Judge Susana Seca announced the suspension of the Marquês Operation trial until December 4, citing alleged delaying maneuvers by former Prime Minister José Sócrates and his former lawyer Pedro Delille.
In a lengthy ruling read at the 35th trial session in Lisbon's Central Criminal Court, the judge highlighted that the suspension stems from a request by Sócrates himself, who argued that his defense rights were being compromised. She accused Sócrates and Delille of engaging in dilatory tactics, particularly pointing to Delille's resignation from the case.
As a result, the court-appointed defense lawyer has been dismissed, and a new 20-day period will begin for Sócrates to appoint a new attorney. This decision led to the cancellation of hearings for 39 scheduled witnesses, including Vítor Escária, former chief of staff to António Costa and an ex-advisor to Sócrates.
Judge Seca emphasized that, despite the disruption, the trial should proceed continuously under normal circumstances, but she opted for suspension to prevent potential legal irregularities. She noted that Delille should have continued representing Sócrates during the resignation period but instead abandoned the defense, prompting the appointment of a court lawyer.
In her remarks, Seca underscored her duty to prevent "impertinent or merely dilatory expedients" and stated that the actions suggest an intent to prolong the trial's conclusion. While acknowledging that the interruption could harm other defendants, she moved forward with the suspension to safeguard procedural integrity.
Comments
Join Our Community
Sign up to share your thoughts, engage with others, and become part of our growing community.
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts and start the conversation!