Serbian Bar Association condemns pressure on lawyers, urges Informer boycott

The Bar Association of Serbia (AKS) has declared its unwavering support for lawyer Jana Aćimović Planojević, who has spoken out against persistent public insults and discrediting remarks directed at her and colleagues involved in a specific criminal case. The AKS emphasized that the legal profession is an independent service crucial for providing legal aid.

In a public statement, the AKS stressed that every lawyer's right to perform their professional duties without pressure, threats, intimidation, or media campaigns is a cornerstone of the rule of law. The association asserted that no lawyer should face public persecution or pressure solely for representing a client in accordance with the law and the Code of Professional Ethics.

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The Bar Association of Serbia (AKS) stated that the legal profession is an independent service providing legal aid, and the right of every lawyer to perform their professional duty without pressure, threats, intimidation, and media campaigns is one of the foundations of the rule of law.

"An attack on a lawyer for performing their professional duty is not just an attack on an individual, but also on every citizen's right to have an independent and free defender or representative," the statement read. The AKS clarified that it does not assess the truthfulness of public claims or prejudge any legal proceedings.

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No lawyer should be subjected to public persecution, discredit, or pressure solely because they, in accordance with the law and the Code of Professional Ethics, represent a party in a court or other proceeding.

However, the AKS reminded the public of its legal obligation to protect the independence of the legal profession, the dignity of lawyers, and their safety when they are targeted for their work. The association has called on media outlets and all public figures to respect the dignity of the legal profession and refrain from speech that discredits lawyers.

Furthermore, the AKS has advised all lawyers to cease participating in the Informer television program until further notice. The association stated it will continue to monitor the situation and take necessary measures within its legal authority to safeguard the independence of the legal profession and the professional integrity of its members.

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An attack on a lawyer for performing their professional duty is not just an attack on an individual, but also on every citizen's right to have an independent and free defender or representative.