New Justice Minister's Brother-in-Law's Firm Linked to Soros, Critical of 'Stop Soros' Law

The recent appointment of Márton Mellethei-Barna, Peter Magyar's brother-in-law, as Justice Minister has brought renewed scrutiny to the legal circles he inhabits. A recent blog post by Ellenpont has delved into the professional history of Mellethei-Barna's former firm, Freshfields, and its Hungarian affiliate, Oppenheim Law Office. The focus is on the firm's extensive dealings with entities associated with George Soros, a figure often viewed with suspicion in Hungarian political discourse.

Ellenpont's investigation points to several instances of Freshfields working with Soros-linked organizations. Notably, the blog references a 2005 board where an advisor to Soros Fund Management served alongside a Freshfields partner. Further back, in 2008, Freshfields reportedly represented George Soros himself in a US court case. These connections, detailed in publications like Legal Business magazine, paint a picture of a firm deeply intertwined with Soros's financial and legal activities.

Adding another layer of controversy, Freshfields produced a legal analysis in 2020 that was critical of Hungary's "Stop Soros" law. The firm concluded that the law, which criminalizes aiding asylum seekers, violated EU and international human rights standards. This analysis was reportedly intended to inform a European Commission infringement procedure against Hungary. Such a stance from a firm with alleged ties to Soros is likely to be viewed with skepticism by those who see Soros as a destabilizing force in Hungary.

The article also touches upon the physical location of Mellethei-Barna's practice, noting its presence on Budapest's Bem Rakpart, offering a direct view of the Parliament building. The high property values in this prestigious area are mentioned, perhaps subtly suggesting a connection to established power structures. The scrutiny of Mellethei-Barna's professional past, particularly through the lens of his firm's alleged ties to George Soros and its critical stance on Hungarian law, raises questions about potential influences and allegiances within the new Justice Ministry.