Sunday, 18 March 2012

Dura lex, sed lex

In my career a s a lawyer, I remember explaining to people why even “criminals” have the right to be represented in court. It is written in the Constitution of many countries. This right simply means that if you are unable to afford a lawyer, one will be appointed for you. Having a lawyer matters even for those people called “ criminals”. “Dura Lex, sed Lex”
Everyone is equal before the law, we say. But it is sometimes difficult to admit that a category of offenders have lawyers to represent them in Court. Personally, I didn’t enjoy at all to be appointed. Only “beginners” with less than 2 years of experience are appointed to represent “Pro Deo” in my country of origin.It is a good exercise, though. Most of time, I was in Martial court.


5 comments:

  1. Its hard for some people to understand, but you are right... even criminals deserve to have a fair trial and a lawyer.

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  2. I'm shocked that the "Pro Deo" work is done only by beginners.

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  3. Thanks for the info... I wish I knew more about law. I have a number of friends becoming lawyers and all the information seems mind blowing! It is amazing how complex a system needs to be in order to be fair for everyone.

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  4. I agree with Jenna, I would have never guessed that "pro deo" was done by beginners. I can't believe you used to be a lawyer either, you have so many stories to tell, you really are an amazing lady Agathe!

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  5. I couldn't have said it any better myself Ellen!

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