The Ordem dos Advogados expressed strong disapproval of prioritizing speed over justice, condemning judicial practices that reduce the right of defense to a mere formality, stated Chairman João Massano in a statement.
The controversy arises from a decision by the president of the panel of judges in the Operação Marquês trial, who refused a request from court-appointed lawyer José Ramos on Tuesday for 48 hours to review the case.
Judge Susana Seca denied the request, citing the urgency of the Operação Marquês case and asserting that the time requested would be “manifestly insufficient” to familiarize oneself with the case documents.
“The Ordem cannot refrain from expressing its protest at this serious violation of the right of defense and the resulting denial of a basic right for a lawyer to understand the material they are charged with defending,” added the Chairman of the Ordem dos Advogados.
Raising concerns that similar situations are becoming more frequent, the Ordem emphasized that there are “insurmountable lines” in ensuring procedural speed and that justice effectiveness cannot justify measures that compromise fundamental rights in the name of alleged efficiency.
“The refusal to grant necessary time for the court-appointed lawyer to prepare his intervention not only disrespects the constitutional principle of adversarial proceedings and equality of arms but also attacks the dignity of the legal profession and the rule of law itself,” they added.
José Ramos was appointed to represent José Sócrates in the Operação Marquês after the former prime minister’s long-time lawyer, who had been with him since his arrest in November 2014, resigned on Tuesday.
Pedro Delille cited “ethical reasons” for his decision, calling the proceedings a “mock trial.”
José Sócrates, 68, is charged with 22 crimes, including three counts of corruption, for allegedly receiving money to favor the Lena group, Grupo Espírito Santo (GES), and the Vale do Lobo resort in distinct matters.
In total, the case involves 21 defendants, who generally deny the 117 economic and financial crimes they collectively face.
The trial has been ongoing since July 3 at the Lisbon Central Criminal Court, with sessions scheduled at least until December 18, 2025.
