Daily Star - Deputy head of STL defense office announces departure, April 10, 2012

BEIRUT: The deputy head of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon defense office will be leaving her post, the STL announced in a press release Tuesday.

“Following the start of the judicial phase of the STL on the Feb.1, 2012, it is now primarily for the defense counsel to ensure the protection of the rights of the accused and equitable justice,” said Alia Aoun, who has told the STL registrar that she plans on returning to practice as an attorney in Paris.

“As the deputy head of the defense office, I have helped to prepare the ground for the development of a judicial process that is fair and respectful of all parties.”

She added, “Throughout my term I have been acutely aware of the importance of our work to the Lebanese people. It is my hope that the Special Tribunal for Lebanon will continue to fulfill its mandate through the professionalism and devotion of the tribunal’s staff.”

Aoun has practiced extensively before criminal courts. She is also a founding member of the association Avocats et Juristes pour le Liban, and has organized conferences and events in support of the defense of freedoms and the promotion of the rule of law, according to the STL website.

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