Minister Veronica Mihailov-Moraru on lawyer evaluation dispute: “I’m sure a common ground will be found”
Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu described President Maia Sandu's proposal for an external evaluation process for lawyers as "an interesting initiative." This evaluation would be similar to the one currently applied to judges and prosecutors. After the consultations at the Presidency on Friday, October 24, Grosu was asked by journalists about the appointment of the prime minister. He emphasized that sincere dialogue among lawyers is needed.
"Two years ago, vetting for judges was not even thought possible, but it was achieved, and the same for prosecutors. One thing is certain: we must have a frank discussion with this group. Yes, and we started this discussion even before the elections, even before the campaign," said Igor Grosu.
The Parliament Speaker emphasized that some lawyers practice their profession correctly and constitute "a very essential component in the legal act", but drew attention to cases in which defense lawyers would delay some processes initiated by law enforcement agencies.
“When some lawyers helped or facilitated, let’s say, delayed some processes initiated by law enforcement agencies in relation to those who bought votes, tried to influence democratic processes, here you cannot remain indifferent and say: «Sir, yes, but I have to do my best to defend him» and so on”, declared Igor Grosu.
The Parliament Speaker added that there are “many other things that need to be discussed” and urged the representatives of the lawyers’ guild to initiate internal debates: “I would invite them to start the discussions internally and come up with some solutions, because they know best what the lawyers’ community needs”.
At the same time, the acting Minister of Justice, Veronica Mihailov-Moraru, believes that the idea of a vetting of lawyers, proposed by President Maia Sandu, sends a “political message”.
"There is no denying that certain measures must be taken in the legal profession to streamline and ensure the transparency of admission procedures to the profession, as well as the efficiency of verification procedures in terms of disciplinary liability, when there are possible violations. I am sure that consultations will follow and a common denominator will be found", said Veronica Mihailov-Moraru, during a press conference on October 24, at which she presented the results of her mandate in the new Government.
President Maia Sandu recently stated, in a TV show, that lawyers must be subject to the vetting procedure, like judges and prosecutors. According to the head of state, some defense attorneys commit abuses and have unjustified wealth.
The Union of Lawyers of the Republic of Moldova considered the proposal "a direct interference in the professional activity of defense lawyers". It stated that "the introduction of such a mechanism would contravene the principles of the rule of law and the constitutional right to defense".
