On January 14, 2019 at 18:30, advocates’ club session is to be held at the Chamber of Advocates of the Republic of Armenia where the issue of protecting advocates against recent abusive and intolerant actions committed by a group of people, is to be discussed.

The Chamber of Advocates states that the rights (dignity) of advocates participating in sensitive criminal cases are not protected. Under these circumstances, the advocates intend to discuss the issue of initiating effective self-defense actions. 

Advocates will also consider the issue of showing restraint by the advocates within the public conduct regarding sensitive criminal cases.

P.S.  The Chamber of Advocates recalls that, the 25.10.2000 Recommendation No. REC (2000) 21 of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, "On the Freedom of Advocate's Professional Activity" encourages States to take all necessary measures to respect, protect and promote the freedom of advocates' professional activities without discrimination and illegitimate interference by the authorities or the society, especially in the light of the relevant provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights.

One cannot blame the advocate for protecting the citizen's rights, regardless of the offense attributed to the defendant or his/her person.

A group of citizens are not eligible to prosecute an advocate, even if the advocate has committed an unlawful act. The Chamber of Advocates has a right to commence a disciplinary proceeding against an advocate if the latter’s behavior is contrary to the Code of Conduct of Advocates.