28/03/2014 14:50
Ombudsman concerned over insults and threats against lawyers
The Armenian ombudsman expressed deep concern over the insults and threats directed at the lawyers participating in judicial proceedings as well as reporters covering these proceedings.
Public insults and threats expressed in courtrooms are first of all a demonstration of disrespect for the court, which may result in various punishments, including criminal responsibility, the ombudsman said in a statement.
The participation of reporters, lawyers and other persons in judicial proceedings is an important element of the publicity of court hearings.
The Armenian ombudsman considers any manifestation of pressure on these persons to be inadmissible and expects both the police and the Service of Bailiffs to display maximum vigilance.
The chairwoman of Journalists for Human Rights NGO Zhanna Alexanian has applied to the Ombudsman Karen Andriasian, informing him about the insults and threats voiced against her on March 24 immediately after the court of general jurisdiction of Yerevan’s Kentron and Nor-Nork communities announced the verdict in the military doctor Vahe Avetian murder case.