Assignment of permanent counsel

Beirut, 2 February 2012 - The Head of Defence Office assigned permanent counsel to the four accused in the case Prosecutor v. Ayyash et al.

The Trial Chamber decided that the accused will be tried in absentia. Today the Pre-Trial Judge requested the assignment of counsel.

The Head of Defence Office assigned the eight counsel that were previously assigned as duty counsel. He stated that "he is confident that he assigns experienced and competent counsel. They are fully independent and can choose any strategy they see best fit to defend the rights of the accused."

The Prosecutor is now required to disclose the indictment supporting materials to the counsel within 30 working days.

The defence counsel face the difficult task of representing and defending the accused without communicating with him. In order to assist in achieving equality of arms, the Defence Office shall provide counsel with legal advice and practical support.