Vukcevic: Lawyers are not the problem – without strong, independent defense, there can be no fair trial

2026-03-11 - 07:29

Professor Milos Vukcevic praised the Montenegrin Supreme Court’s effort to improve handling of organised crime cases but warned some proposals need careful review. He stressed that criminal proceedings prioritise truth and defendants’ rights, not speed, and that defence lawyers’ procedural actions—like challenging evidence or filing recusals—are essential safeguards, not delays. Vukcevic criticised calls for stricter discipline against lawyers, noting this could undermine fair trials. He also highlighted that long case durations often stem from systemic issues like excessive evidence, few judges, outdated laws, and limited digitalisation—not the lawyers. He concluded that improving efficiency requires systemic reforms without compromising the right to a strong, independent defence, emphasising: “Lawyers are not the problem—without them, there can be no fair trial.” A special Bar Association Assembly session is scheduled for 14 March to review the guidelines and judicial feedback.