But Zavarro refuses to describe her client as a "monster," insisting she is a lawyer for a man who has committed "monstrous" crimes. Anyone taken into custody in France is entitled to have a lawyer and may benefit from legal aid. Lawyers for some of the accused say they have been harassed on social media and Zavarro has felt the heat too. She added: "From the moment I defend a man who I'm told is a liar, a manipulator, someone who fooled everyone, I have to try to establish the truth." To defend Pelicot, Zavarro set up a temporary base in Avignon, where she is staying in a working-class suburb.

Source: The Standard October 13, 2024 19:47 UTC