK and the police.

- **AHU Online company search** [ahu.go.id](https://ahu.go.id/pencarian/profil-pt)
- **Karirhub (Kemnaker)** [karirhub.kemnaker.go.id](https://karirhub.kemnaker.go.id/)
- **OJK contact centre 157** [157](tel:157) [WhatsApp 081157157157](https://wa.me/6281157157157) [kontak157.ojk.go.id](https://kontak157.ojk.go.id/APPKPublicPortal/)
- **Police call centre 110** [110](tel:110) [polri.go.id](https://polri.go.id/layanan/spkt)

## What interview questions might you be asked for lawyer jobs?

Interview questions for lawyer jobs often cover integrity and how you respond to offers of money, keeping files confidential, care in checking the rules in force, writing legal documents, and managing deadlines. Each example below comes with why it is asked and how to answer it. The Ministry of Manpower warns that an instant chat interview without formal confirmation is one sign of a fake job.

[Republika](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026

General examples written by KarirAman, not questions from any particular company. How to practise: read the question, answer it out loud, then open the guidance to compare.

### Questions for this field

**What would you do if someone offered you money to influence a case or a document?**

**Why they ask:** Integrity is the first requirement of the legal professions, and bribery destroys public trust.

**How to answer:** Say clearly that you refuse, record what happened and report it through the official oversight channel of your institution or professional body.

**How do you keep client information or case files confidential?**

**Why they ask:** Legal work involves personal and confidential information that must be protected.

**How to answer:** Name real habits: limiting access to files, never discussing cases in public or on social media, and using secure channels.

**How do you make sure the regulations and rulings you cite are still in force?**

**Why they ask:** Rules change often, and an outdated citation can harm a client or the parties.

**How to answer:** Explain that you check the latest official version in regulation databases and court decision directories, note the changes and cite the exact article.

**Tell us about a legal document you drafted and how you made it clear.**

**Why they ask:** Claims, indictments, deeds and legal opinions must be precise and easy to follow.

**How to answer:** Pick one example without revealing confidential data, then explain its structure, the sources you checked and how you got feedback before it was final.

**What do you do if you find a conflict of interest in a case or assignment?**

**Why they ask:** A conflict of interest can make the outcome unfair and breach the code of ethics.

**How to answer:** Explain that you report it to your superior or the responsible body, step aside from the case if needed and record the decision.

**How do you manage many cases or files with tight deadlines?**

**Why they ask:** Court and filing deadlines cannot be negotiated.

**How to answer:** Describe how you track deadlines, set priorities and warn people early when something gets in the way.

**How do you deal with a party who is upset or dissatisfied?**

**Why they ask:** People involved in a case are often under pressure.

**How to answer:** Explain how you listen, explain the process honestly without promising an outcome, and stay neutral and professional.

**Common questions that also come up (12 questions)**

- **Tell me about yourself.** Answer in about a minute: where you are now in work or study, two experiences that matter for this job, then why you applied. Personal matters such as family status are not needed.
- **Why did you apply to this company?** Mention one or two real things you learned from the company's official website, such as its business or services, and link them to your skills.
- **Why are you interested in this role?** Pick two tasks from the job advert, describe similar things you have done, and say which part you most want to grow in.
- **What are your strengths?** Name one or two strengths and give short proof: the situation, what you did and the result.
- **What is your weakness?** Choose a real weakness that is not central to the job, then explain what you are doing to improve it.
- **Tell me about a problem at work or school that you solved.** Use the STAR pattern: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Focus on what you yourself did and what you learned.
- **How do you work in a team, including when people disagree?** Give a real example of listening, explaining your view politely and finding a solution everyone accepted.
- **How do you handle pressure or tight deadlines?** Explain how you set priorities, such as a task list or checking with your supervisor, and give one example of the outcome.
- **Where do you see yourself in two or three years?** Mention the skills you want to master and the responsibility you hope to take on, without promising things you cannot know.
- **What salary do you expect?** First research the pay range for the role and the local minimum wage where you would work. Give a range, then ask whether the figure is gross or net and which allowances apply.
- **When can you start?** Give a realistic date. If you are still employed, mention the notice period in your current contract so you do not break it.
- **Do you have any questions for us?** Ask about the contract type, working hours, base pay and allowances, the next selection step and when results are announced. Ask for the offer in writing.

**Warning signs in interviews (6)**

- **The interview happens only by WhatsApp or Telegram chat with no formal invitation, or you are pushed to be interviewed on the spot.** **What to do:** Ask for a written invitation from a company-domain e-mail address, then match the contact with the official website you look up yourself. [Republika](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Kompas TV](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [detikFinance](https://finance.detik.com/tips-dan-trik/d-7941714/waspada-marak-modus-penipuan-lowongan-admin-e-commerce) 8 October 2026
- **You are asked to pay for a test, a psychological test, a medical check-up, training or a uniform, or to book tickets and a hotel through an appointed agent with a promise of reimbursement.** **What to do:** Do not transfer anything. The Ministry of Manpower says legitimate recruitment does not charge applicants. [Kompas TV](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Republika](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Koran Jakarta](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA)](https://www.bca.co.id/id/informasi/awas-modus/2024/09/18/08/24/Awas-Modus-Panggilan-Interview-Kerja-Ini-Ciri-cirinya) 8 October 2026
- **The interview is held in a hotel room, a private house or another closed place that is not an office, or the location keeps changing. An invitation to stay overnight, or any sexual demand, as a condition for being hired or for renewing a contract is also a warning sign.** **What to do:** Ask for the interview at the office or a public place, tell someone close to you where you are, and leave if you feel unsafe. Sexual demands can be reported to the police or the local manpower office (Disnaker). If you are in danger, call the police. [Koran Jakarta](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [detikBali (detik.com)](https://www.detik.com/bali/hukum-dan-kriminal/d-8524702/niat-cari-kerja-di-bali-pria-sumba-malah-disekap-disiksa-2-wanita) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Medcom.id](https://www.medcom.id/nasional/daerah/Wb7zXLaN-polisi-tunggu-pelaporan-korban-kasus-staycation) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026
- **You are asked for a photo of your KTP or family card, a selfie holding your ID, your bank account number, an OTP code, a PIN or a password before any written job offer.** **What to do:** Do not send them. OJK says never to give an OTP, PIN or password to anyone, and identity data can be misused for illegal online loans. [Kompas TV](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026 [Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (Sekretariat Satgas PASTI)](https://www.ojk.go.id/id/berita-dan-kegiatan/info-terkini/Documents/Pages/Booklet-Waspada-Penipuan-Scam-OJK/Booklet%20Waspada%20Penipuan%20Mengintai%20Kita%2c%20Ayo%20Lawan%20dan%20Hindari%21.pdf) 8 October 2026 [Koran Jakarta](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026
- **The interview invitation arrives as an app file (APK) or a link that asks you to install an app.** **What to do:** Do not open it. OJK and Kominfo warn that fake APK files can read SMS messages with OTP codes and then drain bank accounts. [CNN Indonesia](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20240112093139-78-1048464/waspada-modus-penipuan-file-apk-pps-pemilu-yang-bisa-kuras-rekening) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026
- **After the interview you are asked to hand over your original diploma or other original personal documents as a guarantee for the job.** **What to do:** Ministry of Manpower Circular M/5/HK.04.00/V/2025 bars employers from requiring or holding original diplomas and personal documents as a guarantee for the job. The only exception is a diploma or competency certificate from education or training paid for by the employer under a written employment agreement, and the employer must keep it safe and compensate you if it is damaged or lost. Otherwise, show them for checking, then take them home. [Dinas Tenaga Kerja Kota Batam (meneruskan SE Menteri Ketenagakerjaan RI)](https://disnaker.batam.go.id/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2025/06/DOC-20250522-WA0002.-1.pdf) 8 October 2026

**In danger or held at an interview location? Call the police:**

- **Police call centre 110** [110](tel:110) [polri.go.id](https://polri.go.id/layanan/spkt)

[See all interview questions](https://kariraman.com/en/guides/interview-questions/) [Build an ATS CV](https://kariraman.com/en/tools/cv-builder/) [Write a cover letter](https://kariraman.com/en/tools/cover-letter/)

## What scams target candidate lawyers in Indonesia?

Candidate advocates should watch for PKPA or exam packages that guarantee a pass, PKPA certificates without the course, fees to be sworn in faster, apprenticeships with no clear status, and legal staff jobs at collection outfits that tell you to threaten debtors. In February 2016 the Chief Justice asked bar associations to annul the oaths of advocates proven to have used forged PKPA certificates. OJK Regulation 22/2023 Article 62 bans collection by threats.

**Warning signs in lawyer job ads**

- A PKPA or exam package that guarantees a pass, or a promise of appointment without the exam and apprenticeship; Law 18/2003 Article 3 requires both. [Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/UU0182003.pdf) 8 October 2026
- An offer of a PKPA certificate without attending the course; in 2016 the Chief Justice asked for oaths taken with forged PKPA certificates to be annulled. [Hukumonline](https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/pkpa-dipalsukan--ketua-ma--cabut-izin-advokatnya-lt56b48aa97c698/) (official statement via media) 8 October 2026
- You are asked to pay to be sworn in faster; the advocate's oath includes a promise not to give or promise anything to obtain the profession. [Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/UU0182003.pdf) 8 October 2026
- A legal staff or lawyer's assistant job that is really debt collection by threats; OJK Regulation 22/2023 Article 62 bans collection by threats or humiliation. [Otoritas Jasa Keuangan](https://ojk.go.id/id/regulasi/Documents/Pages/Pelindungan-Konsumen-dan-Masyarakat-di-Sektor-Jasa-Keuangan/POJK%2022%20Tahun%202023%20Pelindungan%20Konsumen%20dan%20Masyarakat%20di%20Sektor%20Jasa%20Keuangan.pdf) 8 October 2026
- The firm asks to hold your original diploma as a guarantee for an apprenticeship or job; Circular SE Menaker M/5/HK.04.00/V/2025 bans this. [Dinas Tenaga Kerja Kota Batam (meneruskan SE Menteri Ketenagakerjaan RI)](https://disnaker.batam.go.id/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2025/06/DOC-20250522-WA0002.-1.pdf) 7 October 2026
- A body claiming to give free legal aid asks for payment; Law 16/2011 Article 20 bars legal aid providers from accepting or asking for payment. [Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/uu16-2011bt.pdf) 7 October 2026
- An apprenticeship or assistant ad sets appearance, marital status or an age limit the work does not need; Circular SE Menaker M/6/HK.04/V/2025 bans discrimination on any basis in recruitment. [JDIH Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan](https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/peraturan/detail/2686/surat-edaran-menteri-nomor-6-tahun-2025) 7 October 2026
- A PKPA provider cannot name its partner university; Constitutional Court Decision 95/PUU-XIV/2016 requires PKPA to be run with a law faculty accredited at least B. [Mahkamah Konstitusi RI](https://www.mkri.id/public/content/persidangan/putusan/95_PUU-XIV_2016.pdf) 8 October 2026

- [**Fees for training, medical checks, uniforms or ID cards**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/job-offers-that-ask-for-fees/)
- [**Fake HR recruiters on WhatsApp and Telegram**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/fake-recruiters-on-whatsapp-telegram/)
- [**How to spot a fake job offer in Indonesia (loker bodong) and tell real from fake**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/signs-of-a-fake-job/)
- [**How to verify a company in Indonesia before you apply: AHU, NIB, P3MI, SOEs and OJK**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/verify-an-employer/)
- [**Sent money to a job scammer in Indonesia? Steps for the first hour, day and week**](https://kariraman.com/en/job-scams/already-paid/)

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## Where can you find safe lawyer jobs and law firm apprenticeships in Indonesia?

Safe advocate and apprenticeship openings are usually posted on law firms' own websites, law faculty job fairs, bar associations and the Ministry of Manpower's Karirhub. Check the firm's business entity on AHU, get your apprenticeship or employment status in writing and refuse to leave your original diploma. Accredited legal aid institutes can be checked on BPHN's SID Bantuan Hukum system. KarirAman does not yet list any verified advocate vacancies.

**No verified vacancies for this role yet**

We only list vacancies we have checked. In the meantime, look for jobs on these official channels.

- **Karirhub (Kemnaker)** [karirhub.kemnaker.go.id](https://karirhub.kemnaker.go.id/)
- **SOE careers directory** [bumn.go.id](https://bumn.go.id/peluang/karir/karir-bumn)
- **SSCASN (BKN)** [sscasn.bkn.go.id](https://sscasn.bkn.go.id/)

## Which careers are similar?

- [**Legal Officer**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/legal-officer/)
- [**Judge**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/judge/)
- [**Public Prosecutor**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/prosecutor/)
- [**Notary**](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/notary/)

[See other careers in Legal](https://kariraman.com/en/careers/category/legal/)

## Frequently asked questions

**What is the difference between an advokat, a pengacara and a legal officer?**

Law 18/2003 Article 32 says advocates, legal advisers, practising lawyers (pengacara praktik) and legal consultants appointed before the law took effect are all advocates. An advocate provides legal services in and out of court and must be appointed by a bar association and sworn in. An in-house legal officer works as an employee in a company's legal team and does not need appointment as an advocate for that work.

**Which bar association should I choose for PKPA and the exam?**

Law 18/2003 Article 28 calls the bar association the single body of the profession, but in practice there are several. Supreme Court Chief Justice Letter 73/KMA/HK.01/IX/2015 lets High Court presidents swear in advocates who meet Articles 2 and 3 on the proposal of various bar associations, until a new advocates law is passed. Before you enrol, ask whether the association's graduates have been sworn in at the High Court in your area.

**Are candidate advocate apprenticeships paid in Indonesia?**

Law 18/2003 does not set pay for candidate advocates' apprenticeships. Article 29(6) only requires the host law office to provide supervision, training and practical opportunities. If you work as an employee of a law firm under an employment contract, for example as an assistant, Government Regulation 36/2021 bans pay below the minimum wage for workers with less than one year of service, except in micro and small businesses, which under Article 36 set pay by agreement above a set floor. Get your status and allowance in writing before you start.

**Can a civil servant become an advocate in Indonesia?**

Not while still a civil servant or state official: Law 18/2003 Article 3(1)(c) makes this a condition of appointment. An advocate who later becomes a state official may not practise as an advocate while holding that office, under Article 20(3).

**How much do Indonesian lawyers charge per case?**

Law 18/2003 Article 21 says an advocate's fee is set reasonably by agreement between advocate and client, so there is no official rate per case. In free legal aid, Government Regulation 83/2008 Article 13 bars advocates from accepting or asking for anything from the person they help. KarirAman has no advocate fee or salary data that meets our standards yet.

**How do I check a PKPA course or bar exam offer?**

Ask which bar association runs the course and which university is its partner, then check that law faculty's accreditation. Under Constitutional Court Decision 95/PUU-XIV/2016, PKPA is run by a bar association that must work with a university whose law faculty is accredited at least B, or a law school accredited at least B. In 2016 the Chief Justice asked for oaths taken with forged PKPA certificates to be annulled. Refuse packages that guarantee a pass: the oath in Law 18/2003 Article 4 includes a promise not to give anything to obtain the profession.

## Who wrote and reviewed this page?

Written by KarirAman editorial team Published 8 October 2026 Updated 8 October 2026

Prepared with AI assistance. Checked against official sources and approved for publication by Kaiser Khan (editor). Approval date: 8 October 2026.

## Sources

The facts on this page come from these sources. Dates show when we opened them.

1. [Undang-Undang Nomor 18 Tahun 2003 tentang Advokat](https://peraturan.go.id/files/UU0182003.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · UU 18/2003 · accessed 8 October 2026
2. [Putusan Mahkamah Konstitusi Nomor 95/PUU-XIV/2016 tentang pengujian UU 18/2003 tentang Advokat (Pasal 2 ayat (1), penyelenggara PKPA)](https://www.mkri.id/public/content/persidangan/putusan/95_PUU-XIV_2016.pdf) Mahkamah Konstitusi RI · Putusan MK 95/PUU-XIV/2016 · accessed 8 October 2026
3. [Peraturan Pemerintah Nomor 83 Tahun 2008 tentang Persyaratan dan Tata Cara Pemberian Bantuan Hukum Secara Cuma-Cuma](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp83-2008.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · PP 83/2008 · accessed 8 October 2026
4. [Ini isi lengkap kebijakan MA terbaru terkait penyumpahan advokat (Hukumonline, 28 September 2015)](https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/ini-isi-lengkap-kebijakan-ma-terbaru-terkait-penyumpahan-advokat-lt5609849a4e604/) Hukumonline · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
5. [Disumpah jadi advokat, 40 pengacara berjanji tak akan menyuap hakim (Dandapala, 16 Oktober 2025)](https://dandapala.com/article/detail/disumpah-jadi-advokat-40-pengacara-berjanji-tak-akan-menyuap-hakim) Dandapala, majalah Badan Peradilan Umum Mahkamah Agung · accessed 8 October 2026
6. [PKPA dipalsukan, Ketua MA: cabut izin advokatnya (Hukumonline, 5 Februari 2016)](https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/pkpa-dipalsukan--ketua-ma--cabut-izin-advokatnya-lt56b48aa97c698/) Hukumonline · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
7. [Undang-Undang Nomor 16 Tahun 2011 tentang Bantuan Hukum](https://peraturan.go.id/files/uu16-2011bt.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · UU 16/2011 · accessed 7 October 2026
8. [Aplikasi SID Bantuan Hukum (Badan Pembinaan Hukum Nasional)](https://sidbankum.bphn.go.id/) Badan Pembinaan Hukum Nasional, Kementerian Hukum RI · accessed 7 October 2026
9. [Peraturan OJK Nomor 22 Tahun 2023 tentang Pelindungan Konsumen dan Masyarakat di Sektor Jasa Keuangan (Pasal 62, penagihan)](https://ojk.go.id/id/regulasi/Documents/Pages/Pelindungan-Konsumen-dan-Masyarakat-di-Sektor-Jasa-Keuangan/POJK%2022%20Tahun%202023%20Pelindungan%20Konsumen%20dan%20Masyarakat%20di%20Sektor%20Jasa%20Keuangan.pdf) Otoritas Jasa Keuangan · POJK 22/2023 · accessed 8 October 2026
10. [PP 36/2021 tentang Pengupahan: Pasal 23, 24 dan 36 (definisi, cakupan dan pengecualian upah minimum)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp36-2021bt.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · PP 36/2021 Pasal 23, 24 dan 36 · accessed 7 October 2026
11. [Surat Edaran Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor M/5/HK.04.00/V/2025 tentang Larangan Penahanan Ijazah dan/atau Dokumen Pribadi Milik Pekerja/Buruh oleh Pemberi Kerja (salinan dari Disnaker Kota Batam)](https://disnaker.batam.go.id/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2025/06/DOC-20250522-WA0002.-1.pdf) Dinas Tenaga Kerja Kota Batam (meneruskan SE Menteri Ketenagakerjaan RI) · SE Menaker M/5/HK.04.00/V/2025 · accessed 7 October 2026
12. [Surat Edaran Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor M/6/HK.04/V/2025 tentang Larangan Diskriminasi dalam Proses Rekrutmen Tenaga Kerja](https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/peraturan/detail/2686/surat-edaran-menteri-nomor-6-tahun-2025) JDIH Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan · SE Menaker M/6/HK.04/V/2025 · accessed 7 October 2026
13. [AHU Online: pencarian profil perseroan dan badan usaha](https://ahu.go.id/pencarian/profil-pt) Direktorat Jenderal AHU, Kementerian Hukum · accessed 7 October 2026
14. [JDIH Jawa Barat: Kepgub 561/Kep.859-Kesra/2025 tentang UMP Jawa Barat 2026](https://jdih.jabarprov.go.id/page/info/produk/53539/) JDIH Pemerintah Provinsi Jawa Barat · Kepgub Jabar 561/Kep.859-Kesra/2025 · accessed 8 October 2026
15. [Satudata Kemnaker: Upah Minimum Provinsi (UMP) Tahun 2026 (dataset 3005)](https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/3005) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan (Satudata Kemnaker) · accessed 7 October 2026
16. [UMP dan UMK Jabar 2026](https://www.hukumonline.com/berita/a/ump-dan-umk-jabar-2026-lt695805af72d43) Hukumonline · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
17. [Satudata Kemnaker: Upah Minimum Provinsi (UMP) Tahun 2025 (dataset 2252)](https://satudata.kemnaker.go.id/data/kumpulan-data/2252) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan (Satudata Kemnaker) · accessed 7 October 2026
18. [PP 49/2025 tentang Perubahan Kedua atas PP 36/2021 tentang Pengupahan, Pasal II (ketentuan peralihan upah minimum 2026)](https://peraturan.go.id/files/pp-no-49-tahun-2025.pdf) Kementerian Hukum RI (peraturan.go.id) · PP 49/2025 Pasal II · accessed 7 October 2026
19. [JDIH DKI Jakarta: Keputusan Gubernur Nomor 1142 Tahun 2025 tentang Upah Minimum Provinsi Tahun 2026](https://jdih.jakarta.go.id/dokumen/detail/14763) JDIH Provinsi DKI Jakarta · Kepgub DKI 1142/2025 · accessed 7 October 2026
20. [Kemnaker: Wamenaker apresiasi paket kebijakan kesejahteraan pekerja DKI pascapenetapan UMP 2026](https://kemnaker.go.id/news/detail/wamenaker-apresiasi-paket-kebijakan-kesejahteraan-pekerja-dki-pascapenetapan-ump-2026-bisa-dicontoh-oleh-daerah-lain) Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan · accessed 7 October 2026
21. [BPS: Keadaan Ketenagakerjaan Indonesia Mei 2026 (Berita Resmi Statistik No. 82/08/Th. XXIX)](https://www.bps.go.id/id/pressrelease/2026/08/05/2606/keadaan-ketenagakerjaan-.html) Badan Pusat Statistik · accessed 8 October 2026
22. [Surat Edaran Menteri Ketenagakerjaan Nomor M/6/HK.04/V/2025 tentang Larangan Diskriminasi dalam Proses Rekrutmen Tenaga Kerja](https://jdih.kemnaker.go.id/asset/data_puu/2025senaker006.pdf) JDIH Kementerian Ketenagakerjaan · SE Menaker M/6/HK.04/V/2025 · accessed 8 October 2026
23. [Undang-Undang Nomor 13 Tahun 2003 tentang Ketenagakerjaan](https://peraturan.bpk.go.id/Download/31128/UU%20Nomor%2013%20Tahun%202003.pdf) JDIH BPK RI (peraturan.bpk.go.id) · UU 13/2003 · accessed 8 October 2026
24. [Ini 5 ciri-ciri lowongan kerja palsu versi Kemnaker](https://ekonomi.republika.co.id/berita/sq0416423/ini-5-ciriciri-lowongan-kerja-palsu-versi-kemnaker) Republika · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
25. [6 Ciri Lowongan Kerja Bodong yang Perlu Diwaspadai](https://www.kompas.tv/ekonomi/633153/6-ciri-lowongan-kerja-bodong-yang-perlu-diwaspadai) Kompas TV · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
26. [Waspada! Marak Modus Penipuan Lowongan Admin e-Commerce](https://finance.detik.com/tips-dan-trik/d-7941714/waspada-marak-modus-penipuan-lowongan-admin-e-commerce) detikFinance · third party · accessed 8 October 2026
27. [Pemkot Jaktim Minta Pelamar Waspadai Modus Kerja Palsu (Koran Jakarta)](https://koran-jakarta.com/2026-08-12/pemkot-jaktim-minta-pelamar-waspadai-modus-kerja-palsu) Koran Jakarta · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
28. [Awas Modus Panggilan Interview Kerja, Ini Ciri-cirinya](https://www.bca.co.id/id/informasi/awas-modus/2024/09/18/08/24/Awas-Modus-Panggilan-Interview-Kerja-Ini-Ciri-cirinya) PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) · third party · accessed 8 October 2026
29. [Niat Cari Kerja di Bali, Pria Sumba Malah Disekap-Disiksa 2 Wanita (detikBali)](https://www.detik.com/bali/hukum-dan-kriminal/d-8524702/niat-cari-kerja-di-bali-pria-sumba-malah-disekap-disiksa-2-wanita) detikBali (detik.com) · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
30. [Polisi Tunggu Pelaporan Korban Kasus Staycation](https://www.medcom.id/nasional/daerah/Wb7zXLaN-polisi-tunggu-pelaporan-korban-kasus-staycation) Medcom.id · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026
31. [Waspada, Penipuan (Scam) Mengintai Kita. Ayo Lawan dan Hindari! (Booklet Satgas PASTI)](https://www.ojk.go.id/id/berita-dan-kegiatan/info-terkini/Documents/Pages/Booklet-Waspada-Penipuan-Scam-OJK/Booklet%20Waspada%20Penipuan%20Mengintai%20Kita%2c%20Ayo%20Lawan%20dan%20Hindari%21.pdf) Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (Sekretariat Satgas PASTI) · accessed 8 October 2026
32. [Waspada Modus Penipuan File APK PPS Pemilu yang Bisa Kuras Rekening](https://www.cnnindonesia.com/ekonomi/20240112093139-78-1048464/waspada-modus-penipuan-file-apk-pps-pemilu-yang-bisa-kuras-rekening) CNN Indonesia · official statement via media · accessed 8 October 2026

**How to cite**

KarirAman (2026). Lawyers (advocates) in Indonesia: requirements, PKPA, bar exam, apprenticeship and oath. Updated 8 October 2026. https://kariraman.com/en/careers/lawyer/

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CariTalent and PanduanHewan are Kode Nirlaba projects; Panduan Warga and The Cast Index are independent publications with the same founder. CourseToJob is a study-guide site with the same owner, run by Elite Digital AI Solutions Ltd.

**Change log**

- 8 October 2026 : New page: Law 18/2003, Constitutional Court Decision 95/PUU-XIV/2016, PKPA, the exam, apprenticeship, the oath, free legal aid and forged PKPA certificates.