Law - Higher Judicial Council discusses judicial affairs

Tue 21/02/2012 16:54

NNA - 21/2/2012 - The Higher Judicial Council on Tuesday reportedly tackled an array of ordinary judicial affairs.

The Council convened today under the chairmanship of State Prosecutor, Judge Saeed Mirza.

Law - STL issues amendments to the Rules of the Tribunal

Mon 20/02/2012 19:45

NNA - 20/02/2012 - The Judges of the STL have approved some amendments to the Tribunal's Rules of Procedure and Evidence (RPE). There were a limited number of changes, which clarified the existing rules especially in relation to victims. These include:

The Prosecution, Defence and the Victims' Participation Unit (VPU) can make submissions on requests from victims wishing to participate in the proceedings. Submissions are limited to legal issues to protect the confidentiality of victims' applications.

The Pre-Trial Judge will decide on the grouping of victims wishing to participate in the proceedings. This decision cannot be appealed.
It will now be easier for victims who participate in the proceedings to also appear as witnesses before the Tribunal.

The Judges also decided that the Prosecution must immediately inform the Head of the Defence Office about the arrest of a suspect or an accused. This will strengthen the rights of the Defence. The updated RPE are available on the STL website.

Law - Death sentence for collaborators with Israel

Fri 17/02/2012 21:02

NNA - 17/02/2012 The permanent military court issued Friday a death sentence for three Lebanese collaborators with Israel, and two years hard labor for another.

Brigadier Nizar Khalil announced his final verdicts before his retirement tomorrow.

Haitham and Sahira Sahmarany, along with Mohammad Amine Khazaal received capital punishment for dealing with the Jewish state. However, only Haitham was in custody, while the other two were tried in absentia.

In her turn, Raghida Daher got a two-year-hard labor sentence for similar charges; while the same sentence was issued against Aasem Hammoud for planning to blow up tunnels in the US.

R.Z.

Law - Fassouh building owners set free on bail

Thu 16/02/2012 20:51

NNA - 16/02/2012 Two owners of collapsed building in Beirut were set free on bail of forty million Lebanese Pounds, upon notice by Appeals Attorney General who noted that plaintiffs may appeal this ruling, NNA correspondent reported Thursday.

A building in Fassouh in the Achrafieh region of Beirut collapsed last January killing 27 and injuring at least 10 others. Owners of the building, Claude and Michel Saadeh, denied culpability. However, they were arrested pending a trial against them.

Despite release of the defendants, lawyers of the victims stated to the media that they have begun an appeal process that would send them back behind bars.

R.Z.

Law - STL Defence counsel sworn in

Wed 15/02/2012 20:02

NNA - 15/2/2012 - The eight lawyers assigned to represent the accused in the case of Rafik Hariri assassination have been sworn in Wednesday.
A press release by the Media Advisory of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon indicated that the counsel were assigned by the Defence Office to the four men accused of carrying out the 14 February 2005 attack. The STL Trial Chamber recently ruled that in absentia proceedings should be held in this case.
All the defence counsel signed a declaration that they will exercise their duties "with integrity and diligence, honourably, freely, expeditiously and conscientiously". The counsel also committed to "scrupulously respect professional confidentiality and the other duties imposed by the Code of Professional Conduct for Counsel Appearing Before the Tribunal".
"This undertaking is an important step for counsel to accept the responsibilities bestowed upon them", said Fran�ois Roux, the Head of the Defence Office. "It underlines the high ethical standards that counsel need to perform their difficult and challenging tasks", he added.
The President of the Tribunal, Judge Sir David Baragwanath told the counsel, "I welcome you to the STL and wish you well in exercising the vital role you have accepted, both for the rights of the accused and in the interests of the rule of law in Lebanon and the international community."
Biographies of the defence counsel will be available on the STL website in due course.

Law - Qortbawi Inaugurating Anti-Torture Gathering

Tue 14/02/2012 13:24

NNA - 14/02/2012 - Minister of Justice Shakeeb Qortbawi, inaugurated the anti-Torture Gathering organized by the E.U.-sponsored Association for Justice and Mercy at the House of the Lawyer early today.

Highlighting Gathering's agenda would be the prevention of torture under circumstances of incarceration or arrest.

Taking the word the Interior minister's special representative Charbel Matar, disclosed an anti-torture blueprint in the making. He pledged ministerial cracking down on whoever dares to exact torture on anyone who happens to be under police custody or behind bars.

Minister Qortbawi for his part said he was appalled at extremely bad incarceration conditions at Roumyeh prison albeit, efforts undertaken by the Interior ministry in a bid to ameliorate the situation must be praised. He however acknowledged that lots need to be done yet.

G.G./R.K.

Law - Media Advisory: Plenary of STL Judges starts

Wed 8/02/2012 14:07

NNA - 8/2/2012 - The Judges of the STL are meeting today and tomorrow to discuss a number of proposed amendments to the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, as well as other issues relating to the work of the Tribunal. The proposed amendments were put forward by the Tribunal's four organs.
A press release about any approved changes to the rules will be issued in due course.

Law - Two Lebanese detained for smuggling arms to Syrian opposition

Tue 7/02/2012 11:07

NNA - 7/2/2012 - Military investigation judge Immad Zein interrogated two Lebanese citizens accused of smuggling arms to the Syrian opposition through the town of Arsal.

O.H

Law - STL Press Release: Assignment of permanent counsel

Thu 2/02/2012 17:26

NNA - 2/2/2012 - Media advisory of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) on Thursday issued the following:

"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 faces 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.

Law - Bellemare meets Hamade, others

Fri 27/01/2012 19:24

NNA - 27/1/2012 - Former prosecutor of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Daniel Bellemare, on Friday visited State Prosecutor Saeed Mirza his office in the Justice Palace, where he also met with MP Marwan Hamade, journalist May Chidiaq, and widow of martyr George Hawi, Sossi Madayan.

R.A.H.

Law - Qortbawi, Libyan delegation follow up Sadr's case

Fri 27/01/2012 15:56

NNA - 27/01/2012 - Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi followed up Friday on the latest investigations into the case of missing Imam Moussa Sadr and his colleague Sheikh Mohammad Yakoub with a visiting delegation of Libyan judges.
R.H.

Law - Beirut and Tripoli Bar Associations visit ends

Thu 26/01/2012 19:30

NNA - 26/1/2012 - Media advisory of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) on Thursday issued the following press release:

On 25 January, a delegation from the Beirut and Tripoli Bar Associations, led by the Chairmen Mr Nouhad Jabre and Mr Basam Daye, paid a visit to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon.
The participants were received by the President of the Tribunal and the three other Heads of Organ or their representatives.
They attended legal presentations by representatives of Chambers, the Registry and, among others, the Head of the Victims Participation Unit, the Office of the Prosecutor and the Defence Office.
In addition, participants had the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the courtroom and its technical and electronic features. They were able also to find out about the measures taken for the protection of the witnesses, as well as those for hearings by videoconference. Participants were reminded in this context that the accused may, subject to a number of procedural conditions and with authorisation from the Chamber, participate in the hearings by way of videoconference link.
Bassam Daye, of the Tripoli Bar Association praised the Tribunal's insistence on achieving truth and justice and protecting the rights of the defense.
"Everyone emerged with a positive impression and the consensus was that the right to agree or disagree on legal matters is legitimate and that the Tribunal is an establish reality and everyone has to interact with it and present their legal concerns to it," Mr. Daye said.
The head of the Beirut Bar Association, Nouhad Jabre said, "we look forward to repeating this experience with other colleagues who will gain the knowledge in the fired of international law which is unavailable to them in Lebanon."
This visit enabled the participants to put many questions and gave the speakers the opportunity to explain that the Tribunal operates outside of any political influence. Its sole aim is to hear and determine cases and render justice, by holding trials that are fair, with equality of arms between the prosecution and the defence, with the participation of the victims, and observing the highest international standards.

Law - Bellemare visits Mirza

Thu 26/01/2012 16:48

NNA - 26/1/2012 - Former prosecutor of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Judge Daniel Bellemare, on Thursday visited State Prosecutor Saeed Mirza, on a farewell visit.

R.A.H.

Law - Qortbawi meets Bellemare

Thu 26/01/2012 14:54

NNA - 26/01/2012 - Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi on Thursday met with the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) Prosecutor, Daniel Bellemare, who visited him in the company of Judge Joyce Tabet.

Law - Judge Ramadan to NNA: to follow tomorrow interrogations regarding diesel

Wed 25/01/2012 16:29

NNA - 25/01/2012 - Audit Department head, Judge Aouni Ramadan, said he would follow up tomorrow Thursday at his office interrogations in connection with the diesel file.

Ramadan said it was decided, in light of his interrogations conducted today with directors of Oil Facilities in Tripoli and Zahrani, to send auditors to Deir Ammar Plant in the North to check out bills and documents in this concern.

A.M./P.BC.

Law - Two-year imprisonment for Fayez Karam

Tue 24/01/2012 18:51

NNA - 24/1/2012 - The Military Cassation Court, chaired by Judge Alice Shabtini, today sentenced retired General Fayez Karam to two-year imprisonment, National News Agency correspondent reported on Tuesday.

Karam was not however deprived of his rights.

R.A.H.

Law - Verdict in Fayez Karam case today

Tue 24/01/2012 17:30

NNA - 24/1/2012 - A verdict in the case of Fayez Karam, accused of collaboration with the Israeli enemy, is expected to be issued today, as reported by the National news Agency correspondent on Tuesday.

The Military Cassation Court today followed up on the retired General's case, under the chairmanship of Judge Alice Shabtini.

R.A.H.

Law - STL Head of Defense Office to answer citizens' questions today

Tue 24/01/2012 14:08

NNA - 24/1/2012 -The Head of the Defence Office of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Francois Roux, will be answering questions from Lebanese citizens and the general public on Tuesday 24 January from 2 pm to 4 pm Central European Time (3 to 5 pm Beirut time).

The principal duty of the Defence office is to protect the rights of the accused which is an essential requirement for a fair trial. It provides legal assistance and support to the defence counsel. The Office itself does not represent any suspects or accused.

Mr Roux will only be able to answer questions which relate to his responsibilities as the Head of the Defence Office.
Questions directed to Mr Roux should contain the hashtag #STLDefence or be directed to the official STL Twitter account @STLebanon.

Law - Arrest warrants against Fassouh building owners

Mon 23/01/2012 14:54

NNA - 23/1/2012 - Beirut First Investigation Judge Ghassan Oueidat on Monday issued two arrest warrants against Michel and Claude Saade, owners of Fassouh building, which collapsed last week.

R.A.H.

Economy - Aridi inspects Kleiaat airport

Mon 23/01/2012 12:29

NNA - 23/1/2012 - Public Works and Transport Minister Ghazi Aridi accompanied by a delegation arrived on Monday to Kleiaat airport to inspect the facility and to be briefed on its technical and construction needs.

Law - Justice Minister follows up on array of affairs

Fri 20/01/2012 17:12

NNA - 20/1/2012 - Minister of Justice, Shakib Qortbawi, on Friday met with State Prosecutor Judge Saeed Mirza, government commissioner before the Military Court, Judge Saqr Saqr, Appeal Prosecutors from all districts, and all first investigation judges at the Higher Judicial Council premises in the Justice Palace.

The two-hour meeting featured high on the means to improve the performance of judiciary and speeding up trials.

The Minister later met with Belgian ambassador to Lebanon, Colette Taquet.

Qortbawi also met today with Mufti of the Lebanese Republic, Sheikh Mohammad Rashid Qabbani.

R.A.H.

Law - Appeal Deputy Prosecutor inculpates collapsed building's owners

Fri 20/01/2012 11:31

NNA - 20/1/2012 - Deputy Appeal General Prosecutor, Judge Georges Karam, filed a lawsuit Friday against the owners of the collapsed building in Fassouh, Ashrafieh.

The arrested owners were inculpated as the collapse led to deaths and injuries among the building's inhabitants.

The lawsuit was filed as per articles 564 - 565 of the penal code.
D.K.

Law - STL Head of the Defence Office to answer questions live on Twitter

Wed 18/01/2012 16:38

NNA - 18/01/212 - Leidschendam - STL media advisory issued Wednesday the following press release, "The Head of the Defence Office of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Francois Roux, will be answering questions from Lebanese citizens and the general public on Tuesday 24 January from 2 pm to 4 pm Central European Time (3 to 5 pm Beirut time)."

"The principal duty of the Defence Office is to protect the rights of the accused which is an essential requirement for a fair trial. It provides legal assistance and support to the defence counsel. The Office itself does not represent any suspects or accused."

"Mr Roux will only be able to answer questions which relate to his responsibilities as the Head of the Defence Office."

"Questions directed to Mr Roux should contain the hashtag #STLDefence or be directed to the official STL Twitter account @STLebanon."

Law - General Prosecution investigates in collapsed building incident

Mon 16/01/2012 13:03

NNA - 16/1/2012 - General Prosecution in Beirut chaired by General Prosecutor Judge George Karam investigated in the incident of the collapsed building in Ashrafieh.

Karam is supervising the preliminary investigations which is conducted by Ashrafieh police station.

Karam attended on Sunday the scene of the incident and inspected the wounded at the hospitals.

A.A.M

Law - Lebanese accused of collaborating with Israel

Wed 11/01/2012 14:45

NNA - 11/1/2012 - Government commissioner to the military court, Judge Sakr Sakr, inculpated Wednesday a Lebanese person, retired from OGERO, accused of collaborating with the Israeli enemy and providing information to its officers abroad for amounts of money.

The sentence was issued as per articles 278 and 274 of the penal code, stipulating death penalty.
D.K.

Law - 9 MOF employees indicted on waste of public funds

Wed 11/01/2012 14:28

NNA - 1/11/2012 General Prosecutor of Finance Tani Lattouf indicted Wednesday the company of Commerce "Makhoul" as well as 9 employees of the Ministry of Finance, at the added value tax department, charged with waste of public funds, documents' falsification, misuse of money and gross negligence in their duties.

Judge Lattouf referred the case before the First Instance Judge, asking him to issue arrest warrants in absentia against those involved.

L.W.

Law - Qortbawi highlights importance of judiciary's independence

Thu 29/12/2011 15:07

NNA - 29/12/2011 - Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi on Thursday shed light on the primordial national role played by the judicial sector and the Justice Ministry, underscoring the importance of preserving the independence of the judiciary, giving each person his right regardless of his confessional or political belonging.

Qortbawi made these remarks during a ceremony organized by the Justice Ministry in honor of its employees, in presence of ranking dignitaries.

Minister Qortbawi thanked herein all those who exerted efforts during this year for the sake of the Ministry, calling upon them to pursue their work and assume full responsibility despite the modest potentials available, due to the country's financial situation.

"I hope the year 2012 would bring peace to the country," he said, calling on the Lebanese to remain united in light of the region's unrest and to preserve conviviality amongst different confessions by respecting one another.
D.K.

Law - Qortbawi highlights importance of judiciary's independence

Law - Wael Abbass interrogated in abduction of Estonians

Mon 19/12/2011 10:49

NNA 19/12/2011 - Military judge Fadi Sawan interrogated detainee Wael Abbass who is the head of the mob which abducted the seven Estonians in Lebanon several months ago and the slaying of soldier Rashed Sabri.

The interrogation lasted for 11 hours and the judge listened to a number of witnesses in these two cases.

O.H

Law - Qortbawi opens new bakery in Roumieh prison

Fri 16/12/2011 19:14

NNA - 16/12/2011 Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi visited Friday Roumieh penitentiary to inaugurate new bakery, as part of improving prisoners' living conditions.

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) offered technical support for said project, which was funded by Denmark and the Netherlands.

"The process, although long and full of hardship, will continue until jails are in adequate condition to act as centers for reform and rehabilitation," Qortbawi said.

R.Z.

Law - Bellemare decides not to seek reappointment for a second term

Wed 14/12/2011 18:36

NNA - 14/12/2011 In a press release by the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), it said "STL Prosecutor Daniel Bellemare informed the Secretary-General of the United Nations that, for health reasons, he does not intend to seek reappointment for a second term as Prosecutor at the end of February 2012."
Bellemare stated "It has been an honour and a privilege to seek justice for the people of Lebanon. While this long and difficult journey is far from over, solid foundations have been laid to achieve justice and accountability for the attack of 14 February 2005 and connected cases, through the rule of law."
"I am proud to leave behind a strong team of committed professionals who have assisted me in the past three years in carrying out our challenging mandate and will continue to ensure that justice is achieved for the people of Lebanon," said Prosecutor Bellemare.
----------------

Law - Collaborator Marwan Faqih receives verdict

Wed 14/12/2011 18:21

NNA - 14/12/2011 - The Permanent Military Court, headed by General Nizar Khalil, today sentenced Marwan Faqih to 20 years of hard labor for collaboration with the Israeli enemy.

R.A.H.

Law - Military prosecution investigates Tyre explosion

Fri 9/12/2011 12:02

NNA - 9/12/2011 - Military General Prosecution, under the chairmanship of State commissioner to the military court Judge Saqr Saqr, took charge of Tyre explosion that has targeted the French UNIFIL contingent early today.

Judge Saqr delegated his deputy Judge Dany Zooni to inspect the scene of the explosion and file an initial report.

L.W.

Law - Qortbawi receives Ruth, Roknabadi

Fri 2/12/2011 14:34

NNA - 2/12/2011- Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi received on Thursday at his office a delegation of Human Rights Watch Organization, headed by the executive director of said organization Kenneth Ruth. Talks reportedly featured high on improving the condition of Human Rights in the region.

Separately, Qortbawi received the Iranian Ambassador to Lebanon Ghazanfar Roknabadi. Both men discussed judicial agreements between Lebanon and Iran.

A.M/N.AF

Law - Special Tribunal for Lebanon receives 2011 contribution from Lebanese state

Thu 1/12/2011 17:39

NNA - 1/12/2011 - "The Special Tribunal for Lebanon thanks the Government of Lebanon for the full payment for 2011, which we received this morning. With this contribution of US$32,184,635, the representatives of the Lebanese people have demonstrated their commitment to work for the rule of law and long-term stability. We look forward to the continuing co-operation of Lebanon as we work towards completing our judicial mandate."

Law - Sakr monitors investigations in launched rockets' issue

Thu 1/12/2011 14:27

NNA - 1/12/2011 Judge Saqr Saqr, the government's representative at the Military Tribunal, is supervising the investigations in the rocket launching operation held by the army intelligence services and military police.

One rocket fired from southern Lebanon Tuesday morning landing into Israel overnight, and prompting Israeli troops to retaliate by firing six artillery shells.

L.W.

Law - Statement by the President of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Judge David Baragwanath

Mon 28/11/2011 14:31

NNA - 28/11/2011 - The STL media advisory issued Monday the following:
"The main purpose of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon is to bring the killers of Lebanese citizens to justice. This week's visit to Beirut has given me great confidence that our mandate of challenging impunity will be fulfilled.

The Vice-President, Judge Riachi, our Chef de Cabinet, Guido Acquaviva and I appreciated our gracious reception by the President, the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Justice and the Prosecutor-General. We also met leaders of the universities as well as diplomatic representatives and the heads of the legal profession.

I was particularly heartened by the determination of the representatives of the Lebanese people to work for the rule of law and long-term stability. The Tribunal, comprising professional judges selected internationally and including senior members of the Lebanese judiciary, is a transitional institution. We are determined to conclude our job as swiftly as fairness allows.

I am convinced that the strength of the legal and academic communities of Lebanon will allow the administration of justice in the country to attain new heights. The support we are receiving will allow the STL to contribute to securing the stability that everybody, the killers aside, so earnestly desires, which will open new opportunities for Lebanon."

Law - Lebanon to respect international commitments, says Daya

Thu 24/11/2011 17:39

NNA - 24/11/2011 - Head of Tripoli Bar Association, Bassam Daya, on Thursday avowed that Lebanon would respect its international commitments and eventually pay its 49% share of funding the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), following his meeting with the tribunal's President David Baragwanath.

"All parties will prevail Lebanon's interest and unanimously settle on funding STL so as to bolster the inter-Lebanese union and cast aside political tensions," he said.

R.A.H.

Law - Fayez Karam's trial deferred

Thu 24/11/2011 16:00

NNA - 24/11/2011 - The Military Cassation Court on Thursday deferred the resumption of General Fayez Karam's trial till forthcoming December 20.

The Court, which approved a demand to repeal a former sentence of a three-year imprisonment and deprivation of civil rights, today interrogated Karam and adjourned the session in view of procedure, settlement on a release plea, and putting out his criminal record.

General Fayez Karam, Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) official and former head of the Lebanese Army's anti-terrorism and counter-espionage unit during the 1980s, was indicted for collaborating with Israel by the Military Court first Investigative Judge in December 2010.
The indictment against Karam called for a sentence of 20 years hard labor.

R.A.H.

Law - Baragwanath visits Mirza, Qortbawi

Thu 24/11/2011 14:54

NNA - 24/11/2011 - President of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, David Baragwanath, on Thursday visited State Prosecutor, Saeed Mirza.

He later visited Minister of Justice, Shakib Qortbawi, over affairs related to STL work.

R.A.H.

Law - Trial Chamber awaits further info from Lebanese authorities

Wed 23/11/2011 18:52

NNA - 23/11/2011 - STL media advisory issued Wednesday the following: The Trial Chamber has decided today to await a response from the Lebanese authorities on their efforts to arrest the accused before deciding whether to begin proceedings in absentia.

The Trial Chamber has requested the Tribunal's Prosecutor to file a progress report by 8 December on the response of the Lebanese authorities.

The judges of the Trial Chamber are responsible for deciding whether to try the accused in their absence, given that none of the four indicted men has yet been arrested.

During a hearing held on 11 November, the Prosecution argued that the Lebanese authorities should do more to locate and arrest the accused before the Tribunal could try them in absentia. On 11 November the Prosecution sent 10 requests for assistance to the Lebanese Prosecutor General asking him to take additional steps.

The Tribunal's Defence Office asked the Trial Chamber to consider withdrawing the arrest warrants and notifying the accused of the possibility of appearing at trial by video-conference.

The Trial Chamber decided that the four accused should be formally notified of their rights to attend the trial.

When the Trial Chamber has the responses from the Lebanese authorities it will then decide whether it should invite Lebanese officials to provide additional information.

Justice - Head of International Tribunal arrives in Beirut

Tue 22/11/2011 23:19

NNA - 22/11/2011 - Head of the Special International Tribunal for Lebanon, Judge David Paraguanth, arrived in Beirut Tuesday evening, coming from the French Capital, Paris. The visit is the first since his appointment as the new Tribunal Head succeeding the late Antonio Cassizy.
Paraguanth is to meet during his visit with President of the Republic, General Michel Sleiman, as well as other officials involved in the work of the Tribunal and the academic and legal community.
R.Sh.

Law - Two indicted in murdering soldier

Tue 22/11/2011 13:34

NNA - 22/11/2011 - Government commissioner to the Military Tribunal Judge Sakr Sakr, indicted two men accused of murdering an army soldier. The indictment comprises multiple homicides with other accomplices. The indictment is based on article 549 of the penal code number 72.

Among other things, the two men were indicted for illegal possession of fire arms and could accordingly be at pains of capital punishment. The Judge duly refereed them to the first military investigator.
G.G./P.BC.

Law - President of the STL visits Lebanon

Mon 21/11/2011 16:59

NNA - 21/11/2011 - STL media advisory issued Monday the following: The President of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Judge Sir David Baragwanath, will be visiting Lebanon this week for the first time. He is accompanied by the Vice-President of the Tribunal, Judge Ralph Riachy.

During the visit President Baragwanath will meet Lebanon's President and other Lebanese authorities who work with the Tribunal as well as agencies and members of the academic and legal community.

"I am honoured to visit a country of such great cultural and legal traditions", said Judge Baragwanath. "The Tribunal's judges consider themselves not just international judges, but also judges of Lebanon, applying the criminal law of Lebanon and respectful of its sovereignty and its people. I am determined that the work of the Tribunal be fair and expeditious, with full respect of the rights of the accused and the interests of the victims."

Law - Justice Minister's activities, meetings

Mon 21/11/2011 16:31

NNA - 21/11/2011 - Minister of Justice, Shakib Qortbawi, on Monday met with German ambassador to Lebanon, Brigitta Siefker, over affairs of common interest.

He later met with a delegation of the European Union's underway program on developing the performance of security services tasked with investigating crimes and felonies.

On the other hand, Qortbawi congratulated the new Head of Bar Association, Nohad Jabr, for assuming his new post.

R.A.H.

Justice - Nuhad Jabr elected as new Lawyers' Syndicate Head

Sun 20/11/2011 19:11

NNA - 20/11/2011 - Lawyers' Syndicate General Association elected Sunday its new Head, Attorney Nuhad Jabr, who is now the 48th Bar Association Dean. Jabr's victory in the Bar Syndicate elections came after strong competition with Candidate Antonio Hashem, whereby Jabr received 2073 versus 1623 to Hashem. The number of voters reached 3773.
Following the declaration of the voting outcome, Syndicate Head Amal Haddad handed over the Bar Syndicate Medal to the newly elected Dean. In a word on the occasion, Haddad considered that lawyers surpass all political limits proving that they are worthy of being leaders of their society and people of right and law.
In turn, newly elected Dean Jabr described the Lawyers' Syndicate as a national uniting forum that cares for Lebanon's sovereignty and the liberty of its citizens. He vowed to invest all capabilities to ensure the advancement of the Syndicate at both the professional and national levels.
R.Sh.

Law - Verdict in Imam Sadr case deferred

Fri 18/11/2011 16:33

NNA - 18/11/2011 - The Judicial Council postponed today the verdict in the case of Imam Moussa Sadr and his comrades till forthcoming January 20, National News Agency correspondent reported on Friday.

The Council said it cannot issue the verdict before Libya's Moammar Gadhafi is proven dead by the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Imam Sadr and his companions, Sheikh Mohammad Yaacoub and journalist Abbas Badreddine, went missing in 1978 in Libya, where they had been in an effort to end the Lebanese civil war.

R.A.H.

Law - March 14 and 8 equitably dividing Tripoli Bar Association

Sun 13/11/2011 17:19

NNA - 13/11/2011- March 14 and 8 candidates equitably divided Tripoli Bar Association to which were added two new members from each camp. Two contestant lists backed by both camps equitably won with candidates running on both sides securing nearly the same number of votes.
G.G./P.BC.

Law - STL first hearing considers in absentia trial

Fri 11/11/2011 20:07

NNA - 11/11/2011 The Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) held its first hearing session Friday in the Hague contemplating arguments from the Prosecution and the Defence Office about initiating in absentia proceedings, with the former demanding a repeal of arrest warrants against four Hezbollah members accused of killing PM Rafik Hariri and 22 others in an immense car bomb blast in Beirut 2005.

An STL statement explained that a trial in absentia takes place without the accused being present or in the custody of the tribunal, stressing that such trials have not happened in other contemporary international courts.

"The rationale is clear. Justice must not be stopped by an accused or a state which refuses to hand an accused over," the statement said. The court has the right to conduct proceedings in the absence of the accused if they have waived their right to be present at trial, if they have not been handed over to the tribunal, and if they have escaped or cannot be found. Nevertheless, the statement assured that all rules to ensure a fair trial would apply.

STL Defense Office argued that arrest warrants against the four accused must be revoked. "The issuance of arrest warrants has led to the accused being unable or unwilling to appear freely here in accordance with the provisions of the STL's Rules of Evidence and Procedure," defense lawyer Francois Roux said during the hearing, "We therefore submit that the warrants issued have turned the rights of the accused into hypothetical and useless rights."
The he asked, "Do we want to try them or arrest these individuals?"

For his part, representative of the Prosecutor's Office Iain Morley welcomed the possibility of the accused appearing in trial via video link, deeming it a "reasonable step that may be explored."
"At that point the pre-trial judge may eliminate the arrest warrants," he stated.

STL's Victims' Participation Unit (VPU) contended that the trial should not start without the involvement of the victims who were most affected by the crime.
VPU is responsible for assisting the victims participating in the proceedings related to the STL.

A representative of the unit said during the session that the trials cannot begin without the victims, "Many [victims] have given up hope on international or national justice being achieved," he added.

Law - Cortbawi tackles delinquency, drugs addiction issues

Fri 11/11/2011 12:28

NNA - 11/11/2011 - Justice Minister Shakib Cortbawi tackled Friday with representatives of concerned civil societies the issue of delinquent youth and drugs addiction, discussing means to unify Ministries and civil associations' efforts to prevent all kinds of delinquencies.

Cortbawi noted that the civil society is not performing its duties in an organized manner leading to chaos and waste of energies.

On another note, as per the agreement between Justice Minister Shakib Kortbawi and Interior Minister Marwan Charbel, a joint committee was formed to set a time schedule and a plan for transferring the jail administration responsibility from the Interior to the Justice.
D.K.

Law - Media Advisory: Trial Chamber hearing on in absentia proceedings

NNA - 11/11/2011 - The Trial Chamber will hold its first session today to hear arguments from the Prosecution and the Defence Office about initiating in absentia proceedings.

Fri 11/11/2011 11:22

The Trial Chamber will make a decision in due course based on the following:

- The oral submissions at the hearing on 11th November
- The written submissions that were filed by the Prosecution and defence Office on 2 November
- The filings from the Pre Trial judge

Law - Trial Chamber meets to initiate in absentia trials

Fri 11/11/2011 09:19

NNA - 11/11/2011 - The Trial Chamber is holding its first session today to hear arguments from the Prosecution and the Defence Office about initiating in absentia proceedings.

The Trial Chamber will make a decision in due course based on the following:

The oral submissions at the hearing on 11th November.

The written submissions that were filed by the Prosecution and defence Office on 2 November.

The filings from the Pre Trial judge

What are trials in absentia?

A trial in absentia is a trial that takes place without the accused being present or in the custody of the tribunal. This has not happened in other contemporary international courts. The rationale is clear. Justice must not be stopped by an accused or a state which refuses to hand an accused over.

The STL can conduct proceedings in the absence of the accused in these circumstances:

If they have waived their right to be present at trial.

If they have not been handed over to the tribunal by the State authorities concerned within a reasonable time.

If they escaped or cannot be found and all reasonable steps have been taken to secure their appearance before the tribunal and to inform them of the charges.

What steps have to be taken before trials in absentia?

The Pre-Trial Judge asked the Trial Chamber on 17 October 2011 to determine whether proceedings in absentia should be initiated in the case of Ayyash et al.

The Trial Chamber will now determine whether there is an intention on the part of the accused to avoid trial.
The Trial Chamber will also assess if the accused have been served with the indictment or if they have been given notice of the charges against them through publication in the media or by the communication of the charges to the State where they are residents/nationals.

If these requirements have been met and after considering the arguments of the Prosecutor and the Defence Office, the Trial Chamber will decide whether or not to initiate in absentia proceedings.

How are the rights of the accused safeguarded in proceedings in absentia?

If the accused are being tried in absentia, all of the rules to ensure a fair trial will still apply. An accused has the right to designate a defence counsel of their own choosing. The legal fees will be paid for by the accused or by the STL if the accused is found to have insufficient funds.

The accused have the right to request a new trial at any stage during an in absentia trial.

If the accused appear after an in absentia conviction, once the trial is completely finalised the accused can:

Accept the conviction or sentence,
Request a retrial,
Accept the conviction but request a new hearing in respect of the sentence.

Law - Start of STL Trial Chamber hearing moved by half an hour tomorrow

Thu 10/11/2011 20:46

NNA - 10/11/2011 In a press release by Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) Media Advisory, it said "The start of the STL Trial Chamber hearing, on the Ayyash et al case, has been moved by half an hour to 09:30CET on November 11th."
"All accredited journalists are asked to come to the court from 08:30 onwards. A webcast of the proceedings will be available on the STL website with a half hour delay from 10:00CET", release added.
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Law - General Security refers Syrians to Qobba jail

Thu 10/11/2011 15:05

NNA - 10/11/2011 - The military investigation judge today referred Ammar Al-Adib and Mohammad Balshah, Syrians, to Qobba jail, after found guilty as charged with arms trafficking and smuggling from Lebanon into Syria, a communique by the General Security-Media Directorate said on Thursday.

R.A.H.

Law - Intensive working session for counsel assigned at STL

Fri 4/11/2011 11:37

NNA - 4/11/2011 - Counsel assigned as duty counsel by the Head of Defense Office met over three days at the headquarters of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon for intensive working sessions.

They were able to familiarize themselves with the various administrative aspects of the Tribunal and to discuss, together with the Defense Office, the different legal questions certain to be asked of the Tribunal in the form, in particular, of preliminary motions. With this in mind, the Defense Office invited Professor Salim Jreissati, who shared his expertise with the defense teams and provided them with some legal considerations relating to issues regarding the legality of the Tribunal and in absentia proceedings.

The Defense Office recalls that the defense teams will have complete freedom, with the assistance of any independent expert, if they so wish, to raise any legal matters before the Tribunal that they consider necessary for the defense of the accused.

At this stage, following the decision of the Chamber, the duty counsel will not represent individually the rights of each of the accused at the hearing on 11 November. However, they shall remain responsible for defending those rights, in coordination with the Defense office.

Law - Three arrest warrants against Syrians for weapons smuggling

Thu 3/11/2011 11:36

NNA - 3/11/2011 - Military investigation judge Fadi Sawan issued arrest warrants in absentia on three Syrian opposition figures for involvement in weapons smuggling to Syria.

Two of the Syrians charged with smuggling currently reside in Saudi Arabia and are not allowed to enter Syria.

The judge said the accused have been collecting donations from Syrians working in Saudi Arabia and were buying weapons from the owner of a farm in Erssal town and then ship them to Syria.

The smuggled arms consisted of anti tank rocket launchers with their ammunition as well as machine guns.

The smugglers carried out these smuggling operations more than once.

O.H

law - STL Media Advisory: Victims apply to participate in case before STL

Tue 1/11/2011 13:57

NNA - 1/11/2011 - More than 60 people have applied to participate as victims before the STL in the case of Ayyash et al. A deadline for their applications had been set by the Pre-Trial Judge on 8 September and expired yesterday.

The applicants are members of various Lebanese communities and include persons who suffered different kinds of harm as a result of the 14 February 2005 attack.

These and other victims have been met by the STL's Victims' Participation Unit, which has a mandate to inform victims about their rights before the Tribunal, and to help them apply for participation if they wish to do so.

The victims' applications will now be translated and then provided to the Pre-Trial Judge, who will decide on each individual application for participation and issue a decision in due course. This process might be expected to take up to several months.

According to the Pre-Trial Judge's order, victims who did not apply by the deadline might still be permitted to participate if they can show valid reasons in order to justify the late submission of their application. Any victims interested in more information should contact the Victims' Participation Unit on + 961 (4) 538 150 or by e-mail at stl-victims@un.org

Law - STL: Victims' Participation Unit calls for final applications ahead of Monday deadline

Fri 28/10/2011 18:41

NNA - 28/10/2011 In a press release by Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), it said "The STL Victims' Participation Unit reminds victims of the 14 February 2005 attack that if they wish to participate in proceedings before the Tribunal in the Ayyash et al case, they must submit an application by Monday 31 October 2011. This deadline was set by the Pre-Trial Judge in an order of 8 September 2011."
Release added "According to the STL's rules, victims may participate in a trial, usually through a lawyer, by making submissions, submitting evidence, and questioning witnesses, subject to the approval of the judges. Victims who are unable to afford legal representation will be provided with a lawyer through the STL's legal aid policy."
"Victims wishing to apply for participation at the STL should contact the Victims' Participation Unit, which has a mandate to inform victims about their rights before the Tribunal, and to help them apply for participation. The Victims' Participation Unit can be reached at + 961 (4) 538 150 or by e-mail at stl-victims@un.org," release concluded.

Law - Fayez Karam's case: cassation court agrees on repealing verdict

Fri 28/10/2011 15:58

NNA - 28/10/2011 - The Military Court of Cassation, presided by Judge Alice Shebtini, responded Friday to the appeal of the defendant of General Fayez Karam claiming to repeal the verdict pronounced against him by the permanent Military Court.

Karam had been sentenced to hard labor and three years imprisonment and deprived from his civil rights.

The Cassation has fixed November 24 for the resumption of the trial.
D.K.

Law - State Council rejects project decree on wages adjustment

Thu 27/10/2011 16:25

NNA - 27/10/2011 - The State Council rejected on Thursday the project decree on minimum wage and the high cost of living.

The Council's administrative chamber, headed by Judge Shukri Sader, issued today a decision as per which the official minimum wage must be revised duly and according to effective laws on a yearly basis, in compliance with the Arab Agreement number 15/1983 on defining and protecting minimum wage.

Today's decision mainly objected to the decree's failure to include workers and employees earning more than 1.8 million LBP per month, while all categories of employees are saddled with the high cost of living.

The Council deemed the cabinet's proposed form to allocate adjustments was not compliant with the assignment given by lawmakers as per article 6 of the 1967 law.

It also said the executive power intervention to determine or amend the daily transportation fee and school allowances surpassed the scope of powers stated by the aforementioned law.

R.A.H.

Law - Qortbawi inspects Justice Palace in Beirut

Thu 27/10/2011 11:15

NNA - 27/10/2011 - Justice Minister Shakeeb Qortbawi inspected on Thursday the Justice Palace in Beirut to check on the needs of the staff.

The minister, who was accompanied by senior officials from the Justice Ministry, examined all the courts and departments of the Justice Palace and listened to complains of the staff.

O.H

Law - STL Trial Chamber calls for submissions on in absentia proceedings

Thu 20/10/2011 16:06

NNA - 20/10/2011 - Special Tribunal for Lebanon Media Advisory - Trial Chamber on Thursday issued the following:
"The Special Tribunal for Lebanon's Trial Chamber has issued a scheduling order, which requests written submissions relating to in absentia proceedings from the Office of the Prosecutor and each of the accused. Since the accused have not yet appointed counsel the Trial Chamber has also asked the STL's Defence Office to file submissions. The deadline for all written submissions is 2 November 2011 . A public hearing will be held by the Trial Chamber at 10:00 on 11 November 2011. Journalists will be sent details of the accreditation process for that hearing in the coming days.
The scheduling order follows a request by the Pre Trial Judge for the Trial Chamber to make a determination whether in absentia proceedings should be initiated."

Law - Mirza hands STL report on Hariri assassination case

Wed 19/10/2011 18:44

NNA - 19/10/2011 State Prosecutor General Saiid Mirza handed on Wednesday a delegation of Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) the monthly report regarding the search for the four accused persons in the assassination of martyr Rafic Hariri.
STL is a UN court probing the assassination of Statesman Rafic Hariri and other related crimes.
---------------L.Y

Law - Judicial affairs top Qortbawi, prosecutors' talks

Tue 18/10/2011 13:31

NNA - 18/10/2011 - Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi held on Tuesday a closed meeting in which he gathered all Lebanese prosecutors at the "Prosecution Court of the Justice Palace".

Judicial affairs and other issues of importance to Lebanese citizens topped Qortbawi's talks with attending prosecutors.

The meeting comes within the frame of Qortbawi's attempts at invigorating the Lebanese judicial system.
R.H.

Law - STL: Fransen requests Trial Chamber to decide on proceedings in absentia

Mon 17/10/2011 17:59

NNA - 17/10/2011 In a press release by Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) Press office, it said "The Pre-Trial Judge has asked the Trial Chamber to determine whether proceedings in absentia should be initiated in the case of Ayyash et al.."
Release said "The Tribunal's rules state that if the accused have not been arrested within 30 calendar days of the public advertisement of an indictment, then the Pre-Trial Judge can request that the Trial Chamber initiate proceedings in absentia."
"According to the Pre-Trial Judge's ruling, this period of public advertisement started at the latest on 15 September 2011 when a wanted poster displaying the pictures of the accused, their personal details and the counts against them were published in major Lebanese newspapers.", release added.
"The Trial Chamber will now have to determine whether the required conditions have been met in order to start the proceedings in absentia whilst preserving the rights of the accused", release oncluded.
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Law - Verdict in Sadr's trial set for November

Fri 14/10/2011 21:35

NNA - 14/10/2011 - The Judicial Council concluded Friday the trial for the disappearance of Imam Moussa Sadr and his two companions, Sheikh Mohammed Yacoub and journalist Abbas Badreddine, and the verdict is scheduled for November 18.

In August 1978, Sadr and his two companions travelled to Libya to meet with government officials. The three were never heard from again. The main suspect was Muammar Gaddafi.

Today's hearing was chaired by Judge Sami Mansour, with the participation of Councilors Elias Abu Nassif, Antoine Issa Khoury, Ghassan Rabah and Saad Barakat, in the presence of Attorney General Said Mirza and lawyers of the descendants of Imam Sadr.

The defendants, most notorious of whom was Gaddafi, were trialed in absentia.

R.Z.

Law - Hard labor sentence for Lebanese, Palestinians for planning to target army, UNIFIL

Tue 11/10/2011 16:42

NNA - 11/10/2011 - The military court on Tuesday sentenced a group of Lebanese and Palestinians to ten years of hard labor for planning to target civil and military institutions and the UNIFIL, using explosives and weapons.

R.A.H.

Law - 10th of October a Day for Attorney

Mon 10/10/2011 19:22
NNA - 10/10/2011 - The Syndicate of Attorneys specified the 10th of October a Day for the Attorney, in a way to present our salutations to the attorney.

Accordingly, an event was organized in this concern at the Attorney's House in Tehwitta/Beirut. The event was attended by Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi, Prosecutor General Said Mirza, Information Minister Walid Daouk and others.
A.M./P.BC.

Law - Layyoun sues Moustaqbal newspaper in court

Sat 8/10/2011 13:18
NNA - 08/10/2011 - Minister of Culture, Gaby Layyoun, sued the Moustaqbal news editor in chief and another staff member for libel before the Court of Law. The Minister's claim came against a cultural story which featured on Wednesday 05/10/2011.

Law - Mirza to investigate Casino breaches

Fri 7/10/2011 13:20
NNA - 7/10/2011 Lebanese State Prosecutor Judge Said Mirza received Friday a letter from Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi that the Lebanese President has sent which includes a request to holding investigations on the Casino du Liban committed breaches the newspapers have published.

Several reports about corruption have been voiced lately about the Casino du Liban accusing the board of directors of numerous infractions, mainly financial.

Judge Mirza assigned the forensics department to debut investigations under his supervision.

L.W.

Law - Military judge files lawsuits against collaborators with Israel

Tue 4/10/2011 13:59

NNA - 4/10/2011 - The military investigation Judge Imad Al-Zein issued an arrest warrant on Tuesday against a Lebanese individual for collaborating with Israel, and filed another arrest warrant in absentia against a different person yet for the same reason.

Separately, Zein started interrogating eight arrested for their involvement in the death of the Army officer Muhammad Ayoub, issuing thus far arrest warrants against four of them.
D.K.

Law - Three arrested for arms trafficking between Syria and Lebanon

Mon 3/10/2011 14:50

NNA - 03/10/2011 - The military investigation judge, Fadi Sawan, issued an indictment on Monday against one Lebanese and two Syrians for arms trafficking between Syria and Lebanon.

The three men were arrested in Beirut and referred to the military court for trial, as per article 72 of the penal code.
D.K.

Law - Kortbawi for rebuilding people's trust in judicial system

Thu 29/09/2011 18:24

NNA - 29/9/2011 - Justice Minister Shakib Kortbawi confirmed on Thursday that he is exerting huge efforts to rebuild the people's trust in the Lebanese judicial system.

Kortbawi's words came during his visit to Beirut attorneys' syndicate and his meeting with the syndicate's head Amal Haddad.

"We seek change. We seek the independence of the judiciary," the Minister declared, highlighting the major role of lawyers in Lebanon.
D.K.

Law - Palestinian arrested for collaborating with foreign country

Tue 27/09/2011 13:29

NNA - 27/09/2011 - Military Court Investigative Judge Imad Zein, interrogated on Tuesday Palestinian citizen Abdul Menhem Hussein, who has been arrested on charges of collaborating with a "foreign country" in a way which harms the nation's interests, as per law item 274.
R.H.

Law - Qortbawi tackles speeding up detainees' trials

Fri 23/09/2011 15:16

NNA - 23/9/2011 Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi chaired on Friday a broad judicial meeting at the Palace of Justice in Beirut for General Prosecutors and Public Attorneys as well as Investigating Judges in presence of State Prosecutor Said Mirza.

The one-hour meeting aimed at tackling general prosecutions and investigating judges' works as well as speeding up arrested persons' trials.

Qortbawi had met earlier with Malaysian and Ukrainian Ambassadors to Lebanon and engaged with them in talks on bilateral ties.

Lastly the Minister received a delegation representing Women Bodies in Lebanon.
Discussions tackled women quota as well as women's role in public administrations.

L.W.

Law - Qortbawi: Prisons issue should be treated

Fri 23/09/2011 10:16

NNA - 23/9/2011 - Justice Minister Shakib Qortbawi urged "the necessity to treat prisons issue".

The minister pointed out on Friday to "Voice of Lebanon" that "there are lots of things we should do, first we should reduce the members that accompany the politicians to increase their presence in prisons".

Qortbawi called for a speedy construction of Roumyeh prison and quick trial of "Fath Islam" members.

A.A.M

Law - Qortbawi: Prisons issue should be treated

Law - Assi: I have trust in judicial authority

Thu 22/09/2011 16:10

NNA - 22/09/2011 - After the explosion that recently targeted a bakery possessed by Rachid Salim Assi in Hawsh Zaraenah region of Zaheh, Assi held a press conference on Thursday saying he has trust in the judicial authority's transparency in unveiling the truth beyond the explosion as well as the murder of his father that happened three years ago.

Assi disclosed that he had received many menaces before Hawsh Zaraenah's blast.

A.M.

Law - Higher Judicial Council discusses judicial affairs

Law - STL issues amendments to the Rules of the Tribunal

Law - Death sentence for collaborators with Israel

Law - Fassouh building owners set free on bail

Law - STL Defence counsel sworn in

Law - Qortbawi Inaugurating Anti-Torture Gathering

Law - Media Advisory: Plenary of STL Judges starts

Law - Two Lebanese detained for smuggling arms to Syrian opposition

Law - STL Press Release: Assignment of permanent counsel

Law - Bellemare meets Hamade, others

Law - Qortbawi, Libyan delegation follow up Sadr's case

Law - Beirut and Tripoli Bar Associations visit ends

Law - Bellemare visits Mirza

Law - Qortbawi meets Bellemare

Law - Judge Ramadan to NNA: to follow tomorrow interrogations regarding diesel

Law - Two-year imprisonment for Fayez Karam

Law - Verdict in Fayez Karam case today

Law - STL Head of Defense Office to answer citizens' questions today

Law - Arrest warrants against Fassouh building owners

Economy - Aridi inspects Kleiaat airport

Law - Justice Minister follows up on array of affairs

Law - Appeal Deputy Prosecutor inculpates collapsed building's owners

Law - STL Head of the Defence Office to answer questions live on Twitter

Law - General Prosecution investigates in collapsed building incident

Law - Lebanese accused of collaborating with Israel

Law - 9 MOF employees indicted on waste of public funds

Law - Qortbawi highlights importance of judiciary's independence

Law - Qortbawi highlights importance of judiciary's independence

Law - Wael Abbass interrogated in abduction of Estonians

Law - Qortbawi opens new bakery in Roumieh prison

Law - Bellemare decides not to seek reappointment for a second term

Law - Collaborator Marwan Faqih receives verdict

Law - Military prosecution investigates Tyre explosion

Law - Qortbawi receives Ruth, Roknabadi

Law - Special Tribunal for Lebanon receives 2011 contribution from Lebanese state

Law - Sakr monitors investigations in launched rockets' issue

Law - Statement by the President of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Judge David Baragwanath

Law - Lebanon to respect international commitments, says Daya

Law - Fayez Karam's trial deferred

Law - Baragwanath visits Mirza, Qortbawi

Law - Trial Chamber awaits further info from Lebanese authorities

Justice - Head of International Tribunal arrives in Beirut

Law - Two indicted in murdering soldier

Law - President of the STL visits Lebanon

Law - Justice Minister's activities, meetings

Justice - Nuhad Jabr elected as new Lawyers' Syndicate Head

Law - Verdict in Imam Sadr case deferred

Law - March 14 and 8 equitably dividing Tripoli Bar Association

Law - STL first hearing considers in absentia trial

Law - Cortbawi tackles delinquency, drugs addiction issues

Law - Media Advisory: Trial Chamber hearing on in absentia proceedings NNA - 11/11/2011 - The Trial Chamber will hold its first session today to hear arguments from the Prosecution and the Defence Office about initiating in absentia proceedings.

Law - Trial Chamber meets to initiate in absentia trials

Law - Start of STL Trial Chamber hearing moved by half an hour tomorrow

Law - General Security refers Syrians to Qobba jail

Law - Intensive working session for counsel assigned at STL

Law - Three arrest warrants against Syrians for weapons smuggling

law - STL Media Advisory: Victims apply to participate in case before STL

Law - STL: Victims' Participation Unit calls for final applications ahead of Monday deadline

Law - Fayez Karam's case: cassation court agrees on repealing verdict

Law - State Council rejects project decree on wages adjustment

Law - Qortbawi inspects Justice Palace in Beirut

Law - STL Trial Chamber calls for submissions on in absentia proceedings

Law - Mirza hands STL report on Hariri assassination case

Law - Judicial affairs top Qortbawi, prosecutors' talks

Law - STL: Fransen requests Trial Chamber to decide on proceedings in absentia

Law - Verdict in Sadr's trial set for November

Law - Hard labor sentence for Lebanese, Palestinians for planning to target army, UNIFIL

Law - 10th of October a Day for Attorney

Law - Layyoun sues Moustaqbal newspaper in court

Law - Mirza to investigate Casino breaches

Law - Military judge files lawsuits against collaborators with Israel

Law - Three arrested for arms trafficking between Syria and Lebanon

Law - Kortbawi for rebuilding people's trust in judicial system

Law - Palestinian arrested for collaborating with foreign country

Law - Qortbawi tackles speeding up detainees' trials

Law - Qortbawi: Prisons issue should be treated

Law - Qortbawi: Prisons issue should be treated

Law - Assi: I have trust in judicial authority

Law - Media Advisory: Trial Chamber hearing on in absentia proceedings

NNA - 11/11/2011 - The Trial Chamber will hold its first session today to hear arguments from the Prosecution and the Defence Office about initiating in absentia proceedings.